Lofoten and Vesterålen
Favored by tourists searching for the ‘authentic Norway’
The Lofoten and Vesterålen islands feature rorbuer (fisherman’s huts), fishing villages, and distinctive mountains such as Svolværgeita, towering over white, sandy beaches and azure-blue lagoons. No one forgets a visit to Lofoten and Vesterålen, whether they are witnessing the Midnight Sun in the summer, fishing for cod under the Northern Lights in February, or sailing through the spectacular passage through Risøyrenna.
Lofoten is a group of islands in Nordland County, administered by the municipalities of Vågan, Vestvågøy, Flakstad, Moskenes, Værøy, and little Røst, far out in the ocean to the southwest. This region offers a variety of experiences and excursions. Enjoy a whale safari or kayaking trip. Go horseback riding, or take a hike to reach the many mountaintops. Go sea fishing for feet-long cod. Take a bicycle-camping expedition or stay in an authentic fisherman’s hut.
The Vesterålen area, with its mountains, islands, and skerries, had been all but forgotten. However, Hurtigruten founder Richard With led the development of a canal through Risøyrenna that has allowed this pearl of nature to be included in the Hurtigruten Route.
Vesterålen lies to the north of Lofoten and spans across the five municipalities of Andøy, Bø, Hadsel, Sortland, and Øksnes. People have lived here since the Stone Age, and the inhabitants developed several important trading stations early in history. Today, all the islands are linked to each other and the mainland by several bridges.
Hurtigruten arrives at Lofoten at Stamsund on its way north after crossing from Bodø. It then proceeds to Svolvær, calling at Stokmarknes, Sortland, and Risøyhamn. Then it continues to Harstad. On the southbound voyage, the route follows the same path, but in reverse order.