I’d been dreaming of the Lofoten Islands for some time, and when the idea to do a European road trip was formed in my head, I simply had to go.
Everything I had seen or read online about the Lofoten Islands inspired me to visit, from the snow-capped mountains to the white sandy beaches, and not to mention the idyllic colourful wooden houses that are synonymous with Norway.
But would it live up to the expectations of the so called (by me!) promised land?
Heading to the Arctic Circle
After the most marvellous week on the west coast, the weather took a turn and I had a few days of rain. However, this couldn’t have been timed more perfectly as these days I started the long drive up to the north of Norway.
By the time I crossed into the arctic circle, I was driving through mountain roads that had thick snow either side up to a metre and half deep in places!
I had to stop and take a minute at this point. I’d just driven to the arctic circle 🤯😅
There’s a ferry port in Bødo which takes you to the Lofoten Islands, but it only accepts reservations for 50% capacity and it was already booked up. So I turned up early and waited in line in the terminal for 6 hours until they started boarding to see if I could get a spot. Luckily for me, they let me on 🙌🏼
Whilst I had time to kill at the terminal, I headed off in search of a cinnamon bun.
Why the Promised Land?
The Lofoten Islands are located off the north coast of Norway, and offer dramatic, imposing beauty every where you look. The islands are connected by bridges and the E10 road that runs the length of the archipelago.
Lofoten is a hiker’s paradise. From spectacular panoramic viewpoints to remote beaches, it’s a photographer’s dream.
The weather on the islands is not what you’d expect, with it being so far north. Temperatures are surprisingly mild due to the Gulf Stream, and rarely dip below freezing.
Vikings settled here to fish in the bountiful waters, and traders in the Middle Ages would come from far and wide to trade goods for the Lofoten fish. You see the fish drying racks all over the islands. The fish are caught in winter and left to dry for three months.
I chose my first Lofoten hike, up Reinebringen, which promised panoramic views of the majestic fjords and picture-perfect mountains. It wasn’t a long hike, but boy was it steep. Just a casual 1,800 steps up! But thankfully, it did not disappoint 😍
Mountains and Beaches
When you think of Norway, white sandy beaches probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. But Lofoten offers a range of picturesque beaches all with stunning mountainous backdrops.
I parked up near Ramberg beach and stopped for a few hours to enjoy the sunshine. I enjoyed it there so much, I decided to stay for the night and was treated to a spectacular sunset. Although, at this point it didn’t really set, but just hovered at the horizon for about an hour before coming back up again.
Bring on the Sunshine
The next day, I headed to Kvalvika beach, which is only accessible on foot by hiking over a mountain called Ryten.
Once again, the the sun was shining and the route up was stunning. There’s still quite a lot of snow around, which is bizarre when I’m in a t-shirt and very sweaty! 🥵
There’s a famous rock at the top named “Mini Trolltunga”, and seen as I didn’t get my photo at the actual Trolltunga I thought I would have to get it here instead.
Nusfjord & Ballstad
Another little hidden gem I found was a charming fishing village called Nusfjord. It is one of the oldest and best preserved and boasts many delightful rorbu (fishermen’s cabins).
After a few snaps and another cinnamon bun, I then headed to Ballstad, and hiked up Nonstinden. It doesn’t seem like it’s possible to choose a bad hike here.
Haukland Beach
Another absolute gem was Haukland beach. Once again, I was so lucky with the weather as the sun was shining so I was able to sit and chill for a while.
I also went to the Viking museum Lofotr, which had lots of historical artefacts and re-enactments etc. The museum is in Leknes and the surrounding areas are so idyllic.
The Land of Midnight Sun
Due to its latitude, the Lofoten islands experience 24 hours of daylight in the summer. Which means you can go out hiking at night while the sun dips lower in the sky, but never actually sets.
What with the lack of routine, snow one day then a tropical beach the next, throw in 24 hours of daylight as well and you’ll understand why I have no idea what day it is, what time it is, or where on earth I am any more 🤷🏻♀️😂
So, at 11pm I set off chasing the midnight sun. The sky turned a delightful pastel colour and as I got to the top of the mountain at 1am, I was treated to the most spectacular sky!
“Rest” Day
After quite a few days of strenuous hiking, I promised myself that I’d have a rest day. But first, I decided to go for a run so I could say I’d done a 5k in the arctic circle (Kirsty, I hope you’re proud!). The sun was shining, there was a long flat path with beautiful scenery, and most significantly, I had access to a shower and laundry facilities.
Is if that wasn’t enough, I was then driving and the view was too inviting so I had to stop and climb up to the top of Offersøya to get the full panoramic.
The water was just so turquoise and the sun was dancing off the surface. I was dead on my feet, but it was worth it!
Henningsvær
Another famous fishing village is Henningsvær, which is a small cluster of islands that are connected by bridges. It is a cultural stronghold, with many quaint cafes, art galleries and craft shops.
However, it is probably most famous for its dramatic football stadium which is on its own island, surrounded by bare cliffs and roaring seas. Would love to have a game here, Witton Albion on tour anyone?!
After yet another cinnamon bun, I drove a bit further and had to stop again at another gorgeous beach – Rørvikstranda. It’s very difficult to get anywhere when you keep having to stop to take photos all the time!
If, after reading this, you haven’t immediately bought a van, quit your job and set off towards the Lofoten islands then I have failed in my mission. I hope you will see the mesmeric beauty of these lands and why this place has been top of my travel list for a while! 🏞️
Norway, you have my heart 🇳🇴
But, it is time for me to move on. I have places to go and people to see ❤️
Next stop, Sweden 🇸🇪
Travel Stats
- Days: 27
- Countries: 6 (🇫🇷🇧🇪🇳🇱🇩🇪🇩🇰🇳🇴)
- Distance driven: 3,513 miles (5,653 km)
- Distance hiked: 66 miles (107 km)
- Sunrise time: N/A
- Sunset time: N/A
- Cinnamon buns eaten: Who’s counting?! 🤷🏻♀️😂
Glorious scenery and a good selection of cinnamon buns to sustain you – fabulous.
It must really mess up your body clock having these almost endless days, do you have to force yourself to go to sleep 💤 but then you’d miss the sunset/sunrise phenomenon.
I’m pleased Lofoten lived up to your expectations it looks spectacular, here’s to finding more wonderful settings as you make your way to Sweden 🚐 x
Yeah it’s very strange pulling the curtains when it’s bright sunshine outside and trying to go to sleep! But I’ve loved the experience of it and the midnight hike was amazing! 😃
The cinnamon bun queen rules😊
Amazing photos sweetheart 💜
🥐👑
Amazing views – the sky’s so blue and the air so clear. It looks gorgeous!
Poya xx
Ps. What about United then? Did you catch any of the match?
Silly question, of course I watched it! 😂
I think I recognise this place from geoguesser 🤔 Looks amazing though!
Ha one for the next game of hide and seek? 😂
I’m inspired. I’ve bought a van, quit my job and just waiting for the right time to head off! Your photography is superb and certainly does the area justice. Are you eating anything apart from cinnamon buns? Have fun in Sweden. Hope you come across the Ice Hotel.
Living life off Cinnamon bun’s, chocolate & Cheese 😂
Sounds like the perfect life to me Em 😊
Why would I want to eat anything else? 🥐😂
Gosh Kat, so inspired to visit that beautiful area. What a fantastic trip! I agree with Dave, your photos are magnificent. I’m wordless! Wow! So very pleased for you. ❤️ can’t wait for next blog. Thank you for sharing your travels. Xx
Thanks Selma! 🥰
Amazing Kat 🥰 The real Promised Land. Enjoy Sweden, but not for too long. You have people to see✌️
Glad you’re enjoying the updates 🥰
What can I say. Truly fabulous Kat. Awesome.xx
Thanks Di! 🥰
MOOOOSSE!!!! 🙂 🙂 🙂 xx
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🤯🤯🤯🤯😱😮😲 get me to Norway!!!! Absolutely loving your blogs. Sooooo good. Keep up the good work 😎. 100% inspired. X
YES GIRL 🔥
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