The Lofoten Islands are Norway’s Arctic masterpiece, sharp peaks, deep fjords, and red cabins by the sea. In summer, hike under the Midnight Sun and enjoy quiet, white sandy beaches; in winter, chase the Northern Lights across snowy beaches. With wild nature, rich fishing heritage, and cosy Nordic charm, Lofoten is pure off-the-map magic.
Luxury Holidays in Lofoten
@ Svinoya Rorbuer
@ Svinoya Rorbuer
A word from our travel specialist
I didn’t know what to expect before arriving—pictures can only show so much—but the moment I stepped off the ferry, I was completely overwhelmed by the landscape. Towering, snow-dusted mountains erupt straight from the sea.
Tiny clusters of fishing cabins painted in deep reds and mustard yellows sit calmly at the water’s edge, surrounded by reflections so still, they look unreal. Each day felt like a new adventure. I hiked trails that took me high above the fjords, where the views honestly left me speechless.
I kayaked in glacial-blue water, past towering cliffs and sea eagles overhead. Even driving from one village to the next felt like part of the experience—the roads wind through mountains and coastline in ways that make you want to stop every few minutes just to take it all in. The food here deserves its own praise: fresh cod, Arctic char, and the best cinnamon buns I’ve ever had. There’s a rawness to Lofoten cuisine that mirrors the landscape—simple, honest, and unforgettable.
Zoe
Nordic Experience Specialist
Inspiration for Holidays in Lofoten, Norway
Arctic Fjords and Nordic Flavours
An active family journey through Norway featuring fjords, wildlife, kayaking, scenic drives and historic stays from Lofoten to Bergen.
A Winter Escape Through Norway’s Arctic Wonders
A luxurious winter journey through Norway’s Arctic landscapes featuring culture, wildlife, Northern Lights and unforgettable boutique stays.
The Ultimate Arctic Aurora Journey
From Lofoten’s fjords to forest spas in Swedish Lapland, this luxury Arctic escape blends wild landscapes with warmth and wonder.
Oslo and Lofoten - Self Drive and Sea Eagle Safari
This Norwegian adventure seamlessly blends urban sophistication with the raw, untamed beauty of the Lofoten Islands.
Lofoten, Designed Around You
The Lofoten Islands are a dramatic Arctic archipelago off Norway’s northwest coast, where sheer mountain peaks plunge into the sea and red fishermen’s cabins cling to rugged shorelines.
This is a place where untamed nature meets timeworn traditions, and every view feels like a painting brought to life. From kayaking through glassy Norwegian fjords and witnessing soaring sea eagles to hiking across alpine trails lit by the Midnight Sun, Lofoten offers adventure shaped by the rhythm of the ocean and sky.
Where to Stay: Handpicked for You
Stay in traditional red wooden fishermen’s cottages in Lofoten, with views out towards the Norwegian Sea, or island lodges next to the golf course with sunset views and quiet evenings on the terrace.
Hattvika Lodge, Rorbuer Fishermen's Cottages
Historic fishermen’s cottages with views out towards the Norwegian Sea
Nusfjord Resort
A secluded valley stretching toward the sea, a quaint fishing village
Svinoya Rorbuer
The perfect base to stay while exploring the unique Lofoten Islands
Lofoten Links Lodges
Facing North towards the Sea, midnight sun, northern lights, and sunsets
Hattvika Hideaway
Historic fishermen’s cottages with views out towards the Norwegian SeaThe Guidebook
Explore Lofoten, Norway
The Lofoten Islands feel like nature’s masterpiece — a rugged, remote destination that rewards the curious traveller with breathtaking scenery and authentic Nordic culture. Located above the Arctic Circle, Lofoten offers an ever-changing canvas: from the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights in winter to the golden brilliance of the Midnight Sun in summer.
This is where luxury isn’t defined by opulence, but by immersive moments — kayaking through crystal fjords, hiking dramatic ridgelines, and dining on freshly caught Arctic seafood. Every experience here is an invitation to connect deeply with Norway’s raw and untamed beauty
Getting There
Reaching Lofoten may feel like part of the adventure itself — but it’s remarkably accessible. The main gateway is via Leknes or Svolvær airports, with regular flights from Oslo and Bodø. Alternatively, many visitors arrive via the spectacular Hurtigruten coastal ferry, which connects Lofoten to Tromsø, Bergen, and other Norwegian hubs.
Private transfers, scenic drives along Norway’s iconic E10 highway, or private yacht charters can also be arranged to ensure a fully curated arrival experience.
Arctic Coastal Wonder
Lofoten’s landscapes are defined by sharp granite peaks, sheltered fjords, and white sand beaches that feel almost tropical beneath Arctic skies. The colourful rorbuer (traditional fishermen’s cabins) scattered across the islands offer a uniquely Lofoten form of accommodation, blending rustic charm with comfort and intimacy.
Signature experiences include hiking Reinebringen for its iconic views, kayaking through the glassy waters of Reinefjord, or exploring remote beaches like Kvalvika — often reached via scenic trails that offer breathtaking panoramas.
Nature & Northern Lights
From September to April, the Northern Lights dance above Lofoten’s jagged skyline, with crisp, clear Arctic nights providing ideal conditions. With little light pollution, even stepping outside your rorbu offers spectacular shows.
In summer, Lofoten is bathed in endless daylight under the Midnight Sun from late May to mid-July. This is prime time for hiking, climbing, fishing, kayaking, surfing, and exploring the islands by sea.
Lofoten’s wildlife is equally captivating — spot white-tailed sea eagles, puffins, seals, and even orcas during winter whale-watching safaris.
Culture & Cuisine
Lofoten’s cultural heartbeat remains its fishing heritage. Visit historic fishing villages like Henningsvær and Nusfjord, where cod drying racks still line the harbours. Between February and April, the legendary Arctic cod (skrei) season attracts fishermen from across Norway.
The cuisine reflects this deep connection to the sea. Expect fresh cod, king crab, Arctic char, and locally foraged berries, often prepared in intimate, high-end restaurants overlooking the fjords. Private dining experiences can be arranged — whether in boutique lodges, converted boathouses, or fireside under the northern skies.
Climate
Lofoten’s climate is milder than many Arctic destinations, thanks to the Gulf Stream. Winters average between -1°C to -5°C, making it ideal for snowy adventures without extreme cold. Summers average 12–15°C, though the Midnight Sun makes it feel warmer, with endless hours of golden Arctic light.
Lofoten is for those seeking the extraordinary — where towering mountains meet endless seas, and where each moment feels like an adventure sculpted by nature itself.
The ease of everything stood out to me. All we had to do was be there at the right time. The dog sledding was the highlight for my daughter and sister. We had the best time! For me, Manshausen was the highlight. We were very lucky and the only guests there for the majority of our stay. The staff was amazing and the food was so delicious. We had moose steak and it was the best meal I’ve ever had.
The cabins were comfortable and we were so lucky to have 2 clear nights where we just sat and watched the northern lights. We were able to get some awesome pictures too.
I appreciate all your time and care with planning our trip! I won’t hesitate to use Off the Map travel for our next adventure.
Kelly
Amy was a great help with planning this trip. Our trip turned out amazing. I also was very grateful for Off the Map’s Front Desk service, which promptly handled an on the spot issue we had.
Karen
Exceptional service throughout the entire planning and booking process – travel agencies don’t get any better than this. A brilliant, seamless experience matched by the holiday experience itself. Would recommend ‘Off the Map Travel’ to anyone considering booking for a Nordic experience ‘par excellence’.
Chris
I used OTMT to organise a holiday to see the Northern Lights for my partner’s 50th birthday. They took the time to understand my priorities, the kinds of places we like to stay and the things we like to do. They recommended a fabulous itinerary in Norway centred around the Lyngen Experience Lodge. The holiday itself lived up to expectations and I have no hesitation in recommending OTMT. They listened carefully during the planning and delivered the perfect present for my partner.
Alex
Hello Lucy!! Kim and I had a fantastic time in Iceland! Probably one of my top 3 trips I’ve ever taken!
It was everything we asked for and you did a wonderful job coordinating it all so beautifully!!
Thank you very much and we will contact you again when we get ready to plan our trip to Norway and Lapland!
Doreen
We – the whole family – loved the whole journey!!
The accommodations, the activities and especially the great people – thank you very much for this fantastic organisation !!!
Barbara
The best travel experience ever on every level you can think of during a Lapland expedition (food, activities, timings, accommodation, transport, service, equipment…). I highly recommend Off The Map Travel for their outstanding level of professionalism and detail oriented mindset!
Sophie & Guy
Off the Map Travel was great! Alex helped us plan the most amazing 10 day honeymoon to Iceland. He gave us great recommendations and was so patient with us during the planning process!
Tori
Arctic Retreat was simply magical. Graham and his team were superb. Their entire focus was on ensuring we had an outstanding experience. The accommodation, setting and food were all excellent. The team, experienced professionals, each brought their own personal touch and local nuance. It was faultless. The dog sledging trip directly from Arctic Retreat was also superb. We would return to Arctic Retreat in a heartbeat.
George
We really enjoyed our Norwegian adventure despite the -22 days! Unfortunately no real experience of viewing the Lights but we did capture a couple of images on our last night – too much cloud otherwise so lots of snow. We really enjoyed the husky lodge – not at all what we had tentatively imagined. Thanks for your assistance, maybe next time we will see the Lights in all their glory.
Andrew
My family and I traveled to Sweden to see The Northern Lights in March of 2023. From the planning process to every detail of the trip, I could not have been more pleased with our experience. Alex was exceptional to work with. His guidance on the time of year, where to stay, activities to do and how to get to and from everything was spot on. I have never used a tour company before but thought a trip of this kind would be easier with some help. I am so glad that I did. The entire week was seamless and completely stress-free, allowing us to truly enjoy Sweden and our time together as a family. I will be recommending Off The Map travel to friends and family and will certainly be using them myself again in the future.
Emily
Amy planned a fantastic trip! Everything was very well-thought out. All transfers went smoothly, accommodations were amazing, great restaurant recommendations and the tours were once-in-a-lifetime, can’t book it yourself off the internet experiences. The guides were all fantastic. Communications were prompt and everything worked exactly the way it was supposed to. What a pleasure! Already working on our next trip.
Anonymous