Lofoten ISLANDS - Northern Lights

This is an incredible Northern Lights holiday in a very special part of Arctic Norway.

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 the 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 snowcapped mountains.

The Lofoten Islands - they have to be seen to be believed.

Northern Lights - Facts

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Itinerary

Day 1 - 3
Fly from the UK to Harstad (via Oslo). Transfer from Harstad airport to Harstad centre. The airport bus has a stop at Hotel Arcticus.

Hotel Arcticus - Harstad

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.

Simply Sweden Recommendations
2 excellent restaurants, De 4 Riser and Hoelstuene. 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 as is the midnight sun during the summer.

Day 3
Hurtigruten Coastal Steamer

An early breakfast and a full day onboard the Hurtigruten Coastal boat between Harstad and Svolvaer on the Lofoten Islands. Admire the stunning fjords scenery as you weave between the Vesterålen islands and see Trollfjorden.
0830 departure from Harstad.
1830 arrival in Svolvaer.

Transfer to your traditional Rorbeur (fisherman's cabins) in Svolvaer.

Day 4 -6
Svinoya Rorbeur

One of the highlights of Norway. The Lofoten Islands are quite simply breathtaking. You will be surrounded by some of Norway's most impressive scenery in a dramatic marine and mountain environment. Make sure you make the most of your stay and book an activity or two. We recommend between 3 and 5 nights on Lofoten to give you the best chances of seeing the northern lights, and the opportunity to explore this magical part of Norway.

There are 30 original or newly built Rorbeur (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 Svolvaer. The islands are connected to Svolvaer by bridge and it is just 600m to the centre. 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.

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. Here is a list of available activities on the Lofoten Islands. Please note the availability of activities.

Day 7
Breakfast at leisure and transfer to Svolvaer Airport for flight back to the UK via Bodo & Oslo.

Price from £1295 per person based on 2 adults
Price from £1165 per person based on 4 adults

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Holiday notes
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 (via Bodo & Oslo)

It is important to note that some of the snow based activities may not be available in October or November (and possibly other times) as these are subject to the snow conditions at the time.

The Northern Lights are a natural phenomena and can never be guaranteed. There are many theories about the best place and best time of year to see them. One thing is certain. They are very much real and Lapland, Sweden & Norway are great places to see them. They are also fantastic locations to enjoy a winter holiday.