Copyright; Northern Norway Tourist Board.
Beginning November 2, travellers from the UK can enjoy direct access to Northern Norway’s Arctic landscapes with a new weekly flight from London Gatwick to Harstad-Narvik Airport in Evenes. This winter route will be joined on December 23 by another direct flight from Milan Bergamo, Italy, opening a gateway to the unique winter experiences of Lofoten, Vesterålen, and Narvik.
Operated by Norwegian Airlines, these routes will run weekly, with flights from London on Saturdays and from Bergamo on Mondays, making access to the region simpler for international visitors. Local tourism boards—Destination Lofoten, Visit Narvik, Visit Vesterålen, and Northern Norway Tourism—are celebrating this new connectivity, highlighting the enhanced opportunity to share Northern Norway’s beautiful scenery and winter adventures with a European audience.
A Season of Contrast
Winter in Northern Norway offers a distinct opportunity for visitors to experience the renowned northern lights, particularly striking during the long polar nights, against the backdrop of Lofoten’s steep mountains or Vesterålen’s open coastal areas. The Polar Nights refers to a period when the sun remains below the horizon, typically between early December and early January. This season is also marked by the “Blue Hour,” a rare period of twilight when the snow-covered landscapes are cast in a deep blue light, a phenomenon distinctive to the Arctic winter. During this time, the light reflects off the blue sea and white snow, covering the entire landscape in a beautiful blue shade known as Polar Blue.
Adventure, Culture, and Wildlife
Outdoor activities across these destinations are numerous: ski touring, dog sledding, and sea safaris allow visitors to explore Northern Norway’s rough landscapes and coastlines.
Lofoten is known for its vivid landscape and rich fishing culture. Here, visitors can partake in Lofotfiske, a traditional fishing practice targeting Atlantic cod, which has shaped the local economy and community for centuries. The combination of mountains and fjords creates an ideal setting for various activities, from ski touring to sea safaris and even surfing in the Arctic waters. Each experience unfolds against a backdrop of breathtaking nature.
Just a stone’s throw from Lofoten lies Narvik, home to the famed Narvikfjellet ski resort, celebrated as the premier ski destination in Northern Norway. The resort offers various skiing options, including alpine, randonnée, freeriding, and ski touring, all set against fjord views. Recognized as Northern Norway’s leading winter sports destination, Narvik is set to host the FIS Alpine World Ski Championship in 2029, the world’s 2nd largest winter sports event after the Winter Olympics. And with that, Narvik is gearing up to become the Arctic’s ultimate winter sports hub. Additionally, adventure seekers can experience dog sledding through the serene winter landscape of Narvik, gliding deep into the mountains while listening to the soft sound of paws against the snow.
For those drawn to the wonders of nature, Vesterålen presents some of the best winter whale-watching opportunities in Norway. The fjords are frequented by majestic orca and humpback whales, providing unforgettable encounters for wildlife enthusiasts. Vesterålen offers a diverse winter wildlife experience, with moose safaris that provide close encounters with the «king of the forest» and sea eagle safaris where you can see these magnificent birds soaring over icy fjords, guided by locals.
Cultural and Culinary Experiences
In addition to being a playground for adventure enthusiasts, the region offers rich cultural experiences that reflect its heritage. While visiting Narvik and Vesterålen, visitors can immerse themselves in Sami culture, learning about traditional reindeer herding and the customs that define this indigenous community. These experiences provide insight into the area’s history and the Sami’s relationship with their environment.
Culinary experiences in Northern Norway are equally noteworthy. Local dining options like Kvitnes Gård in Vesterålen offer an authentic taste of Norwegian cuisine, emphasising farm-to-table principles with dishes prepared from locally sourced ingredients. This charming farmstead, dating back to the 19th century, allows diners to experience a true connection with nature.
Another cultural stop is the Hurtigruten Museum in Stokmarknes, which celebrates Norway’s maritime history. Here you can explore exhibits detailing the significance of Hurtigruten to the region, including its role in transportation and trade.
Discovering the arctic winter
With the new flight routes connecting travellers to Northern Norway’s distinctive scenery and culture, now is an excellent time to explore this winter destination. From the dramatic landscapes of Lofoten to the ski slopes of Narvik and the wildlife and culinary delights of Vesterålen, the region offers a range of experiences. As the polar nights bring the northern lights and unique cultural encounters, international visitors can appreciate the quiet beauty and charm of this Arctic area.
