A Road Trip You Must Take at Least Once: Lofoten Islands Adventure

The journey to the Lofoten Islands is simply breathtaking. Imagine dramatic mountain peaks rising straight from the sea, stunning white sandy beaches, and charming fishing villages with their iconic red rorbuer (fishermen’s cabins). Whether you're chasing the midnight sun in summer or the northern lights in winter, this is a road trip that will leave you speechless. And the best part? You don’t need to plan too much—there’s only one main road!

 

How to Get to Lofoten

By Ferry

If you’re coming from mainland Norway, you can take the ferry from Bodø to Moskenes. The ride takes about 3–3.5 hours and can be quite rough if the sea is choppy, so be prepared if you’re prone to seasickness. Another option is the Hurtigruten ferry, which is more expensive and takes longer but offers a more comfortable experience. It stops in both Svolvær and Stamsund.  Thought cars over 2,10m don't fit onto the ferry, so that's not an option for big campers.

By Road – The National Scenic Route

If you have more time, driving along the National Scenic Route is the ultimate way to experience Norway. You’ll start from the E6 in the south, the main road running north-south through Norway. Along the way, stop at Saltstraumen, the world’s strongest tidal current, or hike to Hovdsundet Beach, one of Norway’s hidden gems. You’ll need to take a short 25-minute ferry to Narvik before continuing to Lofoten, but trust me—this drive is worth it! 

 

Planning Your Lofoten Road Trip

Surprisingly, it’s really simple to navigate Lofoten! The E10 is the only major road connecting the islands, and smaller roads lead to the beaches and villages. The drive from Svolvær to Å is about 128 kilometers, but you’ll likely cover much more with all the stops you’ll want to make.

A few things to keep in mind:
🚗 Parking can be tricky! Many parking spots are paid, especially in bigger villages. Always check for signs to avoid getting fined. It's always a good ideq to come early to get a spot. 
🚻 Facilities are limited. Gas stations and restrooms can be sparse, so plan ahead! Even better when you have a toilet in your camper. 
🥾 Bring sturdy hiking boots – even the easiest hikes can get muddy, especially in fall.

Weather on the Lofoten Islands

Thanks to the Gulf Stream, the weather here is surprisingly mild for being so far north! But it can change fast. Expect rain in September—a lot of it, also during spring. When I was there in September, the trails were muddy, and waterproof gear was a must. In November thought it had minus degrees and we had snow!

No matter the season, bring layers! Even in summer, it gets chilly at night, and in winter, the wind can be brutal.

Must-Visit Places in Lofoten

Here is a Google Maps list with all the mentioned places and more: Google Maps. 

1. Reine – The Most Beautiful Village

📍 Best for: Classic Lofoten photography, cozy cafés, hiking
Reine is one of the most photographed villages in Norway. In peak season, it’s packed with tourists, but in September and November, I had the place almost to myself. If you want the best view of Reine, hike the Sherpa Steps to Reinebringen. It’s steep, with over 1600 steps, but so worth it! Sunrise here is pure magic. 

Or visit this viewpoint on the side of the road, where you have an epic view from. 

2. Å – The Last Stop on the E10

📍 Best for: History, stockfish, small-town charm
The name might be short, but Å has so much to offer! It’s the last village on the E10 and feels like stepping back in time. There’s even a stockfish museum, where you can learn about Norway’s traditional dried fish industry. Big parking spot, from there you can walk around town. 

3. Svolvær – The Heart of Lofoten

📍 Best for: City vibes, whale watching, museums
The biggest town in Lofoten (with only 5000 people), Svolvær is the best place to stock up on supplies. There’s even a laundromat—just grab tokens at the tourist office. If you have time, go on a whale watching or sea eagle safari from here!

 

4. Henningsvær – The Instagram Hotspot

📍 Best for: Art, culture, scenic views
Henningsvær is built on several small islands, making it one of the most unique villages in Lofoten. The famous football field, surrounded by ocean, is a must-see. If you’re into hiking, climb Festvågtind for the best view of the town. It has heaps of cute cafes to eat some Kannebullar ( cinnamon buns). 

5. Nusfjord – A Perfectly Preserved Fishing Village

📍 Best for: History, authentic Lofoten vibes
One of Norway’s best-preserved fishing villages, Nusfjord is now a museum. Walk through the sawmill and cod liver oil factory, and get a glimpse of what life was like for fishermen in the old days.

6. Lofotodden National Park – A Step Back in Time

📍 Best for: Hiking, ancient history
This newest national park in Norway has incredible hikes and cave paintings from the Stone Age! The caves at Kollhellaren and Bukkhammerhola hold some of the oldest artwork in the north.

Must-Do Activities in Lofoten

✅ Hike Reinebringen – The view is insane!
✅ Drive the E10 – The best way any only way to explore Lofoten.
✅ Go kayaking – Paddle through crystal-clear Arctic waters.
✅ Chase the Northern Lights – Best from September to March.
✅ Try fresh seafood – Especially stockfish and cod.
✅ Camp by a beach – Nothing beats waking up to the sound of waves.

Free Camping Spots in Lofoten

If you’re traveling by campervan (like I did!), finding free camping spots is essential. There're heaps of paid camping places too and beautiful Airbnb that you might want to try. Here are my favorites:

⛺ Just before Henningsvær – Quiet and scenic.
⛺ Haukkland Beach – A dream spot!
⛺ Reine Steps hiking parking lot – Busy, but great for early hikes.
⛺ Flakstad Beach – Perfect for surfers.
⛺ Kalvika Beach hiking parking lot – Remote and peaceful.
⛺ Myrland Beach – Stunning coastal views.

Final Tips for Your Lofoten Road Trip

🧥 Pack a rain poncho – Lofoten weather is unpredictable!
🥾 Wear good hiking boots – Even short walks can be muddy.
💧 Bring a refillable water bottle – Norway’s tap water is amazing.
🛑 Respect nature – No wild camping near houses or private land. 

You need more information on how  to photograph the Northern Lights?:  Click here. 

Lofoten stole my heart, and I know it will steal yours too. Save this guide for your trip, and let me know how it goes! 🌍✨