The Lofoten Islands are part of the beautiful archipelago in Norway's north west, beyond the Arctic Circle, whose mystical beauty has inspired writers and artists for many years.

Since 1828 the main industry of the islands has been commercial fish buying during the winter and, more recently, tourism due to the number of travellers visiting the islands to appreciate their wild winter beauty, the opportunity to view orcas on one of the popular whale safaris and, of course, the chance to view the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights).

Our holiday to the Lofotens is based on flying to the little port of Bodø on the mainland for one night before travelling by Hurtigruten (Coastal ship) the following day and approaching the islands from the sea. Three nights in Svolvær provide plenty of time to join a whale safari for one day (NB See dates under Excursions) leaving another two days free to explore independently or join another excursion.

The journey then continues by Hurtigruten for the overnight journey to Tromsø, Norway's arctic capital city, for a final night before flying back to the UK via Oslo.