Hiking Norway's Lofoten Islands and Beyond

Spectacular Adventures above the Arctic Circle

Overview

From the towering peaks of the Lofoten Islands to dreamy Senja and the northern cultural hub of Tromsø, we’ve created an adventure that brings you stunning hikes, sea kayaking in the crystalline waters of Bergsfjorden, and even to a Sami reindeer farm! These breathtaking islands lie above the Arctic Circle but enjoy a mild climate thanks to the warm waters of the Gulf Stream. Our overnights include rorbuer—historic waterfront fishermen’s cabins at the water’s edge, and an enchanting waterfront inn on Senja Island. We can sample the island’s super-fresh seafood, and enjoy the serene natural surroundings.

Itinerary at a Glance

Days 1-3
Bodø / Reine / Glomtinden

We meet in the lovely town of Bodø, just above the Arctic Circle, and board a ferry that crosses deep glacial waters to the Lofoten Islands. Our first hike brings us far-reaching views of towering mountains and picturesque fishing villages below. From the quaint village of Reine, a spectacular ferry ride takes us to the remote village of Kjerkfjorden for a hike to the outer coast at Horseid, a magnificent white-sand beach backed by towering granite walls. We explore authentic artifacts from the Viking era at the Lofotr Museum, and a short hike up Glomtinden gets us spectacular views of Vågakallen Mountain set against the sea.

Reine Rorbuer
Reine, Norway
Days 1 to 2 (2 nights)
Henningsvær Bryggehotell
Henningsvær, Norway
Day 3 (1 night)
Nyvågar Rorbuhotel
Kabelvåg, Norway
Day 3 (1 night)
Days 4-6
Senja Island / Bergsfjorden / Mælstrøm

A journey through some of Norway’s most inspiring scenery brings us to the fairytale setting of Senja, Norway’s second largest island. Senja is otherworldly, with its pearly-white beaches of crushed seashells and crystal clear turquoise waters. We’ll paddle sea kayaks through majestic Bergsfjorden, where shapes and colors shift with the changing weather. Hikes will give us mountaintop views, and our meals will feature the freshest seafood imaginable. Our overnights are in the lovely Hamn i Senja, a waterfront hotel complete with a welcoming cognac room and a unique hot tub made from a wooden fishing boat.

Hamn i Senja
Senja, Norway
Days 4 to 6 (3 nights)
Days 7-9
Hesten / Tromsø

A moderate hike to Hesten brings us some of the best views of stunning Segla. In Tromsø, the vibrant “Arctic capital” of Northern Norway, we attend a “midnight sun” concert in the city’s landmark Arctic Cathedral, and hike on the mountain above town for incredible views. We descend via cable car and visit the Polar Museum, with its fascinating tales of legendary Norwegian explorers. Depart on Day 9.

Ishavshotel
Tromsø, Norway
Days 7 to 8 (2 nights)

Highlights

Highlights

Hike scenic trails above the Arctic Circle, savor the long summer light of the Arctic
Paddle sea kayaks in magnificent Bergsfjorden
Sample local cuisine—from fiskesuppe (fish soup) to vafler (Norwegian-style waffles), chased with schnapps!
Stay in converted fishermen’s stilt-cottages
Attend a “midnight sun” concert at Tromsø’s impressive Arctic Cathedral

Details

Length: 9 days
Cost From: $6795  
Arrive: Bodø, Norway
Depart: Tromsø, Norway
Lodging: 8 nights hotels and rustic rorbuer
Meals: All meals included except 1 dinner as indicated in the Detailed Itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
Activity: Hiking / Trekking
Trip Level:

8 hiking days on moderate to steep trails in sometimes rugged terrain, 3-5 hours most days. This is a strenuous hiking trip, read “What the Trip is Like” for more details.