Lofoten Tourist Route
Lofoten National Tourist Route, Norway
The Lofoten National Tourist Route covers a distance of 230 kilometers from Raftsundet to Å. The two main urban areas along this route are Svolvær and Leknes with plenty to see and do along the way. Travelers enjoy this route due to its beauty as well as the fact that provisions have been made in the form of various forms of accommodation. There are even campsites along the way for those who want to enjoy a leisurely trip in their motorhome, campervan or RV rental from Oslo or Grimstad.
Sights along this route
As you embark on your journey you will travel through areas where your surroundings will literally transform right before your eyes. From unforgiving peaks towering ahead to the sparkling green see and perfect white beaches, there’s nothing this drive lacks. As you pass through the various fishing settlements along the way, you will understand just how vital this industry is for the local economy and how the culture has been influenced as a result.
The summer season here is considerably brief and, in this time, visitors flock here to enjoy the natural beauty and the midnight sun.
On your trip you can sign up to join boat tours that specialise in whale and seal spotting.
There are a number of viewpoints along this route which make it possible for drivers to take plenty of breaks and travellers can make the most of this time by enjoying a meal, snack or simply taking photographs. There are also rest areas that have been equipped with bird observation towers and viewing platforms. Stopping at Rambergstranda, for example, will allow you to enjoy views of the local beach and mountains while the Reinehalsen platform is known for its amazing panoramic views.
The Lofotr Viking Museum is an absolute must for anyone interested in the early history of this region. The museum has been cleverly constructed to resemble the 83 meter long chiefdom that, in 500 AD, was constructed at Borg, Loftoten.
Henningsvær proved a busy place during the local, Lofoten Winter Fishery and, as a result, became the most prominent of all the fishing villages here.
In Nusfjord the architecture is a fascinating attraction and, incidentally, it was here that experts discovered evidence of the earliest form of industrial fishing in this region.
The Norwegian Fishing Village Museum and the Stockfish Museum are popular attractions in the village of Å. Not too far from Å, you will find the fishing village of Reine which was once voted as the most beautiful place in the country.
If you are looking to pick up some local arts and crafts to take back as gifts or souvenirs, make sure that you visit Sund, Ramberg and/or Vikna. Glassblowing is particularly perfected by professionals in Vikten so don’t miss out!
Haukland’s white beach and Eggum’s pebble beach are both hot spots for visitors and perfect for those who wish to enjoy the famous Midnight Sun.
Activities
Hiking, climbing, skiing, riding, kayaking, biking, golfing, fishing and sea rafting are all top things to do along this drive. Of course, if you’re not up for anything that requires too much energy, you can simply relax and enjoy the fresh air and sounds of nature.
If you are a golfing enthusiast and you’re looking for a truly memorable experience, why not sign up for a round under the Midnight Sun (between mid-May and early August)?
If you’re considering cycling, you will be pleased to know that many of the cycling areas are fairly easy but you should take care since seasonal visitors can result in heavy traffic. Of all the activities, hiking is probably the most family friendly of all and, with so many different trails to choose from, you can select one that suits your abilities.
Surfers can take a little detour to Unstad along the way to satisfy their craving to conquer some waves and kayaking can be enjoyed at several locations on the way.
A passenger boat trip from Reine will take you to the Reinefjord where you will be able to enjoy some unique sights. In the summer you can enjoy a walk from Vindstad along the Reinefjord and make your way all the way to Bunesstranda’s gorgeous white beach. This walk is easy and only takes an hour one way which means it’s suitable for all ages.