Arctic Route: Svolvær - Reine - Å
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Arctic Route by Best Arctic
Welcome to the Arctic Route! Our daily-operated bus route brings you to the best of Lofoten: from Svolvær via Henningsvær, Reine, all to way to Moskenes. The route connects many of the entry and exit points in the Arctic Route summer area, such as Leknes Airport and Moskenes/Bodø-ferry. Enjoy the Arctic! Find out more about the area via the stories listed below.
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Points of interest
#1
We are here for you
In need of assistance: - Booking Point in Tromsø: Sjøgata 7 in Tromsø - daily from 9 am to 4 pm (from April to September) - info@bestarctic.com - 0047 953 03 888 - www.bestarctic.com - if emergency: call 0047 953 03 888 - don't use Instagram messages of Facebook messages in case of emergency We love help creating your magical Arctic holiday in the North.
#2
Svolvær Centre / Hurtigruten Terminal
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the bus stop Hurtigruten terminal, close to Thon Hotel. Svolvær is a vibrant and lively place for those who want to experience Lofoten’s urban life, nature and culture. Attractions here include the War Memorial Museum, where you will find Norway’s largest exhibition of uniforms and artifacts from the Second World War. Close to town, you can hike up to Djevelporten (or the Devil’s Gate). This famous Lofoten photo spot offers wonderful views from a rock that is apparently wedged between two mountains to create a bridge. Not far away is the spectacular Svolværgeita (or the Svolvær Goat). People have been climbing up this 150m pinnacle since 1910. Visitors who enjoy steep heights and excitement can book a guided climbing tour. A more relaxing option is the floating sauna at Svinøya Rorbuer followed by a refreshing dip in the sea. For a memorable nature and wildlife adventure, you can sail from Svolvær to the famous Trollfjord – one of Lofoten’s true gems. This narrow Arctic fjord can only be reached by boat or a 10 km hike across the mountains. After an active day, you can choose between a variety of restaurants in Svolvær. While you are in Northern Norway, we recommend trying fresh seafood.
#3
Vågan Church
Vågan Church is a fine example of Gothic Revival architecture and is considered one of the most important cultural landmarks in the region. The wooden church features a tall spire that can be seen from a distance. The 1,200-seat Vågan Church is the largest church in Northern Norway, one of the country’s largest wooden churches and the largest wooden building in Northern Norway. The church, which was built in 1898, is also known as the Lofoten Cathedral. It was built for fishermen and the region’s proud fishing heritage is the reason why such a big church was needed. Visiting fishermen felt the need for spiritual support before they ventured out into the Lofoten Sea in winter. In days gone by, the church was always full during the Lofoten fishing season. The church is still actively used for baptisms, weddings and funerals. You can join a ceremony if one is taking place. They even arrange drop-in days for baptisms and weddings. There is a small admission fee for adults but admission for children is free of charge.
#4
Henningsvær
Arctic Route Bus stop: at the entrance parking of Henningsvær. Toilet available at the parking lot. For the longer sightseeing stop direction Å to Svolvær: please be back on the bus at 19:00. Henningsvær is a charming and lively place to visit and explore in Lofoten. It’s spread over two small islands connected by a breakwater, which creates a natural harbour. This fishing village in Lofoten has been attracting visitors for centuries. Fishing has been the main source of income and livelihood for the people of Henningsvær since the Middle Ages and remains important to this day. Every year, from January to April, vast quantities of Arctic cod migrate down from the Barents Sea to spawn in the waters around Henningsvær. Henningsvær still preserves many of the traditional buildings and methods of processing the fish. You can see the wooden racks where the cod are hung to dry in the open air, creating a distinctive sight and smell. Dried cod, or stockfish, is a delicacy exported to many countries around the world. The most iconic café in Lofoten, Klatrekafeèn, is situated at the entrance to Henningsvær. You can meet everyone at this melting pot, from climbers and fishermen via artists to campervan tourists and skiers. Partly a bar and partly a café, this place is a bit of everything and is very enjoyable. We recommended their fish soup served with delicious bread.
#5
Handscraft in Henningsvær
Henningsvær is also a place where art and creativity flourish. It has several art galleries and museums that showcase local and international artists. You can admire paintings, sculptures, photographs and installations that reflect the beauty and diversity of Lofoten. One of the most famous attractions is the Kaviar Art Factory, a former caviar factory that has been transformed into a contemporary art museum. At the first square in Henningsvær, you will find Engelskmannsbrygga, a glass art shop, or Lysstøperi and cafe. Here you will get quality hand-cast candles, freshly baked buns, good food and drink in an esthetic atmosphere. Or in for some knitting? Visit Cod & Haddock – knitted headwear. Or visit the oldest bar in Henningsvær: Kafe Knusarn a bit further on the right. We recommend the Fish 'n Chips. Henningsvær also offers many opportunities for outdoor activities and adventure. You can enjoy the stunning views of the sea and mountains from different perspectives. You can go kayaking, sailing, diving, or fishing in the clear waters. You can go hiking, biking, or climbing on rugged terrain. They even have a football pitch at the far end of the sea gap, literally!
#6
Reine
Arctic Route Bus Stop: on the square in front of Reine Rorbuer or the kiosk at the end of the road. Reine is one of Norway’s most beautiful and charming places. Reine has a great location facing the Vestfjord and, with its excellent harbour, has been a natural haunt for traders for many centuries. Do you see any signs of that in the area? You can paddle by kayak or travel by boat out in the fjord to see some of the most beautiful beaches in Lofoten, which cannot be reached by road. Bringen coffee bar is worth a visit. This cosy and traditional café serves good coffee, freshly baked cakes and even ice cream for the children. Reinebringen is one of the most popular mountains to hike up in Lofoten. At the foot of the mountain, you will find Reinehalsen, a vantage point that is one of Norway’s most famous photo spots. If you want to stay for a night or two, an adventure awaits in the iconic red rorbu or fishermen’s cabin. Do you know why most of these fishermen’s cabins are red? In days gone by, red was the cheapest paint! The poor people didn’t even paint the back of their rorbu. So, whenever you see a rorbu, check if the back is painted!
#7
Hidden bar in Henningsvær
As you walk down the streets in Henningsvær, you will feel the cosy, traditional atmosphere and see colourful houses. There is a kind of shop or café behind every wall. Let’s go to Trevarefabrikken, an abandoned factory transformed into cultural scene with local food and drinks, an ocean sauna and rooms for a good night’s sleep. Trevarefabrikken is the place where you meet up with your friends or make some new ones. It’s where you grab your morning coffee or handmade pizza for dinner. The pizzas topped with local produce are baked in wood-fired oven. They even have a wine bar hidden in the cod liver oil room. There is a weekly culture program for you to join. You can take a bath in Vestfjorden and warm up in the sauna, or maybe you want to attend a yoga class? During a long weekend in the middle of summer, you can attend their very own music festival. Trevarefest attracts great artists and is very popular. When you leave Trevarefabrikken, stop by the vintage shop on your right-hand side and find some hidden gems.
#8
Lofotr Viking Museum
Arctic Route Bus Stop: the bus stops at the main route in front of Lofotr Viking Museum. At Lofotr Viking Museum you can act like a real Viking: walk in a longhouse, see traditional handicrafts being made, throw an axe or sail on a Viking ship. Tickets can easily be bought through Best Arctic. The museum is on the site of the longest Viking longhouse ever found and excavated. Enjoy a beautiful sailing trip on the Viking ship from mid-June to August, weather permitting. You can visit a replica of the boathouse based on a find from Rennesøy in Rogaland. The replica has been adapted for the Viking ship Lofotr. You can see animals grazing in the meadows around the longhouse. These animals belong to breeds that are descendants of ancient species that wandered here in the Viking Age. When entering the longhouse, you will experience what the Vikings did in their everyday life. As you smell the tar and smoke, you will be greeted by our Vikings. You can learn about some of the craft activities that were performed during the Viking Age. Our Viking crafters will be in the longhouse demonstrating their traditional crafts. Hop off and experience the museum. A self-guided audio app takes you through the whole museum.
#9
Leknes Centre
Arctic Route Bus Stop: Behin the gas station Circle K. Leknes is one of two towns in Lofoten. The other is Svolvær. Vestvågøy is the most populous municipality in Lofoten with almost 12,000 inhabitants. It even has its own airport. Leknes has a rich history. In the early summer of 1899, Vestvaagøens Dampmeieri A/S was started up in Leknes. The start-up meant a lot for agriculture in the surrounding area. The dairy farmers transported milk to the dairy factory, the milk provided cash income and trade increased in Leknes. Several dairy factories were established on the island but sadly operation was stopped in November 1900 owing to the lack of milk. The Port of Leknes is one of the most important and most visited ports in Northern Norway. You can also visit some of the finest beaches in Norway just a short road trip from Leknes. You can take a refreshing dip if you dare, or simply relax on the white sand.
#10
Lofoten Beach Camp
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the parking place, left of Lofoten Beach Camp. Welcome to Lofoten Beach Camp, the perfect place for Midnight Sun camping on a secluded beach. Located in the middle of western Lofoten, this is a wonderful base for exploring Lofoten’s main attractions. Their big campsite gives you plenty of space to choose your own spot, whether you are camping in a caravan, camper van or tent. No bookings are required for campers. The beach and the sea are your playgrounds, making it a perfect hotspot for fun activities for people of all ages. The new Beach Bar serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as hot and cold drinks and pastries. There is plenty of seating inside and outside where you can enjoy our meal accompanied by spectacular views. Perhaps you wish to try their famous Beach Tacos with a view? Lofoten Beach Camp is the perfect place to explore the surf, with surf courses and regular rentals. With Lofoten's safest beach, new showers and changing rooms, as well as a beach bar with perfect after-surf food & drinks, you will experience the full package at the surf camp.
#11
Nusfjord village
Arctic Route Bus Stop: the parking 150m before arriving at Nusfjord. Included in your Arctic Route ticket: Entrance is included - show your Arctic Route ticket to the ticket booth. You have 1 hour to visit the town. Be back on the bus latest 12:20. The bus departs at 12:25. Nusfjord, the sweetest little village in Lofoten, has a café that serves delicious coffee, tea and cake! Nusfjord is one of the oldest and best-preserved fishing villages in Lofoten. You can take part in the authentic Lofoten fishery with Captain Jan Martin and his crew on board the traditional fishing boats, Elltor and Havdur. Alternatively, you can kayak in the fjord between steep mountains that drop straight into the sea or hike on traditional mountain paths offering panoramic views of the archipelago (not available during this 60-minute sightseeing tour). Nusfjord has a unique atmosphere and, as you stroll down the pier and out towards the sea, it’s like the place tells a story. If you visit on a rainy day, the jetty gets slippery so be careful. Did you know that the earliest traces of human settlement in Nusfjord date back to 425 BC and, with a golden age early last century, Nusfjord is a treasure trove of history? This unique fishing village offers a deep dive into an era where the Northeast Arctic cod, often known as skrei, lay on the cliffs and hung on drying racks throughout the area. During your visit, pass by the supermarket at Nusfjord for a drink, sandwich or delicious pastry.
#12
Hamnøy (Eliassen Rorbuer)
Arctic Route bus stop: At the main road on the E10, a 3-minute walk from the reception of Eliassen Rorbuer. You may recognise this iconic place? With its traditional red rorbuer and spectacular scenery, the small island of Hamnøy is probably the most photographed place in Lofoten. Rorbuer means fishermen’s cabins. The holiday resort Eliassen Rorbuer on this magical island enjoys the longest tradition in the tourist industry in Lofoten. The story of Eliassen Rorbuer started in the mid-1870s when the Wulff-Nilsen and Eliassen families came to the island and started catching and selling fish. The oldest fishermen’s cabins at Eliassen Rorbuer date back to 1890. As is the case in the entire Lofoten archipelago, the commercial fishing season at Eliassen Rorbuer is from January to April. This is a great place to enjoy spectacular nature and the Midnight Sun in the summertime. For a wonderful and memorable experience in this stunning landscape, you can book a kayaking trip at Eliassen Rorbuer via Best Arctic! You can also enjoy tasty treats at the holiday resort. The restaurant Gadus serves Norwegian dishes with an Italian twist. The resort is also the site of one of the cutest bakeries in Lofoten: Lofoten Bakeri. Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the parking in the middle of Eliassen Rorbuer.
#13
Svolvær Svinøya
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the parking 10 meters next to Svinvøya Rorbuer Reception. The historical fishing village of Svinøya in Svolvær offers a glimpse of the traditional way of life in Lofoten. Svinøya is the perfect example of the old and traditional being preserved for future generations. It consists of several smaller islands that have been connected by fillings and small bridges. Svinøya is connected to the mainland connection by the Svinøy Bridge. This 359meter long bridge opened in 1964. If you wish to stay overnight, you can book accommodation in traditional fishermen’s cabins, suites, apartments or the exclusive manor house. You can enjoy local cuisine at Børsen Spiseri, a historic restaurant situated in a venerable wharf building dating from 1828. A monument called “Fiskarkona” stands at the end of the pier to keep an eye on the boats entering the harbour or going out to sea. The name means “fisherman’s wife” in English. The locals say this monument represents all the women who were left at home in days gone by waiting while their husbands to return from fishing trips at sea. The stroll from Svinøya to the Fiskarkona monument takes about 20 minutes. You will pass original wrecks along the way.
#14
Moskenes/Bodø Ferry
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the bus stop at Moskenes ferry. You can take the ferry from here to Bodø or arrive here if you are coming in the opposite direction. A new building with a waiting room and toilet has been built here to improve the ferry quay and make the waiting time more comfortable. With shades of light grey-blue, the new building on the Moskenes ferry quay has become somewhat of an attraction. The new service building offers a beautiful view of the approach, which is the main arrival for western Lofoten. It’s just a six-minute walk from the ferry quay to Moskenes Camping, the only campsite in Lofoten where you can see the entire Lofotveggen. The Lofotenveggen is the popular name of the mountain range in Lofoten, which looks like a wall from a distance. Moskenes Camping offers cosy cabins and service buildings of a good standard. You can also enjoy an amazing view of the Vestfjord. *Notice: The operator of the Moskenes-Bodø ferry (Torghatten Nord AS) cannot guarantee the availability of spots on the ferry, and as a result, no reimbursement can be claimed from Arctic Route, Best Arctic, or any of their partners for costs connected to overstay longer in Moskenes.
#15
Sørvågen (Lofoten Planet & The Tide)
This bus stop gives you access to many smaller accommodation suppliers, such as Lofoten Planet and The Tide
#16
Å i Lofoten
Arctic Route Bus Stop: at the end of the road, behind the tunnel, 50m from the bus stop on the parking lot. Å in Lofoten is an old, traditional fishing village with rorbu (fishermen’s cabins) and wharves. The village is located on the island of Moskenesøya in Moskenes municipality. It marks the end of the E10 highway. Did you know that Å has two museums you can visit? At the Lofoten Stockfish Museum, you can walk around the factory floor, learn how stockfish is made and hear the history of how stockfish become a major export. You can also visit the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum, an open-air folk museum consisting of seven old buildings. You can experience, participate in and walk around in an authentic fishing village dating back to the 19th century. The famous bakery makes perhaps the world’s best cinnamon rolls and delicious bread in the old stone oven dating from 1878. Taste a piece of Lofoten’s baking history with a cup of coffee in the summer sun! (You can visit the bakery as part of the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum.) We recommend visiting amazing Værøy, a small island municipality located about 30 km from main “body” of the Lofoten archipelago. The only way to get here is by ferry operated by Torghatten Nord.