Remote Luxury in Norway's Lofoten Islands - 10 Days

Day 2: Full-Day Lofoten Islands Tour

You've got the entire day to explore the Arctic paradise known as the Lofoten Islands. This full-day private tour begins early with a pickup from your hotel. Your driver will take you around the five main islands to traditional fishing villages dotted with the typical rorbu (red-painted wooden houses). Along the way, you'll pass between narrow fjords and mighty peaks, sandy beaches, and sparkling lakes. There will be various stops to snap photos of the dazzling Arctic scenery.

Around lunchtime, you'll sample the famous skrei (stockfish), the famous dried cod that's been a staple of Lofoten's fishing industry since the 14th century. Then, sit down for a full Arctic meal of delicious fish soup and Norwegian fish burgers. At the end of the afternoon, you'll return to Svolvær and your hotel.

Day 3: Drive to Andenes, Hike the Queens Route

It's road trip time! Pick up your rental car after breakfast, then depart Svolvær on a drive to the northern tip of the Lofoten region. Your destination is Andenes, a village on the island of Andøya. Andenes is a paradise for nature lovers, as it features diverse landscapes ranging from windswept beaches to craggy mountains and dramatic fjords.

On the way, you'll stop in the fishing village of Stø. There, lace up your hiking boots for a trek along the famous Queen's Route. This moderate, 9-mile (15 km) hike takes you along the rugged coast and over a mountain between Stø and the fishing village of Nyksund, in the far north of Langøya, Norway's third largest island. After the hike, you'll break for lunch, then continue a couple of hours north to Andenes.

Upon arrival, you'll make your way to Bleik Sea Cabins. Located just south of town, this beachfront property is the perfect spot for a cozy retreat. Each of its six cabins is well-equipped with WiFi, flatscreen TVs, and satellite channels. That's to say nothing of the private balconies overlooking the soft white sands of Bleik Beach on this remote stretch of idyllic coast.

Day 5: Drive to Senja, Kayaking & Hot Tub

Leave after breakfast on an epic driving/ferry route that will take you out of the Lofoten Islands north to Senja. This island is located in Troms County, a region famous for its scenic beauty. Here, you'll find everything from mountains and fjords to Arctic beaches and charming fishing villages. After about seven hours of driving and ferry trips, you'll arrive in Senja.

You'll be staying at Hamn i Senja, a holiday resort set in a historic fishing station reimagined as a chic and modern 4-star hotel. Accommodations range from cozy cabins to modern seaside apartments, each blending seamlessly with the surrounding coastal environment. The hotel's waterfront location also offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and observing the northern lights during the winter months. Additionally, Hamn i Senja features a restaurant serving delicious Norwegian cuisine utilizing locally sourced ingredients and a wellness center with a sauna and hot tub.

Speaking of which, if you arrive early enough, feel free to hop in a kayak and paddle around the glassy fjords on a privately guided adventure. In the evening, you can relax with a nice long soak in an outdoor hot tub filled with luxurious 100°F (38°C) water amid views of the midnight sun. Continue unwinding with a session in the spa's sauna, or, for a vigorous shock to the system, take a dip in the ocean.

Day 6: Drive to Sommarøy, Island Hike

It's another early start as you leave Senja on a two-hour combined drive and ferry trip around the fjords and mountains of Troms County to Sommarøy. Christened "Summer Island" by locals, this historic fishing village sits on a verdant headland fringed with secluded beaches along an unspoiled coast.

Once here, you'll take a boat 9 miles (15 km) north of Sommarøy to the island of Håja. There, join your private guide and set off from a trailhead on a hike to the top of Håja, 1,595 feet (486 m) above sea level. There, you'll have a birds-eye view of this coastal wonderland and can snap panoramic photos. On the way back, see if you can spot some local wildlife, like the white-tailed eagle and porpoise.

Back in town, you'll continue to the Sommarøy Arctic. This 4-star hotel sits on the waterfront and exudes a modern touch yet maintains an authentic Arctic character deeply rooted in the region's history. The Sommarøy Arctic offers various rooms, from standard options to spacious apartments with multiple bedrooms and sea views. There's a sauna and sea bath on-site, plus a waterside bathhouse where you can enjoy a hot tub and sauna with a view. For dining, try the hotel's Wine Lounge—perfect for savoring tapas and fine wines in an intimate atmosphere.

Day 7: Senja Guided E-Bike Tour

Grab your helmet and water bottle because you're off on a full-day bike ride this morning around Senja's wild and unspoiled landscapes. This excursion is more about the scenery than endurance, as your modern electric bicycle will be shouldering much of the burden. Throughout the trip, you'll follow winding roads alongside shimmering fjords, through colorful villages, and over towering peaks. There will be plenty of stops to snap photos at panoramic viewpoints.

Day 8: Drive to Tromsø, Optional Activities

Say goodbye to the Lofotens as this morning you embark on a scenic hour-long drive from Sommarøy east to Tromsø. Known as the "Gateway to the Arctic," this far-flung city may lie north of the Arctic Circle, but it doesn't lack culture and activities. Out of some 65,000 residents, there's a large student population here. That translates to a robust music, film, and nightlife culture. 
 
When you arrive, you'll check into the Scandic Ishavshotel. This award-winning waterfront hotel sits right on Tromsø's quayside, a short walk to city attractions like the Polar Museum. The modern and spacious rooms and suites are well appointed, with many featuring fjord views—great vantage points to spy the northern lights in winter and the midnight sun in summer. Additionally, the hotel is a convenient hub for activities like whale watching or a midnight concert at the iconic Arctic Cathedral.
 
After checking in, you'll have the rest of the day to discover Tromsø's highlights on your own. Perhaps start with a cable car ride up Mount Storsteinen. Its viewing platform is a great place to snap panoramic photos of Tromsø and the surrounding scenery. At the end of the day, you'll return to your hotel.

Day 9: Tromsø Charter Fishing Tour

Rise and shine! This morning, you'll immerse yourself in the maritime culture of this region on a chartered fishing trip. Head to the harbor early and board a boat for a three-hour cruise around the scenic Kattfjord. Don't worry if you're a first-timer, as the pros on board will teach you everything you need to know about hooking prized catches like Arctic halibut. It's more than a fishing trip, as throughout the tour, you'll likely spot fascinating marine animals like whales, seals, otters, and more. The best part is that whatever halibut you do catch, you can take back to the hotel and enjoy for dinner.

Day 10: Cultural Walk with a Local in Tromsø, Depart

There's time left to squeeze in one last cultural activity before departing. In the morning, meet up with a local guide for a walking tour around Tromsø. This brisk, 2.5-hour stroll will take you to some of the most historic and iconic landmarks in the "Paris of the North." See the city's original borders, which date to 1794, as you pass landmark monuments and colorful murals. The tour ends with a visit to the Polar Museum, followed by a farewell toast at a traditional bar in town. Afterward, you'll transfer to the airport in time to catch your connecting flight home. See you soon!

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