Aurora Borealis

 Lofoten's strategic location at the centre of the auroral oval grants it the privilege of being one of the world's premier destinations to witness the captivating dance of the Northern Lights. Situated in the high latitudes, this archipelago lies within the auroral belt, a region encircling the Earth's magnetic poles where the incredible lights of the aurora borealis frequently grace the night skies. The absence of light pollution, coupled with the pristine Arctic landscapes, enhances the viewing experience, allowing us to immerse ourselves in a celestial spectacle. As darkness falls, the vibrant hues of green, purple, and pink begin to flicker and ripple above, painting an enchanting canvas that seems to defy the laws of nature. Whether it's the calmness of a winter night or the mystical ambiance of the shoulder seasons, Lofoten's position within the auroral oval ensures a front-row seat to this celestial phenomenon, captivating the hearts and souls of all who witness its magical display. 

Incredible landscapes

The landscapes of the Lofoten Islands are nothing short of extraordinary, painting a picture of unreal beauty. Majestic mountains rise dramatically from the sea, their peaks often capped with snow, creating a striking contrast against the deep blue waters in a place described as the Caribbean of the north. Steep cliffs, sculpted by time and weather, command attention with their sheer grandeur. Nestled between the rugged peaks, picturesque fishing villages emerge, with their vibrant red and yellow houses adding a splash of colour to the coastal panorama. Pristine beaches stretch along the shoreline, adorned with fine golden sand and polished pebbles, inviting peaceful contemplation or invigorating walks along the edge of the Arctic Ocean. The landscape is ever-changing, transforming under the magical Arctic light, otherworldly glow of the Northern Lights dances across the night sky. Each turn reveals a mesmerising vista, an invitation to explore and immerse oneself in the awe-inspiring natural wonders that the Lofoten Islands so generously offer. 

Viking history

The Lofoten Islands hold a captivating Viking history that echoes through the ages. These islands served as a strategic gateway for Viking explorers and traders, offering a launchpad for their seafaring expeditions across the North Atlantic. The fearless Vikings navigated the treacherous Arctic waters, venturing into uncharted territories, and leaving their mark on the islands. The Lofoten Islands were not only a vital hub for trade, but also a hub for Viking chieftains and warriors. Archaeological discoveries, such as ancient burial mounds and remnants of Viking settlements, stand as tangible reminders of their presence. Today, visitors can delve into the Viking heritage through immersive experiences, including guided tours of historical sites and engaging exhibits that unveil the tales of these intrepid seafarers. The Viking history of the Lofoten Islands adds an intriguing layer to their allure, inviting exploration and discovery of the enduring legacy left by these legendary Norse adventurers. 

Unique, world-renowned heritage

The heritage of the Lofoten Islands is deeply rooted in a rich tapestry of seafaring traditions, folklore, and resilient coastal communities. For centuries, the islanders have thrived off the bountiful waters, relying on fishing as their lifeblood and forging a profound connection with the sea. The iconic red fishing cabins, known as rorbuer, dotting the shores are a testament to this enduring heritage. These islands have witnessed the rise and fall of cod fisheries, with the Lofoten fishery once being a vital hub of the North Atlantic trade. Today, the Lofoten Islands preserve their cultural legacy through museums, exhibitions, and festivals that celebrate their maritime history, including the Viking heritage that shaped their origins. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant traditions, witness traditional fishing techniques, and experience the warmth and hospitality of the local communities, all while being enveloped by the awe-inspiring beauty of this rugged archipelago.

Sami Reindeer farm

Each summer, hundreds of thousands of reindeer and their herders, known traditionally as bozaovazzi (reindeer walkers), start their annual migration down from higher elevations to lowland tundra in the far north of mainland Europe. The reindeer have spent the warmer months feeding on sedges, herbs and grasses, but as the weather cools they head for more sheltered climates, where there is less snowfall and they can dig for lichens and fungi with their hooves.
The reindeer migration is a thousands-of-years-old tradition among Sami, the approximately 80,000 indigenous people who reside in the upper reaches of Norway, Sweden, Finland and Russia in a region collectively known as Lapland. Descendants of northern Europe’s nomadic peoples, Sami can trace their roots back to the end of the last Ice Age, about 10,000 years ago. Reindeer herding has long been a way of life for them, and many Sami herders still make their living from selling reindeer. They spend months moving their herd in cold, often sub-zero temperatures, and bedding down in lavvu, traditional and temporary tipi-like shelters made from poles of spruce wood and covered in reindeer hides. In the Sami culture, reindeer are sacred: an animal that is essential in nearly every aspect of living, from feeding bellies to keeping warm. 

Eagle safari & Trollfjords

The tour starts from the quayside in Svolvær every day throughout the year. We take you up through the strait of Øyhellsundet, in to Raftsundet and then in the end to the magnificent Trollfjord. Experience the magical nature, white sandy beaches and one of the most dramatic fjords in Norway. There is a large population of sea eagles in the area, so the possibilities to get a close-up view of the majestic bird is big. It’s the fourth largest eagle in the world with a wingspan up to 265 cm and a weight almost at 7 kg. In a RIB-boat like this you`ll get close to the nature and the feeling for speed is definitely present. Our captains/guides have a high awareness on safety, some good stories and a lot of knowledge on the areas you pass along the tour. During the tour you will get stories from abandoned fishing settlements, Viking history, settlements from the Stoneage and the dramatic story from the battle in Trollfjorden in 1890. Lofoten from the seaside will guarantee give you memories for the rest of your life. 

Hovgard Lofoten

Hov Gård is a horse farm beautifully situated on a white sandy beach on the island of Gimsøy, one of the six major Lofoten Islands.  Most of our horses are Icelandic and are descendants of the horses from the Viking Age in Norway.  Here at Hov Gård you can experience the majestic Lofoten landscapes on horseback, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure! 

Hov is one of the oldest places in Lofoten.  Many historical monuments have been found here including burial sites of two Viking ships, a huge amphitheatre that was likely used for sacrifices and pagan rituals, and various Norse Viking graves. We believe that the resident Viking chieftain, Tore Hjort, was located here over 1000 years ago. He is mentioned in the Viking sagas and was killed by King Olav Tryggvason during the Christianization of Norway’ 

Svinoya rorbuer

At the resort  Svinoya in Lofoten you can stay in cozy and comfortable rorbu cabins, suites, historic houses or in the exclusive Manor House.
It is the perfect base while exploring the unique Lofoten Islands. The cabins and our historical houses are idyllically located between the fish landing station, quayside buildings, fish racks and old local buildings. We have the open ocean on one side, and the spectacular Lofoten mountains on the other. A vibrant fishing village in the town of Svolvær with stories to tell. 

Home to one of the most distinctive restaurants in the Lofoten Islands. The Børsen Spiseri is housed in a venerable quayside warehouse dating back to 1828, and considerable emphasis has been placed on maintaining the building’s original features. Just outside the restaurant you can experience the floating Sauna with panoramic views.