Sailing and Snowshoeing under the Northern Lights in Lofoten

We hoist the sails in the morning and set course for Ure, sailing between the small rocky islets of Finnstadpollen, which requires careful navigation and a few simple manoeuvres under the guide’s guidance.

On the way, we learn the basics of cod (skrei) fishing: how to rig the line, the techniques for casting and reeling in, and the basic methods for identifying a catch, with a view to preparing this fish for dinner should we have a successful catch. Once we’ve moored at Ure, we go ashore for a short evening stroll along the shore to gaze at the sky and increase our chances of spotting the Northern Lights, whilst emphasising safety and respect for the environment.

Those who wish to can finish with a traditional sauna session overlooking the fjord, followed by a brief dip in the cold water, guided and organised by the team.

After a short minibus journey from Ure (25 mins), we arrive at Haukland beach, the starting point for the day. We put on our snowshoes and begin the ascent of Mannen along a snow-covered path, keeping a pace suited to the group and the conditions.

At the summit, we take time to admire the turquoise waters fringed with white sand and the snow-capped mountains, then head back down to the minibus.

Back in Ure by late afternoon, everyone can choose between a traditional sauna to warm up or a quiet evening with a book overlooking the fjord.

We set sail for Nusfjord, an ancient fishing village whose red rorbuer are nestled against the cliffs; arriving by sea gives us a direct view of these houses and their coastal setting. We sail through the Arctic fjords, guided by the currents and the cliffs, whilst the guide explains the local history and the layout of the rorbuer during the crossing.

We disembark for a walking tour of the museum village: we examine the buildings, the quays and the old shipyards, and gain an understanding of how fishing has shaped the place.

In the evening, we prepare our equipment to set out after dark on a night-time hike from the village, in search of the Northern Lights in an unspoilt setting.

We set off southwards through the Lofoten Islands towards the village of Reine (total journey time: 1 hour), stopping regularly at key vantage points to admire the rorbuer and the surrounding mountains; the day alternates between short drives and walks, allowing us to enjoy the views at our own pace.

Depending on the weather, we’ll put on our snowshoes for a hike to a peak in the south of the islands or for a loop known locally as ‘Little Paradise’ – a route along snow-covered paths and moderate slopes, guided by the guide. You’ll learn the basics of snowshoeing, how to pace yourself in cold conditions and the basics of reading the terrain to choose a safe route.

The guide provides regular updates: technical breaks, explanations of the architecture of the rorbuer and local history, and safety instructions before each ascent. At the end of the day, we return to the sailing boat moored in the historic harbour of Nusfjord to warm up, pack away the equipment and debrief on the day’s events.

We hoist the sails one last time, heading for Stamsund; as we sail, we keep a watchful eye out for the marine mammals that inhabit the waters around the Lofoten Islands. Weather and sea conditions permitting, we go ashore the old-fashioned way on a small snow-covered island for a walk to explore the coast and observe wildlife from dry land.

On board, the guide comments on our sightings and explains the behaviour of the seals and birds of prey we encounter. The day ends at the port of Stamsund with a communal dinner, after which everyone retires to their berths for a well-deserved night’s rest.

The morning ends at Stamsund harbour, where we disembark by 9.00 am at the latest; before that, we have breakfast on board, which is included in the trip. After disembarking, a shuttle bus will leave from the harbour at around 7.30 am to take those who wish to go to Leknes Airport or the town centre. Please ensure you have your luggage packed the night before and are ready to disembark at the specified time to help ensure a smooth disembarkation for everyone.