Here’s how to make the most of a few days in Lofoten, both outside and inside.

By Cristina Ashbaugh

Lofoten is the kind of place that makes you want to stay outside all day. Mountains drop straight into the sea, charming fishing villages dot the coastline, and every turn feels like a photo you’ll actually want to print. When the weather turns from sun to rain, as it often does in Scandinavia, there's no shortage of cozy spots to hide away while you wait for skies to clear.

This guide splits Lofoten in two: everything worth doing outside, and the best spots to duck into when you’re ready to warm up. From epic hikes to cozy cafés, here’s how to make the most of your trip—no matter the weather. Choose what you like and leave the rest.

To do outside

If you’re coming to Lofoten, chances are you’re here for the outdoors. This is where Arctic waves meet white sand beaches, hiking trails lead to jaw-dropping views, and even a sauna comes with a front-row seat to the fjords. Whether you’re paddling out to catch a few waves, summiting one of their hundreds of stunning peaks, or just soaking it all in, here are our tried and true outdoor activities that you can't miss.

Hike Reinebringen

Most certainly Lofoten's most iconic hike, Reinebringen should be at the top of your list. Here's the AllTrails link. It's short yet steep (3.6 miles with 1,700 ft elevation gain) but well worth the views. Parking can be a little tricky, so I recommend parking in town here and walking a little way on the road before finding the trail head here.

Cold plunge at Haukland Beach

I was shocked to learn that one of Europe's best beaches was in Norway. Once voted Europe's #1 beach, Haukland Beach's white sand and clear water gives Mallorca and the South of France a run for their money. Just a short drive from the Leknes airport, Haukland is a great place to stop after you land and pick up your rental car before heading to your hotel.

In the summer, you can rent kayaks and paddle boards from the shack in the parking lot, or you can go for a swim if you're brave enough. The water is Arctic level temps but refreshing, especially after a hike up the steep Mannen trail.

Warm up in the Nusfjord sauna

Relax and unwind after a long day out on the trails or at the beaches is by hopping in the sauna. One of the best saunas in Lofoten is located within the Nusfjord Arctic Resort, just an hour drive from the airport. You can alternate between the cold plunge, sauna, and hot springs. (My dream rotation.)

Grab a surfboard for the afternoon

If the freezing water didn't faze you at Haukland Beach, head over to Unstad Beach for some arctic surfing. Though the real surf season is in the winter, if you don't mind smaller waves you'll have a blast in the summer. You can rent boards or take lessons with Unstad Arctic Surf.

To do inside

Though you probably didn't travel all the way to Lofoten to stay indoors, there are still a few great activities to do on a quieter morning or afternoon.

Grab a cup of coffee (or a glass of wine!) at Landhandleriet Café

Tucked inside a 1907 general store in Nusfjord, Landhandleriet Café is the perfect spot to post up to take in harbor views and sip on a warm cup of coffee. It’s part history lesson, part cozy hideout and perfect after a hike or a dip in the icy fjord waters.

Grab a famous cinnamon bun in Unstad

If surfing's not your thing, be sure to grab one of Unstad's famous cinnamon buns at the surf lodge before heading off to your next activity.

To stay
Though you can't really go wrong with accommodations out here (everything is so charming!) the Nusfjord Village & Resort is one of the best spots to stay. An old fisherman's village tucked into a small protected fjord about an hour from the Leknes airport, Nusfjord has a sauna overlooking the water and offer kayaks and paddle boards for rent, plus two great restaurants onsite. The location is perfect for anyone venturing around the southern part of Lofoten or anyone who wants a slightly more luxurious experience in the Arctic.

Hattvika Lodge is another great option and if you're camping, Lofoten Beach Camp is a can't-miss.