Just Back From: The Lofoten Islands, Norway

Nestled within the Arctic Circle, the Lofoten Islands are the place to go to experience untouched natural beauty. Renowned for dramatic fjords, fishing villages that look frozen in time, and crystal-clear seas, Lofoten is a sanctuary where towering landscapes meet vibrant local culture. This breathtaking archipelago is a must-visit for anyone seeking a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation amidst some of the world’s most unique scenery. CIRE’s summer intern Ella Edwards has just returned from a remarkable journey to Norway and shares her insights on her time in the region. 

The Vibe

“When my parents announced that our summer holiday would take us to the Arctic Circle— complete with my mother’s forecast of “rain, wind, and cold” for the duration— I braced myself for a beach-less vacation. Upon touching down in the Lofoten Islands, however, the sun was shining and I automatically felt immersed in a world where nature clearly reigns supreme. The trek to our first stop felt like an adventure movie, featuring three planes, two boats, and a supporting cast of rugged backpackers and mountain bikers. While the initial vibe of hardcore hikers was a tad intimidating for someone more accustomed to leisurely hikes, the sight of the sauna at our island hotel was a welcome relief and quickly put me at ease. This moment set the tone for our entire trip. Whether you’re up for world-class hiking and biking trails or prefer to relax with casual kayaking and spa treatments, the Lofoten Islands offer the best of both worlds.”

The Rooms

 “Staying in the Lofoten felt like living in a postcard. Our first location, Manshausen Island, a private island resort holding only 16 buildings, contained some of the most unique architectural cabins I have ever seen. Our room featured entirely glass-fronted walls perched over the water, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Each morning, we woke up to the sight of a majestic mountain peak reflecting on the crystal-clear water, and warm sunlight casting a glow into our cabin. The blend of modern luxury and rustic charm created a retreat where we could fully soak in the landscape surrounding us. Conversely, our second stay in Nusfjord was a journey into the past. We settled into a cozy red cabin that was once where members of fishing fleets would stay for the night. Overlooking the quaint village and its scenic harbor, our cabin offered a blend of character and comfort, capturing the essence of the village’s heritage.”

The Food

“Our culinary experience in the Lofoten Islands was nothing short of exceptional. The local cuisine celebrated the region’s flavorful ingredients, from freshly caught fish to unheard of Norwegian herbs. Each dish, whether tender lamb or flaky, buttery halibut, was a testament to the island’s dedication to authentic, high-quality ingredients. Highlights included the locally sourced seafood—such as the 15-pound cod my little brother caught—and organically grown vegetables like sweet carrots and tangy rhubarb. My favorite meal of the trip was definitely the four course tasting menu at the Manshausen Restaurant. It was the best way to sample a little bit of everything, and allowed me to try uniquely Norwegian foods like brown crab and moose.”

Don’t Miss…

“Don’t miss the widely advertised sea eagle RIB boat tours –they are popular for a reason! The “Rigid Inflatable Boats” offer an exhilarating way to witness the impressive sea eagles in action and hunting for fish. The thrill of the boat ride paired with the spectacle of the birds of prey make for an unforgettable adventure, and you may even see Killer Whales! This tour truly captures the raw beauty and excitement that Lofoten has to offer. And a pro tip: if you prefer to stay dry, steer clear of the front seats where rogue waves will soak you!”

The Best View

“Without a doubt, my one non-leisurely hike brought me to the best view in the Lofoten Islands. A short but steep hike up the Reinebringen Mountain rewards you with a panoramic view of the surrounding fjords and the village of Reine. Standing at the summit, you’ll see a landscape of emerald waters, rugged peaks, and the lovely red fishing village that stands out against the natural backdrop. Despite the hike’s strenuous stretches, every step brings you closer to a view that’s undeniably worth the effort.”

The Lofoten Islands offer a mesmerizing mix of wild landscapes and refined luxury, catering to every type of traveler. Whether you are looking for distinctive local cuisine, architecturally stunning lodgings, exhilarating hikes, or simply a relaxing session in a sauna, Lofoten delivers it all within a unique and captivating setting. To make your luxury vacation to Norway as seamless and unforgettable as Ella’s, our expert team of travel advisors at CIRE Travel can assist in planning, organizing, and booking every aspect of your trip. Our dedicated team ensures that your Arctic adventure will be tailored to your preferences, allowing you to fully immerse in the beauty of Lofoten while we handle every tiny detail.

Looking for more first-person travelogues from our expert travel agent team?  Check out our previous Just Back From features here:

CIRE Travel is a full-service travel agency headquartered in New York, NY.  Our expert corporate travel planners, honeymoon travel agents, and luxury travel planners support clients across the country and around the world.

 

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