10 tips for autumn in Lofoten

August 15, 2024

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Are you planning to visit Lofoten in autumn? More weather, local ingredients and nature experiences in beautiful surroundings are some of what autumn has to offer!

1. More weather

In autumn, you have to be prepared for more unpredictable weather, which also means that there are many activities and lots of exciting things to do. The mountain sides are covered in beautiful autumn colors and the weather changes more often and faster. There may be occasional storms and rain with temperatures of between 5 and 10°C. Remember to pack clothes and shoes for varied weather, and the activities you plan when you visit Lofoten in autumn.

2. Northern Lights

In autumn, the probability of seeing the spectacular northern lights is high. You can see the Northern Lights from late August to mid-April, depending on whether it is cloudless and dark enough. Join us on a northern lights hunt with our experienced photographer who will give you tips for taking good photos or join us on a rib safari under the northern lights. Lofoten is one of the best places in the world to experience the phenomenon. That’s because the northern lights oval lies above Lofoten and with a view directly to the north you can see the northern lights from Lofoten’s outer side with an undisturbed horizon.

3. Mountain hike

Mountain hikes in autumn are fantastic with the autumn colors stretching up the mountain sides. There are fewer tourists, which means that there are fewer people on the hiking trails. Lofoten has several great mountain hikes to choose from, there are hikes for every taste and experience. With beautiful scenery and fantastic views, a mountain hike is the optimal way to experience the Lofoten Mountains. We also offer mountain hikes with a guide. To get the most out of your mountain trip, remember to be prepared and check the weather conditions before you go.

4. Lofoten lamb

Autumn is the season for Lofoten lamb, which you will find on the menu at Restaurant Karoline. Lofoten lamb has geographical protection and goes up and down the mountain sides to graze during the summer. If you visit Lofoten in autumn, we recommend a trip to Restaurant Karoline where you can try Lofoten lamb with a weathered ocean view.

5. Fishing trip

Lofoten is known for its long fishing traditions that go all the way back to the Viking Age. Join us on a fishing trip with our experienced local captain who has been a fisherman himself and can tell stories from the old days in the fishing village. In the autumn, you will be fishing for pollock, cod, haddock and halibut. At the same time, you get a fantastic view of the surrounding mountains from the water and maybe you will see the majestic sea eagle or whale on the trip.

6. Surfing

Would you like to try surfing when you visit Lofoten? In autumn, it is peak season for surfing. From September, the strongest swells come from the Norwegian Sea and create good waves. There are many fantastic beaches to surf on and we will make recommendations depending on the weather and your experience. The water is cold, so you surf with a wetsuit for winter so you don’t get cold in the water. The peak season lasts until April, but you can surf in Lofoten all year round.

7. Kayaking

Kayaking is another activity where you get to experience nature from the water. Kayaking requires no experience and we offer guided kayak trips where you can borrow all the equipment you need. Paddle through the water as you gaze at the spectacular mountains, bustling birdlife and fascinating marine life. Kayaking also gives you the opportunity to glide through remote bays and discover small hidden beaches.

8. Sea eagle safari

The sea eagle is Norway’s largest bird of prey and the fourth largest of all the world’s eagles. It is a fantastic experience to see this mighty bird plunging into the sea in search of food. It feeds mostly on fish and seabirds, which it mostly catches on the sea surface. Join us on a trip out into the fjord and see the majestic sea eagle. There are several sea eagles that live just out in the fjord and our experienced tour guides know where to find them.

9. RIB boat

Do you like speed? Join us on a RIB boat where you get to experience Lofoten’s fantastic landscape combined with real speed. Maximum speed is 50 knots. On the trip you will see pristine coastlines, dramatic cliffs, hidden coves and a rich wildlife. Here there are good opportunities to see sea eagles and maybe even whales. Take pictures and enjoy the wonderful nature around you.

10. History in Nusfjord

Nusfjord is an iconic fishing village in Lofoten with a long history as a fishing village for both local and visiting fishermen. Take a historical walk in places such as Landhandelen, Smia and Rødnaustet. Learn about fishing traditions and the history of the «rorbu», which were originally seasonal homes for fishermen.

EN | Norwegian