Lofoten: Norway’s Hidden Gem
Svinøya is a tiny fishing village in Lofoten, sitting just above the Arctic Circle. Lofoten is known for its dramatic mountains, crystal-clear waters, and sandy beaches, creating a landscape unlike anywhere else. Here, you’ll find a mix of old fishermen’s cabins, breathtaking nature, and a peaceful vibe that invites you to slow down and take it all in.
Getting here is part of the adventure. Whether you’re flying, driving, or taking the ferry, every route offers a glimpse of Norway’s stunning beauty.
So, how will you start your journey to Svinøya?
Getting Here: The Journey to Lofoten
No matter how you travel, the journey to Lofoten is part of the adventure. Every route offers its unique charm, from soaring above Norway’s dramatic fjords and mountains to gliding through coastal waters or winding along scenic roads. As you cross the Arctic Circle, you’ll be greeted by landscapes that feel like they belong in another world.
Flying is the quickest and most convenient way to reach Lofoten, offering breathtaking aerial views of the islands as you approach. Travelling by boat brings you closer to nature, with remote islands, rugged cliffs, and endless horizons to marvel at along the way. For those who enjoy a slower pace, driving lets you take in Norway’s scenic routes, picturesque villages, and ferry crossings at your own pace.
Thanks to improved connections, Lofoten is now more accessible than ever—getting here has never been easier.
Flights to Lofoten
Lofoten is served by three main airports, each offering a unique gateway to this Arctic paradise. As you approach, the landscape begins to change—the mountains grow sharper, rising dramatically from the sea, and the water turns an almost impossibly clear shade of blue. From the air, you’ll catch glimpses of tiny fishing villages, white sandy beaches, and the rugged beauty that makes Lofoten so unforgettable. No matter which airport you choose, the journey to Lofoten is an experience in itself.
Svolvær Airport (SVJ):
Located just a few minutes from Svolvær town centre, this airport is ideal for exploring East Lofoten. With daily flights operated by Widerøe from Bodø, it’s the most convenient option for those heading directly to Svolvær.
Leknes Airport (LKN):
Situated in the heart of Lofoten, Leknes Airport is perfect for those planning to explore West Lofoten. Widerøe offers daily flights from Bodø, providing a central gateway to the surrounding islands and villages.Harstad/Narvik Airport:
Located on the mainland, Evenes Airport is the largest in the area and a key gateway to Lofoten. It’s a 2.5-hour drive to Svolvær, with rental cars and buses available, and offers multiple daily flights from Oslo. Norwegian and SAS has daily departures.
Norwegian operates year-round direct flights from London to Evenes, providing a convenient connection for travellers from the UK. Tickets can be booked at www.norwegian.com.
Air France offers seasonal direct flights from Paris to Evenes during the summer. This route is perfect for those wanting to experience Lofoten's natural beauty in the warmer months. Visit www.airfrance.fr for more information and bookings.
Discover Airlines provides seasonal flights from Frankfurt to Evenes, running during the summer months. It’s an excellent option for German travellers. Tickets are available at www.discover-airlines.com.
Edelweiss Air operates summer flights from Zürich to Evenes, making it simple for Swiss travellers to explore Lofoten. Book your tickets at www.flyedelweiss.com.
SAS offers year-round direct flights from Copenhagen to Evenes, ensuring a reliable option for travellers from Sweden. Visit www.sas.se to book.
The route from Milan to Harstad/Narvik Airport, Evenes (EVE), provides easy access to Northern Norway's stunning natural landscapes. Visit Easy Jet for more information.
Getting from Svolvær Airport to Svinøya is quick and easy, just a 10-minute ride by taxi. Currently, taxis and rental cars are the only transport options available. Rental car companies like Avis and Sixt have offices at the airport, making it simple to pick up a car and start your journey through Lofoten.
For taxi services, you can contact Nordland Taxi at 0047 22 38 83 09 or visit their website for booking: www.nordlandtaxi.no/vagan.
Reaching Svinøya from Leknes Airport takes about 1 hour by car or bus. Rental car companies such as Hertz, Avis, and Budget operate at the airport, offering convenient options for those who prefer to drive.
For bus travel, the Lofotekspressen (route 300) provides a scenic journey from Leknes to Svolvær. Schedules and tickets are available at www.reisnordland.no. Once in Svolvær, you can easily reach Svinøya by taxi or rental car.
For taxi services, you can contact Nordland Taxi at 0047 22 38 83 09 or visit their website for booking: www.nordlandtaxi.no/vagan.
Travelling from Evenes Airport to Svinøya takes approximately 2.5 hours and can be done by car, bus, or airport shuttle. Rental car companies like Avis, Hertz, and Sixt operate at the airport, offering flexibility for those who prefer to drive.
For public transport, the Lofotekspressen (route 300) provides a scenic connection from Evenes to Svolvær. Schedules and tickets can be found at www.reisnordland.no.
Additionally, there is a dedicated airport shuttle for flights arriving from Zurich. Operated by Lofoten Tours AS, this shuttle departs from Evenes at 16:10 and makes the following stops:
Tickets can be booked online at Visit Lofoten. The shuttle is equipped with child seats and reduced fares for children aged 5–17, while kids under 4 travel for free.
For a seamless journey, remember to show your pre-booked ticket to the driver.
There is no direct bus service from Svolvær centre to Svinøya, so the best options are walking or taking a taxi. For taxi services, you can contact Nordland Taxi at +47 22 38 83 09 or book online at www.nordlandtaxi.no/vagan.
Travelling by express boat or ferry to Lofoten is a unique experience, but planning ahead is essential. While some ferries allow advance booking, not all routes offer this option, so it’s important to check availability ahead of your trip. During peak season, ferries and boats can fill up quickly, so arriving early at the terminal is advised.
The ferry from Bodø to Moskenes offers a picturesque 3.5-hour journey across the Vestfjord. This route is ideal for travellers heading to West Lofoten. Tickets are available through Reis Nordland.
This ferry route stops at the islands of Værøy and Røst before reaching Moskenes, making it perfect for exploring more of Lofoten’s unique islands. Check schedules and book your trip at Reis Nordland.
A convenient 1-hour crossing connecting the mainland to Lofoten, ideal for travellers coming from the north by car.
A short 25-minute ferry ride providing quick access to the islands, perfect for those travelling within Lofoten.
Hurtigruten and Havila Kystruten offer daily sailings that stop in Lofoten, one of Norway’s most breathtaking regions. With stops in Stamsund, connected to West Lofoten, and Svolvær, ideal for East Lofoten and Svinøya Rorbuer, these routes provide a scenic and convenient way to reach your destination.
The Travel Experience
Travelling with Hurtigruten or Havila is more than just transportation—it’s an unforgettable experience. You’ll enjoy panoramic views of Norway’s dramatic coastline, with steep mountains plunging into the sea and charming islands dotting the horizon. Onboard, relax in comfortable surroundings, savour locally inspired cuisine, and keep an eye out for wildlife like sea eagles and whales.
Booking Information
For detailed information about routes, prices, and availability, visit the official websites of Hurtigruten and Havila Kystruten:
Driving to Lofoten is a scenic adventure that lets you fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Norway. With winding coastal roads, dramatic mountain views, and picturesque villages along the way, the journey is as rewarding as the destination. Here’s how you can get to Lofoten by car:
Driving to Lofoten offers a variety of routes, each with its own unique charm:
The E6 highway is the fastest and most direct route. After crossing the Tysfjord via the Bognes–Lødingen ferry (1-hour crossing), you’ll continue along the E10 highway, which winds through Lofoten’s dramatic landscapes, with towering mountains and fjords lining the way.
This scenic route takes you along the Kystriksveien coastal road, known for its breathtaking views and multiple ferry crossings. The highlight is the Bodø–Moskenes ferry, a 3.5-hour journey across the Vestfjord, offering panoramic views as you approach the islands.
Starting from Narvik, you’ll follow the E10 highway west, known as Kong Olav V’s Road. This route provides a seamless drive into Lofoten, with opportunities to stop at picturesque viewpoints and charming villages.
If you’re planning to drive in Lofoten, rental cars are available from major locations like Bodø, Narvik, and Evenes Airport. Companies such as Hertz, Avis, and Sixt offer a variety of options to suit your needs.
Keep in mind that some routes include ferry crossings, so it’s a good idea to check ferry schedules in advance, especially during the busy summer season. Lofoten’s weather can also be unpredictable, so ensure your car is well-equipped for changing conditions, particularly in winter months.
Driving in Lofoten gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. From stopping at secluded beaches to capturing breathtaking views of jagged peaks and fishing villages, having your own car allows you to fully experience the beauty of this incredible region.
No matter how you travel, the journey to Lofoten is as unforgettable as the destination itself. From soaring mountains to charming fishing villages and endless horizons, every route offers its magic. Whether you fly, sail, or drive, each step brings you closer to the breathtaking beauty of Norway’s Arctic.
Once you’ve planned your journey, the next step is finding the perfect place to stay. Whether you’re seeking the charm of a traditional rorbu cabin or the comfort of modern accommodations, Lofoten offers something for every traveller. Let us help you find your ideal base for exploring this extraordinary region.
Take a journey through the pristine landscapes of Sapmi and immerse yourself in Sámi culture with a reindeer herder as your guide. Departing from Svinøya, the trip takes you through stunning fjords to a traditional Sámi reindeer herding camp. Along the way, your guide will explain the shifting landscapes and their significance.
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