SUMMER BEYOND THE ARCTIC CIRCLE. Migle's unforgettable journey to the Lofoten Islands
Hi! I’m Miglė. Nature and travel are my magic, offering endless wonder and inspiration. Whether it’s a forest, mountain ridge, or city skyline, each moment reveals something unique. Even when we stand side by side, we see the world differently, creating our own memories.
That’s what excites me about travel - no two experiences are ever the same, and each journey brings something new and unexpected.
I share my travel experiences on Instagram, and now I have the joy and pleasure of sharing them with the DUE. community. Thank you for reading and letting my stories become a part of your life.
It's never too early to start thinking about summer and its travels, especially when it comes to planning. As autumn sets in, I invite you to escape to summer... in the North. A place that surprises even the most seasoned travelers, as it did for me. Lofoten, often called the jewel of Norway by travel agencies, is a destination you can easily plan on your own. There are several ways to get there—flying is the fastest, while driving is the most convenient. Although the journey might require more effort, the reward is absolutely worth it.
The Lofoten archipelago, located beyond the Arctic Circle, is an excellent choice for those seeking breathtaking nature and unforgettable panoramas. It’s perfect for hikers, climbers, and anyone who enjoys the adventurous spirit of camping. Worried it might be too cold in summer? Lofoten wins that battle easily—thanks to the Gulf Stream, the summer climate here is surprisingly mild. I’ll admit, I packed gloves and a hat in my backpack, only to laugh at myself later. But, as they say, being prepared in the North is never a bad idea!
In July, my husband Mindaugas and I set off for Lofoten in our car. Before the trip, we set up our "home" – a rooftop tent. The car’s trunk housed a humming mini fridge, and our belongings – food, clothes, dishes, and other camping gear – were neatly packed in clear plastic boxes. Our plan was to spend as much time as possible outdoors and immersed in nature, and Lofoten is absolutely perfect for that.
The route, though long, is entirely doable - passing through Latvia, Estonia, and Finland. After three days on the road, we kicked off a 14-day adventure. Lofoten’s beauty is hard to put into words: white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, towering green peaks, charming villages nestled within fjords, and authentic fishermen's cabins. With each turn, nature continued to surprise us, growing more stunning by the day.
WHY SHOULD YOU SEEK SUMMER IN LOFOTEN?
1.
The Lofoten archipelago consists of five main islands, but in reality, it includes around 80 islands. The major ones are connected by the scenic E10 road, stretching 160 km from the northernmost point on Austvågøya Island to the village of Å on Moskenesøya Island. I guarantee the views along the way will leave a lasting impression.
2.
In Norway, the Allemannsretten principle allows everyone the right to enjoy nature and spend time outdoors, as long as they do so respectfully and leave no trace behind. In Lofoten, campsites are located in picturesque spots, whether by beaches, fjords, or mountains. For those seeking more privacy, there are also remote locations where you can camp for free, provided you follow the established rules.
3.
Lofoten offers over 90 hiking trails—enough to make your head spin when choosing. Many are short, around 2-4 km, but don't be fooled: they are often steep right from the start and demand determination and sweat. However, the views are nothing short of Olympic gold. If hiking is your thing, look up these magic words: Offersøykammen, Kvalvika, Reinebringen. These are just a few, but they personally captivated me the most.
4.
You’ve probably seen the iconic image online: red cabins on stilts, set against deep blue waters and stunning mountain backdrops. These are the traditional Lofoten rorbuer—fishermen's cabins, many of which are now rented out to tourists. While not the cheapest option, staying in one is a truly authentic experience, and well worth a few nights. If you're content just to admire them, the most picturesque rorbuer can be found in the villages of Nusfjord, Sakrisøy, and Reine.
5.
What activities await in Lofoten beyond hiking? You can enjoy unforgettable adventures like ocean fishing, kayaking through fjords, surfing (yes, there are a few great spots - just need some wind), and bird watching. And after all these adventures, don’t forget to treat yourself to some cinnamon buns as you search for the very best one!
