The dramatic beauty of the Lofoten Islands makes the Arctic archipelago one of Norway’s most desirable destinations. With its spiky mountains, pristine fjords, white sandy beaches, and picturesque villages where red wooden buildings teeter on stilts above rocky shores, it’s no surprise that the islands have inspired the many artists drawn there. But Lofoten is as much a place to soak up natural beauty as it is to embark on adrenaline-pumping adventures, from sea kayaking to snowshoeing. Whatever your travel style, you’ll find no shortage of things to do in the Lofoten Islands.
Most travelers visit Lofoten between June and August. The summer season has the advantage of extended daylight hours (the midnight sun is up from late May to mid-July) and plentiful opportunities for activities such as hiking and kayaking. You can avoid the summer crowds by visiting in September when the weather is cooler and wetter, but hiking trails are still accessible, and the northern lights might make an appearance.
Renting a car when you arrive on the islands or booking a tour are the best ways to get around Lofoten. With some planning, getting around the islands using public buses is possible. However, some buses only run a few times daily, and you will be limited to traveling along the main E10 road.
No matter what time of year you visit Lofoten, you should always be prepared for unpredictable weather. Even in the middle of summer, and regardless of the weather forecast, bring rain gear and warm layers. And if you’re planning on doing lots of hiking, be sure to bring sturdy boots and good waterproof outer layers.
