I wanted to learn more about visiting Norway, so I went directly to the source.  According to the folks at Visit Norway, the coolest places to explore are in the northern parts of the country. 

The Lofoten Islands, an archipelago of seven main islands, top their list of places to visit, touting the area’s quaint villages, excellent fishing, whale watching excursions, and nature activities.  It’s true, its a stunning setting for hiking, kayaking tours or mountain climbing.  For the less adventurous, there is the always the Viking Museum where visitors can learn about the islands’ first inhabitants who arrived about 6,000 years ago.  There is also the opportunity to play that endless round of golf you’ve always dreamed of during one of the days of midnight sun (between May 27 and July 17). 

If you’re like me and aren’t so keen on frigid weather, Lofoten is surprisingly “temperate” compared to other places at the same latitude.  This is due to being in the path of the Gulf Stream and the coastal climate which creates mild winters and relatively cool summers.  The coldest months (January and February) average 30 degrees Fahrenheit, while the warmest months (July and August) stay in the lower 50s. 

Being above the Arctic Circle, Lofoten is one of the best places in the world to witness the Northern Lights.  Part of the reason is due to the “warm” climate I just mentioned, but also because the aurural oval crosses over the area.  The Polar Light Center is an excellent resource to learn more about the Northern Lights phenomenon. 

Keep in mind that activities in this part of the world are highly seasonal so plan ahead.

Now that you’re sold on the area, how do you get there? Trains and planes arrive from Oslo throughout the day, and once you arrive, rental cars, public buses and (in the summer months) boats will get you to where you want to be.

For more information, both Frommers and the New York Times have excellent travel guides on the Lofoten Islands. 

Images Courtesy of The New York Times and CodyDuncan.com