100% customisable travel idea
Senja, Vesterålen, Lofoten Northern Norway: an even wilder Norway
Norway - Senja Island - Vesterålen Islands - Lofoten Islands
At the far reaches of Norway
Your trip
In certain circumstances, travelling from island to island can be quite a challenge. But for this road trip, you can rely on a rental car and Norway's excellent road network, which has been designed to connect the archipelagos to each other and to the mainland. This makes it easy to travel at a relaxed pace, giving you time to take in the scenery. For longer distances, there are international and domestic flights heading north, taking you to the far reaches of the country. When it comes to accommodation, we've called on our favourite places. And it would be hard to find anywhere more local, given their location, Scandinavian look and, in some cases, traditional architecture. Enjoy the charming rorbuer (fishermen's cabins on stilts), small pontoons where you can cast your fishing rod, windows opening wide onto the fjords, glass ceilings for a “night under the stars” feel, chalets on the beach, and modern apartments where you can enjoy spending time together after your outdoor adventures. Speaking of the great outdoors, we have left you the freedom to organise your own explorations and hikes, but we have also included a few highlights in your itinerary to take you to the heart of things: a zodiac trip to see whales in Andenes; a water safari around Straumsjoen to observe sea eagles and other fascinating seabirds in their natural habitat; and climbing Mount Vetten with an experienced guide. And then, on Senja, we will ensure you enjoy a memorable culinary experience over dinner by booking you a table at one of the island's best restaurants. Finally, if you have any sudden changes of heart or if any unexpected events occur, you will have the details of our on-site Concierge service, who you can contact at any time during your trip.
Itinerary
100% customisable for you
Upon arrival, pick up your rental vehicle and drive to Skaland, on the western coast of Senja, where you will stay for three nights. The place is magical with its small harbour, jetties where people fish and black or white houses. An absolute calm reigns over it all. The hotel suites overlook the bay. Yours is spacious and welcoming, and decorated in a modern, pared-back style. Everything is beautiful, echoing the wild landscapes that surround you. The restaurant is equally remarkable. It serves cod in the winter and pollock in the summer. As you might guess fish is always on the menu here. To top it all off, the hotel has a lighthouse on the harbour. Settle in there to watch the clouds drift over the water or the northern lights in winter. You will feel very lucky to be here.
Senja is a true Nordic paradise, reached by a road that skirts along the fjords, surrounded by impressive mountains that seem to rise straight out of the water. Among the island’s most beautiful attractions, do not miss the stunning viewpoints at Bergsbotn and Tungeneset. Both are accessible from the main road. Be sure to pass through the village of Mefjordvaer too, at the foot of the mountains, which has stunning views of the fjord and the island’s finest scenery. Another village in an exceptional location is Fjordgard nestled at the foot of Senja’s legendary mountain, Segla. The breathtaking setting of Ersfjord beach, the tranquillity of Bovaer beach and Hamn i Senja with its turquoise waters should not be overlooked. And Husoy, a remote village set on its own island at the very end of scenic Route 862 is worth a visit. There’s a lot to see.
Already booked - Your table is reserved at one of the island’s best restaurants.
Optional extra - Bergsfjorden kayak tour with lunch on the beach.
The magical setting of Senja will make you want to go hiking. Climbing mount Segla is for experienced hikers only. Don't worry, one of the routes that criss-cross the island leads to the summit of Sukertroppen. The climb is well worth it as you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views over the town of Hamn and the coastline. Another trail climbs up Husfjellet, where the gradual ascent also promises spectacular views.
Optional extra - Bergsfjorden wildlife safari.
Drive south through lakes, rivers and mountains, then stay for one night in the small town of Narvik, on the shore of the Ofotfjord. Your accommodation, perched high above the town, consists of a handful of cabins nestled in the heart of nature, each with its own panoramic terrace. Designed to capture wonderful views of the sea and mountains, these cocoons feature large windows on three of the four walls and even the ceiling. At night it feels like you’re sleeping under the stars. The restaurant, accessible by cable car or, for the more adventurous, a one-hour hike, has a friendly atmosphere and puts the view at the heart of the experience.
Drive to Andenes, on the island of Andoya, in the neighbouring Vesterålen archipelago. Stay for two nights by the beach, in a wooden chalet with a terrace and a balcony. The interiors, decorated in a calm and understated Scandinavian style, are well equipped. There is a bedroom, a lounge, a small kitchen and a dining area. There’s everything you need for a comfortable, self catering stay. The sea and the countryside shape the main activities here, which are hiking and fishing. The idea is to live as close to nature as possible, without anything superfluous.
In your itinerary - Whale watching boat trip. Andenes is in the north of the Vesterålen Islands, close to Bleik Canyon, an underwater canyon where various species of whales live year round. Your guide works closely with local marine researchers, such as the Norwegian Orca Survey, and gets vital information that helps them to pinpoint the location of whales.
Things to do - Hike up to Måtinden for breathtaking views of white sand beaches (including the popular Hoyvika), a mountain ridge plunging into wild waters, and secluded lakes. This stunning view is well worth the effort.
Drive to Straumsjoen on the island of Langoya via the Andoya Scenic Route. This breathtaking journey has stunning viewpoints over the island’s wild landscapes. Be sure to stop at Bleik Beach, known for its "shark fin" rock out at sea, or at Borhella lighthouse, which is usually surrounded by sheep. If you're lucky, you might spot seals, whales and eagles from your car. The Gulf Stream creates a hospitable climate here and turns the sea into an abundant source of food for many birds and animals.
In Straumsjoen, stay for two nights at a peaceful retreat. A hamlet of charming red houses encircles the tranquil waters. The place is perfect for recharging without ever getting bored. Your days can be spent fishing, kayaking or birdwatching out in the great outdoors. Relish your independence in your modern and bright apartment where you can enjoy the view at any time of day.
In your itinerary - Birdwatching fjord safari. The cliffs and waters of the Vesterålen archipelago are home to a great variety of seabirds. Venture along the wild coastline and rugged mountains in a rigid inflatable boat, to observe these winged creatures, including rare species such as the iconic sea eagle.
Not to be missed - The village of Nyksund. This charming hamlet, tucked away at the end of a track winding between the fjords, is a former fishing port abandoned in the late 1970s. The colourful buildings are reflected in the water while the peaks rise dramatically in the background. These landscapes, both splendid and austere, are shrouded in an impressive calm. It’s a stunning sight that could be aptly named the "End of the world".
Drive towards Lofoten, or more specifically to the south-west of the archipelago and the town of Ballstad. Along the way, you come across several small fishing villages. Straumsjoen, on the island of Austvågøya, stretches across several islets that float on the waters of the Vjestfjord. This is one of the best preserved traditional Norwegian villages. Charming colourful buildings and picturesque cafes and restaurants line the harbour. From Henningsvær you can set out to conquer Festvagtind, a breathtaking hike that begins by the sea and climbs to the summit, with yet more stunning views as your reward. Although the path appears to climb steeply, it actually winds around the mountain, so the ascent is relatively gradual.
In Ballstad stay for three nights in a lodge that forms a small village of its own. There are a few cabins perched on the hillside, and some rorbuer or fishermen’s houses by the water. These small houses, dating from the late 19th century, have been beautifully renovated to meet today’s expectations in terms of comfort. The interiors are spacious, bright, and very tastefully furnished, with that Scandinavian touch that is both minimalist and cosy. In the restaurant, modern bistro cuisine is served, with a "from the sea to the plate" approach. All you have to do is enjoy the unique feeling of peace and freedom.
Things to see and do - At the western tip of the archipelago, Å is a unique historic attraction. This is one of Norway’s best-preserved traditional fishing villages. It offers a unique insight into daily life in the Lofoten fisheries over the last 250 years. Continue your walk to the beautiful village of Reine, one of the most picturesque in the archipelago. It is also the departure point for one of the country’s most popular hikes to the Reinebringen. The climb is a bit steep, but the extraordinary view from the top is a reward worthy of the effort.
Optional extra - Reinefjord sunset kayak tour.
The mention of Lofoten brings to mind rugged landscapes. You would never guess that beautiful beaches are tucked away between the cliffs, covered in pale sand and bordered by turquoise water, a bit like the Seychelles. Some are hard to reach and more secluded, while others attract the only the bravest of surfers (the water temperature rarely exceeds 10°C [50°F]). On the north coast of Moskenesøya lies Kvalvika, one of the most beautiful beaches in Lofoten. The stretch of white sand where waves crash ashore, is surrounded on all sides by mountains. Being cut off from the rest of the island gives this place an almost mystical feel. To the right of the beach stands Mount Ryten, whose summit, at 540 metres (1,770 feet), is a great hiking destination. From there, you have a spectacular view of the beach below and the wild waters of the Norwegian Sea. It's even more beautiful in the evening, when the sun sets behind the mountain. Another beach that is perfect for swimming, and well worth a visit, is Haukland, at the foot of Himmeltindan. From Haukland you can also hike up Mannen, following a steadily ascending trail that opens onto a panoramic sea view at the summit.
Drive to Evenes, return the rental car, then fly back home.
À la carte
This suggested itinerary can be customisable down to the smallest detail, including duration, stops and content. An à la carte menu of experiences is also available to create a journey that reflects who you are.
Kayaking trip in Bergsfjorden
Senja Island is renowned for its fishermen’s cabins on stilts, clear waters and majestic fjords. Sea kayaking is a fantastic way to explore and enjoy these unique landscapes. The boat allows you to move around very easily and access small coves without any problems. It is also an ideal way to discreetly approach the local flora and fauna. Departing from Skaland, you'll paddle the crystal-clear waters of Bergsfjorden alongside a guide, beneath the imposing silhouette of the mountains that plunge down to the white sandy beaches where a convivial meal will be served.Sea safari to encounter the animals in the fjord
Departing from Skaland, you board a zodiac boat to visit the seals, eagles and other seabirds living in the area. This is a picture-perfect trip during which, accompanied by a guide, you can fully appreciate the unique beauty of the archipelago.With an extra day...
Enjoy an unforgettable night on a farm surrounded by the majestic fjords of the Arctic Circle. A peaceful haven in Northern Norway. As soon as you set foot inside your accommodation, you are wrapped up in a warm atmosphere and greeted by a row of neatly lined shoes at the entrance, followed by black and white family portraits hanging on the living room walls. The place only has 15 rooms, and each one exudes its own charm. They are peaceful retreats far from the trappings of modern life. There is no television here, but there is a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside. Every morning, you are awakened by the gentle bleating of sheep. Dinner at the farm transcends a simple meal to become a memorable culinary and human experience. The chef and their team prepare each dish meticulously. Every dish showcases the best local ingredients. In keeping with the evening feast, breakfast also celebrates the treasures of the terroir.
Why visit Norway with Voyageurs du monde?
Every day, our travel specialists craft bespoke experiences shaped around each traveller's profile, desires and budget. These passionate experts design experiences delivered on the ground by a local network of Concierges and trusted contacts. These fully customisable, made-to-measure trips are complemented by a wide range of high-end services (lounges, 24/7 assistance, travel booklet, app, Wi-Fi, restaurant booking, etc.)
Let us create your tripA few of the advantages of travelling with us to Norway
- Globally unique concierge service
- CO2 absorption
