Red fisherman's huts in Svolvaer port with sailboat on the water.

Norway's Lofoten Islands

Chase the Lights, Find Stillness

October 5-17, 2026

Embark on a sustainable adventure in northern Norway from colorful Trondheim, the ancient Viking capital, to the stunning Lofoten Islands. Chase the northern lights, explore Arctic fjords, visit isolated fishing villages, and enjoy fresh seafood. Slow down, immerse in Arctic culture, connect to nature, and enjoy the stillness of the north.

Highlights

  • Lofoten Islands
    The Lofoten archipelago, situated above the Arctic Circle off the Norwegian coast, beckons you into a deep experience of "friluftsliv," the Norwegian concept of connecting with the open air and being in nature, with Autumn colors. The charming fishing village of Svolvaer, with stunning views of mountains and sea, will be our home base for open-air adventures. Your lodging will be in "rorbuer", traditional red-fisherman's cabins on the shoreline with wonderful views and, hopefully, the northern lights.
  • Northern Lights
    The Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, will remain very intense in 2026 as the current solar cycle peaks. We will visit the Arctic during the new moon, when nights are longer for aurora viewing. A professional photographer and northern lights expert will guide us in viewing the wonders of the Arctic sky.
  • Trondheim
    Trondheim, Norway's third-largest city, was founded by King Olav in 997 on the Trondheim Fjord. Its cobblestone streets and colorful old buildings hold small-town charm, vibrant culture, and a reputation as Norway's culinary capital.
  • Indigenous Sami
    Connect with the traditional Sami custodians of these lands. Learn about their rich culture in a natural mountain habitat, hear the Sami call the reindeer in, and feed their gentle reindeer. Later, gather in a Sami tent around a bonfire to learn more about Sami traditions.
  • Trollfjord - Silent Cruise
    Take a silent cruise on a hybrid catamaran through Trollfjord. The fjord plunges 236 ft below sea level, and its entrance is only 330 ft wide, opening up to a maximum width of 2,600 ft. The fjord is 2 km (1.2 mi) long. Norse myths about trolls gave it its name. Look for abundant wildlife, including possible white-tailed eagles.

Cost

Price: $4250, based on double occupancy. A very limited number of single rooms are available at an additional cost.

Contact us if interested. A deposit of $500 will hold your place. Credit cards are accepted

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Read and sign Terms of Service

Activity Level

We walk 2-4 miles daily, possibly over uneven surfaces with snow. You may have to roll or carry your luggage, up and down stairs to your room. Wear comfortable insulated boots for outdoor activities. Layer your clothing with lightweight wool-based layers, a wool sweater, windproof and waterproof snow pants and jacket. October can be rainy but not freezing cold. It may or may not snow. More details will be given.

Odyssey Includes

  • * 10 nights lodging
  • * Train, bus, boat, and vehicle transportaion
  • * all breakfasts, meals as indicated on itinerary
  • * Local bilingual guides, BBO staff

What is not included

  • * Round-trip airfare
  • * Travel insurance (recommended) that minimumly covers you for medical expenses including emergency repatriation.
  • * Alcoholic beverages
  • * optional activites/experiences
  • * meals not mentioned in the itinerary
  • * tips for local guides, drivers, etc

Itinerary

Building on these rich influences, discover the magnificent rugged beauty of Lofoten Islands at a slow pace with sustainable transportation; walking on mountain trails, train and ferry travel between cities, and use of electric vehicles when needed. The itinerary serves as a guideline of what is planned, but if you decide to have an afternoon or morning exploring or relaxing, you are encouraged to do so.

The day is flexible, with individuals arriving at different times. Rest if needed before dinner, or explore nearby walks for those who arrive early or are full of energy. Stroll along the Nivalde River to experience Trondheim’s tranquil atmosphere.

Begin your day wandering Trondheim’s cobblestone streets, steeped in history. Pause at the magnificent Nidaros Cathedral, built in 997 over King Olav’s burial site, a pilgrimage destination. Explore the Archbishops' Palace, then cross the Big Old Bridge to take in the colorful wooden warehouses along the Nidelva River. Continue through Bakklandet’s vibrant streets of houses, cafes, and boutique shops. Enjoy the atmosphere, visit shops, and relax with a cup of coffee. After lunch, visit Sverresborg Trondelag Folk Museum to immerse yourself in folk heritage and historical buildings. B

Explore nature with hikes around Trondheim. Just 20 minutes from the city center, Kuhaugen offers sweeping views, while Ladestein features rest areas and art for reflection. Lunch may be on the trail or back in town. In the afternoon, visit museums, from Trondheim Kunstmuseum’s art collections to contemporary art spaces, deepening your sense of place. B

Settle in for a scenic 10-hour train journey to the Arctic city of Bodo. Watch the dramatic coastline unfold, with chances to spot sea eagles and reindeer, as you cross into the Arctic Circle. Bodo offers a blend of vibrant culture, unique architecture, and natural wonders. Relax into a cozy wool sweater, sip warm tea or cocoa, and soak up the Arctic ambiance. B

Take a gentle Arctic coastal walk to experience “friluftsliv”—the joy of the outdoors. Traverse sandy beaches as stories about Norway’s Viking legacy come alive, ending with a comforting herbal tea. B.

Board a ferry to the lively town of Svolvaer on Austvagoya Island in the Lofoten archipelago. With fewer than 5,000 residents, Svolvaer brims with culture, serves as a travel hub, and offers abundant hiking trails. Vibrant red “rorbuer” fishing cabins dot the shoreline. Spend the day discovering the town’s restaurants, then gather to learn about and capture the elusive northern lights. As the new moon deepens the night, join a guided tour led by a professional photographer to chase auroras, uncover their stories, and practice night photography. Each night, hope for another display of Arctic magic. B.

Enjoy a silent Trollfjord cruise on an electric catamaran among steep mountains bordering the fjord. Seek shelter on the lower deck if needed and view the sea via a submersible camera. The cruise is 3.5 hours. B

Taste of Lofoten-Food tour. At 9:00, discover the fishing heritage in a traditional rorbu, bake Nordic cinnamon buns, and sample local delicacies like cured meats, cheeses, and smoked fish. You will go to the picturesque fishing village of Henningsvær, where you’ll get hands-on with a beloved Nordic tradition—baking cinnamon buns under the guidance of a local baker. You will learn about the history of the fishing heritage in a traditional fisherman's cabin. Later, lunch will be at the renowned restaurant Borsen Spiseri, featuring a curated menu of the best Arctic dishes. B, L

Take a guided morning hike near Svolvaer. "All Trails" lists 20 mapped options with photos. https://www.alltrails.com/norway/nordland/svolvaer The afternoon is free: kayak, visit another village, use a sauna, or relax. B

Today, you travel by minivan through scenic fjords and mountain passes to a traditional Sami Siida reindeer camp. Upon arrival, meet Sami hosts who will introduce you to their heritage and customs. Gather in a lavvu (Sami tent) around a warm fire to hear stories of the Sami and their reindeer, and learn to pet and feed the animals. Enjoy a lunch of reindeer stew, bread, cake, and warm drinks in the tent. If you have dietary preferences, let me know in advance. B

Take a ferry from Svolvaer to Bodo. Some time free in Bodo before boarding a night train to Trondheim, arriving at 9:00. I am reserving first-class seats for aurora viewing. Sleep cabins are available on request. B

If you want extra days in Trondheim, I can help. You may take a train from Trondheim to Oslo or Bergen. Oslo offers museums such as the Munch Museum and the Vigeland Sculpture Park, as well as great restaurants. The Oslo-Bergen train is spectacular. Both cities are safe and easy to navigate, and English is widely spoken. B
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