Island hopping in Scandinavia is a different level of experience from any you have ever encountered. Scandinavia trip planners offer a wide range of activities, from watching the Northern lights in Sweden to exploring the legacies of the Vikings in Denmark. The advanced train system in the region makes traveling between these countries a separate experience in itself. A Stockholm to Copenhagen train will let you revel in the beauty of the areas that link the two countries. However, if you are looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation, you should consider going island hopping in Norway. The Southern part of the country has some of the most beautiful islands you will see in any part of the world. Check out a few of them here.
Lofoten Islands
Lofoten Islands is the first choice for many travelers looking to explore Norwegian islands. The reason for this is not hard to understand once you learn about this island’s features. Located at the far north of the Arctic Circle, this island is surrounded by granite mountains that encircle the beaches and fishing villages. The crystal clear water gives room for many activities, including swimming, surfing, kayaking, and fishing.
Other activities to engage in while at Lofoten Islands include hiking the trails, especially the famous ones on Moskenesoy Island. You can also indulge in photography as everywhere you turn your camera within the Islands will give you a stunning result.
The island is also devoid of artificial light, making it possible to spot Northern lights if you are lucky. The main islands in Lofoten are Austvagoy, Flakstadoy, Vestvagoy, and Moskenesoy. All the islands are connected by bridges and the E10 road that spans the entire archipelago.
Merdo
While not one of the most popular islands, this one is among the best in South Norway. The island is located at the farthest end of the archipelago near Arendal, and it is everything you can imagine from an island in Southern Norway. The area is dotted with white-painted wooden houses with flower gardens. The ocean’s view is almost available from every part of the island, and the environment seems out of a fairytale.
Explore all Merdo has to offer by walking the long beaches, visiting the Merdohus Museum and the café within it, and strolling through the island. Summer is the best time to visit, so ensure you bring your summer essentials like a bathing suit and money for ice cream. The most fascinating fact is that you can bring a tent along to sleep overnight. The island can get somewhat crowded during the high season, so anticipate that. You can get to Merdo by boarding a ferry from Pollen in the Arendal city center.
Oscarsborg
There is a big chance that you will visit Oslo when you are in Norway. If this happens, one of the best islands you should include in your itinerary is Oscarsborg. Lying to the south of the Oslfjord, this island is home to a fortress bearing the same name. This fortification is almost as famous as the island, and while it is visible from the waters that lead to it, it is a vantage point of defense. The fjord narrows as it leads to the island, and canons from the island can easily take out approaching ships.
Since the fortress is one of the top attractions on the island, you cannot miss it. It has an important history that you can also learn while you are there. The fortress, built in the 19th century, was instrumental in defending the country during the German invasion of Norway in 1940. An underground torpedo facility on the island was used to sink the German cruiser, delaying the enemy’s advance until the King and government were escorted to safety. The fortress is now open year-round; you can access it by ferry from Drobak.
The options you have while exploring islands beyond Norway include neighbouring countries like Finland, Stockholm, and Denmark. These countries share similar geography and culture, so the experience will not be radically different. Exploring the islands also provides access to other activities like hiking, fishing, and surfing.
