Sail, SUP and Hike the Lofoten Islands
An island-hopping smorgasbord of adventure on land and water in Norway's unparalleled archipelago
What's Included?
Small Like-minded Groups
Solo-friendly by design, join our small n’ sociable groups of up to 12 like-minded, active and outdoorsy people…
What's it like?
Hop on a catamaran to sail to the legendary Trollfjord and the island of Skrova, known as 'Lofoten’s Hawaii'
Hike the peaks of Djevelporten, Hoven and Festvågtind and the isolated white sands of Bunes Beach
Kayak and paddleboard through majestic fjords, wind down in a sauna and brave a cold plunge in the Arctic Ocean
Bunk down in cosy Nordic hotels, cool apartments and renovated traditional Lofoten fishing huts on the fjord edge
Key Information
Day 1
Welcome to Lofoten
Welcome to Svolvær - the capital of Lofoten on the island of Austvågøya. Settle into your to your hotel's plush surroundings and meet the rest of the group and your host for a chat through the adventure to come before you head out for dinner at your host's favourite local restaurant.
Day 2
Sail and SUP in Trollfjord
Sailing
Stand Up Paddleboarding
Hiking
Enjoy your waterside base and fuel up on breakfast with a sea view before getting out onto the water. Jump on a 46 foot catamaran and sail through stunning Lofoten scenery to the legendary Trollfjord. Have a go at stand up paddleboarding on the fjord straight from the boat, with some expert tips from your guide. Back on dry land, you’ll hike up the peak of Djevelporten - 'The Devil's Gate' - for an amazing view of Svolvær town and the islands of Little Molla and Skrova in the distance.
Day 3
Hawaii vibes and midnight sun
Sailing
Hiking
Back on the boat today for a unique sail to Skrova Island, nicknamed 'Lofoten’s Hawaii', which will make sense as you approach on the boat. Enjoy a cup of coffee sitting on deck before the white sand beaches, huge mountains and crystal clear waters come into view - it looks like a location from Jurassic Park. Soak up the island with short hikes to the best beaches and maybe a cold sea dip if you're brave. You’ll then sail back to Svolvær, hop in the van and drive to the island of Gimsøya. Hike up to Mt. Hoven for an amazing viewpoint before gathering round a bonfire on the beach and tucking into a barbecue and drinks beneath the midnight sun. Later, you’ll drive on to your next base at the fishing village of Henningsvær.
Day 4
Hikes and saunas
Hiking
Wake up in this iconic spot, tuck into a relaxed breakfast at your base and enjoy a lazy morning. You’ll head out for a hike around midday to get to the top of Festvågtind for more awesome views. Then back to your base for a couple of hours of traditional Nordic sauna time (and take a cold plunge in the sea right outside) in the late afternoon before dinner.
Day 5
Lofoten road trip and SUP
Stand Up Paddleboarding
Driving
A lighter day today as you soak up the last of your magical base in Henningsvær in the morning before setting off for a Lofoten road trip. You’ll gradually weave south, taking in the epic sights as you cross over to Vestvågøya Island and eventually reach Moskenesøya Island. Arrive at your final base in the postcard-perfect fishing village of Hamnøy, settle into your Rorbuer (a renovated traditional fisherman's cottage) and head out on the SUPs for a paddle around this epic setting. Later, you’ll enjoy an evening barbecue at your host's HQ around the corner.
Day 6
Kayak and hike to Bunes Beach
Kayaking
Hiking
Enjoy the best backdrop to a morning coffee you've likely ever had, then get ready to jump in a kayak to paddle and hike your way to one of Lofoten's most stunning beaches, Bunes Beach. Tackle a calm paddle through secluded fjords, heading east before a short hours hike to reach Bunes on the other side of Moskenesøya Island. The secluded white sand beach is framed by looming peaks. If the seas are calm you can take a bracing dip in the Arctic Ocean here, or just relax and soak in the views. Retrace your steps with a hike and kayak back to Hamnøy and reward your efforts with a relaxing sauna at your host's base around the corner from your fisherman's cottage. Take in one last night here with some evening downtime and maybe head out to one of Hamnøy's restaurants.
Day 7
Journey back to Svolvær Airport
A final breakfast in Hamnøy as you bid your haven farewell, hop in the van for the drive north, retracing your steps to reach Svolvær where it all began. Your host will drop you off at the airport in time for your onward flight home, unless you are lucky enough to be extending your stay in the Lofoten Islands.
Day 1
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 2
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 3 – Day 4
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 5
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 6
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Day 7
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
What is the food like?
Breakfast is included each day at your various bases with a focus on local and organic produce. Expect the classic breakfast options of yogurt, cereals, muesli, fruit, freshly baked breads and cold cut meats. Lunches vary throughout the trip, from local fish dishes such as bacalao (cod stew in tomatoes) and vegetable soup, to packed sandwiches on the move, to beach barbecues with veggie and meat hotdogs. You'll also get to try your host's signature fish soup, which has a legendary status. Two dinners are included, one of which is a visit to your host's favourite secret restaurant in Svolvær with a wide menu. You'll also tuck into a barbecue under the midnight sun with hotdogs and vegetable skewers. For the dinners not included, you can venture out to local restaurants in Svolvær, Henningsvær and Hamnøy. You should budget £25-£30 / $30-$35 per dinner, not including alcoholic drinks.
Vegetarians, vegans and other dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for - please just request on your passenger info form.
What is the accommodation like?
Svolvær
Your first two nights are in the Scandic Hotel in Lofoten's capital of Svolvær. There is restaurant and bar housed in a boat-shaped building with sweeping views over the harbour and the mountains across the water. The breakfast here gets rave reviews. You'll stay in twin-share rooms with ensuite bathroom.
Henningsvær
In the iconic fishing village of Henningsvær you'll stay at Tobiasbrygga; a network of cool apartments on the harbour front. The decor in each apartment is modern and cosy, with sofas and a fully equipped kitchen to make a cup of coffee to take out onto the waterfront with you. Rooms are twin-share basis with private bathrooms.
Hamnøy
We saved the best for last on this trip, with the final two nights in another classic Lofoten fishing village; Hamnøy on the island of Moskenesøya. You'll stay in a rorbuer, a traditional fisherman's cottage, the kind you see on pretty much any picture if you simply Google 'Lofoten Islands'. The rorbuers in Hamnøy have been renovated to a high modern standard while retaining their rustic charm, and each cottage has a cosy living room, bathroom and kitchen. They could not be in a more spectacular location, overlooking Hamnøy harbour, the Vest Fjord, Reine Fjord and the surrounding mountains.
The Area
Logistics
Starts
Scandic Hotel, Svolvær
Anytime on Day 1
Ends
Svolvær Airport, Lofoten Islands
Anytime on Day 7
Transfers
You are free to arrive at the Scandic Hotel in Svolvær anytime on Day 1. The hotel is just a 5 minute drive from the airport - you should take a taxi from outside arrivals which will cost you £5/€6/$6. There is a group meal in the evening from around 8pm so try to arrive before then. On Day 7 your host will transfer you to Svolvær Airport in time for your return flight. Drop offs are also possible at Leknes Airport en route if you happen to be flying on from there. Alternatively you can be dropped off in Svolvær and make your own arrangements from there if you are staying on longer in Lofoten.
If you are looking to save some money, flights into Evenes (EVE) are significantly lower in price than Svolvaer. If you fly into Evenes you can take a 2.5hr bus journey to reach Svolvaer by using the official Flybus service which links incoming flights with other parts of Lofoten. You can visit the Flybussen website for more detail and to book tickets. A one way ticket will cost you 360NOK (£29/€33/$35).
Travel options
Svolvær Airport is accessible by various flights from the UK, Europe and North America. You'll need to transit via Oslo, and some routes may also touch down in Bodø in between Oslo and Svolvær. It looks long-winded on paper, but the transits are short and the scenery is stunning as you reach the far north of Norway. Travel time from London to Svolvær can be as low as 5hr 45mins including both transits. If you overnight in Oslo rather than connect through the same day, you can take the direct flight in the morning to Svolvær, avoiding the short touchdown in Bodø.
Flights to Evenes (EVE) involve just one stop in Oslo en route from major hubs in Europe and North America.
Enjoy 12.5% Off Outdoor Gear
In need of a few more items? All bookings receive a 12.5% discount to use at Cotswold Outdoor, Snow + Rock and Runner's Need.
What's included?
- Twin and single Prijon sea kayaks with spray skirt and paddle
- Touring paddle boards
- Wetsuits and PFDs (Personal flotation device)
What do I need to bring?
BAGS
- Soft overnight duffel bag or rucksack
- Daypack (20-30 litres)
- Waterproof liner for daypack
- Small drybag for phones and cameras on the kayak and SUP trips
CLOTHES
Due to the varying conditions in Lofoten from May-September, some of the warm clothing items below, such as down jacket, gloves and thermals may not be needed for certain departures depending on the forecast, but we suggest you plan for all weathers
- Down jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- Waterproof trousers
- Breathable wicking layers
- Fleece jacket or similar
- Thermals (merino best)
- Warm hat
- Gloves
- Buff or neckscarf
- Lightweight trousers/shorts/skirts
- T-shirts
- Underwear and socks
- Swimwear - multiple sets for the saunas and any Arctic Ocean dips
- Sunglasses
- Sunhat
- Something to sleep in
- Hiking boots (worn-in)
- Sandals/trainers/anything to wear around the bases
OTHER
- Universal travel plug adapter
- Power bank or solar charger
- Passports (and visas)
- Travel insurance documents
- Ear plugs
- Insect repellent
- Suncream
- Personal first-aid kit (inc. blister treatment)
- Personal items (biodegradable toiletries, sanitary wear etc)
- Quick-dry towel
- Alcohol hand-gel
- Reusable water bottle (1 litre)
- Energy bars and snacks - read our article on Best Hiking Snacks
Optional Private Room Upgrade
Payable Before Departure
Optional Private Room Upgrade
…
This trip was incredible! You get to see so many beautiful areas via hiking, sailing, and driving. I truly enjoyed every moment. The weather is unpredictable so embrace it! Savor the sun if it comes out and embrace the moodiness of the clouds and you'll enjoy it all! I wouldn't consider the hikes easy, but they are all under a few hours with views the whole way. Expect to be tired from this trip in the best way- it's full of activity and you won't want to sleep as you enjoy the late night beauty of this area where the sun doesn't set!
Wonderful Trip to an amazing place. The lovely crew and the breathtaking nature made me fall in love with this special place on earth. Loved the activities, sailing, fishing, SUP, hiking, kayaking, such a great mix! Would definitely recommend this trip
The Lofoten Islands are an incredibly beautiful place to visit and this trip was very well organized to optimize the experience and time we had there. All staff were friendly, attentive, professional and helpful. All guides were excellent and knowledgeable. The locations were simply magical! Some variable weather but all adventures went forward regardless and we were properly outfitted for the elements. Highly recommend!
We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity.
What's the number?
It works out on average at 218kg of CO2 emissions per person, including all local transport, accommodation, food, activities, guides, staff and office operations.
The only thing it doesn’t include right now is flights and travel to the destination. We do make an overall estimate across all our customers separately, but as we don’t book flights, have customers from all corners of the world, and no way of reliably knowing their travel plans, we simply can’t include an individual number in the figure on display here. We’ve got a goal to fix that, so that when you book, there is a way to measure and mitigate the carbon emitted by your flight too.
But what does the number mean?
Yep, hard to picture eh? To give you an idea:
- Driving 1000miles/1609km would be approx. 281kg of CO2 in an average car (or 140.5kg per person if there was 2 of you in it).
- A return economy class flight London - New York would be approx. 1,619kg (1.66 tonnes) per person.
- 10 trees in a temperate forest are estimated to remove approx. 250kg of CO2 from the air in a period of 5-10 years.
What are we doing about it?
Our trips are relatively low-carbon by design, and we're working with all our hosts to develop long term carbon reduction plans. We partner with the World Land Trust to ensure this trip achieves Net-Zero emissions. We also support their Buy an Acre programme, helping local communities to buy and protect natural habitats in perpetuity, ensuring the protection of the reserve and its wildlife.
Want to know more?
Amazingly, no international travel company has ever publicly published their carbon measurements before, as far as we know. We believe that must change, quickly. So we’re openly sharing the method we used in the hope that other companies will be able to more easily follow suit and build on what we've done so far. You'll find it all here.
Sure can! Over 70% of our travellers travel solo, it’s a great way to meet like-minded people.
Due to the nature of the destination and the design of this trip there won't be one main tour guide throughout but you'll be supported by your host's team in Svolvær and there will be individual specialist guides/staff for each of the excursions, plus drivers to take you from A to B. Your host's 'basecamp' is just a 5-minute walk away from the Scandic Svolvær Hotel - you'll meet here for a welcome briefing on the evening of Day 1 before heading to dinner.
Tap water is perfectly safe in the Lofoten Islands - you can fill up your water bottle at each of the bases and at various refill spots each day.
You'll be able to leave your luggage at each of your bases while you head out venturing each day.
We recommend checking out the country specific information here and also talking to a travel nurse.
The group will be split into a mixture of single and double sea kayaks - you can state your preference to your guide if you have one and they will try to accommodate you. Sea kayaks come with a spray skirt to help keep the boat dry inside. You'll be kitted out with thick wetsuits as the water is cold in Lofoten, though the vast majority of outings happen without anyone falling into the water and you'll be perfectly safe and in expert hands.
Our recommended travel insurance provider is Campbell Irvine.
Travel insurance is compulsory for all of our adventures and you are required to provide your policy information before departing.
Your insurance should include adequate protection for overseas medical treatment, evacuation/repatriation, your baggage and equipment and the specific activities involved on your adventure. We also strongly recommend it includes cancellation and curtailment insurance, should you be unable to join your trip for specific reasons such as illness.
We fully endorse Campbell Irvine as their insurance offers all of the above, so get in touch with them or call on 020 7938 1734 to get your insurance sorted. We suggest that you book travel insurance as soon as you book your adventure, just to cover you for any last-minute life changes. We know you’re an active lot and injuries do happen!
We automatically convert prices from the local currency that a host receives to your chosen currency. We update our exchange rates on a daily basis so this does mean that prices displayed on the site are subject to currency fluctuations, which is why you may see them change over time.
If you wish to change the currency you pay in, head to the bottom of the page.
All of our group adventures are specially designed for adults to enjoy (18+) as we want these adventures to bring together outdoorsy people who are truly like-minded. Children can be accommodated on some private departures.
You're always in good company on one of our adventures.
Our trips are typically made up of a mixture of solo travellers and small groups of 2 or 3 friends, with most in their 30s-50s.
Our sociable adventures are solo-friendly by design and naturally attract outdoorsy people with a shared mindset; a love for adventure, a desire to push themselves and meet awesome, like-minded people along the way.
It’s this camaraderie that has so often turned a great adventure into a life-changing one.
Don't just take our word for it:
- 95% of people rate the group dynamics on our trips 5/5
- 90% of people recommend joining a trip to make new friends
- 75% of people have met people on our trips that they would now consider friends
See here for more info about the Much Better Adventures tribe.
Interested in a more exclusive experience? Opt for a 'Private Group' through the dates and prices tab to book this adventure for just you and your chosen companions.
Our team of Adventure Hunters create exclusive adventures with highly vetted, specialist hosts. We only work with independent, local in-destination experts who know the very best places to explore and how to stay safe. Read more information about the local teams we partner with.
Much Better Adventures refer to the UK Government’s official travel advice when designing trips and monitoring trip operations. We recommend that all customers are familiar with the practical information provided on the Government’s FCDO website, where current travel advice can be found by searching for the applicable destination(s).
For customers joining this trip from other international destinations – please also read the official travel advice applicable to your country of residence/origin, as this may differ.
Got questions? We've got answers
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