Svolvær

Svolvær is a vibrant town surrounded by majestic peaks, tranquil fjords, and a bustling harbor. As the cultural and commercial hub of the Lofoten Islands, it’s a perfect base for exploring Arctic nature, enjoying fresh seafood, and experiencing local art and history.

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Itineraries

Day 1

• Morning: Start your day at the Magic Ice Bar, a unique gallery and bar made entirely of ice and snow, featuring stunning ice sculptures.
• Afternoon: Explore the harbor area, visit local shops, and enjoy lunch at a seafood restaurant overlooking the water.
• Evening: Take a boat tour or RIB safari to Trollfjord, a dramatic fjord with steep cliffs and breathtaking views.

Day 2

• Morning: Hike the Svolværgeita (Svolvær Goat) for an adventurous climb and panoramic views of the town and surrounding fjords.
• Afternoon: Visit the Lofoten War Museum, showcasing artifacts and stories from World War II.
• Evening: Relax at a waterfront café and, if you’re visiting in winter, head out for a Northern Lights safari.

Natural Attractions

• Trollfjord: A narrow, dramatic fjord accessible by boat, surrounded by towering cliffs and rich wildlife.
• Svolværgeita (The Svolvær Goat): A famous twin-peaked mountain perfect for climbers and hikers.
• Lofoten Islands Coastline: Svolvær’s coastal area offers stunning views, peaceful beaches, and opportunities for kayaking and fishing.

Historical and Cultural Attractions

• Lofoten War Museum: Home to Norway’s largest collection of World War II artifacts, this museum offers insight into the war’s impact on the region.
• Galleri Lofotens Hus: Located in nearby Kabelvåg, this gallery showcases the work of local and international artists inspired by the Lofoten landscape.
• The Svolvær Harbor: A bustling hub that highlights the town’s fishing heritage and modern vibrancy.

At the harbour

Instagrammable Places

• Trollfjord: The dramatic scenery and mirror-like waters create picture-perfect reflections.
• Svolvær Harbor: Colorful boats and red rorbuer (cabins) set against a backdrop of Arctic peaks.
• Svolværgeita: Capture the thrill of climbers or the view from the summit.
• Magic Ice Bar: The illuminated ice sculptures make for unique and creative photo opportunities.
• Northern Lights over Svolvær: Snap the Aurora Borealis above the town’s fjords and mountains during winter.

Visit Next

• Kabelvåg (6 km): A historic village with attractions like the Lofoten Aquarium and Lofoten Cathedral.
• Henningsvær (20 km): Known as the “Venice of Lofoten,” this picturesque fishing village is a hub for art and culture.
• Leknes (70 km): A central Lofoten town offering beautiful beaches like Haukland and Uttakleiv.
• Å (135 km): The southernmost village in Lofoten, home to the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum.
• Reine (110 km): Famous for its breathtaking scenery and access to hikes like Reinebringen.

What to Do

Activities

• Boat Safari to Trollfjord: Take a guided RIB boat tour or a cruise to explore Trollfjord’s steep cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and abundant wildlife.
• Hike or Climb Svolværgeita: Adventurers can scale the iconic twin-peaked mountain, or enjoy hiking trails with incredible views of the town and fjords.
• Fishing Trips: Join a traditional fishing boat to experience Svolvær’s maritime heritage firsthand and catch Arctic cod.
• Kayaking: Paddle through the calm waters of Svolvær’s harbor and fjords, surrounded by stunning Arctic landscapes.
• Northern Lights Safari: In winter, embark on a tour to witness the Aurora Borealis illuminating the skies over Svolvær.

Nightlife

While Svolvær is not known for a bustling nightlife, it offers cozy and relaxed evening options:

• Børsen Spiseri: Enjoy a drink and Arctic-inspired cuisine in a historic setting.
• Marina Bar & Lounge: A casual spot by the harbor to unwind with drinks and a view of the water.
• Northern Lights Viewing: The true nightlife highlight in winter—head out with a guide or find a quiet spot to watch the Aurora Borealis.

Eat

Typical Cuisine

• Stockfish (Tørrfisk): A Lofoten specialty, dried Arctic cod is a must-try, served grilled or in flavorful stews. Available at Børsen Spiseri.
• Fiskesuppe (Fish Soup): Creamy and hearty, made with fresh local fish. Try it at Restaurant Kjøkkenet.

• Arctic Char and Halibut: Locally caught and beautifully prepared, these fish are a highlight at Lofoten Fiskerestaurant.
• Whale Steak: A traditional delicacy, available at select restaurants like Bacalao.

Restaurant Recommendations

1. Børsen Spiseri
• Address: Gunnar Bergs vei 2, 8300 Svolvær
• Description: Housed in a restored fish warehouse, this atmospheric restaurant offers traditional Lofoten dishes with a modern twist, such as stockfish and Arctic char.
• Price Range: €30–€50 per person
2. Restaurant Kjøkkenet
• Address: Lamholmen, 8300 Svolvær
• Description: A cozy waterfront restaurant known for its fish soup and fresh seafood platters.
• Price Range: €20–€40 per person
3. Bacalao
• Address: Torget, 8300 Svolvær
• Description: A lively restaurant and bar offering local delicacies like fish soup and fish burgers, with stunning harbor views.
• Price Range: €25–€40 per person

The Balacao restaurant is a great place to eat. There is an indoor area and a heated conservatory with a beautiful view of the harbor. The food is great, which is why we’ve been there several times.

4. Lofoten Fiskerestaurant

• • Address: Torget 15, 8300 Svolvær
  • Description: Known for its elegant dining experience and focus on high-quality seafood like halibut and mussels.
  • Price Range: €30–€60 per person

Buy

1. Lofoten Gaver og Brukskunst
• Address: Torget 10, 8300 Svolvær
• Description: A boutique store offering handmade crafts, local artwork, and traditional souvenirs inspired by the Lofoten landscape.
2. Gallery Espolin
• Address: Storvåganveien 22, 8310 Kabelvåg (6 km from Svolvær)
• Description: A gallery featuring the works of renowned Norwegian artist Kaare Espolin Johnson, alongside art-inspired gifts and prints.
3. The Glass Hut (Glasshytta)
• Address: Torget 20, 8300 Svolvær
• Description: Unique, handmade glass art pieces, perfect for one-of-a-kind souvenirs or gifts.
4. Lofoten Wool
• Address: Våganveien 60, Kabelvåg (6 km from Svolvær)
• Description: High-quality wool products, including scarves, blankets, and sweaters, crafted from local sheep wool.
5. Svolvær Market
• Address: Torget, 8300 Svolvær
• Description: A seasonal market offering fresh produce, artisanal food, and locally made goods.

Visit

Best Time to Visit

Avoiding the Crowds: May–June and September offer mild temperatures (6–12°C), fewer tourists, and excellent conditions for outdoor activities and photography.

For Activities:

• • Summer (June–August): Perfect for kayaking, hiking, and experiencing the Midnight Sun, with temperatures around 10–16°C.
  • Winter (November–March): Ideal for Northern Lights viewing and snow-covered landscapes. Temperatures range between -2°C and -8°C.

Unique Festivities:

• • Cod Fishing Season (January–April): Experience Svolvær’s fishing heritage and join local events celebrating this vital season.
  • Lofoten International Chamber Music Festival (July): A highlight for music lovers, with performances in unique Arctic settings.
  • Midsummer (St. Hans) (June 23): Enjoy bonfires and celebrations under the Midnight Sun.

Best Photography Motifs:

• Winter: Northern Lights above the Svolvær harbor and snow-covered peaks.
• Spring: Blooming Arctic flora against the rugged mountain backdrops.
• Summer: Midnight Sun reflecting on the fjords and colorful harbor.
• Autumn: Golden tones of the changing foliage and dramatic skies over the fjords.

How Long to Visit (Ideal Trip Duration)

An ideal trip duration is 2–4 days, giving you enough time to explore Svolvær’s main attractions, take a boat tour to Trollfjord, and enjoy local dining. Extend to 5–6 days if you plan to visit nearby villages or partake in more adventurous activities like hiking or fishing.

Arrival & Transport

Get There

• By Plane:
• Fly into Svolvær Airport (SVJ), just 6 km from the town center. Flights are available from Bodø and Oslo.
• Alternatively, fly into Leknes Airport (LKN), about 70 km away, then drive or take a bus to Svolvær.
• By Ship:
• Hurtigruten coastal cruises stop in Svolvær, offering a scenic arrival by sea.
• By Car:
• Drive along the E10 highway, known as the King Olav V’s Road, which connects Svolvær to other parts of Lofoten and mainland Norway.
• By Bus:
• Buses connect Svolvær to nearby towns like Leknes, Henningsvær, and Kabelvåg. Longer routes link to Narvik and Bodø.

Get Around

• By Car: Renting a car is the easiest way to explore Svolvær and its surrounding villages.
• On Foot: Svolvær’s compact town center is walkable, making it easy to access shops, restaurants, and attractions.
• By Bike: Rent a bike to explore the scenic coastal routes and nearby villages like Kabelvåg.
• By Boat: Take guided boat tours to nearby fjords and islands, including the famous Trollfjord.

Stay

1. Thon Hotel Lofoten
• Description: A modern hotel located at the waterfront, offering stylish rooms, a renowned breakfast buffet, and stunning harbor views.
• Address: Torget, 8300 Svolvær
• Price: €150–€250 per night
2. Svinøya Rorbuer
• Description: Traditional fishermen’s cabins transformed into cozy accommodations with modern amenities, located on a small island near the town center.
• Address: Gunnar Bergs vei 2, 8300 Svolvær
• Price: €120–€200 per night
3. Lofoten Arctic Hotel
• Description: A waterfront property offering comfortable rooms, excellent dining options, and easy access to Svolvær’s attractions.
• Address: Skata 15, 8300 Svolvær
• Price: €100–€170 per night
4. Scandic Vestfjord Lofoten
• Description: A centrally located hotel offering simple, comfortable rooms and views of the harbor and surrounding mountains.
• Address: Fiskergata 46, 8300 Svolvær
• Price: €90–€160 per night
5. Fast Hotel Svolvær
• Description: A budget-friendly option with clean, minimalist rooms and a convenient location near the harbor.
• Address: Sjøgata 6, 8300 Svolvær
• Price: €70–€120 per night
6. Lofoten SuiteHotel
• Description: Luxury suites with modern Scandinavian design, spacious living areas, and panoramic views of the harbor and mountains.
• Address: Havnepromenaden 2, 8300 Svolvær
• Price: €200–€300 per night