Midnight sun
Weeks when the sun simply doesn't set. Here's how to make the most of it.
In Lofoten the sun stays above the horizon around the clock from roughly late May to mid-July – Visit Lofoten gives 28 May to 14 July; our own calculation for Reine came out at about 26/27 May to 15/16 July. The best views are from north-facing beaches and summits, around midnight when the sun is lowest.
When is the midnight sun in Lofoten?
Lofoten lies well above the Arctic Circle, so around the summer solstice the sun circles the sky without setting. The period runs from roughly late May to mid-July. Before and after, the nights are still bright – you won't see real darkness from early May until well into August.
What it's really like
It's strange, and wonderful. Your body clock gets confused the first night. Then you start doing things you'd never do at home: a hike at 10 pm, a swim at midnight, dinner in full sun at 1 am. Locals often say summer is when they "don't sleep". Many visitors find they don't need to.
Where to watch
The sun is lowest – and the light most golden – around midnight in the north. Look for north-facing beaches and viewpoints: Uttakleiv and Haukland on Vestvågøy, the beaches on Flakstadøya and Gimsøy, or a summit like Ryten. Reinebringen is popular at night for exactly this reason.
Tips
- Sleep: an eye mask helps more than you'd think.
- Hike late: trails are quieter after dinner, and the light is better.
- Book early: June to August is peak season in Lofoten. Houses, ferries and car rentals fill up first.
- Weather: summer can be anywhere from cool and rainy to properly warm. Pack layers and a rain jacket either way.
Good questions
When is the midnight sun in Lofoten?
The sun stays above the horizon around the clock from roughly late May to mid-July (Visit Lofoten gives 28 May to 14 July; exact dates depend on where you are on the islands).
When is the best time to visit Lofoten?
Depends on what you are after. Northern lights: roughly late August to mid-April, when nights are dark. Midnight sun: around late May to mid-July. Snow and winter light: January to March. Hiking: June to September. No season is a bad one – each is a different trip.
How far ahead should I book?
For June to August and the aurora months around Christmas, New Year and February/March: the earlier the better. Shorter notice can work in spring and autumn. Ask.
