Highlights
- Experience winter above the Arctic Circle in Norway's remote Lofoten Islands
- Chase the northern lights outside of the "Gateway to the Lofotens" in Bodø
- Savor elevated Arctic cuisine at an exclusive gastronomic retreat in Å
- Embark on adventurous horseback riding excursions in the wintry wilds of Gimsøya
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Bodø, Northern Lights Tour | Bodø |
| Day 2 | Transfer to Å & Holmen Lofoten, Optional Activities | Å |
| Day 3 | Outdoor & Culinary Activities at Holmen Lofoten | Å |
| Day 4 | Transfer to Gimsøya & Lofoten Links Lodges | Gimsøya |
| Days 5-6 | Gimsøya Horseback Adventures & Northern Lights | Gimsøya |
| Day 7 | Depart Gimsøya |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Bodø, Northern Lights Tour
Welcome to Norway! One of the highlights of this Scandinavian nation's 63,000-mile (101,000 km) coastline is the Lofoten Islands. Comprised of seven main islands, this archipelago is renowned for the natural beauty seen in its mountain peaks, shimmering fjords, and unspoiled beaches. Dotting these isles are historic fishing villages with a long and storied seafaring culture.
You'll discover all this when you arrive at Bodø, one of the largest towns in the region and the "Gateway to the Lofotens." A driver will be waiting at the terminal to transfer you to Scandic Havet, the largest hotel in town, situated right on the waterfront. After checking in to your modern and spacious room, perhaps head up to the 18th floor and Roast Restaurant & Bar to enjoy panoramic views overlooking Arctic Norway. The fine restaurant also serves dishes utilizing locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.
Day 2: Transfer to Å & Holmen Lofoten, Optional Activities
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Rise and shine! This morning, you'll leave Bodø on a scenic ferry ride north to the Lofotens and Å. The southernmost village in the archipelago is a storybook fishing town surrounded by raw and beautiful Arctic scenery, from craggy mountains to glassy fjords. Upon arrival, you'll transfer just outside of town to Holmen Lofoten. This stylish hotel and "kitchen on the edge" concept offers an exclusive culinary adventure over multiple days in the Arctic wilds. While here, you'll stay in a former fisherman's cabin that has been transformed into a cozy suite with a shower, sauna, and even a kitchenette.
You can choose to spend the afternoon relaxing amid the sensational views or opt for one of the many available activities, like a cocktail-making class or a fishing excursion. Dinner is a set menu affair served family-style around the chef's table, with views into the open kitchen. Sip on craft cocktails as you watch the artistry of your meal come together with seasonal ingredients grown, caught, and foraged from the islands.
Day 3: Outdoor & Culinary Activities at Holmen Lofoten
Today, you'll enjoy a bespoke itinerary of culinary experiences and activities that are catered around the season, the weather, and your interests. Highlights might include a knife-making workshop, where skilled artisans guide you through the intricate process of crafting a one-of-a-kind blade, or a cooking class, during which you'll learn to cook Norwegian classics using fresh ingredients and local seafood. Outdoor excursions like sailing, skiing, fishing, and kayaking will also make up part of your day. As evening falls, enjoy another one-of-a-kind dining experience in the "Kitchen at the Edge of the World."
Day 4: Transfer to Gimsøya & Lofoten Links Lodges
Say goodbye to Å and the team at Holmen Lofoten, as this morning, you'll meet your driver for the ride north to the island of Gimsøya. One of the most beautiful destinations in the archipelago, this island is sparsely populated (there are fewer than 200 residents here) and known for its wild beauty. You'll be staying on Gimsøya's rugged north coast at the Lofoten Links Lodges. Ideally situated on the wide and inviting Hov Beach, you can witness the majesty of Arctic Norway from your own private luxury lodge, complete with picture windows facing the Norwegian Sea and a roaring fireplace.
As night falls, stroll over to the nearby restaurant for dinner, where you'll feast on traditional Norwegian fare in a rustic, converted 70-year-old barn. Then, it's time to bundle up and set off on a gentle two-hour horseback ride—the perfect chance to acquaint yourself with your equine partner for the next few days and hopefully catch a glimpse of the northern lights.
Days 5-6: Gimsøya Horseback Adventures & Northern Lights
Over the next two days, you'll embark on a series of thrilling winter horseback riding excursions. One adventure starts with a visit to the local Viking Museum. Here, you'll learn a bit about Nordic history before setting off on a 5-6-hour ride to the Åland cheese farm, where an organic lunch featuring artisanal goat cheeses awaits.
Another half-day route takes you along the ancient Vikingvei (Viking Old Road), trotting and cantering past breathtaking scenery as you enter the picturesque Vinje Valley. You'll break at a cozy Sámi lavvo (tent) for a traditional lunch before returning to the comfort of your lodge, where you can relax in front of a crackling fire, take a dip in your private outdoor hot tub, or head down to the beachfront sauna to warm up. Your lodge faces north and Gimsøya is remarkably free of light pollution, so as darkness falls each night, you'll have more chances of spotting the northern lights.
Day 7: Depart Gimsøya
More Great Norway Itineraries
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