The beautiful villages of the Lofoten Islands

Charming hamlets and picturesque fishing ports

The villages of the Lofoten Islands stir the soul. Set off on a unique journey, comforted by the feeling of being at the end of the world and explore the ten most beautiful villages the Lofoten Islands have to offer.

1. Reine, suspended in time

Reine embodies the Nordic dream, nestling in the heart of the rugged mountains. Its traditional red stilt cabins contrast with the crystal-clear waters before them and the mist-covered peaks behind them. Every sunrise casts a unique glow over the landscape with a dance of pinks, blues and lilacs filling the sky.

2. Hamnøy, at the foot of the cliffs

Just five kilometres from Reine, the village of Hamnøy is a gem set in unspoilt natural surroundings. Dramatic cliffs rise majestically and frame the rorbuer perched on the rocks, the typical regional fishermen’s cabins.

3. Å, a fishing heritage

Å, owes its name to the river Åelva that runs through it. Its Fiskeværsmuseum invites you to discover the essential role of fishing in Norway, in particular the making of cod liver oil and tasting fish specialities among others. Get an in-depth knowledge of local flavours and know-how.

4. Henningvaer, the Venice of the Lofoten Islands

Henningvaer is nicknamed the Venice of Lofoten and spans several islands and islets, linked by bridges. Step into one of the quaint cafés to discover Norwegian kos, a way of life that lives the joy of the moment. Or perhaps you’ll find inspiration in the international collection at the KaviarFactory, a small and fascinating contemporary art museum overlooking the fjord.

5. Nusfjord, a journey through time

Tucked away at the end of a stunning road winding through fjords and mountains, Nusfjord is one of the oldest and best-preserved villages in the Lofoten Islands. It is this local character that earned that this small natural port UNESCO World Heritage listingDon’t miss the cinnamon buns at the historic Hansines Bakeri.

6. Unstad, Arctic surfing paradise

When you arrive at Unstad, on the island of Vestvågøya, don’t be surprised to see daring surfers taking to the sea. This regional iconic surfing spot, where swells from the Norwegian Sea create waves craved by both local and visiting surfers, offers a striking setting. The wild beach is bordered by imposing mountains, contrasting with the turquoise blue of the water.

7. Flakstad, in red and white

A visit to the Red Church at the foot of the Flakstad Mountains is a unique stop on your Lofoten trip. Rebuilt in the 18th century after a storm, this place of worship built of wood imported from Russia has subtle Baroque and Orthodox features. Then head to Ramberg beach, with its stretch of white sand gently lapped by turquoise waters.

8. Borg, in the footsteps of the Vikings

More than anywhere else in the Lofoten Islands, Vestvågøya Island is the place to plunge into Viking history. In the village of Borg, visit the famous Lofotr museum and slip into the shoes of these ancient Norwegian pirates to understand their customs: axe throwing, archery and traditional building techniques among others.

9. Kabelvåg, a museum rendezvous

Welcome to one of Norway’s oldest villages. At Lofotmuseet, discover reconstructions of fishermen’s homes and boats from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Near Kabelvåg, take a detour to the Lofoten Aquarium to learn about Atlantic cod, king crabs and seals.

10. Ballstad, the bustling port

Your adventure in the Lofoten Islands may take you as far as Ballstad, known for its cod liver oil factories. Nestled at the foot of the mountains, Ballstad’s charm is best appreciated from the sea. Glide through the arms of the fjord in a kayak, travel from island to island and be sure to keep your eyes open – if you’re lucky you might spot seals in their natural habitat.

A Quick Guide to the Lofoten Islands

Fishing, the soul of the Lofoten Islands

Cod fishing has been the lifeblood of the Lofoten Islands for over 1,000 years. Life in the region revolves around fish, from the migrations, between January and April, its trade, and the celebrations that go with it, such as the Lofotfisket, one of the oldest marine traditions in Europe.

The rorbuer, traditional fishermen’s cabins

Fishing shaped life in the Lofoten Islands, and the traditional stilt cabins by the water, rorbuer in Norwegian, are its enduring symbol. Once built to house seasonal fishermen who returned to other lands for the rest of the year, some now welcome travellers looking for an authentic escape, encompassing the local way of life.

Red, the region’s signature colour

The typical houses dotted across the Lofoten Islands come in very few colours; they mostly feature red wooden façades, and just occasionally orange. The red pigments were known to be more affordable and more resistant to the cold and harsh weather. Today, red still brings a magical touch to the landscape, contrasting beautifully with the black and white tones, and perfectly reflecting the warmth and hospitality of the locals.

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