LOFOTEN

Far out in the sea, protected by the warm Gulf Stream is Lofoten. Lofoten is an adventure in itself. Precipitous mountains that run straight into the wild sea. Beaches white as chalk are squeezed between mountains and fjords which encourage you to make a refreshing bath. In Lofoten at summer you can sit on the beach in the middle of the night and watch the sun reflect itself in the sea. Or you can visit the Henningsvær current in a strong gale and rain with the fishing line hanging from the boat`s rail while you are trying to get fresh winter cod for dinner. You can participate in the World Championship in winter cod fishing in Svolvær, climb in mighty mountains, learn the art of smithwork in Sund or dine like vikings at the museum in Borg. If you want to go far out into the Atlantic Ocean you should visit Å or the islands Værøy and Røst.

Lofoten has more than fish to offer, the possibilities are plentiful.

From December 2007 it is in fact possible to reach the wild and beautiful Lofoten without a ferry. A huge step forward for everybody who has a predilection for the wild and beautiful. There is a saying which says that all roads lead to Rome, but in Lofoten they are now proud of telling the World that «all roads can lead to Å».

Do not miss the adventure, visit Lofoten.

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VESTERÅLEN

Between mainland Norway and Lofoten we find Vesterålen. Right in the heart of Northern Norway. Vesterålen consists of the islands Hadseløya, Langøya, Andøy and a part of Norway`s biggest island, Hinnøy.

Central places in Vesterålen are Melbu and Stokmarknes, the last known as the home of hurtigrutenand it`s cradle. The hurtigrutemuseum is a place you just have to visit.

Further we have Myre and Sortland. Myre is the largest fishery harbour in Vesterålen. Sortland is the trading centre in Vesterålen. In Sortland the «world famous» fish balls from Vesterålen canning factory.

If you go to Myre, the road is not long to Nyksund, the fishing village known for it`s spectacular bay. In the 80s Nyksund was a ghost town in a state of decay. But today Nyksund newly restored and exciting with a lively culture life among the inhabitants.

In Vesterålen you are in the middle of the empire of the whales. From Andenes and Stø you can join the big boats on the fishing grounds and these trips usually ends with a close encounter with Moby Dick. The whale safari has our warmest recommendations.

www.arctictourist.com recommends whale safari from Andenes and Stø.

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