The Lofoten Islands in the far north were previously reached via Oslo or by ship. Anyone who wants to visit this fascinating travel destination can now shorten the long journey. Since this summer, a direct flight with the tourist airline Edelweiss takes just 3.5 hours from Zurich to Evenes, a town on the mainland that is just 80 kilometers east of the Lofoten Islands. After a 2.5-hour drive, you reach the first destination in Lofoten, the largest town, Svolvær. A tunnel project should even shorten the journey in the future.
The Lofoten Dream
For your adventure on the Norwegian islands we recommend renting a car with a tent or camper, with the latter dominating the roads. No wonder: these are “Saving Allemanns”. Everyone’s right is a traditional right in Norway that allows everyone to freely use nature, for example for hiking or camping. So you can pitch your tent in the most beautiful spots and stop wherever you like. The only thing you can’t count on is the sunset, as the light lasts 24 hours from the end of April to the end of August.
The fishing port of Svolvær is a particularly popular starting point for trips on the water. Various activities are offered here: boat trips, fishing trips, kayak tours or sea eagle safaris. It is possible to accidentally stumble upon a family of killer whales while going sea eagle watching. So keep your eyes open! The restaurant is for a special dinner Spiseri Bags a real insider tip.
The further you get from the mainland, the more you understand the enthusiasm that many people have for the Lofoten Islands: green mountain peaks, wild fjords and white sandy beaches form a unique scenery. On sunny days there are also Caribbean-like and crystal-clear waters.
The strong point for many travellers is the location Pure: with its red wooden houses, the village seems to come from another world. If you want to stay longer in this dream, rent a “Fisherman’s Hut”. Pure Rorbuer. Sometimes in the evening a family of killer whales passes by the balcony. The hearts of outdoor enthusiasts beat faster right outside the door: Kayak, Boat trips and there are various hiking trails available. The view is from Clean upto which the steps of 1978, the famous selfie spot on social media, lead. However, this climb should not be underestimated; a certain level of basic fitness and a lack of vertigo are a prerequisite. The trail is accessible from late May to early October.
It is advisable to plan at least a week or more for a stay in Lofoten. Those who think they have seen everything are wrong. Further north is the rather unknown group of islands Vesterålenwhich can be reached by ferry from Fiskebøl to Melbu.
Untouched nature on Vesterålen
This trip to the islands north of Lofoten is especially interesting for travellers who are visiting the Lofoten Islands for the second time. The coastal landscape is characterised by white sandy beaches, rocky bays and clear, turquoise waters. The beaches of Bleik on Andøya are particularly famous and offer a perfect setting for beach walks and bird watching.
If you usually walk up and down a mountain in Lofoten, the routes here are longer because of the mountain ranges. There are only a few cars coming on the streets. The place and nature seem untouched, as if you were all alone on this beautiful piece of land. This is also felt in the animal world: the islands are famous Whale Watching. Furthermore, it is Bleiksoya one of the best places to see puffins. This island is an important breeding site for the birds, and boat trips are regularly offered.
If you still haven’t had enough, the highlight of the trip is still ahead of you. The ferry takes you from Andenes to Gryllejord on the island of Senja, a true jewel of Norway.
Caribbean paradise on the island of Senja
The Island Senja is often referred to as “Norway in miniature”. In the charming accommodation Hamn i Senja Hotel there is room for every budget. If you can, treat yourself to one of the new suites. Here you have a view of the sea and the pink sky that you will not easily forget. After dinner you can relax in the whirlpool under the midnight sun. In the morning you can go directly from the hotel at one Boat Safari Visit the beautiful Bergsjord archipelago with crystal clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, also known as the “Caribbean of the Arctic”. You will not soon forget this place.
It is worth spending a few days on Senja and exploring the hiking trails and beaches. For the return journey, take the ferry from Botnhamn to Brensholmen, the last highlight of the trip, before taking a direct flight from Tromsö to Zurich. By the way, the ferry has the best waffles in the world. If you still have time, you can discover the city, known as the “Gateway to the Arctic”, for two days before returning home.
Whether you are a hiking enthusiast, an adventurer or a nature lover, the islands of Northern Norway offer unforgettable holidays for everyone.
More information
Edelweiss flies once a week with the A320, every Monday from June to the end of August and every Saturday from the end of December to the end of March, direct from Zurich to Evenes. With Swiss Holiday Airlines, sports equipment flies free of charge. From July to the end of August, Edelweiss flies direct from Zurich to Tromsö three times a week with the A320. Trömso is also served with up to five flights a week in autumn and winter.
For individual travel, a rental car is recommended. Thanks to the Arctic Route From Evenes or Tromsö, in winter or summer, you can easily travel by bus through the islands and get on and off wherever you want. Below are suggestions for excursions and activities Visit to Lofoten, Visit Vesterålen AND Visit Tromsø.