Northern Norway has an array of mesmerizing islands that span its coastline with dramatic glacier-carved peaks, picturesque fishing villages and some unbelievable sandy beaches. Embark on a self-drive adventure that seamlessly blends the enchanting islands of Senja, Vesteralen, and Lofoten, promising an unforgettable journey.
Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of this laid-back holiday, where you have the freedom to tailor your experience to your preferences. Choose to add to your holiday with scenic boat rides, a visit to a whale museum, embark on thrilling whale or sea eagle watching safaris, indulge in serene kayaking adventures, or set out on invigorating hikes.
The island of Senja is 300km north of the Arctic Circle and pinned between the city of Tromso and the famous Lofoten Islands. Although the scenery is comparable to the fjords in the south and the majestic mountains of the Lofoten, Senja is surprisingly little explored.
Lofoten, where locals sustain their livelihoods through farming, fishing, and modest tourism, yet the essence of the place remains unspoiled and authentic. Witness the charm of traditional red-painted fishermen’s huts, called ‘rorbuer’, capturing snapshots of quaint fishing boats gently swaying in the harbours. Delve into the local culture as you explore handicraft shops and galleries, uncovering treasures crafted by skilled artisans. Venture off the beaten path to discover hidden inlets, secluded coves, and awe-inspiring landscapes that defy the conventional perception of Norway.
With an excellent road network, driving here is a pleasure and with well-marked hiking paths, the stunning nature is easy to explore.
Itinerary
On arrival in Tromso make your way by the regular airport coach to the city centre hotel (payable locally). Enjoy some time in the city with excellent restaurants and bars to choose from before staying overnight at a city center hotel.
This morning collect your rental vehicle and take a leisurely scenic drive to the Island of Senja. Over the next two days you will have time at leisure, take part in some of the great activities offered by the hotel or choose one of the many hiking opportunities. There are easy hikes along well-marked pathways or opt for a more challenging high peak trek with a qualified mountain guide.
Drive along the south coast, stopping at Ånderdalen National Park, located in the southern end of Senja Island, and stretches up from the wide ocean to the adjoining steep hillsides, through rolling valleys towards Solbergfjorden. In the Park you will find woodlands, mountaineous and fjord landscape. Spend two nights in a nearby hotel in the south of Senja.
There are many hikes around Ånderdalen National Park. We recommend a 12km hike to the Åndervatnet Lake. This medium level hike takes you in to the heart of Senja’s only national park with untouched birch and pine forests. This hike is suitable for all the family as the elevation is just of 200 metres and the 12 km round trip takes around 4-5 hours.
Spend a couple of days exploring the islands of Vesteralen. Head north to the island of Andoya and the small town of Andenes. Perhaps visit the whale museum and join a whale watching tour with a chance to see sperm, minke, pilot and humpback whales, as well as harbour porpoises. Alternatively enjoy a puffin safari from the town of Bleik nearby. Return to Sortland for your overnight stay via the dramatic west coast of Andoya. We also recommend Visit the historic village of Nyksund or don hiking boots for a coastal walk.
Whale Watching in Andenes
Take a spectacular drive today through the heart of the Lofoten archipelago, winding down the E10 towards Reine where you will stay for two nights. The many tiny fishing villages that surround this beautiful area epitomise the spirit of the islands. Those with the energy can enjoy a hike to a stunning mountain point above the bay.
(approx. 4 hours / distance 235 km)
Time at leisure to explore the area and maybe visit A, at the absolute end of the E10 and a village of great character. Time permitting, take a boat trip from Moskenes to Vaeroy whose soaring bird cliffs face the ocean and support a wide range of species. Maybe visit the beautiful village of Nusfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage village in a breathtaking location en route to the viking farmstead at Borg. Unstad and Eggum are two isolated settlements on the north coast of Lofoten where steep cliffs flank white sandy beaches.
Leave Reine and head North to the town of Svolvaer along the E10. Stay two nights at the delightful Svinoya, a charming fishing town.
(approx. 2 hours / distance 120 km)
A day at leisure to enjoy the fantastic scenery of jagged peaks (some of the oldest rocks in the world), fjords, rugged cliffs, idyllic white sand beaches and thousands of tiny islands. Don’t miss the chance to venture out onto Trollfjorden, by comfortable motor cruise, thrilling zodiac inflatable or peaceful kayak. Just 3km long and barely 100m wide at its entrance, the fjord is framed with smooth, vertical granite slabs rising to 1000m. Here sea eagles are often spotted. If you would rather stay on dry land, there is time to explore the town itself and soak up the harbour atmosphere.
Optional Experiences
Sea Eagle Safari by RIB in Svolvaer
Sea Kayaking in Svolvaer
Time to leave the Lofoten Islands and head to Narvik on mainland Norway. Take the scenic drive north along the E10, perhaps stop along the way at a fishing village before continuing on to the city nestled between the fjords and mountains. (approx. 3.5 hours / distance 220 km).
This evening why not catch the cable car to the top of Mount Farvikfjellet and watch the midnight sun.
Drive back to Tromso for an overnight stay. Visit the wealth of excellent restaurants, cafes and bars, plenty of shopping opportunities and city attractions.
Drive to Tromso Airport and drop off vehicle before your flight back home.
Prices & departures
What's Included
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Accommodation in rooms with private bathroom
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All breakfasts
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Car rental throughout with unlimited mileage
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24 hour emergency assistance from our team during your holiday
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No surcharge guarantee
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Full financial protection
From £2003 Excluding Flights
13 Nights
May-Sep
Prices are per person based upon 2 sharing, subject to availability. Your Travel Specialist will confirm the exact price based upon your tailored requirements, inclusions, and travel dates.
Make this trip yours
Every trip you see here can be adapted to suit you using inside-out knowledge to create one-off experiences created just for you.
Eric
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Favourite Canadian lakes
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Sea turtles snorkelled with
We create holidays that are as individual as you are. And we’ve been doing it for 40 years, crafting each and every holiday using our in-depth knowledge and enthusiasm for our destinations. Whatever your brief, we’ll create an amazing trip for you to get excited about. That might mean adapting one of our existing itineraries or we’ll build you one from scratch.
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