Lofoten is one of the most remarkable places in the northern part of Norway. With its astonishing nature, small fishing villages, and beautiful fjords and mountains, it is a place everyone needs to visit at least once in their life. Here we have listed some of the highlights of things to see and do. Get holiday tips and view our map to find the best places to visit in the area.
When is the best time to visit Lofoten?
The district is beautiful all year around with the first snow in the autumn, the artic feeling and northern light in the winter and the possibility of late spring skiing. But, we think that the best time to go there is in the summer. Preferably July and August. You will be able to enjoy the beautiful nature and have a rich range of activities to choose between.
Hiking and biking – our best tips
Do you want to discover Lofoten and its beautiful nature on your own? Here you will find our Lofoten hiking and biking routes & practical tips
Highlights to experience
The small fishing village Reine
This is one of the most popular places to visit in the area. Reine, located in the northern part far out on Lofoten, is a picturesque little fishing village. Points of interest are Reine Centre of Art and Culture, the water around Moskenes for fishing, the mountain Reinebringen with incredible views, a kayak tour in Reinefjorden or just a walk around the village. Stromma bus tour starts or ends here.
Famous beaches for surfing
Surfing is a popular activity in Lofoten, and the area has several of good beaches for that. A famous beach for surfing is Flakstad. Here you can rent all needed equipment if you don’t have your own. It is also possible to take surf lessons and get the full surfing experience with camping on the beach. Stromma bus tour stops in Flakstad.
Lofoten Links – a unique golf course by the fjords
Have you ever played golf in the middle of the night? Do not miss one of the world's most unique golf courses located in beautiful surroundings. During the midnight sun period this 18-hole golf course is open 24h. The golf course is located right by the bridge between Gimsøy and Vestvågøy.
The blacksmith in Sund
In the village Sund, you will find the blacksmith Tor Vegard Mørkved. He is one of few who still works in traditional manner, and you can visit his place watch him in action with his wrought iron. Sund itself is a beautiful place worth a visit just for its beautiful surroundings, so hit two flies in one and make a stop in here. Stromma buses stops in Sund.
Some funny facts
Can I go on whale watching?
Yes, you can go whale watching here. The best time for that is the winter season, between October and January. Example on where it is possible is Heimøya and Svolvær.
Can I see the northern lights?
Yes! This fantastic light phenomena in the atmosphere are also known as Aurora Borealis. The best time to experience the northern lights here is in October and early March.
What is the midnight sun?
Midnight sun means that the sun will not go down. It is a phenomenon and occurs north of the artic circle and south of southern artic circle in the summertime.
Lofoten Islands map
On this map you will find some hightlights to explore and also the bus route for Stromma bus tours with nine stops along the islands from Svolvaer to Reine.