Lofoten winter magic: Stilt houses and northern lights

One hundred twenty-five miles north of the Arctic Circle – that's where your plane's taking you today! At long last, your Norwegian dream is coming true. And it's even happening in the glow of the northern lights! You've only got a few hours left to pore over your travel guide before you land in the far north.
'Velkommen til Norge!' You're finally here! Now it's time to pick up your hire car at the airport and set right off with your trusty new travel companion.
As you approach Harstad, you can already see the over 4,100-foot-high Møysalen mountain from afar, which lies in the national park of the same name. You check into your hotel then start forging plans to explore your surroundings. Pro tip: For an overview of the city, hike up the local Gangsåstoppen mountain. When you reach the top, you'll have a perfect 360° view of Harstad. And now? You hear your stomach rumbling, and your evening plans are clear!

'God morgen, Harstad!' Did you know that this town is an important part of Viking history? That means it's high time to stroll through the streets and look for traces of the past! Stop by Trondenes Church while you're at it. It's one of the town's special treasures and has been reflecting in the water of the Vågsfjord for over 750 years. It's pretty wild to think that this small church was built as a defence structure, isn't it? How about a coffee and a freshly baked cinnamon bun right by the fjord? With such a heavenly view, no wonder the locals call the western shore the pearl of the Vågsfjord! If you're up for some action today, you could always hike to Musvannet or the summit of Sætertinden or Hinnstein. After all, what better way is there to enjoy Norway's unique nature than with a pair of hiking boots on your feet and your gaze fixed on the horizon! And who knows, maybe you'll even catch your first glimpse of the northern lights...

'Excited' is an understatement, because today's a day when dreams come true! Impressive rock formations, picturesque fjords and the islanders' laid-back attitude towards life – you can hardly wait to experience it all up close and in person. You quickly adjust your rear-view mirror, then off you go: the Lofoten Islands await!
As you check out your surroundings, a hushed 'wow' escapes your lips; you've entered a whole new world! Red fishermen's cabins built on stilts right on the rocky shore of the deep blue sea, a rugged mountain landscape scattered with sparse vegetation – the locals have turned this seemingly inhospitable area into a dreamlike abode. And it's the ultimate explorer's playground! So, after a quick check-in at your accommodation, you're off to discover it all. And if you get hungry along the way and want a true taste of Lofoten, just head to one of the many fish restaurants and order a local speciality, such as bacalao!

Get ready to dive into the world of Lofoten! European route E10 connects the group of islands with one another, but the best way to truly immerse yourself in the archipelago is to simply park your car and continue on foot. That way, there's no windscreen separating you from the outdoors, and you can experience the unspoilt nature of the isles up close! Once you're back on the road, it's off to Henningsvær, a small fishing village on the south side of Lofoten, which stretches across eight islands connected by bridges. Stroll between the little houses on stilts, and if you need a bite to eat, make yourself comfortable in one of the many cafés. Once you've refuelled, hit the road again and head for the Trollfjord. At just 1.5 miles long, it's certainly not the size of the Arctic fjord that makes it so special but rather its unmistakable beauty that you can experience up close!