A winter visit to Northern Norway is a must for anglers and gourmets alike. The Lofoten fishery is known as the largest cod fishery in the world.
The Northeast Arctic cod is one of Norway’s best and most important commodities. Between January and April, the fish migrate from the Barents Sea to the Norwegian coast from Haugesund in the south to Finnmark in the north, to spawn.
Historically, up to half of the cod have returned to the areas around Lofoten, where their parents spawned at least three or four years ago. It has made the Lofoten fishery – “lofotfisket” – the world’s largest seasonal cod fishery. In recent years, however, much of the Arctic cod have migrated even further north, to places like Vesterålen and Senja.
Winter is usually the high season for fishing in the rest of Northern Norway as well. Join a guided fishing trip, or rent your own boat with a local captain.
In winter, you can also go skiing, join a guided ski tour, and visit some of the many museums and charming fishing villages. Maybe you even get to see the northern lights!
You can enjoy freshly caught cod at the many excellent fish restaurants in the north. But don't worry if you can't make it to this part of the country, as chefs in big cities like Oslo, Trondheim, Bergen, Stavanger, and Ålesund also prepare cod in creative and delicate ways.
For the rest of the year, you can enjoy countless varieties of stockfish (dried cod) – a must when you’re visiting the north.
Take part in lofotfisket
If you’re into fishing, you should visit Northern Norway between January and April. This time of year, you’re almost guaranteed to reel in a tasty treat for dinner.
Learn more about the skrei
Northern Norway has several museums and cultural centres where you can learn more about the Lofoten fishery and Norwegian fishing history.
Stay in a rorbu
Staying in a charming “rorbu”, a traditional fisherman’s shack, is an ideal way to get to know the coastal culture of the north.
Book nowSvolværAnker Brygge Rorbu Suites
Anker Brygge Rorbu Suites offers spacious and well-equipped traditional fishermen’s cabins (rorbuer) right on the quay in the heart of Svolvær harbor, just 200 meters from the Svolvær town square. In addition to accommodation, we offer meeting facilities as well as food and drinks at the well-known Restaurant Kjøkkenet & Bryggebaren. We warmly welcome you!
Top skrei restaurants
You’ll find skrei, stockfish, clipfish and many other varieties of tasty fish year-round at Northern Norway’s best restaurants.
Book nowUtskarpen“To Elise from Marius” – from farm to table
In the village of Utskarpen, between Mo i Rana and Nesna, Elise and Marius established a culinary attraction that is drawing a steady stream of foodies. They offer a dining experience where every dish is made from ingredients fresh from the farm and pasture. They also offer accommodation – charming rooms in a countryside setting.
Book nowReineAnita’s Seafood
Anita's Seafood is a delightful seafood bar and delicacy shop on Sakrisøy, Lofoten. Known for its grab-and-eat concept, the restaurant offers a variety of local seafood dishes, including their famous fish burgers. With a focus on local flavors and ingredients, Anita's Seafood provides a unique culinary experience in the beautiful setting of Lofoten.
Plan your skrei adventure
Learn more about skrei and stockfish
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Best holiday offers in Lofoten
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8 Days ・ June - SeptemberBook nowThe best of Lofoten
The land of the midnight sunWe've selected the best hikes and the most iconic viewpoints, as well as some hidden gems on our tour of Norway's most beautiful archipelago. Dramatic mountains, long white beaches, wild seas, and rich wildlife let you experience Norwegian nature at its very best! / Norrøna AdventurePrice From 33 500 NOK
8 Days ・ May - JulyBook nowMidnight sun tour
Group experience in Lofoten and SenjaIncludes sea eagle RIB safari, dining at award-winning Kvitnes Gård, visit to the Viking Museum, coastal cruise with Hurtigruten or Havila, tour to Hamn i Senja, and more. / 50 Degrees North NordicPrice From 49 652 NOK
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Arctic summer in Tromsø, Senja & SvolværEmbark on a self-guided bus tour of Tromsø, Senja & Lofoten. Visit charming villages off the beaten track and enjoy scenic backdrops of dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear bays and white sandy beaches. / Authentic ScandinaviaPrice From 8 785 NOK
6+ Days ・ April - SeptemberBook nowLofoten Summer Adventure
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