I explored Svolvær and the Lofoten region during my first trip to Norway. Without having an enormous amount of love for this little city, I have a nice souvenir however, symbolising my two memories of the northern lights and sea excursions.
After taking a tour of Svolvær, you'll quickly understand why nearly 200,000 tourists go there every year: it's the perfect starting point for venturing into the Lofoten archipelago and exploring the hidden islands and fiords. With its regional airport and seaport (where the coastal express Hurtigruten stops), Svolvær is a crossing point more than anything else.
The scenery, however, is very nice with beautiful mountains and steep cliffs plunging right into the sea. When the sunrise decides to show the tip of its nose (in winter of course!), the show is very photogenic and there are many who enjoy it!
Don't hesitate to enquire about the possibilities of an excursion at sea: my encounter with an osprey was an exceptionally intense moment and the highlight of my trip to Svolvær.