Lofoten Islands

The Lofoten Islands stretch out into the Norwegian Sea above the Arctic Circle, a chain of granite mountains with fishing villages tucked into their bays. Villages such as Reine and Hamnøy are known for their red rorbuer, traditional fishermen’s cabins now converted into comfortable places to stay, and for the wooden racks where cod is dried in the spring.

Spend your days driving the scenic road between villages, stopping at viewpoints, white-sand beaches and small galleries. In summer the midnight sun means the light never fades; in winter the Northern Lights can appear over the peaks.

Lofoten is reached by a short flight via Bodø or by ferry. Allow at least three nights, and travel with a private driver if you prefer not to drive on Norwegian roads.