Lofoten is a collection of islands in Norway known for a very distinct scenery comprised of beautiful alpine mountain peaks, beaches, fjords and open sea. It lies to the west of Norway mainland, between 68 to 69 Deg latitude, which makes it to be north of the Arctic Circle. In spite of being located at such high latitude, it has relatively mild climate due to warm waters of the gulf stream.
- Things to know:
- What is it – A northerly archipelago of surprising beauty.
- Best season to visit – Late May to early July for the Midnight sun; the best weather is from April to September.
- Nearest town – Narvik 140 km
- Things not be missed – The Midnight Sun
- You should know – The sun does not rise for weeks in midwinter.
- The five main islands of Lofoten are Austvagoy, Gimsoya, Vestvagoy, Flakstadoya and Moskenesoya. Two of the smaller islands are named Vaeroy and Rost. In addition to these, there is a tiny islet of Vedoy.
- All of these islands are having mountains, with trees on the hillsides. At the bottom of these mountains, beaches with beautiful white sand and pretty bays are there.
- You can easily reach to Haukland, Ramberg, Ytresand and uttakleiv beach by driving while Kvalvika can only be reached by walking. Surfing is slowly becoming popular, particularly in Unstad beach, where waves are suitable for world class surfers.
- The islands are surrounded by rich waters that support vast colonies of breeding seabirds such as puffins, kittiwakes, razorbills, red- necked phalaropes, Arctic terns, and white – tailed sea eagles. In fact, the largest seabird colonies of main land Europe are located here.
- Rare birds like capercaillie and black grouse can sometimes be spotted. In summer, sperm whales can be found offshore, while orca follow the herring to this area in early autumn. Seals and otters can also be seen and there are moose on Austvagoy.
- The 40 Km long Rost Reef, lying west of Austvagoy is one of the biggest deepwater coral reefs. The Maelstrom, which is a vast whirlpool lies off the coast of Moskenesoya.
- The spectacular ruggedness of these islands provides many mountaineering, rock climbing and hiking opportunities.
- Also, spectacular coastline finds favours with cyclists. Its beauty is greatly enhanced in the summer months, when for over seven months period, sun does not go below the horizon. Ocean rafting and scuba diving is also common.
- The sea around Lofoten has more than 1.3 Billion barrels of oil reserves but oil extraction in the area is however prohibited.
- Evidences of human settlements dating back to about 11000 years ago are available. Archaeologists have found many items from iron and Viking age also. Lofotr Viking museum is a great place to experience the Viking age.
- Lofoten islands have been a centre of cod fisheries for more than 1000 years due to southern migration of cods in the winter. /li>
- The archipelago looks like a closed wall from high points and from the sea while arriving. Hence the name of Lofoten wall is prevalent.
- The islands attract about a million visitors per year.
