Inspiration for your own tailor-made trip
Norway - Lofoten Archipelago
100% customisable for you
Wave goodbye to the UK because your Norwegian adventure starts today. After speeding through airport security, enjoy some downtime while you wait for your flight to Harstad, which takes around six-and-half hours including a transit through Oslo.
On arrival, whizz through airport security and into a 45-minute private transfer to your comfortable hotel in Harstad. After dropping your bags, venture out and discover the local food scene – there's a wide variety of restaurants and cafés serving dishes prepared with local ingredients, and of course, an abundance of fresh fish. A fun fact for sailing enthusiasts: the town’s port is home to Anna Rogde, a schooner built in 1868, and the oldest one still sailing.
After a restful night’s sleep, fuel up on breakfast ready for the scenic drive to Ringstad, a small village where you’ll spend the next couple of nights. Pick up your hire car, before heading west at your own pace, taking in the stunning views of the Vesteralen archipelago en route. It should take you three or four hours to reach Ringstad, depending on stop-offs for snacks and photo opportunities. Its idyllic location is the perfect place for relaxing or venturing into the archipelago's wilderness. The harbour, with striking colourful houses, offers fantastic views of the Norwegian Sea.
Today, lace up your walking boots and immerse yourself in Vesteralen’s nature – there are over 200 mountain trails in this hiker’s paradise. We recommend climbing Mount Vetten, which at 1,532ft, has magnificent views across the fjords surrounding Langoya Island. Packing some binoculars in your rucksack would be a great idea – to the north-western corner of the Lofoten, beyond the Arctic Circle, lies the Vesteralen archipelago, which faces the Atlantic Ocean. With its tiny islands and islets, and some of Norway's largest islands, this region has a diverse landscape from beaches and farmland, to picturesque alpine peaks and spectacular fjords.
You can't go to Norway without visiting Svolvaer, the scene-stealing capital of the Lofoten Islands. As well as having a vibrant cultural scene, it’s a great base for outdoor adventures. After breakfast this morning, hit the road for a scenic three-hour drive south to Svolvaer.
For the next three nights, you’ll stay in traditional rorbuer – these fishing cabins on stilts over the water are the embodiment of a relaxed, peaceful lifestyle surrounded by mountains, the harbour and a few wooden houses spread out along the docks. There’s also a historic quayside restaurant, which offers delicious meat and fish dishes, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
The next couple of days are yours to enjoy exploring. Depending on the weather, take a half-day kayaking tour of the Lofoten archipelago to discover hidden islands, coves, islets and deserted beaches.
If you’re travelling in winter, don’t miss the chance to see the Northern Lights. From October to March, depart at dusk with your guide, who’ll drive you to a viewing spot away from the light pollution of the city. Don’t worry, they’ll advise on how best to photograph this incredible natural phenomenon. Your in-the-know Concierge can also arrange a dinner reservation at one of the best restaurants on the archipelago – what better way to round off your trip?
Feeling rested and rejuvenated after all the fresh Norwegian air, it’s time to pack your suitcase for the journey home. After one last breakfast, drop off your car at Svolvaer airport and whizz through immigration before relaxing as you wait for your flight. You’ll touch down in the UK around six hours later (including connecting flights in Norway), ready to tell friends and family all about your adventure.
Everything in this itinerary is entirely customisable, down to the smallest details. Here are some more suggestions of what could be included
Each of our trips is entirely tailor-made with originality, quality and cultural immersion in mind. Our team of destination specialists will craft itineraries based on your tastes, using their first-hand knowledge and the help of our in-country team of Concierges and guides. All trips are accompanied by a wide range of additional services, including a 24-hour helpline, the Original Travel app, fast-track airport services and much more.
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Our team of destination experts will get to know you and your unique requirements for your holiday
We work with you to build an ultra-personalised holiday itinerary with your choice of accommodation, experiences and activities
All of our holidays include little extras designed to make a big difference to your trip, from fast-tracking you through airport check-in and security to our network of local Concierges
