Svolvær – gateway to the untamed Lofoten Islands

The largest town in the Lofoten Islands is the gateway to the archipelago’s towering peaks, crystal fjords, and enchanting fishing villages. Situated above the Arctic Circle, this is a prime place to catch those ethereal Northern Lights and experience the hazy Midnight Sun.

Svolvær town itself blends traditional charm with modern comforts for a warm welcome.

The first town establishment known in Northern Norway, Vågar, was situated around the narrow, natural harbor just west of Svolvær. Vågar is mentioned in the book Heimskringla by Snorri Sturlason and might have been established as early as the year 800. One of the first churches in North Norway was most likely built here, approximately 900 years ago. Svolvær is first mentioned in 1567 ("Suoluer"), but it is probably much older.

The Old Norse form of the name is assumed to be Svolver. The first element is probably derived from svalr, which means ‘cool’, or 'chilly', and the last element is ver, which means 'fishing village'. The great cod fisheries in winter have always been the most important economical foundation. Svolvær was an important fishing village for a long time, and was the basis for the town status granted in 1918.

Fiskergata 23, 8300 Svolvær