Activity: Best of Lofoten Day in 1 day Tour
Provided by:
Arctic Route by Best Arctic
We are thrilled to have you join us on the "Best of Lofoten in 1 day" tour, where you'll have the opportunity to explore four breathtaking destinations along the famous Norwegian Scenic Route in the Lofoten Islands. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as we visit Nusfjord, Reine, Flakstad Beach and Henningsvær. Our journey begins from the picturesque town of Svolvær, where you'll be immersed in the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of this stunning archipelago. >>>> Itinerary >>>> 1. Departure from Svolvær. Hop on the Arctic Route, along the National Scenic Route, towards the west of Lofoten. 2. Nusfjord Next, we'll go to Nusfjord, one of Norway's best-preserved fishing villages. Immerse yourself in the village's rich history, walk along the old wooden buildings, and capture the essence of traditional Lofoten architecture. 3. Reine Our journey continues to the iconic village of Reine, renowned for its dramatic mountain scenery and crystal-clear waters. Take a stroll along the shoreline, snap photos of the classic red Rorbu cabins, and soak in the awe-inspiring landscapes that have made Reine a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. 4. Flakstad Beach/Lofoten Beach Camp Our final stop brings us to the idyllic Flakstad Beach, where you can unwind on the pristine sandy shore, marvel at the panoramic views of the ocean and surrounding mountains, or simply breathe in the fresh sea air as you reflect on the day's adventures. 5. Henningsvær Our last stop is the charming fishing village of Henningsvær. Known for its scenic beauty and vibrant art scene, Henningsvær offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Explore the narrow streets lined with colorful houses, visit art galleries, and take in the stunning coastal views. >>>> Conclusion <<<< As the day comes to an end, we hope you depart with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for the unparalleled beauty of the Lofoten Islands. Our "Best of Lofoten" day tour promises to be an enriching and captivating experience that will leave you inspired by the natural wonders of this extraordinary region. We can't wait to share this incredible journey with you! Let's make today an unforgettable exploration of the "Best of Lofoten."
To find more content and listen to free audio guides, download the Voice of Norway app.
Points of interest
#1
We are here for you
In need of assistance: - Booking Point in Tromsø: Sjøgata 7 in Tromsø - daily from 9 am to 4 pm (from April to September) - info@bestarctic.com - 0047 953 03 888 - www.bestarctic.com - if emergency: call 0047 953 03 888 - don't use Instagram messages of Facebook messages in case of emergency We love help creating your magical Arctic holiday in the North.
#2
Read me: imporant info about your day trip
This tour includes 4 sightseeing stops along the Norwegian Scenic Route, with the Arctic Route hop-on/hop-off bus, in Lofoten Islands. Please read the information below carefully. Important: - You are boarding the Arctic Route bus, a hop-on/hop-off bus, that stops on several places along the route. Only hop off the designated stops, listed below. - Make sure you are back on time on the bus, as the bus follows a schedule and can't wait longer than the listed departure time. - During your full tour, you will be seated on the same Arctic Route bus with the same driver. He will bring you around in Lofoten and drop you off in Svolvær at the end of the tour. >>>> Your detailed itinerary <<<< 1. Hop on the Arctic Route in Svolvær at 08:10. 2. Hop off the Arctic Route bus when arriving at Nusfjord around 11:25. The bus will wait at the parking place. The entrance ticket is included in your Best of Lofoten voucher. Go to the booth and mention 'Best of Lofoten with Arctic Route'. You have 60 minutes to visit Henningsvær. Be back on the bus at the latest 12:20, as the bus leaves at 12:25 punctually. 3. Important: The Arctic Route bus makes a hop-on/hop-off stop at Flakstad, on the way to Reine, though don't hop off here. You will visit this place around 15:25 on your way back to Svolvær. 4. Hop off the Arctic Route bus when arriving at Reine around 13:25. The bus won't wait though will continue to the end of the road and will pick you back up on the way back to Svolvær. You have 60 minutes to visit Reine. Be back on the bus at the latest 14:35, as the bus leaves at 14:40 punctually. 5. Hop off the Arctic Route bus when arriving at Flakstad Beach/Lofoten Beach Camp around 15:25. The bus will wait at the parking place. You have 25 minutes to visit this area. Be back on the bus at the latest 15:50, as the bus leaves at 15:55 punctually. 6. Hop off the Arctic Route bus when arriving at Henningsvær around 18:05. The bus will wait at the parking place. You have 60 minutes to visit Henningsvær. Be back on the bus at the latest 19:00, as the bus leaves at 19:05 punctually. This is your last stop. 7. You make your way back to Svolvær. Don't hop off anymore, until you are back in Svolvær/Svinøya around 19:35. Need of assistance? Call us: 0047 953 03 888.
#3
Svolvær Centre / Hurtigruten Terminal
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the bus stop Hurtigruten terminal, close to Thon Hotel. Svolvær is a vibrant and lively place for those who want to experience Lofoten’s urban life, nature and culture. Attractions here include the War Memorial Museum, where you will find Norway’s largest exhibition of uniforms and artifacts from the Second World War. Close to town, you can hike up to Djevelporten (or the Devil’s Gate). This famous Lofoten photo spot offers wonderful views from a rock that is apparently wedged between two mountains to create a bridge. Not far away is the spectacular Svolværgeita (or the Svolvær Goat). People have been climbing up this 150m pinnacle since 1910. Visitors who enjoy steep heights and excitement can book a guided climbing tour. A more relaxing option is the floating sauna at Svinøya Rorbuer followed by a refreshing dip in the sea. For a memorable nature and wildlife adventure, you can sail from Svolvær to the famous Trollfjord – one of Lofoten’s true gems. This narrow Arctic fjord can only be reached by boat or a 10 km hike across the mountains. After an active day, you can choose between a variety of restaurants in Svolvær. While you are in Northern Norway, we recommend trying fresh seafood.
#4
Henningsvær
Arctic Route Bus stop: at the entrance parking of Henningsvær. Toilet available at the parking lot. For the longer sightseeing stop direction Å to Svolvær: please be back on the bus at 19:00. Henningsvær is a charming and lively place to visit and explore in Lofoten. It’s spread over two small islands connected by a breakwater, which creates a natural harbour. This fishing village in Lofoten has been attracting visitors for centuries. Fishing has been the main source of income and livelihood for the people of Henningsvær since the Middle Ages and remains important to this day. Every year, from January to April, vast quantities of Arctic cod migrate down from the Barents Sea to spawn in the waters around Henningsvær. Henningsvær still preserves many of the traditional buildings and methods of processing the fish. You can see the wooden racks where the cod are hung to dry in the open air, creating a distinctive sight and smell. Dried cod, or stockfish, is a delicacy exported to many countries around the world. The most iconic café in Lofoten, Klatrekafeèn, is situated at the entrance to Henningsvær. You can meet everyone at this melting pot, from climbers and fishermen via artists to campervan tourists and skiers. Partly a bar and partly a café, this place is a bit of everything and is very enjoyable. We recommended their fish soup served with delicious bread.
#5
The right to roam
The right to roam freely enables everyone to enjoy nature in a kind, caring and responsible way without damaging the terrain or disturbing wildlife. This right to roam has been enshrined in the Norwegian Outdoor Recreation Act since 1957. It provides wonderful opportunities to experience and use the nature around us. It’s also described as the public right of access to and passage through the countryside and the right to spend time there. While taking advantage of the right to roam, you can enjoy exciting nature-based experiences like camping in a tent or hammock, hiking, horseback riding, cycling, hunting and fishing. However, there are a few rules. For instance, you are not permitted to set up a tent less than 150 metres from inhabited houses or cabins. Separate rules may apply for picking cloudberries in certain places in Northern Norway. If you take a dog with you between 1 April to 20 August, you must keep it on a leash.
#6
Handscraft in Henningsvær
Henningsvær is also a place where art and creativity flourish. It has several art galleries and museums that showcase local and international artists. You can admire paintings, sculptures, photographs and installations that reflect the beauty and diversity of Lofoten. One of the most famous attractions is the Kaviar Art Factory, a former caviar factory that has been transformed into a contemporary art museum. At the first square in Henningsvær, you will find Engelskmannsbrygga, a glass art shop, or Lysstøperi and cafe. Here you will get quality hand-cast candles, freshly baked buns, good food and drink in an esthetic atmosphere. Or in for some knitting? Visit Cod & Haddock – knitted headwear. Or visit the oldest bar in Henningsvær: Kafe Knusarn a bit further on the right. We recommend the Fish 'n Chips. Henningsvær also offers many opportunities for outdoor activities and adventure. You can enjoy the stunning views of the sea and mountains from different perspectives. You can go kayaking, sailing, diving, or fishing in the clear waters. You can go hiking, biking, or climbing on rugged terrain. They even have a football pitch at the far end of the sea gap, literally!
#7
Reine
Arctic Route Bus Stop: on the square in front of Reine Rorbuer or the kiosk at the end of the road. Reine is one of Norway’s most beautiful and charming places. Reine has a great location facing the Vestfjord and, with its excellent harbour, has been a natural haunt for traders for many centuries. Do you see any signs of that in the area? You can paddle by kayak or travel by boat out in the fjord to see some of the most beautiful beaches in Lofoten, which cannot be reached by road. Bringen coffee bar is worth a visit. This cosy and traditional café serves good coffee, freshly baked cakes and even ice cream for the children. Reinebringen is one of the most popular mountains to hike up in Lofoten. At the foot of the mountain, you will find Reinehalsen, a vantage point that is one of Norway’s most famous photo spots. If you want to stay for a night or two, an adventure awaits in the iconic red rorbu or fishermen’s cabin. Do you know why most of these fishermen’s cabins are red? In days gone by, red was the cheapest paint! The poor people didn’t even paint the back of their rorbu. So, whenever you see a rorbu, check if the back is painted!
#8
Hidden bar in Henningsvær
As you walk down the streets in Henningsvær, you will feel the cosy, traditional atmosphere and see colourful houses. There is a kind of shop or café behind every wall. Let’s go to Trevarefabrikken, an abandoned factory transformed into cultural scene with local food and drinks, an ocean sauna and rooms for a good night’s sleep. Trevarefabrikken is the place where you meet up with your friends or make some new ones. It’s where you grab your morning coffee or handmade pizza for dinner. The pizzas topped with local produce are baked in wood-fired oven. They even have a wine bar hidden in the cod liver oil room. There is a weekly culture program for you to join. You can take a bath in Vestfjorden and warm up in the sauna, or maybe you want to attend a yoga class? During a long weekend in the middle of summer, you can attend their very own music festival. Trevarefest attracts great artists and is very popular. When you leave Trevarefabrikken, stop by the vintage shop on your right-hand side and find some hidden gems.
#9
Flakstad Church
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the entrance of Lofoten Beach Camp. Flakstad Church is a wooden cruciform church seating about 300 people. The church was built in 1780 and restored in 1872 and 1938. Although the door is normally locked, it’s worth trying in case you are lucky today. In 1814, this was an election church during Norway’s first national election. The church is still used for baptisms. Infant baptism is an important tradition in Norway and is usually a religious ceremony marking the initiation of a child into the church. Although infant baptism has roots in the Christian faith, the ceremony can also have a symbolic meaning for the family and wider community. It’s common for the child’s parents to choose godparents who will be able to guide and support the child throughout life. Just a few minutes’ walk from the church, you will find two beautiful beaches, Flakstadsanden and Skagsanden. Lofoten Beach Camp is just a seven-minute walk away, making it the church’s nearest neighbour.
#10
Lofoten Beach Camp
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the parking place, left of Lofoten Beach Camp. Welcome to Lofoten Beach Camp, the perfect place for Midnight Sun camping on a secluded beach. Located in the middle of western Lofoten, this is a wonderful base for exploring Lofoten’s main attractions. Their big campsite gives you plenty of space to choose your own spot, whether you are camping in a caravan, camper van or tent. No bookings are required for campers. The beach and the sea are your playgrounds, making it a perfect hotspot for fun activities for people of all ages. The new Beach Bar serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as hot and cold drinks and pastries. There is plenty of seating inside and outside where you can enjoy our meal accompanied by spectacular views. Perhaps you wish to try their famous Beach Tacos with a view? Lofoten Beach Camp is the perfect place to explore the surf, with surf courses and regular rentals. With Lofoten's safest beach, new showers and changing rooms, as well as a beach bar with perfect after-surf food & drinks, you will experience the full package at the surf camp.
#11
Nusfjord village
Arctic Route Bus Stop: the parking 150m before arriving at Nusfjord. Included in your Arctic Route ticket: Entrance is included - show your Arctic Route ticket to the ticket booth. You have 1 hour to visit the town. Be back on the bus latest 12:20. The bus departs at 12:25. Nusfjord, the sweetest little village in Lofoten, has a café that serves delicious coffee, tea and cake! Nusfjord is one of the oldest and best-preserved fishing villages in Lofoten. You can take part in the authentic Lofoten fishery with Captain Jan Martin and his crew on board the traditional fishing boats, Elltor and Havdur. Alternatively, you can kayak in the fjord between steep mountains that drop straight into the sea or hike on traditional mountain paths offering panoramic views of the archipelago (not available during this 60-minute sightseeing tour). Nusfjord has a unique atmosphere and, as you stroll down the pier and out towards the sea, it’s like the place tells a story. If you visit on a rainy day, the jetty gets slippery so be careful. Did you know that the earliest traces of human settlement in Nusfjord date back to 425 BC and, with a golden age early last century, Nusfjord is a treasure trove of history? This unique fishing village offers a deep dive into an era where the Northeast Arctic cod, often known as skrei, lay on the cliffs and hung on drying racks throughout the area. During your visit, pass by the supermarket at Nusfjord for a drink, sandwich or delicious pastry.
#12
Back in Svolvær after “Best of Lofoten in 1 day”
We hope you enjoyed the "Best of Lofoten" day tour and that the breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures of the Lofoten Islands left a lasting impression. As the day comes to a close, we invite you to savor a delightful evening in Svolvær, where you can indulge in the local cuisine, unwind amidst the charming surroundings, and reflect on the day's remarkable experiences. As you continue your holiday adventure, whether it's exploring more of the Arctic wonders or simply relaxing in the enchanting ambiance of the Lofoten Islands, we at Best Arctic want to express our heartfelt gratitude for choosing to join us on this unforgettable journey. Your presence has made this experience truly special, and we look forward to welcoming you back for more exceptional adventures in the future. Thank you for being a part of the Best Arctic family!
#13
Svolvær Svinøya
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the parking 10 meters next to Svinvøya Rorbuer Reception. The historical fishing village of Svinøya in Svolvær offers a glimpse of the traditional way of life in Lofoten. Svinøya is the perfect example of the old and traditional being preserved for future generations. It consists of several smaller islands that have been connected by fillings and small bridges. Svinøya is connected to the mainland connection by the Svinøy Bridge. This 359meter long bridge opened in 1964. If you wish to stay overnight, you can book accommodation in traditional fishermen’s cabins, suites, apartments or the exclusive manor house. You can enjoy local cuisine at Børsen Spiseri, a historic restaurant situated in a venerable wharf building dating from 1828. A monument called “Fiskarkona” stands at the end of the pier to keep an eye on the boats entering the harbour or going out to sea. The name means “fisherman’s wife” in English. The locals say this monument represents all the women who were left at home in days gone by waiting while their husbands to return from fishing trips at sea. The stroll from Svinøya to the Fiskarkona monument takes about 20 minutes. You will pass original wrecks along the way.