Lofoten Islands - Winter
This is an incredible northern lights holiday in a very special part of Arctic Norway. This holiday takes you through the beautiful Vesterålen and Lofoten Archipelagos.
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This is an incredible northern lights holiday in a very special part of Arctic Norway. This holiday takes you through the beautiful Vesterålen and Lofoten Archipelagos.
The Lofoten Islands are a large group of islands located on a rocky peninsular inside the Arctic Circle. Dramatic mountain scenery in an outstanding Arctic marine environment. The Lofoten Islands are steeped in tradition and history. Fishing, Viking history and Sami culture all have an important part to play in everyday life on the Lofoten Islands.
You will see 'drying racks' where fish is still dried in the old fashioned manner, traditional fisherman's cabins (rorbeur) and small villages surrounding scenic harbours, protected by snow-capped mountains.
Included in this holiday is a picturesque day cruise on board the Hurtigruten coastal steamer. Weave through the archipelago between Harstad and Svolvaer on one of the most scenic parts of the entire Norwegian fjords.
The Lofoten Islands are not the easiest place to get to - but they are certainly worth the effort!
Highlights of this holiday
The day cruise between Harstad and Svolvaer weaving in-between the Vesterålen and Lofoten Archipelagos. The nature, sensation and relaxation of the Lofoten Islands. The scenery provides an excellent backdrop for Northern Lights photos.
Day 1
Fly from UK to Harstad (via Oslo)
Transfer from Harstad Airport to Harstad centre
Check in to you hotel
Day 2
Breakfast
Day to explore Harstad
Day 3
Early breakfast
Approx. 8am departure on Hurtigruten Coastal Steamer
Scenic cruise through the archipelago - keep you camera nearby!
Approx 6.30pm arrival in Svolvaer
Transfer to Svinoya
Check in to your rorbeur (cabin)
Days 4, 5 & 6
Breakfast
Optional excursions / activities
Day 7
Breakfast
Transfer to airport
Flight back to UK (via Bodo & Oslo)
The Clarion Collection Hotel Arcticus (known locally as The Art House) is located within the Vesterålen archipelago on the quayside in the heart of Harstad, close to the Hurtigruten terminal. Some 200km within the Arctic Circle, Harstad & Vesterålen are great locations to see the Northern Lights (Oct to Mar) without the colder climates of Lapland. Due to the coastal location average winter temperatures are -1C. As a Clarion Collection Hotel a simple evening buffet is also included. You will also find wifi throughout the hotel.
Simply Sweden Recommendations
The world's northernmost medieval church (Church of Trondenes) and Båtbyggermuseet (the shipbuilding museum). Fjords & mountains for local boat / walking trips. The Northern Lights are a big attraction during the winter.
Click on the image for more photos.
These traditional fishermen's cabins (rorbuer) offer a warm cosy welcome deep inside the Arctic Circle. Located just 600m from the centre of Svolvær on a group of small islands Svinøya is conveniently connected to the mainland by bridge. Between October and March it is common for guests of Svinøya to see the northern lights from these cabins.
Børsen Spiseri is a famous fish restaurant (and part of Svinøya), attracting customers from across the Lofoten Islands. Fishing is a key industry on the Lofoten Islands and cod is a local speciality. Fish is a key feature of most Norwegian dishes but you will also find traditional Scandinavia ingredients such as moose and reindeer.
There are 30 original or newly built Rorbuer (fishermen's cabins) close to the waters edge. Each cabin has been furnished to a modern standard and is located on the small islands just outside Svolvær. They are well equipped with living room / kitchen, bedroom(s) and bathroom with WC and shower. The cabins have between 1 and 3 bedrooms with space for between 2 and 6 people in double / twin beds. Wifi is available in the cabins.
Click on the image for more photos.
Visiting the Lofoten Islands during the winter months is so much more than just seeing the northern lights. Soak up the silence, admire the scenery and take the opportunity to head out into nature either with a guided hike, a nature safari or by kayak.
All pricing is based on min 2 adults unless stated.
Guided Fishing Village Walk
Svinøya is the oldest part of Svolvær, and has been a thriving,vibrant fishing village since 1828. Why do people live in Lofoten? What is stockfish and what do we do with it? How did the fishermen live 100 years ago, and how did a "rorbu" actually look like?
Did you know that the first shop in Svolvær is still intact?
Time: 6.30pm for approx. 1hr30.
Dates: Sep to Mar (not 23-26Dec or 31Dec)
Price: £41 per person.
Lofoten Nature Safari
One of the most popular activities. Visit the Vertfjord and the beautiful landscape around Trollfjord. Start with a short lecture about the local geology and climate. Board the boat and head out for scenery and bird watching. There is an excellent chance of seeing sea eagles. It may also be possible to see killer and pilot whales. Lunch is served on board the boat. Please note this there is a minimum of 6 people for this tour to go ahead. Cancellations of this tour are rare as this tour is very popular. If you do book this tour and it does not go ahead we will of course make a full refund.
Time: 0900. 4hrs.
Dates: Sep to Mar on Wed and Sat. Exceptions are 20 & 23Dec.
Price: £136 per person.
The Aurora Jäger
Aurora hunt by our local aurora guide. He never gives up, and finds the aurora almost every time. He will take you to his secret spots. Be prepared for a long night, hours in the car, and waiting outside in all kinds of weather and temperatures. The Aurora Jäger will go to extreme lengths to find lady Aurora. Bring warm clothes, camera, tripod, head light, extra batteries for camera.
Time: 9pm for 3½ to 6hrs depending on conditions.
Dates: Sep to 17Apr (not 23-25Dec).
Price: £163 per person (Max 4 people).
Lofoten Panorama
Explore a dramatic coastline, historical fishing villages and white sand beaches surrounded by rugged mountains with an expert guide. Several photo stops along the way with breath-taking views. Lunch is served in Præstengbrygga in Kabelvåg.
Time: 10am for approx. 4hrs.
Dates: Tue and Fri throughout Sep to Mar (not 22Dec).
Price: £108 per person.
Northern Lights Hunt
With a driver / guide (who will help you with your camera) head away from Svinøya and leave the artificial light behind. Head into the wilderness that provides an amazing back drop for the northern lights. Many of our northern lights pictures are taken from the Lofoten Islands.
Time: 8pm for 4 hrs.
Dates: Daily Sep to Mar (not 23-25Dec).
Price: £125 per person.
RIB Sea Eagle Safari
A 2hrs (1hr30 on board) RIB excursion from Svinøya to Trollfjord & the surrounding area. There are great chances of seeing sea eagles (we saw 3 when we did this tour!). Experience some of the most beautiful scenery around the Lofoten Islands from the unique perspective of the sea.
Time: 11am 2hrs.
Dates: Daily (not 23-25Dec).
Price: £87 per person.
Winter Sea Kayaking
One of the best ways to get up close and personal with nature. Your individual skills and experience, and of course the weather on the day will dictate the location of this tour but no previous experience is necessary. Includes specialist equipment.
Time: 10am for 4hrs.
Dates: Sep to Apr daily.
Price: £136 per person
Snowshoe Hike
Venture into the Lofoten Wilderness and mountains. Amazing scenery as you admire the stunning mountain and marine environment. Bring good hiking boots and a small back pack with snacks and drinks.
Time: 10am for 3hrs.
Dates: Dec to Apr.
Price: £114 per person.
Lofoten by Horse
Ride along the sandy beaches of Lofoten, past relics from the Viking era and explore the true scenic nature of the Lofoten Islands. Includes transfer to the stables. No experience necessary. Bring warm clothing and your camera. Max weight 110kg.
Time: 10am for 4hrs (11am for 2hrs with own transport).
Dates: All year (Oct to Mar for the Northern Lights)
Price: £136 per person (if you have own transport price is £81pp).
Car Rental
Rent a car locally from approx. 900NOK per day. This gives you the flexibility to get out there and really see the sheer beauty of the Lofoten Islands. You can stop where you want, take your time to take pictures and also go on your own Northern Lights chase. We can advise you on the best places to go!
Recommended through out the Northern Lights season which is Sep to Mar.
Not recommended over Christmas as most facilities and activities are closed.
Also available as a midnight sun holiday between Jun, Jul and Aug.
Price from £1380 per person based on 2 adults
Price from £1280 per person based on 4 adults
Price includes
Flights to Harstad (via Oslo) from London
Airport transfer Harstad airport to Harstad centre
2 nights bed & breakfast at Hotel Arcticus
Hurtigruten day cruise between Harstad and Svolvaer (no meals)
Transfer from Hurtigruten to Svinoya Rorbeur
4 nights B&B in traditional fisherman's cabin
Transfer to Svolvaer Airport
Flight to UK
The Lofoten Islands are a large group of islands located on a rocky peninsular inside the Arctic Circle. Dramatic mountain scenery in an outstanding Arctic marine environment. The Lofoten Islands are steeped in tradition and history. Fishing, Viking history and Sami culture all have an important part to play in everyday life on the Lofoten Islands.
You will see 'drying racks' where fish is still dried in the old fashioned manner, traditional fisherman's cabins (rorbeur) and small villages surrounding scenic harbours, protected by snow-capped mountains.
Included in this holiday is a picturesque day cruise on board the Hurtigruten coastal steamer. Weave through the archipelago between Harstad and Svolvaer on one of the most scenic parts of the entire Norwegian fjords.
The Lofoten Islands are not the easiest place to get to - but they are certainly worth the effort!
Highlights of this holiday
The day cruise between Harstad and Svolvaer weaving in-between the Vesterålen and Lofoten Archipelagos. The nature, sensation and relaxation of the Lofoten Islands. The scenery provides an excellent backdrop for Northern Lights photos.
Day 1
Fly from UK to Harstad (via Oslo)
Transfer from Harstad Airport to Harstad centre
Check in to you hotel
Day 2
Breakfast
Day to explore Harstad
Day 3
Early breakfast
Approx. 8am departure on Hurtigruten Coastal Steamer
Scenic cruise through the archipelago - keep you camera nearby!
Approx 6.30pm arrival in Svolvaer
Transfer to Svinoya
Check in to your rorbeur (cabin)
Days 4, 5 & 6
Breakfast
Optional excursions / activities
Day 7
Breakfast
Transfer to airport
Flight back to UK (via Bodo & Oslo)
The Clarion Collection Hotel Arcticus (known locally as The Art House) is located within the Vesterålen archipelago on the quayside in the heart of Harstad, close to the Hurtigruten terminal. Some 200km within the Arctic Circle, Harstad & Vesterålen are great locations to see the Northern Lights (Oct to Mar) without the colder climates of Lapland. Due to the coastal location average winter temperatures are -1C. As a Clarion Collection Hotel a simple evening buffet is also included. You will also find wifi throughout the hotel.
Simply Sweden Recommendations
The world's northernmost medieval church (Church of Trondenes) and Båtbyggermuseet (the shipbuilding museum). Fjords & mountains for local boat / walking trips. The Northern Lights are a big attraction during the winter.
Click on the image for more photos.
These traditional fishermen's cabins (rorbuer) offer a warm cosy welcome deep inside the Arctic Circle. Located just 600m from the centre of Svolvær on a group of small islands Svinøya is conveniently connected to the mainland by bridge. Between October and March it is common for guests of Svinøya to see the northern lights from these cabins.
Børsen Spiseri is a famous fish restaurant (and part of Svinøya), attracting customers from across the Lofoten Islands. Fishing is a key industry on the Lofoten Islands and cod is a local speciality. Fish is a key feature of most Norwegian dishes but you will also find traditional Scandinavia ingredients such as moose and reindeer.
There are 30 original or newly built Rorbuer (fishermen's cabins) close to the waters edge. Each cabin has been furnished to a modern standard and is located on the small islands just outside Svolvær. They are well equipped with living room / kitchen, bedroom(s) and bathroom with WC and shower. The cabins have between 1 and 3 bedrooms with space for between 2 and 6 people in double / twin beds. Wifi is available in the cabins.
Click on the image for more photos.
Visiting the Lofoten Islands during the winter months is so much more than just seeing the northern lights. Soak up the silence, admire the scenery and take the opportunity to head out into nature either with a guided hike, a nature safari or by kayak.
All pricing is based on min 2 adults unless stated.
Guided Fishing Village Walk
Svinøya is the oldest part of Svolvær, and has been a thriving,vibrant fishing village since 1828. Why do people live in Lofoten? What is stockfish and what do we do with it? How did the fishermen live 100 years ago, and how did a "rorbu" actually look like?
Did you know that the first shop in Svolvær is still intact?
Time: 6.30pm for approx. 1hr30.
Dates: Sep to Mar (not 23-26Dec or 31Dec)
Price: £41 per person.
Lofoten Nature Safari
One of the most popular activities. Visit the Vertfjord and the beautiful landscape around Trollfjord. Start with a short lecture about the local geology and climate. Board the boat and head out for scenery and bird watching. There is an excellent chance of seeing sea eagles. It may also be possible to see killer and pilot whales. Lunch is served on board the boat. Please note this there is a minimum of 6 people for this tour to go ahead. Cancellations of this tour are rare as this tour is very popular. If you do book this tour and it does not go ahead we will of course make a full refund.
Time: 0900. 4hrs.
Dates: Sep to Mar on Wed and Sat. Exceptions are 20 & 23Dec.
Price: £136 per person.
The Aurora Jäger
Aurora hunt by our local aurora guide. He never gives up, and finds the aurora almost every time. He will take you to his secret spots. Be prepared for a long night, hours in the car, and waiting outside in all kinds of weather and temperatures. The Aurora Jäger will go to extreme lengths to find lady Aurora. Bring warm clothes, camera, tripod, head light, extra batteries for camera.
Time: 9pm for 3½ to 6hrs depending on conditions.
Dates: Sep to 17Apr (not 23-25Dec).
Price: £163 per person (Max 4 people).
Lofoten Panorama
Explore a dramatic coastline, historical fishing villages and white sand beaches surrounded by rugged mountains with an expert guide. Several photo stops along the way with breath-taking views. Lunch is served in Præstengbrygga in Kabelvåg.
Time: 10am for approx. 4hrs.
Dates: Tue and Fri throughout Sep to Mar (not 22Dec).
Price: £108 per person.
Northern Lights Hunt
With a driver / guide (who will help you with your camera) head away from Svinøya and leave the artificial light behind. Head into the wilderness that provides an amazing back drop for the northern lights. Many of our northern lights pictures are taken from the Lofoten Islands.
Time: 8pm for 4 hrs.
Dates: Daily Sep to Mar (not 23-25Dec).
Price: £125 per person.
RIB Sea Eagle Safari
A 2hrs (1hr30 on board) RIB excursion from Svinøya to Trollfjord & the surrounding area. There are great chances of seeing sea eagles (we saw 3 when we did this tour!). Experience some of the most beautiful scenery around the Lofoten Islands from the unique perspective of the sea.
Time: 11am 2hrs.
Dates: Daily (not 23-25Dec).
Price: £87 per person.
Winter Sea Kayaking
One of the best ways to get up close and personal with nature. Your individual skills and experience, and of course the weather on the day will dictate the location of this tour but no previous experience is necessary. Includes specialist equipment.
Time: 10am for 4hrs.
Dates: Sep to Apr daily.
Price: £136 per person
Snowshoe Hike
Venture into the Lofoten Wilderness and mountains. Amazing scenery as you admire the stunning mountain and marine environment. Bring good hiking boots and a small back pack with snacks and drinks.
Time: 10am for 3hrs.
Dates: Dec to Apr.
Price: £114 per person.
Lofoten by Horse
Ride along the sandy beaches of Lofoten, past relics from the Viking era and explore the true scenic nature of the Lofoten Islands. Includes transfer to the stables. No experience necessary. Bring warm clothing and your camera. Max weight 110kg.
Time: 10am for 4hrs (11am for 2hrs with own transport).
Dates: All year (Oct to Mar for the Northern Lights)
Price: £136 per person (if you have own transport price is £81pp).
Car Rental
Rent a car locally from approx. 900NOK per day. This gives you the flexibility to get out there and really see the sheer beauty of the Lofoten Islands. You can stop where you want, take your time to take pictures and also go on your own Northern Lights chase. We can advise you on the best places to go!
Recommended through out the Northern Lights season which is Sep to Mar.
Not recommended over Christmas as most facilities and activities are closed.
Also available as a midnight sun holiday between Jun, Jul and Aug.
Price from £1380 per person based on 2 adults
Price from £1280 per person based on 4 adults
Price includes
Flights to Harstad (via Oslo) from London
Airport transfer Harstad airport to Harstad centre
2 nights bed & breakfast at Hotel Arcticus
Hurtigruten day cruise between Harstad and Svolvaer (no meals)
Transfer from Hurtigruten to Svinoya Rorbeur
4 nights B&B in traditional fisherman's cabin
Transfer to Svolvaer Airport
Flight to UK
