Norway - On Foot in the Lofoten Islands

8 days Guided Group, Fixed Departure

If you have ever wanted to see the Midnight Sun colouring magical mountains, which local myths say were moulded from huge trolls, then this could be the trip for you. The Lofotens are a group of islands forming a skeletal curve of mountainous rock stretching out across the Norwegian Sea, consisting of rugged peaks, wide open ocean, sheltered inlets and stretches of seashore. Beneath towering coastal walls exists the perfect setting for many tiny, picturesque fishing villages set like a string of pearls along the coast line.

The islands have amazing history from before the Viking age and onwards and have been a focal point for Norway's winter fishing from time immemorial. On this trip you will spend six days trekking in the mountains, experiencing the culture of the islands, staying in cosy, traditional fishermens' 'rorbu' cabins right on the sea shore and visiting museums which give an insight into the islands' past. Let your imagination go and visit the Lofoten Islands.

Day 1. Outbound to Henningsvaer, Lofoten

Fly to Evenes and transfer to Henningsvaer, a small fishing village located on a tiny island in Vestfjord, off the northernmost Lofoten Island of Austvagoy. Enjoy a freshly caught fish dinner in a traditional harbourside guesthouse.

Days 2 and 3. Austvagoy, Vestvagoy & Flakstadoy

Hike the 'Smatindan Trek', meaning 'many small peaks', with far-reaching views of the fjords and islands that make up the Lofotens. There is the opportunity to visit the wooden Vagan Church and swim in a refreshing lake. Move south onto the island of Vestvagoy and visit the fabulous Lofotr Viking museum at Borg, followed by an ascent of 'Skottinden' standing at 671 metres. Travel to Flakstadoy and overnight in a traditional rorbus in the fishing village of Nusfjord.

Day 4. Ascent of Mosestinden

From Nusfjord there is a challenging walk up the week's highest peak of Mosestinden, standing at 770 metres. More amazing views await you on the summit before a choice of descent returns you to the beautifully preserved village in time to relax and explore.

Days 5 and 6. Walking on the Island of Moskenesoy

Transfer to Moskenesoy, the last big island in the archipelago, passing beautiful sandy beaches where there are ample swimming opportunities. Hike in the mountains of Moskenesoy and stay in another rorbus in the picturesque village of Reine overlooking the Kirkefjorden - a photographer's dream!

Day 7. Ascent of Reinebringen

Visit the fishing village museum at ??, before the final walk to the peak of Reinebringen, (448 metres) for one of the most photographed views of the surrounding fjords.

Day 8. Homeward

Transfer back across the Islands of the Lofotens, with a final chance to reflect on their wild beauty, before flying back to the UK.