Lofoten (Norse Lófót) was originally the old name of the island Vestvagoya. The first element is ‘lo’ ‘lynx‘; the last element is ‘fot’ ‘foot’. The shape of the island must have been compared to a foot of a lynx.The Lofoten archipelago consists of many islands. They are Hinnoya, Austvagoy, Gimsoy, Vestvagoy, Flakstadoy, Moskenesoya, Vaeroy, Rost and several other smaller islands.
People usually make a visit of Lofoten to enjoy various popular activities like climbing, hiking, extreme skiing, riding, golfing, kayaking, biking, sea rafting and fishing. The sea is rich with life, including world’s largest deep water coral reef also known as Rost Reef. Besides this, one can also witness the presence of sea eagles, cormorants, colorful puffin, otters, moose, etc…on Lofoten.
The Lofoten Islands are considered among one of the best places in the world to see the Northern lights. The shallow waters between many of the islands are perfect for paddling canoes to uninhabited islets and inaccessible beaches. The Codstock rock festival, Kabelvåg Market and Lofoten International Food Festival are all thriving festivals that attract a great number of people.