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Explore Lofoten and Vesterålen Islands

Scenic self-drive through these charming island villages with dramatic scenery
Henningsvær, Norway © Eirik Ohna/Nord Norge

The charming small communities in the archipelagos make up the Lofoten and Vesterålen islands. The island culture is based on friendliness and you will meet the locals in traditional fishing villages. These magical islands of beautiful nature and friendly culture invite you to explore an area of traditions, food, activities, changing weather and northern splendor. Experience the islands from top to toe! Also, two of the most breath-taking National Tourist routes are included in this self-drive itinerary.

Itinerary

Day 1 Harstad Arrival

Pick-up your car from Evenes Airport or Harstad city centre and drive to your hotel. Overnight in Harstad at Thon Hotel Harstad or similar.

Day 2 Harstad - Andenes 185km

Drive from Harstad towards Andenes on the green Vesterålen islands. On your way to Andenes you will drive through valleys and beautiful villages located on the shores of the fjords, and we recommend selecting the route through Kvæfjord, which naturally includes the short ferry-crossing (not included) between Refsnes and Flesnes. Overnight in Andenes at Thon Hotel Andrikken or similar.

Day 3 Andenes - Svolvær 210km

Optional morning Whale Safari by RIB boat in Andenes, duration 3hrs. From Andenes head towards Svolvaer “the capital” of the Lofoten Islands. Svolvær offers the atmosphere of a harbor, a small town and art centre simultaneously. Passing through small towns, make a stop in the old trading centre Stokmarknes to visit the museum of the coastal express Hurtigruten. Spend two nights in Svolvær in a traditional Rorbu cabin at Svinoya Rorbuer.

Day 4 Svolvær 

Day at leisure to explore abundance of nature in the Lofoten Islands. Optional Trollfjord and Sea Eagle Safari by by RIB boat in Svolvær, duration 2hrs. 2nd overnight in Svolvær in a traditional Rorbu cabin at Svinoya Rorbuer.

Day 5 Svolvaer - Reine 120km

Continue your journey of Lofoten souhtwards. We recommend a stop in Nusfjord - an authentic fishing village (entrance fee not included). End the day in Reine, the most beautiful village of the Lofoten. Spend two nights in a traditional Rorbu cabin at Reine Rorbuer.

Day 6 Reine 

Enjoy your day at leisure. Recommended is a visit to Å, a small village in the south of the archipelago. The village is a museum with typical rorbu, bakery and boathouses, which are more than 150 years old and still in their original place. Optional Kayak tour in Reine, duration 2hrs. 2nd overnight in a traditional Rorbu cabin at Reine Rorbuer.

Day 7 Reine - Henningsvær 115km

It is time to go North again and have your last night on Lofoten in beautiful Henningsvær, located on several small islands. It is known as one of the biggest fishermen villages and for its traditional fishing village architecture. We recommend tovisit “Galleri Lofoten Hus” or take a walk around the harbor. Overnight in Henningsvær Rorbuer in a traditional Rorbu cabin.

Day 8 Henningsvær - Harstad 115km

Today head back to Harstad. Overnight in Harstad at Thon Hotel Harstad or similar.

Day 9 Harstad Departure

Breakfast at the hotel and check-out. Your tour concludes with car drop-off at Evenes Airport or Harstad city centre. 


 2024 departures: daily May - September 

Notes: 

Please enquire for other car options - compact automatic or manual and medium automatic also available.

Nordic Travel is 100% Australian owned and operated