A quick flight from Frankfurt, Paris and Zürich to Harstad/Narvik Airport takes you to a world of magic islands, of whales and seabirds, of viking history and majestic fjords. Spend your summer exploring the archipelagos of Lofoten and Vesterålen and the fjord cities of Harstad and Narvik in the endless light of the Arctic summer.
The Lofoten Islands rise steeply from the Atlantic
Lofoten is a chain of steep, green mountains, colourful fishing villages, sandy beaches, short but steep hikes to great views, and great surfing, kayaking, and fishing. Look out for a thriving art scene, including a mysterious street artist, and enjoy fishy cuisine along with the world’s biggest Viking house. Stay the night in an authentic rorbu, a fisherman’s shack
Vesterålen is home to the whale
The giant sperm whales, ferocious orcas, and colourful puffins feed in the rich seas off the Vesterålen archipelago. Whether on coastal hikes with panoramic views, kayaking between the islands, or enjoying coffee in historic fishing villages, you’ll always catch the scent of the salty sea. Explore the scenic route along the Atlantic, cycle along quiet country roads, venture into the mysterious Trollfjord, savour coffee and cheese in a Sami tent, and visit a blue city.
Harstad is old Viking land of fjords and islands
Some of the fiercest Vikings came from Harstad. Trace their legacy in historic Trondenes, where history comes to life, along lush green fjord sides, and out to the myriad of islands. Hike easy trails for wide views, ride an e-bike through fertile farmland, and kayak in serene waters. In the vibrant, welcoming town centre, taste delicacies from Arctic agriculture and savour the the diverse cultural calendar
Narvik is WW2 history among majestic fjords
The towering peaks and deep fjords around Narvik are best explored on fabulous mountain hikes, exhilarating bike rides down smooth-polished rock faces or on a fast fjord boat. Or simply from the cable car. Learn about the big battle of Narvik in 1940 before taking the iron ore train through fjords and mountains to the Swedish border. Hungry? Try Sami cuisine in a lavvu – a Sami tent.
Highlights in Lofoten, Vesterålen, Harstad and Narvik
We have pointed out some of the best know highlights. Use them as guidelines, but make sure to smell the flowers on the way.
Harstad Narvik Airport is your starting point
Harstad/Narvik Airport receives direct flights from Frankfurt in the summer of 2024, and is thus your starting point.
Reine is the beauty spot at Lofoten's tip
Picturesque fishing village with great view and hiking, other beautyspots are nearby. Take the boat to remote settlements, beaches and steep hikes.
Lofotr is the big Viking house
A recontstructed 80 metres long Viking house brings the Viking Age back to life. Nearby you can surf and eat goat cheese.
Henningsvær is the cool fishing village
This lively fishing village combines traditional life with good food and a drink on the dockside. Good hikes, an aquarium and Lofoten’s capital Svolvær are nearby.
Nyksund is a ghost village brough back to life
Once a thriving, industrious fishing village, Nyksund was abandoned around 1970. Now, however, it has been brought back to life. This is also a starting point for whale safaris and the legendary Dronningruta – the “Queen’s Route”.
Andenes is the town on the deep ocean
Giant sperm whales swim off Vesterålen, and in Andenes and Stø you can go out to see them. Don’t miss the Norwegian Scenic Route Andøya
Harstad is the friendly, tasty city
Walk around this friendly city with great views, and book a table for some gourmet food made from local produce.
Trondenes is where history comes alive
The world’s northernmost medieval church, filled with gothic art, a museum going further in bringing history to life and a giant gun from WWII.
Bjarkøy is the centre of the archipelago
A historical island, and a great starting point for exploring a beautiful achipelago
Narvik is the city on the giant fjord
Get the full story of the first big battle of WWII at the war museum and head up with the cable car for fabulous views of this fjord city among towering peaks
Take the train to Sweden and hike back
The iron ore train to Sweden is a beautiful ride with fjords and mountains. Top it by doing the 6km hike through the wilderness to the fjord
In Polar Park you make new friends
Howling wolves, sedate moose, mischievous lynx, cunning mountain fox; all the big animals of the north live happy lives in the world’s northernmost safari park.
