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Top 5 things to do in Svolvaer, Lofoten (Norway) [updated 2024]

Wondering how you can plan an exquisite holiday in Svolvaer?

Our guest writer Niels Thomas is passionate about all things Norway.  We managed to visit Sweden but never made it to Norway.  Niels article has certainly put Norway on our to-do list sooner rather than later. We hope you enjoy Niels article as much as we have.

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Related reading: Top 5 Things to do in Rovaniemi Finland

 

Read on to know the top 5 things to do in Svolvaer, Lofoten (Norway).

If you take a close look at scenic paintings or photographs created by top artists around the world, you might notice a common trend. Many renowned and popular artworks often depict the rugged, untouched beauty of Lofoten.

Svolvaer Norway
Svolvaer

Lofoten is one of the oldest and most breathtaking archipelagos in the world. Photographs do not do justice to the jaw-dropping beauty of this region. And so, if you are planning a trip to this magical wonderland but aren’t sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place.

Pack your passports and get ready to explore one of the most magical places in the world!

Top 5 things you should do in Svolvaer, Lofoten

1. Search for the northern lights

Northern Lights
Northern Lights

Known as one of the natural wonders of the world, the northern lights are a spectacular sight that you must gaze upon at least once in your lifetime. This natural phenomenon is known by several names – aurora, Aurora borealis, or polar lights.

The dynamic display of patterns, flickering natural lights, spirals, and rays are a beauty to behold. For those who experience its magnificence for the first time, the phenomenon can be exhilarating.

In fact, it can be hard to accept the fact that this light show is entirely natural and occurs without human intervention. This just goes to show how magical the Earth can be.

How can you catch the northern lights?

a) Go for the northern lights tour

Northern Lights
Northern Lights Tour

One of the best ways you can catch this magnificent phenomenon is to go for a Northern Lights Tour. Lofoten is, by far, the most strategic spot to catch the northern lights due to its location. The city is located at the centre of the Northern Lights Oval, which is where these breathtaking lights are their brightest.

Moreover, you can spot the lights from every direction all through late August to mid-April. This gives you a chance to plan your trip accordingly. The guided tour will take you to the best spots where you can gaze peacefully at the lights, take photographs, or simply bask in its glory.

b) Opt for the northern lights photography tour

Although the northern lights are magnificent enough to keep in your memories forever, there are a lot of shutterbugs who would do anything to capture its magnificence. For photography enthusiasts, opting for the Northern Lights Photography Tour can be an excellent option.

The group tour consists of 8 adults at most who will start their journey at Ves Fjordgata 2/4 and indulge in a 5-hour long trip. Furthermore, an expert will guide you on how to click the best shots of the lights. What’s more, the guided tour provides you with facilities such as a tripod and warm beverages – just don’t forget to bring your camera!

2. Lofotpils brewery tour

Lofotpils Beer ToursWhether you are a teetotaler or a beer-lover, one of the experiences to seek out in Lofoten is to go on the Lofotpils Brewery Tour. The dream-child of Andreas Thorvardarson, this microbrewery is stunning all the way from the inside to the outside.

First, you will be welcomed by their small but friendly and enthusiastic staff and taken inside the heart of the building. Here, you will get an insider’s peek into the beer-making process. The beer crafted within the four walls of this building is world-famous for its signature raw taste that exudes natural goodness.

An expert will guide you through every nook and cranny of the microbrewery, telling you stories about how it all started. You will have a chance to learn about how the special water conditions of the area made it possible for them to start the brewery.

After decades of hard work and perseverance, the Thorvardarson family’s dream finally came true, with the birth of the first and only microbrewery in Lofoten.

And finally, the tour ends with the tourists’ favourite – the beer-tasting session. Here, you will get to taste the local craft beer which has a unique, flavourful taste owing to the water used in it, which comes directly from the Lofoten mountains. Undoubtedly, you have never tasted such pure, raw, soulful beer like the ones served here.

3. Cultural tasting cruise – Henningsvaer

Henningsvaer Cultural Tasting Cruise
Henningsvaer Cultural Tasting Cruise

What if you could be aboard a modern cruise ship that would take you through stunning views of landscapes, fishing villages, and the magnificent art centre of Henningsvaer? And to top it off, your experience would be complete with a mouthwatering Nordic dining experience. Sounds fantastic, doesn’t it?

Well, this is the experience you can enjoy for 3.5 hours on the Cultural Tasting Cruise in Henningsvaer. Let’s not forget, you can also view the launch of an underwater drone that brings you one step closer to experiencing the vibrant marine life of Lofoten.

To top it all off, the majestic views of the Lofoten mountains alongside the beautiful Arctic lights are sure to take your breath away. You will be provided with deck chairs, lounges, and comfortable seating arrangements from which you can gaze back at these beauties.

The only thing you should remember for this cruise is to bring comfortable shoes and some warm clothes, as it might get a little chilly. Of course, it goes without saying that you should carry a camera so that you can click as many pictures as possible of the stunning landscapes.

You will also have a chance to visit an art gallery during one of the stops in Henningsvaer. Or, you can choose to leisurely walk through a beautiful little fishing village where you can gaze upon the locals and learn more about their culture.

4. Take the plunge into the traditional fishing trip in Lofoten

Fishing trip
Take a fishing tour

Lofoten is known for its rich, marine delicacies. In fact, it is a must to visit the local stores, pubs, and restaurants in the area to enjoy a taste of their divine local cuisine. But, what if you had a chance to fish in the cold seas while enjoying the stunning surrounding landscape?

Well, you can opt for a 4-hour long fishing trip where you will cruise on a traditional fishing vessel and have a chance to use a line wheel or a fishing rod. Of course, if you aren’t accustomed to fishing, don’t fret. You don’t need to be a pro to opt for this tour.

The expert guides are there to help you learn more about traditional fishing in the area. You can be sure to hear some of the quirkiest anecdotes and stories that will spice up the tour. Moreover, all the fishing paraphernalia will be provided by the tour instructors, and you have nothing else to carry except some warm clothing and a camera.

For those who have always wanted to enjoy an authentic fishing experience, it doesn’t get better than this. The MS Symra will take you along the gorgeous waters where you can catch all kinds of fish like coastal cod, coalfish, mackerel, and traditional skrei.

And the best part is that you are free to take home whatever fish you manage to catch!

5. Midnight sun photography tour – Lofoten

Lofoten Midnight Sun Tour
Lofoten Midnight Sun Tour

This tour is perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. The Midnight Sun Photography Tour takes you along the stunning Lofoten Islands where you will find the most picturesque spots to bask and relax in or take glorious photographs of.

Moreover, you will be guided along the island by a professional photographer. The golden light that falls on the island during midnight is breathtaking, and you will go home with the beautiful memories captured not only in your mind but also in photographs.

The best part is that the midnight sun shines in all its marvellous glory throughout the night, so there is no chance of you missing the perfect click. The stunning Arctic panorama looks even more majestic in the unique colourful dance that occurs during this period.

Also, don’t worry if you don’t have a professional camera at your disposal. Although you can choose to carry a camera, if you do forget to bring one, the professional photographer will click every memorable photograph on their own. Once the trip is over, they will email you the photographs at no extra charge, so you always have beautiful memories to hold on to.

A comfortable minivan will take you along the journey, so your feet don’t tire. Of course, there will be ample stops along the way where you can gaze upon the natural beauty of this incredible island.

 

Final words

Svolvaer is a magical dreamland where everything looks like it comes from a fairy tale. In fact, it isn’t surprising to know that many fairy tales, famous paintings, and world-renowned photographs are made taking this stunning landscape as inspiration.

Although there are dozens of wonderful adventures waiting to be had in Lofoten, it helps to have a list that can guide you along the way. So, create your bucket list with the help of our guide and plan your next trip to the magical Lofoten archipelago in Norway.

Make sure to check the travel dates so you are in time to catch the beautiful Aurora borealis. This unmissable sight is something you will remember for the rest of your life.

And of course, don’t forget to carry a camera!

Bio: Niels Thomas is a wildlife expert and a nature lover. During his road trip of 30,000 km through 41 countries, he fell in love with the beauties that the Norwegian culture, fjords and local wildlife have to offer. He turned his passion into his work by starting a Northern Lights Tromso tour company and recently expanded to the Lofoten Island and Rovaniemi, Lapland.

Read More Here:

Why You Should Visit Northern Norway

How to Travel Oslo on A Budget – tips from a local

General Information on Visiting Svolvaer (Lofoten)

Getting In

Flights

Solvaer Airport (Helle) is located 6 km from Solvaer.

There are flights to and from Solvaer from Bodo and Oslo.

Check the latest flight deals and schedules here.

Ferry

The Hurtigruten has regular sailings to Svolvaer.

Accommodation

For accommodation in the Lofoten, Svolvaer has a range of accommodations to suit all type of travellers and budgets.

Svolvaer Accommodation

 

Travel Insurance

The best time to take out travel insurance is when you pay for deposits on tours, cruises, accommodation, flights, activities etc.

 

Pinterest

Are you on Pinterest? We are at To Travel Too and we have many travel-related boards check us out at Pinterest.  If you enjoyed our article why not pin it to your board and read it later?

 

 

In conclusion, Svolvaer is a must-visit destination in Norway for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and culture. From hiking to fishing, kayaking to whale watching, there’s something for everyone in this charming town. Not only is the natural beauty of the area breathtaking, but the local restaurants and cultural attractions add another layer of depth to the experience. Whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed adventure, Svolvaer has it all. So pack your bags and head to this incredible destination today!

 

 

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