Svolvaer

  • Aurland, Bergen, Flåm, Oslo, Stavanger, Svolvaer, Travel Guide, Tromsø

    The Complete Guide to Saunas in Norway

    The Complete Guide to Saunas in Norway

    Sauna culture is thriving across Norway, with both locals and visitors embracing the classic hot-cold ritual in every season. From floating wood-fired saunas on scenic fjords to luxury hotel spa facilities, each city offers unique ways to sweat and then plunge into refreshing waters year-round.

    When I travel with groups, I’m finding increasingly that one of the top requests is to take a sauna. So, I figured I may as well put together a full list of saunas in Norway. I only included major destinations; you can find saunas almost anywhere in the country. 

    Below is a city-by-city guide to notable sauna options – including traditional wood-fired cabins, electric urban saunas, floating fjord saunas, mobile units, and luxury spa experiences – along with approximate price ranges (in Norwegian Krone, NOK) and booking info. All prices are current as of 2025 and are provided in NOK. Note that the prices vary a lot depending on the season and time of day, so do check their website for a more accurate price. 

    In this article...

    Norway Travel Guide

    Oslo

    Oslo’s sauna scene is booming, blending urban culture with Nordic tradition. The Oslofjord is home to numerous floating saunas and waterfront facilities – a true all-year activity even in freezing winters. Sauna-bathing has become a signature Oslo experience, with both public drop-in saunas and private rentals available. I would say that of all these places, Oslo is where I first saw saunas really taking off. 

    KOK Website

    KOK Oslo

    KOK offers wood-fired floating saunas at two central locations (Langkaia by the Opera and Aker Brygge). Each sauna holds up to 10 people and can be booked for 2-hour private sessions or 1.5-hour shared sessions. Prices start around NOK 1,280 for a private docked sauna (up to 10 people) and NOK 3,700 for a 2-hour fjord sauna cruise with an electric motor. Please note that prices vary depending on the time of day.

    Individuals can join a “FellesKOK” shared sauna for about NOK 320 per person (1.5 hours). These floating spa boats have changing rooms, stereo systems, and panoramic windows – perfect for a hot bake and a dip in the Oslofjord even in mid-winter.

    Oslo’s sauna scene is booming, blending urban culture with Nordic tradition. The Oslofjord is home to numerous floating saunas and waterfront facilities – a true all-year activity even in freezing winters. Sauna-bathing has become a signature Oslo experience, with both public drop-in saunas and private rentals available. I would say that of all these places, Oslo is where I first saw saunas really taking off. 

    SALT Sauna

    SALT Sauna

    An outdoor art and culture venue by the Oslo harbour, SALT features 12 different saunas (with capacities ranging from 4 to 100 people) in a festival-like atmosphere, complete with bars, food, music, and even DJs on weekends.

    You can drop in to the public sauna area (which includes multiple large saunas, cold plunge pools, showers and a lounge) for 2.5-hour sessions. Tickets cost approximately NOK 205 on weekdays and NOK 255 on weekends for adults. Students and children receive discounts.

    Private sauna rentals are available too – e.g. a small “Barrel” sauna (4 ppl) for ~NOK 1,060, a larger “Naustet” cabin (6 ppl) for ~NOK 1,495, or a big barrel for 8 at ~NOK 1,990SALT operates year-round (early morning into late night); advance booking is recommended (via their site salted.no). The vibe is social and vibrant – you can sweat with locals, then cool off in the Oslo Fjord right outside.

    Oslo Sauna Association

    Oslo Sauna Association (Oslo Badstuforening)

    This member-based nonprofit has spawned an urban sauna revival in Oslo. They operate multiple floating saunas at 6–7 locations around the city’s waterfront – including at Sukkerbiten (near the Munch Museum) and Langkaia (Opera) – plus some mobile units that pop up at city beaches and even inland lakes (e.g. Hvervenbukta and Mariholtet).

    Shared drop-in sessions run daily (07:00–22:00) for approximately NOK 220–260 per person (1.5 hours) for non-members, while members pay around NOK 125–150. You’ll be sitting alongside locals in a communal atmosphere – a great chance to experience the Norwegian sauna ethos of fellesskap (togetherness).

    It’s also possible to rent entire saunas privately through the association’s booking system. Facilities are generally rustic: wood-fired stoves, small changing areas, and direct access to the fjord for swimming. Drop-ins often sell out, so I recommend reserving in advance if possible.

    Kongen Marina

    Kongen Marina

    If you want to escape the city, Kongen Marina by Frognerkilen features a dome sauna, a glass sauna with 360-degree views. Kongen Marina is a fascinating place to visit anyway; described as a ‘Miami Vice’ style beach club, bar and restaurant, you’ll feel like you’re at a beach in Miami when you visit – maybe!

    Oslo Fjord Sauna

    Oslo Fjord Sauna

    Fjord CleanUP is an organisation that focuses on picking up litter from the seabed. They have two saunas, Huginn and Muninn, and they are located at the northern end of the Sørenga peninsula. All proceeds from the saunas go to the Fjord CleanUP project.

    For a full spa experience, some hotels offer saunas to guests, and just outside Oslo is “The Well”, a massive spa resort with every sauna type imaginable – Finnish, Turkish, Japanese and more – but within the city the above are the highlights

    Flåm

    Tiny Flåm, nestled at the end of Aurlandsfjord, now boasts a memorable fjordside sauna experience – perfect after a day on the Flåm Railway or fjord cruises. Sauna culture here is about enjoying the spectacular nature soothingly.

    FjordSauna Flåm

    FjordSauna Flåm

    A floating sauna cabin moored in Flåm’s harbour, operated by a local company in partnership with “Norway’s Best” (Flåm’s tourism arm). This modern, raft-like sauna features electric heating and boasts huge windows overlooking the fjord. It accommodates up to 12 people and is available either as a private booking (exclusive use) or a drop-in session, where individuals or couples can join others. Sessions are typically 1.5 hours.

    The private group price is approximately NOK 2,990 for up to 12 people (roughly NOK 250 per person if the group is full), while shared tickets cost around NOK 445 per person. The price includes a small sit-on towel and use of the changing facilities. Between sauna rounds, you can jump straight into the fjord via a ladder or even through a hatch in the floor – an exhilarating fjord bath in all seasons.

    This sauna operates year-round and is a must-do for truly soaking in Flåm’s scenery – imagine sweating in 80°C heat, then plunging into an icy fjord surrounded by snow-capped mountains!

    The historic Fretheim Hotel in Flåm also has a small indoor sauna and outdoor hot tub as part of its spa for overnight guests, but the floating FjordSauna is the primary option for visitors.

    Fjord Sauna also operates in the nearby town of Aurland.

    Bergen

    Bergen’s rainy weather hasn’t stopped a hot sauna scene from emerging. In fact, the combination of a steaming sauna and a cold dip in the North Sea is also increasingly popular here. The city offers both cosy wood-fired saunas on the fjord and public facilities for winter swimmers.

    Heit Sauna

    Heit Sauna

    Heit (“hot” in Norwegian) is a company operating wood-fired floating saunas in Bergen. They have two main sites: one at Marineholmen, near the city centre, and another at Laksevåg, across the harbour, plus a new unit at Måseskjæret. Each location has raft-mounted sauna cabins with capacity for ~8–12 people.

    You can book either a shared drop-in session (50 minutes or 1h50m) or rent a private sauna for your group. Prices for a shared sauna start from ~NOK 159 per person (50 minutes) or NOK 279 for ~2 hours.

    Private bookings, which offer exclusive use for up to 10 people, start at around NOK 590 for two people (short session). Larger groups pay more, but it’s still quite affordable (e.g., 1 hour and 50 minutes for 10 people was advertised at around NOK 1,990). The saunas are wood-burning (Finnish-style stoves) and maintained at a temperature of ~60–80 °C.

    There are basic changing facilities on the pier, an outdoor cold shower, and ladders for sea swimming. Staff are on hand, and swimming is at your own risk but encouraged year-round (water temperature ranges from 3 °C in winter to 18 °C in summer). Heit even hosts special events, such as sauna yoga and Aufguss (steam rituals with essential oils).

    Nordnes Sea Pool

    Nordnes Sjøbad (Sea Pool & Sauna)

    A Bergen institution, Nordnes Sjøbad is a public seawater pool located by the city fjord, which opens for winter bathing a few days a week during the off-season. It features indoor changing rooms and a sauna on-site.

    From mid-October to spring, hardy locals come here to alternate between the heated saltwater pool, chilling dips in the fjord, and time in the co-ed sauna. It’s a communal experience rather than a private rental. Entrance fees are modest, ranging from NOK 70 to 110 for adults for winter swim and sauna sessions, and are often free for Bergen students and alumni on certain days.

    If you’re looking to experience the Norwegian “ice bathing” trend in Bergen, this is the place – imagine dark winter evenings, 4 °C water, and a steamy sauna full of cheerful bathers.

    Check the schedule as it’s open limited hours in winter (typically Thursday evenings and Sunday mornings). No pre-booking needed for drop-in – pay at the door.

    City Sauna Bergen

    City Sauna Bergen

    City Sauna Bergen offers a distinctive wellness experience by combining the traditional Norwegian sauna with the serenity of Bergen’s waterways. Situated at Damsgårdsveien 59, this floating sauna provides guests with panoramic views of the city’s picturesque landscape while they enjoy the therapeutic warmth of the sauna.

    The sauna offers drop-in sessions at specific times throughout the week. Prices start at 150 NOK per person for a one-hour session. They also offer private sauna rentals, with bookings available for 1 to 2 hours and accommodating up to 12 people. Private rentals vary from 1,000 NOK up to 4,200 NOK, depending on the group size. For those looking to combine relaxation with a scenic boat ride, the sauna cruise offers a 2-hour journey through Bergen’s waterways, suitable for groups of varying sizes. Prices start at 3,000 NOK.

    Vestfjord Sauna

    Vestfjord Sauna

    A new addition just outside Bergen centre, Vestfjordsauna has opened an innovative sauna with a Himalayan salt wall in the suburb of Kjøkkelvik (15 minutes west of downtown). This land-based sauna house is situated directly on the shore, offering a serene wellness experience. The facility can be booked for 1.5-hour sessions; you can either reserve a spot in a shared session or book the entire sauna privately.

    The sauna accommodates approximately 8–10 people and features a changing area, as well as easy ladder access to the sea. Prices are around NOK 219 per adult for a session (with slight discounts to ~NOK 198 pp for groups). The salt-block wall inside not only creates a unique ambience but also releases minerals that proponents say benefit respiration and skin. It’s heated and ready upon your arrival, with opening hours from 06:00 to 23:00 daily, year-round.

    Additionally, some Bergen hotels have sauna facilities – for example, Hotel Norge and others have small rooftop or gym saunas for guests. But for visitors looking to rent or drop-in, the above are the top choices. If you’re adventurous, Bergen’s surrounding areas even have “wild” saunas like a wood-fired one by Lake Grimevatnet or the artistic floating sauna “Flabellina” on Osterøy, but these are outside the city proper

    Stavanger

    In Stavanger and its surroundings, sauna culture is on the rise – often taking advantage of the beautiful Rogaland coastline. Options range from floating saunas in the city’s bays to wood-fired fjord saunas near famous landmarks.

    BookSauna Stavanger Saunas

    BookSauna Stavanger Saunas

    At Vaulen (a seaside park area in the city’s south), you’ll find a private floating sauna operated via BookSauna.no. It’s essentially a cosy, electrically heated sauna raft moored by the shore, with space for up to 8 people. The setting offers lovely views over Gandsfjorden and the surrounding mountains – a surprisingly tranquil nature escape within city limits. The sauna can only be rented privately, not per seat, but pricing is calculated per person: roughly NOK 225 per person for 1 hour, or NOK 300 per person for 2 hours, with a minimum charge equivalent to 4 people or more. You’ll have the floating cabin to yourselves – the stove will be hot on arrival, and free stand-up paddleboards are included to enhance the fun. Between sauna rounds, step off the raft for a bracing swim in the sea. Vaulen’s saunas operate year-round, whatever the weather (a winter snowstorm + sauna is an experience in itself!).

    Tenanger Floating Sauna

    Tenanger Floating Sauna

    Just outside Stavanger, in the harbour of Tananger, lies another wood-fired floating sauna affiliated with Hummeren Hotel. This sauna boat is moored at the hotel’s jetty and accommodates approximately 6–8 people (the hotel recommends 4 for optimal comfort) for 2-hour private sessions.

    The ambience is maritime – you enjoy views of the harbour basin and the North Sea coast. The sauna must be reserved in advance and comes with an attendant on-site for safety. There are no changing rooms on the raft itself, but hotel facilities, including changing rooms and showers, are available nearby for guests to use. After sweating in the “bådstue” (boat sauna), you can jump straight off the dock into the ocean, then warm up again inside – an invigorating cycle! The hotel can even serve drinks or food to complement your visit to the sauna.

    If you venture into the Ryfylke region just outside Stavanger, don’t miss the floating saunas at Preikestolen BaseCamp on Refsvatn Lake (a magical post-hike treat after visiting Pulpit Rock), or the farm sauna at Dirdal with fjord views. Preikestolen’s sauna rafts are wood-fired and accommodate ~6 people; prices were around NOK 500 for 90 minutes for a private group – a unique way to unwind in the wilderness. Additionally, some local gyms and spas in Stavanger, such as the SPA at Clarion Hotel or the Stavanger Swim Hall, offer traditional electric saunas; however, these are not available for private rental. The true Norwegian way is to go for one of the floating or wood-fired options above for an unforgettable all-season experience.

    Geiranger

    Geiranger is famed for its breathtaking fjord – and what better way to enjoy it than from a warm sauna? While Geiranger is a small village, it offers a luxurious spa experience at its historic hotel, along with occasional pop-up sauna events by the fjord. The top recommendation here is:

    Hotel Union Geiranger

    Hotel Union Geiranger Spa

    This four-star hotel overlooking Geirangerfjord houses a comprehensive spa facility. While primarily for hotel guests, external visitors are welcome with a Day Spa pass, subject to availability (please call ahead).

    The spa area includes a large Finnish sauna with fjord views, a steam room, indoor and outdoor pools, a 42 °C Japanese hot bath, foot baths, and experience showers. It’s an indulgent, relaxing space – think dim lighting, a fireplace lounge, refreshments and that spectacular scenery outside. A Day Spa entry (10:00–19:00 access) costs NOK 800 for outside guests and includes a towel and robe, access to spa facilities, and a light breakfast buffet in the morning. An evening-only entry (16:00–19:00) is a bit cheaper (~NOK 500). If you book a spa treatment, such as a massage, the entry fee is waived. Once inside, you can sweat in the sauna, then cool off in the outdoor infinity pool or take a quick cold shower – or for the bold, step outside and breathe in the crisp fjord air on the terrace.

    Unlike the other locales, Geiranger currently doesn’t have dedicated public or floating saunas for rent beyond the Union Spa. Occasionally, cruise ships or tour groups set up a mobile sauna by the fjord for special events, but these are not regular occurrences. If you’re staying in self-catering cabins around Geiranger, some may have private saunas as well – for example, many of the Fjordsenter cabins include an electric sauna in the unit.)

    Ålesund

    Ålesund, with its Art Nouveau charm and Atlantic setting, now features one of Norway’s coolest new sauna attractions: SVAI Sauna, a floating sauna right in the heart of town. Locals and tourists alike are using it to combine wellness with the city’s maritime heritage.

    SVAI Sauna

    SVAI Sauna

    Opened in recent years, SVAI is a floating sauna house moored in central Ålesund (at Molja, near the iconic Brosundet canal). It’s designed to resemble the traditional fish-drying racks of the region, blending into the harbour landscape. SVAI’s sauna can accommodate up to 12 people and is available for private 2-hour bookings or individual drop-in tickets.

    It’s fully equipped with a changing room, cold shower, sound system, and huge windows for the “best view in town” – think panoramic outlooks to the sea and Ålesund’s mountain backdrop while you steam.

    Prices are straightforward: Drop-in sessions cost NOK 250 per person and typically last ~1 hour, while renting the entire sauna privately costs NOK 2,500 for 2 hours. Whether you go alone or with friends, you can alternate between the sauna’s intense heat and plunging straight into the Atlantic – a ladder on the side lets you climb back up easily. SVAI operates all year, 7 days a week (10:00–22:00), allowing you to enjoy a midnight sun or winter night session, complete with stars or the Northern Lights above. The atmosphere is social but relaxed – don’t be surprised if friendly locals strike up conversation during drop-in hours. Booking: via svaisauna.no (their official site) or through the local tourism office. It’s highly recommended to reserve in advance, especially during the summer when it’s particularly popular.

    Hotel Brosundet Sauna

    Hotel Brosundet Sauna

    For a luxury twist, Hotel Brosundet – a design hotel on the canal – offers a petite indoor sauna for its guests and has even placed an exclusive seaside barrel sauna for private guest use along the water (check with the hotel for availability). While not open to the general public for booking, hotel guests can enjoy a boutique sauna experience followed by a dip in the cold seawater from their private ladder. If you’re staying there, it’s worth inquiring.

    If you venture slightly outside Ålesund, consider a trip to the island of Ellingsøya where some locals host a wood-fired sauna (check AirBnB Experiences), or drive to Molde (2 hours away) to see Nausta, an architect-designed floating sauna on the Molde fjord. But within Ålesund, SVAI is the star.

    Tromsø

    In the Arctic city of Tromsø, sauna bathing has become a beloved way to warm up and socialise, especially under the Northern Lights or Midnight Sun. Pust (meaning “Breath”) is the flagship sauna facility here, attracting international visitors year-round. Additionally, some hotels and locals offer unique sauna experiences.

    Pust Sauna

    Pust

    Pust is a floating sauna platform right in Tromsø’s harbour. It features a distinctive wooden structure inspired by traditional fish racks, and boasts two sauna rooms: the “Original” sauna (seating 12, with a quiet atmosphere) and the larger “Lavvo” sauna (seating 16, with a Lavvu tent-inspired shape). Both are electrically heated and feature panoramic windows that face the Arctic Cathedral and fjord.

    Drop-in hourly sessions (public, mixed-gender) start at approximately NOK 120 per person and are highly affordable for a unique Arctic sauna and sea dip experience! Private Sauna bookings (exclusive use for your group) are available from NOK 3,000 per session. They also host guided “Sauna Rituals” with aromatherapy (approximately NOK 400 per person) and a 2-hour “Ice Bath like a Viking” package, where a sauna master leads you through hot-cold cycles, scrubs, and an ice plunge, for NOK 1,250

    Dunking into the Arctic Ocean here is not for the faint of heart – the water can be 4 °C or colder – but it’s incredibly refreshing and brag-worthy! Pust even offers student discounts and memberships for locals. Walk-ups are possible for drop-in sessions if there’s space available, but booking ahead is recommended, especially during the winter high season.

    Tromsø’s locals are creative – you might find pop-up mobile saunas towed to beaches like Telegrafbukta on sunny days, or even a wood-fired sauna boat occasionally docked for events.

    One consistent option is the Aurora Spa at Scandic Ishavshotel, which features a rooftop sauna and outdoor Jacuzzi overlooking the harbour, available to hotel guests or for a paid entry fee.

    The With Hotel also notably has a rooftop sauna with a panoramic window – some TripAdvisor reviews urge “don’t miss the sauna!” for its view of snowy mountains. These hotel saunas offer a more private and warm-up session after your outdoor adventures. While not generally rentable to outside visitors, staying overnight is a great bonus.

    Lastly, if you’re heading out of town on excursions, keep an eye out for tour companies that include a Sami tent sauna or a lakeside sauna (for example, some whale-watching tours offer a post-trip sauna in the fjords). In Tromsø, few things beat jumping into icy water under the green glow of the Northern Lights, then ducking into a hot sauna – a true Arctic bliss!

    Svolvær

    Svolvær in the Lofoten Islands offers sauna experiences with a spectacular backdrop of sea, mountains, and fishing cabins. Here you can enjoy both upscale private spa time and rustic floating sauna fun, all year round.

    Lofoten Sauna

    Lofoten Sauna

    Lofoten’s first floating sauna has become a hit. Moored just off Svinøya (a short walk from Svolvær centre), the sauna is a wood-fired floating house with panoramic views of Svolvær harbour and the iconic “Svolværgeita” peak. It’s equipped with separate men’s and women’s changing rooms and an outdoor shower (hot/cold water) on the deck. Capacity is 12 people for public drop-in sessions and up to 20 people for private group bookings. You can drop in for a 1-hour session at NOK 195 per person, or rent the whole sauna for 2 hours at 3,000 NOK.

    The wood stove will be lit and ready by 09:00 each day, and sessions run into the evening (last booking around 21:00). Between rounds, take a fearless leap into the North Atlantic – they have ladders for easy in-and-out. The contrast of 80–90 °C sauna heat with the Arctic sea (which might be 4–14 °C depending on season) is as invigorating as it sounds! This floating sauna is open all year, so you can try it under the Midnight Sun or as snow falls on the fjord.

    Lyst Lofoten Sauna

    Lyst Lofoten Sauna

    Lyst Lofoten Sauna is located in Svolvær, in the Lofoten archipelago of Norway. It offers a distinctive wellness experience by combining the traditions of sauna bathing with the dramatic natural surroundings of northern Norway. The sauna is built on a floating jetty directly in front of Thon Hotel Svolvær, offering stunning views of the Vestfjord, the entrance to Svolvær harbour, and the surrounding mountain ranges.

    The facility includes two separate saunas named “Fløya” and “Blåtind”, each designed to maximise the scenic experience through large windows. There are also separate men’s and women’s changing rooms, equipped with hot water showers and toilets. Visitors can access the sea directly from the jetty via a ladder, or take a more adventurous plunge from the diving board located on the roof of the sauna. Non-members pay 250 NOK, and the saunas are open to the public only. You can request to book the sauna privately by sending an email.

    Skårungen Resort

    Skårungen Resort Sauna

    Skårungen is a seaside resort and campground located a few kilometres from Svolvær, offering a private outdoor hot tub and sauna pier that is hugely popular. The spa area, completely renovated in 2024, is situated at the end of a dock with front-row views of the Vestfjord and the towering Vågekallen mountain. It consists of a wood-fired hot tub (8–10 people) and an adjacent wood-fired sauna (10–12 people). When you book, you get the entire spa area exclusively – no sharing with strangers.

    The standard rental is 1.5 hours, priced at NOK 399 per person for both sauna + hot tub use. If you only want to use the sauna (and not the tub), the price is NOK 250 per person. (They also offer a shorter late-night 1-hour slot at NOK 299 pp.) The facility features a private changing room with a shower on the pier, as well as additional restrooms located in the main building nearby. Skårungen’s spa is particularly magical in the evenings – you can relax in the steaming hot tub under the Arctic sky, then dash into the cold sea (there’s a ladder for quick dips) and hop into the sauna to warm up. They even deliver drinks to the pier on request (champagne under the midnight sun, anyone?).

    Just outside Svolvær, if you visit the Hov Gård horse farm in Gimsøy, they offer a beachfront “Hov Sauna” where you can watch Icelandic horses trot by as you enjoy your sauna (and possibly catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights). And in Nusfjord fishing village (about 1.5 hours from Svolvær), the luxury resort has a seaside sauna and hot tub for guests.

    But within the Svolvær area, the two above (the floating sauna and Skårungen) cover both ends of the spectrum – one a social drop-in spot amid the rorbuer (fishing cabins), the other an intimate spa treat. No matter which you choose, a Lofoten sauna + sea dip will be a highlight of your trip – a perfect fusion of wellness and wilderness in the Arctic environment.

    Sauna Etiquette

    I think you should read the website of the specific sauna first, as sauna etiquette will vary a little from company to company. But, in general, here are some guidelines to taking a sauna in Norway. 

    1. Nudity is Normal (and Expected)
    In Norway, nudity in saunas is normal. Most locals go in starkers — no swimmers, no towel wrapped around you (except to sit on). It’s not sexual, it’s just natural. That said, in mixed-gender saunas or public ones, it’s often optional — so check the rules or follow the lead of others.

    Tip: Always bring a towel to sit on for hygiene reasons. No one wants to sit in someone else’s sweat.

    Some saunas will request that you wrap a towel around yourself. They prefer that to swimmers because swimmers often carry more bacteria. 

    2. Shower Beforehand
    This is non-negotiable. Please wash yourself before entering the sauna. It’s about respect for others and keeping the space clean. In most public saunas, signs will even remind you.

    3. Keep it Quiet
    Norwegian saunas are places for calm and quiet, not for having a loud chat. Chatting is fine if it’s low-key, but avoid shouting, swearing, or carrying on. If you’re with mates, tone it down and enjoy the serenity.

    4. Respect the Heat Ritual
    Often, there’s a designated person (especially in public saunas) who handles the aufguss — the practice of pouring water over hot stones to generate steam. Please don’t do it yourself unless it’s clearly okay. Ask if unsure.

    Also, don’t open the door too often — it lets the heat out and annoys everyone.

    5. Embrace the Cold Plunge
    After heating up, it’s common to cool down with a dip in the ocean, a cold shower, or rolling in the snow (yes, really). It might be shocking at first, but it’s all part of the experience — and you’ll feel amazing after.

    6. Time Your Stay
    A typical round is about 10–15 minutes. You can do several rounds with breaks in between to cool off and rehydrate. Listen to your body — no need to tough it out to impress anyone.

    7. Clean Up After Yourself
    Could you bring out your towel, water bottle, and any other items you brought? If it’s a self-service sauna (quite common in Norway), you might also need to tidy up or sweep out the space for the following user.

    8. Don’t Be a Stickybeak
    Norwegians value privacy and personal space, even in social settings such as saunas. Don’t stare, don’t pry, and don’t force conversation. A nod or quiet smile goes a long way.

    Sweden's Eurovision Entry

    A big reason I wanted to put this article together is because I fell in love with Norway’s Eurovision entry this year. It’s called “Bara Bada Bastu” – which basically means “just take a sauna”.

    Watch below!

    Resources

    All information has been compiled from official tourist boards and sauna operators’ websites, with pricing and details confirmed as of 2025. Be sure to check the provided booking links and sources for the most up-to-date schedules and prices before planning your sauna experience.

    All images are taken from the sauna operator’s websites and are not my own. 

    Enjoy your Norwegian sauna adventure – or as the Norwegians say, god badstue! 

  • Lofoten Islands, Svolvaer, Things to Do

    Things to do in Svolvær: Activities & Excursions You Must Book!

    Things to do in Svolvær: Activities & Excursions to Book

    Svolvær is the capital in the Lofoten Islands and is the place you are most likely to stay at or at least pass through. It has the main airport for Lofoten (with daily flights to Bodø), important bus connections, and fast ferries to the mainland. The coastal ferry also stops in Svolvær every day. 

    Despite the fact that Svolvær is described as a big city, it is still a small town with a great feel about it. It is close to some of the Lofoten Island’s most popular hikes, it has some of the nicest restaurants and hotels in the Lofoten Islands, and of course it is a great place to base yourself for tours and excursions.

    So, what exactly can you do there? Well, a lot! It can seem overwhelming trying to figure out which excursions to do and how to distinguish between the different companies, so I’ve put together a useful list summarising what you can do in Svolvær. It’s also based off my experiences and what I’ve done when I visit Svolvær. 

    Please note that the links to the tours are affiliate links, meaning that if you book through the link I provide, I get a small commission. However, I only recommend tours that I would personally do!

    Svolvær Travel Guide

    Table of Contents

    Trollfjord Cruise / Sea Eagle Safari

    The Trollfjord Cruise and the Sea Eagle Safari is more or less one and the same. Trollfjord is one of the most beautiful fjords in Norway and is only accessible by guided boat tour. The fjord is enclosed by steep mountains and feels almost like entering a cave. Here the mountains reach peaks of around 1000 metres above sea level.

    On each cruise, there is an almost-guarantee that you will see sea eagles along the way. The sea eagles can be seen on the rocks and cliffs along the Raftsundet, and the tours will try and bring the sea eagles close to you by feeding them. 

    There are a few different ways to visit Trollfjord:

    Silent Electric Ship

    The Brim Explorer is a new, modern and comfortable ship with indoor and outdoor seating areas. When the ship enters the Trollfjord, it switches to electricity so the experience is totally silent. The decks allow for a 360-degree view. The guides on board talk along the way, pointing out sea eagles and discussing the marine life. They even put cameras underwater so you can see what’s going on beneath the surface. On board is a café and bar with meals, snacks and drinks.         

    Silent Trollfjord Cruise

    RIB/Zodiac Boat Tour

    The RIB boat is my favourite way to see Trollfjord! It is super fast and is a thrilling adventure. You are given proper suits to make sure you stay warm, but since it is an open air experience be prepared to get a little wet on rainy days.

    The guides/drivers on board do stop to explain things along the way, and are fantastic at what they do.

    If you want to take photos, it’s best to go on the electric ship.

    I have used the company XXLofoten before and only have good things to say about them, so this is the company I recommend booking through. 

    RIB/Zodiac Tour

    Sailing Boat/Catamaran

    On this trip, you sail from Svolvær to Trollfjord on a modern and comfortable catamaran. The tour guide tells you what you see along the trip. Included in the tour is homemade fish soup, coffee and tea. You can even do fishing along the way if you want.

    Fishing Tour

    Lofoten is the land of cod and fishing traditions going back thousands of years, so there’s nothing better to do than experience fishing on your own trip! The famous cod (known as ‘skrei’ – the North-East Atlantic Sea Cod) travels from the Barents Sea to the Norwegian coast to breed in January. About 40% of all cod in the Norwegian sea breed in Lofoten, making it a haven for cod fishing. The main season for cod is from January to April, but it’s possible to fish all year. You can also catch pollock, catfish, cusk, halibut, plaice, haddock, herring, mackerel, and ling. If you want to try fishing, it’s possible to join a trip.

    Tours take you on a traditional fishing boat, known as a ‘Sjark’. You are provided with a fishing kit, safety equipment, a guide, and everything you need!

    Fishing Tour

    Northern Lights Tours

    It’s possible to observe the northern lights from the end of August until the beginning of April. I’ll be honest, Lofoten isn’t the best place to see the northern lights – it’s coastal and prone to lots of bad storms. However, it is possible to book a trip to try and see the northern lights.

    There are several tours that go out searching for the northern lights, and it’s always wise to book a tour rather than navigate the dark, icy roads by yourself. Which tour you want to do comes down to your interests. here are some tours I recommend.

    Northern Lights by Van

    Vans ensure small group sizes and the ability to park in places minibuses and full-size buses can’t.

    Northern Lights by Van Tour

    Northern Lights with a Photographer

    It is a lot harder to photograph the northern lights than people expect, do it is worth booking a tour with a photographer. Not only will you learn how to take wonderful photos of the lights, but the photographer will also capture some high-quality images of the show.

    The main company offering this tour is Lofoten Lights, which has very good reviews. 

    Northern lights with a photographer

    Midnight Sun Tours

    If you are staying in Svolvær for the midnight sun, prepare to be a little disappointed. While the sun never sets in Svolvær in summer, the mountains block the sun from the town in the evenings, making it feel like the sun has set. If you want to see the midnight sun, you need to head to the west coast of the islands. If you are in Svolvær without a vehicle, or want to trust a local to take you to the best spot, it’s worthwhile booking a tour. 

    Midnight Sun with a Photographer

    This tour is offered by Lofoten Lights, the same company doing Northern Lights tours. This is a great tour if you want to follow a local photographer to the best spots to capture the midnight sun. 

    Midnight sun with a photographer tour

    Midnight Sun Cruise from Svolvær

    Lofoten is most beautiful from the water, so why not join a sailing tour to head over to the west coast of Lofoten and observe the midnight sun?

    Midnight Sun Sailing Cruise

    Explore the Lofoten Islands

    Svolvær is lovely, but it’s not the most beautiful part of the Lofoten Islands. If you are only visiting Svolvær and don’t have access to a vehicle, consider booking a guided tour to somewhere else in Lofoten. A number of tours to different locations are offered, so book depending on your interests. 

    Lofoten Five Hour Tour

    On this bus tour, you’ll visit the island of Gimsoy and the towns of Kabelvåg and Henningsvær. Henningsvær is one of the major highlights of Lofoten, so if you don’t have much time to explore the islands, this is a great tour!

    Lofoten Five Hour Tour

    Lofoten Seven Hour Photography Tour

    On this photography-focused tour, you’ll head to southern Lofoten, which many regard as the most beautiful part of the Lofoten Islands. You will visit the famous village Reine (the one used in all the promotional material for Lofoten) as well as Flakstad and Ramberg. 

    If you have the time, I highly recommend this tour. Especially if you aren’t getting down to southern Lofoten independently. 

    Lofoten Seven Hour Tour

    Things to do in Svolvær!

    As you can see, there are many things to do in Svolvær. I hope this guide has been useful! If you have any questions, please ask away in the comments section of this article.

    You can find more information about Svolvær on our dedicated travel guide page. 

    Svolvær Travel Guide
  • Harstad, Lofoten Islands, Road-trips, Scenic Drives, Sortland, Svolvaer, Vesterålen

    Drive it Yourself: Harstad to Svolvær (via the Fv83)

    Drive it Yourself: Harstad to Svolvær (via the Fv83)

    The drive between Harstad and Svolvær is a scenic drive through the traditional regions of Vesterålen and Lofoten.

    There are actually two ways to get between the two towns. The first way is to follow the E10, the major highway that runs through Lofoten. We covered that drive in 2021 (click here to read it). This way, via the Fv83, is the second way. It does take a little longer, but it is worth it. The Fv83 is regarded as a scenic road for the Vesterålen region, which is just as beautiful as Lofoten but with less tourists. It does include one ferry, but the ferry runs regularly. 

    Here’s our guide to the drive from Harstad to Svolvær via the Fv83. 

    In this article...

    Watch on Youtube

    All of our roadtrips are available on YouTube to watch. They include information about the area provided in text and voiceover form, plus they show the drive in full (sped up in some spots!) so you can get an idea what the drive is like. 

    Visit Our YouTube Channel

    Harstad to Svolvær

    Harstad Travel Guide

    Read more about Harstad, one of the largest towns in Northern Norway, below. 

    Harstad Travel Guide

    Kvæfjord Municipality

    Kvæfjord municipality is a scenic municipality located on the island of Hinnøya, which is the largest island in Norway. Around 2,800 people live in the municipality. Kvæfjord is known for its agricultural heritage and its production of strawberries and potatoes. The farms here benefit from south-facing slopes and bright nights under the midnight sun. The fjord is known for its rich supply of herring.

    Archaeological evidence shows there has been settlement here since at least the Iron Age, and there are farms that have evidence of habitation back to 300BC. Some place names in the area come from the Viking Age. There has also always been a small Sami settlement in the area.

    Kvæfjord is home to Norway’s national cake, the Kvæfjord cake. The cake is made with meringue, vanilla cream and almonds.

    Kvæøya

    Island

    You’ll pass a right turn that takes you towards the island. Kvæøya is a small island in the Kvæfjord. It is connected to the mainland via a small bridge, the Kvæøy Bridge, which was completed in 2010. The island is highly regarded for its farming, with large farms on the southern and western sides. 

    Hemmestad

    Village

    Hemmestad is a small village with an interesting history. It used to be the ‘capital’ of Kvæfjord and was a major trading area. In the village today you’ll find the old Hemmstad Brygge (pier), a heritage-listed building that was the trading centre for Kvæfjord throughout the 19th century. Twice a year boats came here with coffee, spices, candy, textiles and spirits. From Hemmestad, rockfish, cod, fowl and mullet was exported.

    Today Hemmestad Brygge is a museum complex that explains the history of trade here.

    Refnes - Flesnes

    Ferry

    You will now take the ferry between Refnes and Flesnes, two small villages on either side of the Gullesfjorden. 

    Bogen

    Settlement

    Bogen is a small settlement that relies on agriculture and fish farming. There is an annual festival here called Flesnes i fest, where several hundred people come to compete in football and car races.

    Langvassbukta

    Village

    Langvassbukta is a small village by the Gullefjord. This is where the county road ends. From here, it turns into Highway 85 (Rv85). To go towards Lofoten, turn left towards Lødingen. It is also recommended to take a scenic detour to Sortland and back.

    This guide follows the scenic detour. 

    Sortland Municipality

    Sortland municipality is the administrative centre for the region and is named after the town of Sortland, which is the largest town and commercial centre in the traditional region of Vesterålen. It is part of the county of Nordland.

    The municipality is spread across the islands of Langøya and Hinnøya in the Vesterålen archipelago. The mountain Møysalen is part of the Møysalen National Park, located in the southern part of the municipality. The midnight sun occurs from the 23rd of May to the 23rd of July, while the polar night occurs from the 30th of November until the 12th of January.

    Sigerfjord

    Town

    Sigerfjord is a small town with around 800 people living there. The church is from 1933 but has a figure of St. Olav from the 15th century inside. It came from an earlier church on the same spot. The town has a primary school and kindergarten. Most of the industry here is connected to the sea.

    Sortland

    Sortland is the main town and administrative centre for the region. It is also known as the ‘blue city’.

    Sortland is a 15 minute detour from Sigerfjord, but is well worth it if you want to stop for a coffee break or pick up some supplies.

    You can read about Sortland via our travel guide below. 

    Sortland Travel Guide

    This drive now continues back towards Lødingen. You’ll reach a round-a-bout and turn onto the E10 towards Å i Lofoten. 

    Hadsel Municipality

    Hadsel municipality is located on four main islands in Vesterålen – Hinnøya, Langøya, Hadseløya, and Austvågøya.

    Hadsel has been an important hub for the fishing industry, and due to its proximity to Lofoten has always been an important trading place for Lofoten residents. The oldest settlements were likely on the southern side of Hadseløya, but the main harbour has always been Stokmarknes.

    The name “Hadsel” comes from the Old Norse word “Hovdasegl”, meaning “main sail”. The name describes that Hadseløya can look like a merged mainsail on a Nordland boat when you see Hadseløya from Langøya. The Sami name for Hadsel is Ulpesuohkan, referring to the old name for the area (Ulvøya).

    The main airport here is the Stokmarknes Airport, the busiest small aircraft airport in Norway. Stokmarknes is also the birthplace of Hurtigruten, the Norwegian coastal ferry.

    The coat of arms represents four yellow rings, representing the four main islands the municipality is on.

    Vågan Municipality

    Vågan is a major municipality in Lofoten. It includes most of the island Austvågøy as well as Gimsøya. It is the easternmost of Lofoten’s six municipalities. The main town in Vågan is Svolvær, where this drive ends. Fishing is the most important industry here, and Vågan is North Norway’s 8th largest fishing municipality.

    Austnesfjorden

    Photo stop

    The view is excellent over the fjord and you can see Sildpollnes Church in the distance.

    Sildpollnes Church is a small white wooden church from 1891. The church had some drama recently, when the current neighbour refused to let people through his property to get to the church because he said the 1890 agreement stated people could pass on foot, but it didn’t mention automobiles. The church closed in 2015 and the case went to court, with the neighbour loosing and the Lofoten District Court ruling in favour of the church.

    At the photo stop they have a place you can walk up to with a viewing platform. I’ve used a photo of it at the top of this page. This is where you get the view out to the church. 

    Svolvær Airport

    Airport

    Svolvær Airport is a regional airport in Lofoten. While it is one of the main airports for Lofoten, it is likely not the one you will fly to if you are flying to Lofoten – instead, it’s better to fly to Harstad/Narvik and drive from there. Svolvær Airport is served by Widerøe and the routes are subsidized by the government with direct flights to Bodø, Oslo, and small communities in Nordland county. There are plans to make a new primary airport to serve the Lofoten and Vesterålen region, making it more attractive to visit out of the tourist season.

    Svolvær

    We have made it to Svolvær, the end of today’s drive! You can read more about Svolvær on our dedicated travel page. 

    Svolvær Travel Guide

    If you liked this drive, or if you have any travel tips, please leave a comment in the section below!

    Previous Drive

    Kiruna to Harstad via Narvik

    See the previous day’s drive from Kiruna in Sweden to Harstad in Norway via the Norwegian town of Narvik. 

    Kiruna to Harstad via Narvik
  • European Highways, Harstad, Lofoten Islands, National Tourist Roads, Road-trips, Svolvaer

    Drive it Yourself: The Lofoten Islands Part 2: Svolvær to Harstad

    Drive it Yourself: The Lofoten Islands Part 2: Svolvær to Harstad

    The Lofoten Islands is probably one of the most famous places in Norway. Many people making the trip here want to head to Lofoten, and rightly so. Steep mountain peaks rise out of the ocean forming the Lofoten archipelago, one of the most scenic places in Norway. For thousands of years fishermen have lived at the foot of these peaks, building now iconic rorbuer and living off the cod fishing season. This history survives today on Lofoten, and you get to explore it with this road-trip!

    This road-trip is part one of two parts and takes you from Å in the south to Svolvær, which is a little over halfway up the archipelago.

    In this article...

    Download This Guide

    All of our guides can be downloaded via our online store. 

    View at the Store

    Online Guide

    • Information about points of interest
    • Images of each point of interest
    • Historic overview of the neighbourhood
    • Directions between points
    • Historic photos
    • Information about facilities along the way

    Downloadable Guide

    • Information about points of interest
    • Images of each point of interest
    • Historic overview of the region & towns
    • Directions between points
    • Historic photos
    • Facilities including supermarkets, toilets, petrol, hotels, cafes, restaurants with addresses.

    Watch on Youtube

    All of our roadtrips are available on YouTube to watch. They include information about the area provided in text and voiceover form, plus they show the drive in full (sped up in some spots!) so you can get an idea what the drive is like. 

    Visit Our YouTube Channel

    Begin: Svolvær

    With a population of 4,720, Svolvær is the largest city in the Lofoten Islands. The settlement is old; Svolvær was first mentioned in 1567. However, Svolvær didn’t gain prominence until the early 20th century when the motorized boats needed a modern harbour.

    The cod fisheries are still an important industry in Svolvær, but tourism is one of the main industries in the city. Svolvær is also a major transportation hub and favourite starting point for tourists. The Hurtigruten also stops here twice a day. It is possible to do sea eagle safaris, whale watching tours, and take a scenic cruise into the nearby Trollfjord. Svolvær also has a downhill skiing centre. In town, you’ll find the Lofoten War Memorial Museum a Magic Ice Bar, and numerous galleries.

    Svolvær Travel Guide

    Svolvær Airport

    Airport

    Svolvær Airport is a regional airport in Lofoten. While it is one of the main airports for Lofoten, it is likely not the one you will fly to if you are flying to Lofoten – instead, it’s better to fly to Harstad/Narvik and drive from there. Svolvær Airport is served by Widerøe and the routes are subsidized by the government with direct flights to Bodø, Oslo, and small communities in Nordland county. There are plans to make a new primary airport to serve the Lofoten and Vesterålen region, making it more attractive to visit out of the tourist season.

    Austnesfjorden

    Photo Stop

    The Austnesfjorden Photo Stop is located shortly after Svolvær Airport. The view is excellent over the fjord and you can see Sildpollnes Church in the distance.

    Sildpollnes Church is a small white wooden church from 1891. The church had some drama recently, when the current neighbour refused to let people through his property to get to the church because he said the 1890 agreement stated people could pass on foot, but it didn’t mention automobiles. The church closed in 2015 and the case went to court, with the neighbour loosing and the Lofoten District Court ruling in favour of the church.

    At the photo stop they have a place you can walk up to with a viewing platform. I’ve used a photo of it at the top of this page. This is where you get the view out to the church. 

    Hadsel Municipality

    Hadsel municipality is located on four main islands in Vesterålen – Hinnøya, Langøya, Hadseløya, and Austvågøya.

    Hadsel has been an important hub for the fishing industry, and due to its proximity to Lofoten has always been an important trading place for Lofoten residents. The oldest settlements were likely on the southern side of Hadseløya, but the main harbour has always been Stokmarknes.

    The name “Hadsel” comes from the Old Norse word “Hovdasegl”, meaning “main sail”. The name describes that Hadseløya can look like a merged mainsail on a Nordland boat when you see Hadseløya from Langøya. The Sami name for Hadsel is Ulpesuohkan, referring to the old name for the area (Ulvøya).

    The main airport here is the Stokmarknes Airport, the busiest small aircraft airport in Norway. Stokmarknes is also the birthplace of Hurtigruten, the Norwegian coastal ferry.

    The coat of arms represents four yellow rings, representing the four main islands the municipality is on.

    Vesterålen

    Traditional Region

    Many people confuse Vesterålen for Lofoten, but in fact they are two different areas. 

    Vesterålen is an archipelago between Lofoten and the Norwegian mainland. Many assume that the whole area is just Lofoten, but it’s just the southern half of the islands. The name “Vesterålen” means “western strait”. The landscape here is very mountainous, but the mountains are more rounded than Lofoten. The towns and villages are on the coastal brim between the mountains and the fjords. Fishing, in particular cod fisheries, has always been important to Vesterålen. Today there is also fish farming and some agriculture in the area.

    Hinnøya

    Island

    Hinnøya is the fourth largest island in Norway, and the largest out of Svalbard. The island has several fjords and typically has a mountainous and rugged terrain. There are also valleys and lakes; the treeline is around 400m above sea level.

    Lødingen Municipality

    Lødingen (Sami name: Lodek) is a region on the southwestern part of the island Hinnøya and it is part of the traditional district called Ofoten. While not technically part of Vesterålen, it does participate in councils with the municipalities in Vesterålen.

    The most historically important place in Lødingen is Hjertholmen, a farm and meeting place for residents and visitors. It was owned by the Lødingen Prestegård (rectory) in 1860, and a lighthouse was also built on the site along with the guardhouse and telegraph office. Today the place is used as a gathering place for schools, kindergartens, and visitors. The site is located in Lødingen village.

    Another important site is Hustad gård, which was a large Viking farm 1,000 years ago. The museum tells the story of agricultural history, but there is also a cultural path that follows the Iron Age settlement. The main church, Lødingen Church, is built on the site of the first church in the area, built in the 13th century.

    The tallest mountain in Lødingen is the mountain Møysalen, which is 1263m above sea level making it the second highest mountain peak on an island in Norway.

    Lødingen is known as “Biketown” because it has several annual bike races. The Lødingen Cycling Club is Norway’s largest cycling club in terms of population. Lofoten Insomnia is a race that begins in Å (at the far end of Lofoten) and ends in Lødingen.

    Another important event here is the Seafood Festival with concerts and an excellent selection of seafood. Sailboats from all over the country visit the festival, which takes place in the early summer.

    Troms County

    Troms County existed up until 1 January 2020, when it was merged with Finnmark County to make Troms og Finnmark. However, at time of writing, there are rumours the two will split up. So, I’m going to provide information just about Troms.

    The area has been settled since the Stone Age, and the first of the current ethnic groups to settle in the county were the Sami people. Archaeological evidence shows that a Norse-based culture existed here in the Late Roman Iron Age (200-400AD). The Norse settled along the coast and some of the larger fjords, while the Sami lived in some fjord areas and inland. The southern part of Troms was a petty kingdom in the Viking Age. Trondenes (today’s Harstad) was an important Viking power centre and gathering place.

    Troms takes its name from the island Tromsøya where the city Tromsø is located. The area is in the northern part of the Scandinavian peninsula, and due to its low population and distance from high density European cities, it is one of the least polluted areas in Europe.

    With its latitude of nearly 70 degrees north, the area has cool, short summers but mild winters due to the Gulf Stream. The area experiences the midnight sun between May and July and then the polar night between November and January.

    Outside of the big cities, fishing remains an important industry and there are several important fishing ports throughout the county. Tromsø is the commercial centre for the northern part of the county, while Harstad is the centre for the southern part of the county.

    Kvæfjord Municipality

    Kvæfjord (Sami: Giehtavuotna) is in the traditional region of Central Hålogaland with the main village being Borkenes. The municipality is known for its agriculture and farming, with the quality of the strawberries being particularly famous. The long hours of daylight and low summer temperatures are great for strawberries, making them more tasteful than berries grown in warmer climates. Potatoes are also particularly well known from this region, and the fjords are known for their good herring. Chicken farming for egg production and pig farming are also important.

    Kvæfjord is a historic region, and burial mounds and items found during excavations indicate that there have been settlements here since the Iron Age. One of the oldest farms, Vebostad, has traces from 300BC. Many of the names in the area have Iron Age and Viking Age origin. For example, Vebostad has ‘ve’ in it, which is an old word meaning sanctuary, residence, and pagan sacrificial site. Another farm, Hundstad, may be connected to the famous Viking Tore Hund.

    On the mountain Melåaksla, over 30 shooting shelters have been found on an inaccessible mountain path that the reindeer use as a migration route. As many as 40-50 people were involved in reindeer hunting here.

    Sami people have lived in Kvæfjord for a very long time, but the historical information is scattered. It is known that the Sami lived along the fjords, particularly Austerfjord, as well as in the inland areas. In the Storjord area are traces of Sami settlement from the 17th to 19th centuries.

    Kvæfjord is the home of the Kvæfjord Cake, the Norwegian national cake. The cake is a sponge cake baked with meringue, vanilla cream, and almonds.

    Boazovazzi

    Shop

    On the right is Boazovazzi, a shop where you can buy Sami products. The name is the Sami word for ‘Reindeer herder’ and here you can buy reindeer meat or Sami handicrafts. They also have six rooms for rent. Put the name of the shop in Google and check them out!

    Tjeldsund Municipality

    Tjeldsund (Sami name: Dielddanuorri) is a municipality that’s part of the Ofoten traditional district and the Central Hålogaland district. The main village in the municipality is Evenskjer.  The main education and training centre for Norway’s firemen, Norges Brannskole, is in Fjelldal in Tjeldsund. A naval base is also located here at Ramsund. Besides that, there is some small industry including farming, fishing, banking, and transport.

    Kongsvika

    Village

    Kongsvika is a small village with around 300 people living there. It has cabins for rental and the first petrol station we’ve seen in a while! It’s a good place to stop for a break. 

    Sandtorg

    Village

    Sandtorg is a small village with a population of around 300. It is an old settlement; there has been a trading post here since the 13th century. Sandtorg grew in importance in the 18th century when pilot services were added for foreign and local ships. The trading post lasted until 1945, when the Norwegian Amy’s communication services took over operations after German occupation. The army returned the post to civilian use in the 1990s and today the trading post still stands with a hotel and restaurant.

    In 2014, three coins from the Middle Ages and two pieces of payment silver dating to the Viking times were found here. The two coins were minted under Eirik Magnusson and date to 1285-1290. The third coin is from 1483-1513. In 2020, it was concluded that Sandtorg is the only Viking Age trading place in Northern Norway.

    You can spend the night at Sandtorgholmen Hotel, which is built on the site that has been used as the trading post since the 19th century. The original site was further north. Prices start at around 1200 NOK for a standard room for one night.

    You can visit the hotel website here: https://www.sandtorgholmen.no/?lang=en

    Sørvik

    Village

    Sørvik is a small village located close to Harstad. The village has a historical museum that opens in the summer. They’ve collected log buildings from around Harstad and recreated the museum like an old farm and village. The museum aims to show the Norwegian home and lifestyle in the 19th and early 20th century, though some of the architecture dates back to before the 19th century.

    Harstad

    Harstad is the second most populated city in Troms after Tromsø, with a population of 24,703.

    The oldest part of Harstad is the area Trondenes, which is mentioned in the Heimskringla (King’s Sagas) as a power centre in the Viking Age and a place to meet and discuss important issues. It wasn’t a trading place; Sandtorg is the only known Viking Age trading place in Northern Norway. It is possible to visit Trondenes, and that’s where we are going!

    Harstad city didn’t grow until the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when it emerged as an important trading place with a large harbour for ships. The city experienced rapid expansion with the introduction of steam ships.

    Harstad Travel Guide

    Continue the drive

    Andøya Tourist Road

    Visit Norway’s most remote tourist road at the end of the world!

    Andøya Tourist Road

    Previous Drive

    The Lofoten Islands Part 1: Å to Svolvær

    See the previous day’s drive through the lower part of Lofoten

    Å to Svolvær

    If you liked this drive, or if you have any travel tips, please leave a comment in the section below!

  • Å i Lofoten, Henningsvær, Kabelvåg, Lofoten Islands, National Tourist Roads, Reine, Road-trips, Svolvaer

    Drive it Yourself: The Lofoten Islands Part 1: Å to Svolvær

    Drive it Yourself: The Lofoten Islands Part 1: Å to Svolvær

    The Lofoten Islands is probably one of the most famous places in Norway. Many people making the trip here want to head to Lofoten, and rightly so. Steep mountain peaks rise out of the ocean forming the Lofoten archipelago, one of the most scenic places in Norway. For thousands of years fishermen have lived at the foot of these peaks, building now iconic rorbuer and living off the cod fishing season. This history survives today on Lofoten, and you get to explore it with this road-trip!

    This road-trip is part one of two parts and takes you from Å in the south to Svolvær, which is a little over halfway up the archipelago.

    In this article...

    Downloadable Version of This Guide

    All of our guides can be downloaded via our online store. 

    We offer downloadable versions of our self-guided drives on our online store. 

    View on Store

    Online Guide

    • Information about points of interest
    • Images of each point of interest
    • Historic overview of the neighbourhood
    • Directions between points
    • Historic photos
    • Information about facilities along the way

    Downloadable Guide

    • Information about points of interest
    • Images of each point of interest
    • Historic overview of the region & towns
    • Directions between points
    • Historic photos
    • Facilities including supermarkets, toilets, petrol, hotels, cafes, restaurants with addresses.

    Watch on Youtube

    All of our roadtrips are available on YouTube to watch. They include information about the area provided in text and voiceover form, plus they show the drive in full (sped up in some spots!) so you can get an idea what the drive is like. 

    Visit Our YouTube Channel

    The drive: Å i Lofoten to Svolvær

    Å i Lofoten

    Not many places in the world have just one letter for a name, so Å is a special place. Å means stream in Norwegian – sometimes the village is known as Å i Lofoten because there are many places known as Å in Norway. Until the 1990s, Å was mainly a small fishing village specialising in stockfish, but since then tourism has taken over as the main economic activity.

    Unique buildings in Å have been preserved, including a cod steamer from 1850, a bakery from 1844, several fisherman’s cabins, an old trading environment and more. Several of the houses are listed.

    Å i Lofoten Travel Guide

    Moskenes

    Village

    Moskenes is both the name of the municipality we are currently in and the ferry pier that will take you to Røst or Bodø. The name of the village itself is Sørvågen. Sørvågen has a population of around 700. It has one museum, the Norwegian Telecom Museum, because this is where the first telegraph between Northern Europe and Europe was connected in 1867.

    In the village you’ll see Moskenes Church, the main church for the region. The church is from 1819 and seats 280 people. The earliest mention of a church is from 1589, but the church was not considered new then. The church was replaced in 1819 to make a more modern and stable church.

    Reine

    Photo Stop

    The photo of Reine seen above is perhaps one of the most famous photos of Norway. It generally circulates the internet when discussions of Norway’s beauty arise, and it’s often featured on travel websites. This photo requires very little effort to get! As you turn off the E10 onto the road to Reine (there’s only one), there is a parking lot on the left right before you take the bridge. Step out the car and you have this view. It’s that easy! It’s even on Google Maps as “Reine korttidsparkeringsplass” (Reine Short Term Parking Place)

    Reine

    Reine has been a trading post since 1743, and it is an important centre for the fishing industry. The tradition of the iconic fishermen’s cabins, or rorbu, dates to the 18th century. They were seasonal shelters with one end of the house on pillars onto the fjord, allowing boats to dock next to the building. In Reine, many people still make their living from the sea and have passed on marine skills and traditions for generations. The prime fishing season is from January to April, when the Norwegian Arctic cod are spawning in the waters of Lofoten.

    Today Reine is arguably the most famous village in Lofoten. The stunning scenery of steep mountain peaks contrasted with the fishing village have made the rounds on the internet, and it’s  hard to plan a trip to Norway without seeing the famous Reine shot.

    Reine Travel Guide

    Sakrisøy

    Island

    Sakrisøy is a small island located at the foot of the mountain Olstind. The island has been dominated by one family, the Gylseth family, for over 130 years. In 1889, Sven Kornelius Gylseth bought the island and built a manor house. He ran the local shop, but he was also a fish buyer. For five generations, the family has been buying cod from the fishermen and trading it with European merchants. One of the historic ships, M/V Pøyken, is on display. It shows how fishermen lived in Lofoten.

    Today the family runs a hotel, shop and restaurant in the original buildings. This is a great alternative for a place to stay if Reine is too crowded for you. The island is tiny, though. Blink and you’ll miss it!

    Hamnøy

    Island

    Hamnøy is a small island and village just next to Sakrisøy. The first buildings were constructed here as residential and business buildings. Today the fishing industry is still important to Hamnøy, but it also has some places to stay and tours. Most of the buildings are owned by the company Eliassen Rorbuer, who have managed to preserve many of the original rorbuer and business buildings. Additionally, they have a restaurant and many activities available such as boat trips, bike rental, diving, and kayaking. If you want to stay away from busy Reine, this is a great alternative.

    You can find their website here: https://rorbuer.no/

    Akkarvikodden

    Photo Stop

    Akkarvikodden is a scenic rest stop with beautiful views out to the south east.

    Flakstad Municipality

    The municipality of Flakstad is located on the northern part of the island Moskenesøya and the entire island Flakstadøya. The name comes from the Flakstad farm, which is where the Flakstad Church was built. The coat of arms shows a fastening device used on boats.  As you can probably guess, the municipality’s economy is dominated by fishing. The fishing fleet consists mostly of small boats.

    Sund

    Village/Detour

    Sund is a small fishing village with around 100 permanent residents. It is believed to be one of the oldest settlements on the Lofoten Islands. Today a large part of the village is preserved with traditional rorbuer and there’s the Sund Fiskerimuseum, which has a traditional workshop.

    In Sund there is a blacksmith who makes cormorants out of metal. These have been made in Sund for over fifty years and are a well-known souvenir to buy from Lofoten. The black cormorant is known in Norwegian folklore for living in the outermost reefs in the ocean. It stands there drying its wings before the next dive.

    The Sund Fiskerimuseum is a private museum with a collection gathered by the locals. The rorbu buildings by the museum are original – these are the original fisherman’s cabins and not ones that were built as tourist accommodation. The décor inside also shows how fishermen lived.

    Ramberg

    Village

    Ramberg is the municipal centre for Flakstad. The town has everything you’d expect for a town this size – tourist office, library, school, petrol station, restaurant, and accommodation. As with every place in Lofoten, the main industry here is fishing. The Lofoten fishing season is the dominant type of fishing, and the fleet is made up of small boats. Some farms here have sheep, while larger properties have cows.

    Ramberg is one of the few places in Lofoten where you can see the midnight sun. It is one of the few settlements on the side of Lofoten facing the sea, so it is possible to see the sun above the horizon. Most settlements are on the eastern part of the islands, facing the Norwegian mainland and therefore blocked from seeing the midnight sun. Ramberg is particularly known for its beach, which is one of the most beautiful in Lofoten.

    Flakstad Beach

    Beach

    Flakstad Beach is one of the most famous beaches in Lofoten. Here you can go surfing or take surfing classes. By the beach is the Lofoten Beach Camp. You can set up your tent here or park your mobile home. Some indoor rooms are available, too. Lofoten Beach Camp offers surf lessons and surf rentals, including the appropriate wetsuit for the arctic surf.

    Lofoten Beach Camp: https://www.lofotenbeachcamp.no/surf

    Flakstad Church

    Church

    Flakstad Church is one of the oldest churches on the Lofoten Islands. It is first mentioned in 1430 but is likely older than that. The church has a limestone baptismal font that dates to 1250-1300. This isn’t the same church today; the older medieval building has now been replaced since a storm around the year 1780 blew it down. Shortly afterwards, a new church was built on the same site using timber from Russia. One of the new chandeliers also came from Russia. Some items from the earlier church have been preserved. Flakstad Church has a characteristic onion dome on top.

    Nappskaret Photo Stop

    Photo stop

    Nappskaret is a scenic photo stop by the rock. You park your car and head up a small staircase to get some incredible views of the island.

    Vestvågøya

    Island

    After Nappskaret photo stop there is an undersea tunnel to the next island.

    Vestvågøya is a large island in the Lofoten Islands both in terms of geography and population (around 10,000 people live here). A large part of the island is relatively flat and marshy, while the outer parts of the island are mountainous. The highest point on the island is the 964m (3163ft) mountain Himmeltindan.

    Vestvågøy Municipality

    Vestvågøy is the most populous municipality in all Lofoten. The administrative centre is Leknes, which is close by to where we are right now.

    Leknes

    Town

    Leknes is one of the main towns in Lofoten. Leknes is in the geographic centre of the Lofoten islands and is the main town on the island Vestvågøya. Leknes is one of the few towns in Lofoten that is not by the sea and therefore not dependent on fishing; it is more of an administrative centre. Leknes has one of the main airports for Lofoten and it also has a cruise port for larger ships. Here is an upper secondary school, sports hall, and police station. The Lofoten Centre, one of Northern Norway’s largest shopping centres, is located here. The Lofothallen is one of the main concert venues on the Lofoten Islands.

    Leknes doesn’t have the same history as many of the other places in Lofoten; it didn’t really see growth until the 1960s. Because of this, there are few characteristic wooden buildings here. There are areas around Leknes that have finds from the Iron Age and Viking Age, though. We are heading towards one of these famous places.

    Unstad Beach

    Beach/Detour

    This small village has only around 15 people living here, but it is one of the most visited places in Lofoten. It is regarded as one of the best surf beaches on the Lofoten Islands. The area has been inhabited since before 1350; it is mentioned as being older than other farm in Borge and Valberg (Borg is well-known from Viking times). The population was at its peak in the 1930s, when around 350 people lived here.

    Today the village is centered around tourism, especially surfing. There are some beaches from the Iron Age and Middle Ages here, too. If you want to go surfing here, check out the company Unstad Arctic Surf.

    They have an excellent page all about the history of surfing in the area, which I encourage you to read: https://www.unstadarcticsurf.com/article/about

    Haukland Beach is the first beach we pass. The village is tiny – only 12 people live here all year round. Still, Haukland Beach is known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Norway.  From Haukland Beach, you can follow the old road (hiking and cycling only) to Uttakleiv Beach for even more stunning views. There are also hiking trails to the tops of the mountain peaks you can see.

    Uttakleiv is one of the most beautiful beaches on Lofoten. There aren’t many places in the world where you can see steep mountains, white sandy beaches, and farms all in one shot! Uttakleiv is a great spot to sit and watch the midnight sign. A lot of people also come here to observe the northern lights.

    The village is a protected area for its natural habitat and historic farms. The old road that used to connect Uttakleiv to the rest of Lofoten is now a hiking and cycling track, and a great thing to do it you have the time.

    Borg Viking Museum

    Museum

    The Borg Viking Museum is a reconstructed longhouse built on the site where one of the biggest Viking Age archaeological discoveries was made. The inside musuem has all the artefacts on display, and in summer you can follow the cultural heritage trail down to a beach. 

    Torvdalshalsen

    Viewpoint

    At this viewpoint you get a very clear overview of the Borg region, and you can almost imagine the Vikings arriving at the harbour and making their way to the longhouse! There are some useful information signs here, too.

    Austvågøya

    Island

    The next island we cross onto is Austvågøya. Austvågøya is the north easternmost of the large islands in Lofoten. Around 9,000 people live on Austvågøya, and many of them live in Svolvaer – the largest city in Lofoten. The island mostly consists of mountains; the largest is Higravstinden, which is 1,146m (3,760ft). One of the most famous mountains, however, is Vågakallen (942m or 3,091ft) – it towers over the picturesque village of Henningsvaer. Vågakallen is famous in troll stories about the Lofoten islands – it is the name of one of the trolls who lived here. The famous Trollfjord is also located on Austvågøya.

    Kabelvåg

    Kabelvåg is the historic capital of Lofoten and finds have been made here that date back to the Viking Age. 

    Kabelvåg Travel Guide

    Vågan Church

    Church

    This is the main church for the municipality of Vågan, and one of the most beautiful churches in Lofoten. The church is built in the cruciform style from 1898. The church seats around 1,200 people, making it the largest wooden building in Northern Norway. Because of that, it often gets the nickname Lofoten Cathedral.

    The earliest church dates to the 12th century when King Øystein Magnusson founded Vågan. It was likely a stave church and probably stood 200m (660ft) west of the present site. The church was renovated in the 1600s, but by the early 1700s it was too deteriorated and had to be rebuilt. A new church was completed in 1712, but by the late 1800s it was becoming too small due to the huge population growth in Kabelvåg. So, in 1898 a new church was built about 200m to the east of the old church.

    Svolvær

    With a population of 4,720, Svolvær is the largest city in the Lofoten Islands. The settlement is old; Svolvær was first mentioned in 1567. However, Svolvær didn’t gain prominence until the early 20th century when the motorized boats needed a modern harbour.

    The cod fisheries are still an important industry in Svolvær, but tourism is one of the main industries in the city. Svolvær is also a major transportation hub and favourite starting point for tourists. The Hurtigruten also stops here twice a day. It is possible to do sea eagle safaris, whale watching tours, and take a scenic cruise into the nearby Trollfjord. Svolvær also has a downhill skiing centre. In town, you’ll find the Lofoten War Memorial Museum a Magic Ice Bar, and numerous galleries.

    Svolvær Travel Guide

    Continue the Drive

    The Lofoten Islands Part 2: Svolvær to Harstad

    Continue the drive through the Lofoten archipelago. 

    Svolvær to Harstad

    Previous Drive

    Norway's Coastal Road Part 5: Forøy to Bodø

    Bodø is a great place to visit before visiting the Lofoten Islands. 

    Forøy to Bodø

    If you liked this drive, or if you have any travel tips, please leave a comment in the section below!