Lofoten Islands

A chain of islands above the Arctic Circle with jagged mountains rising straight out of the sea, white beaches, and fishing villages of red wooden cabins (rorbuer) on stilts. Reine and Hamnøy are the classic views; Henningsvær has a football pitch on a rock.

In summer there's the midnight sun; in winter, the northern lights. Hike Reinebringen for the view over Reine, or Ryten above Kvalvika beach. Fly to Leknes or Svolvær, or take the ferry from Bodø to Moskenes. Stay in a rorbu.