The most beautiful islands in Norway have to be seen to be believed. Rugged cliffs rise from icy fjords, colourful villages brim with storybook charm and craggy mountains kiss the clouds. Hop between the Lofoten Islands, north of the Arctic Circle, or play spot the tail on a whale-watching tour off the coast of Andoya in Vesteralen. To witness the ever-elusive Northern Lights, visit Senja or head to Bo Island for prime birdwatching opportunities. Read on for more island inspiration in Norway…
Austvagoya
Where better to begin our roundup of the most beautiful islands in Norway than with the largest of the Lofoten Islands: Austvagoya? Hike, kayak or ski around the northernmost island’s muscular mountains, glassy fjords and snowy summits; visit Svolvaer, the archipelago’s busy capital; and don’t miss the chance to spend the night in a cosy rorbu (traditional fishermen’s hut). For a scenic hike, trek up Floya Mountain and admire the picturesque town below. Or for some serious kudos points, scale the slopes of Svolvaergeita Mountain and marvel at its distinctive peak – the two rock formations have been nicknamed ‘the Goat’ due to their resemblance to goat horns.
Moskenesoya
Moskenesoya, in the southern Lofoten archipelago, is next up on our list of the most beautiful islands in Norway. The island is a lively fishing hub and home to the postcard-perfect village of Reine, which has been part of the fishing trade since the 18th century. During your visit it would only be right to try your hand at fishing – you might even reel in the catch of the day (cod, pollock and halibut are all strong contenders in Reine). With its glittering fjords and powdery mountains, the idyllic village is a year-round standout destination.
Image by tsuguliev/stock.adobe.com
Senja
If you’re an adventure enthusiast, Senja has your name written all over it. First, let’s talk hiking. Follow the rocky route up Husfjellet, Hesten and Segla mountains for lush flora and sweeping views of the Fjordgard fishing village below. If it’s a coastal getaway you’re after, Ersfjordstranda Beach has you covered. Cruise through Senja’s icy waters on a private boat tour or take a dip if you’re feeling brave. Visit between September and April to witness the magical Northern Lights in all their glory, then complete your adventure with a dog sled tour across the Arctic landscape.
Image by Pascal Shirley / Gallery Stock
Andoya
With excellent whale-watching opportunities, Andoya has earned a spot on our list of the most beautiful islands in Norway. Located in the Vesteralen archipelago in northern Norway, the island boasts abundant wildlife both on land and out to sea. Enjoy a whale safari from Andenes to Bleik Canyon and keep an eye out for the splashing marine mammals – sperm whales visit the underwater canyon in the summer months, while you may witness humpbacks in winter. Don’t forget to have your binoculars ready for sightings of Atlantic puffins, fulmars and white-tailed eagles on the craggy rocks.
Image by Anastasia Miseyko / Kintzing
Bo
Tucked away on the westernmost edge of Vesteralen, Bo is rounding off our list of the most beautiful islands in Norway. This lesser-trodden treasure offers a coastal trail from Straumsjoen to Fore, an Iron Age site where swords, spinning wheels and historic artefacts of the period have been uncovered. Be sure to visit the ‘Man from the Sea’ sculpture (at 14ft, he’s hard to miss) and follow his lead by admiring the idyllic view of Gaukvaeroya Island and the Lofoten Wall. If it’s birdwatching you’re after, head to the dramatic cliff formation at Nyakan – where large rocks surge upwards from the sea, lined with puffins, razorbills and guillemots in their thousands.
Image by Gaute Bruvik/visitnorway.com
Written by Amy Larsen | Header image by SmallWorldProduction/stock.adobe.com
