How to Elope in Lofoten

Lofoten is quickly becoming one of the most popular elopement locations for many. With its pristine sandy beaches, mighty jagged peaks, and colorful fishing villages, you can see why— it's a slice of Norwegian paradise. The staggering beauty and scenery create a memorable backdrop for your elopement. 

Eloping is intended to take the stress out of tying the knot with the love of your life, but it's easier said than done. You need to find a picture-perfect spot, figure out how to get there, apply for your marriage license, and perfect your vows.

It can be a little hectic, especially if you're dealing with pre-wedding butterflies. As a loving couple, you want your Lofoten elopement to go smoothly and with a bit of planning, you can make the experience stress-free and enjoyable.

Here are some tips on how to arrange an unforgettable elopement in Lofoten.

Pick the Right Season

Lofoten is great for an elopement almost year-round. Each season in the islands has its own unique charm, but it can also bring along a number of challenges. Picking the right season can make a huge difference depending on your personal interests.

Winter is best if you want to watch Lofoten's famous night sky dance with Northern Lights. However, you'll have to deal with cold spells and very short days. In Lofoten, we have polar nights from the beginning of December until the beginning of January. This means the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon during this time. It’s not pitch black all day, but you won’t see the sun and will have about 2 hours of twilight each day. 

Fall and spring bring milder weather but also rough winds and rain. These are my personal favorite times of year here in Lofoten. Yes, the weather is unpredictable and we can still have snow in May. Some mountain tops are not accessible during this time due to snow or avalanche danger.  However, the changing weather can create a dramatic scene for your images and there are fewer crowds.

Summer ticks all the boxes for most couples. If you're planning on doing some hiking, June, July and August are prime months for this. But summer also means you'll likely run into crowds. If you're considering an elopement between June and August, ensure a smooth experience by securing your hotel room and vendors well in advance. Keep in mind that Lofoten may not deliver the stereotypical tropical beauty during summer; the weather can be unpredictable, shifting swiftly from beach-friendly conditions one day to requiring a down jacket the next. It is generally a colder climate compared to other European or North American countries, so be prepared.

Getting to and Around Lofoten

It's important to think about your travel arrangements early in your planning stage. The easiest way to arrive by plane is to book a flight with Widerøe Airlines to Leknes or Svolvær. These flights usually have a stop over in Bodø or Tromsø.  From here, you're close to everything you need for your trip, including cozy hotels, fantastic restaurants, or superb elopement spots.

Booking flights to Leknes or Svolvær can understandably be a bit difficult especially if you are booking at the last minute. In that case, you can fly to Evenes or Bodø and reach Lofoten by car and/or ferry. Just keep in mind that this mode of transportation will take a bit longer than you think on the narrow northern Norwegian roads.

Buses connecting Å (which is the southern tip of the Lofoten Islands) and Narvik are another option, but they only make stops in the bigger cities. That's why a car rental will make your stay more flexible. 

Many choose to fly to Evenes and rent a car. This is absolutely worth the drive if you are considering doing this. I’d be happy to suggest a few beautiful and worthwhile stops along the way!

Choose the Perfect Elopement Backdrop

One of the most exciting parts of your elopement is picking the perfect location together that feels right for you. Some top spots include sandy beaches like the more secluded Bunes Beach. If you're into hiking, the famous Ryten hike overlooking Kvalvika Beach might be just the spot for you. 

For a bit of tranquil serenity, you can't go wrong with the quaint fishing villages of Nusfjord, Henningsvær, or Reine. The options are endless. As an elopement photographer based in Lofoten, I can do all the heavy lifting, including choosing a well-scouted, picture-perfect backdrop for your vows.

Pack for the Weather

What you wear is also important. No matter what the season, the weather in Lofoten can be unpredictable. Pack for potential wind, rain, snow or cold spells.

Breathable, layered clothing that allows you to move freely is a must. Cozy knits or fleece sweaters, waterproof jackets, wool layers and sturdy boots (that you won't mind getting muddy) are your best bets. Remember to bring warm hats and gloves.

Don’t forget a good hiking backpack. You’ll want one that is comfortable, waterproof and is large enough to accommodate your wedding attire, water and snacks without cramming. 

Get Proper Paperwork

Some foreign couples choose to do the paperwork for their marriage in their home countries and have a symbolic ceremony in Lofoten. However, it is possible for a foreign couple to elope legally in Lofoten if you wish. Follow the instructions on this page. Most couples don’t need a visitor’s visa to come to Norway unless you plan on staying more than 90 days, but it’s best to always double check. You can find additional information on all the required documents needed here. Once all the paperwork for a legal ceremony is submitted the processing time is about 3 months to obtain your marriage license. You also need two witnesses, so if  you have no guests and it’s just the two of you, you could use your photographer and another vendor for this.

Your Lofoten Elopement Checklist

• Choose Your Date:

  • Familiarize yourself with the seasons and weather in Lofoten to select the perfect elopement date or preferred season for your special day.

• Ceremony Considerations:

  • Decide whether you want an official or symbolic wedding ceremony.

  • Begin collecting necessary paperwork early, even if you are planning to be legally married in your home country.

• Photographer/Planner Selection:

  • Reach out to and secure an elopement photographer and/or planner, ideally one based in Lofoten with local expertise to assist in addressing potential planning challenges.

• Attire Acquisition:

  • Search for and order your wedding attire, keeping in mind delivery and alteration times.

  • Choose outfits that suit your day, especially if it involves various activities. You may want to choose a wedding dress or suit that ensures comfort and doesn’t restrict your moments in the activities you have planned. 

• Travel and Accommodations:

  • Book your flights, rental car, and accommodation.

  • Plan activities not only for your elopement day but also for the other days of your memorable stay in Lofoten.

  • Secure your Airbnb, cabin, lodge, or hotel reservation well in advance. Remember, prime season books up fast.

• Official Ceremony Planning:

  • If opting for an official ceremony, ensure your paperwork is in order.

  • Contact the municipality where the ceremony will take place and schedule the celebrant for your elopement day. 

• Vendo Coordination:

  • Book vendors such as a florist, hairdresser, makeup artist, and the restaurant for your celebratory dinner.

• Write Your Vows:

  • Craft heartfelt vows that reflect your unique journey and connection well in advance. You don’t want to leave these until you're standing on top of a mountain in a windstorm - unless you think that’s when your true vows will come out.

• Activity Planning:

  • Pre-book additional activities with vendors, whether it's kayaking, surfing, fishing tours, boat tours, or any desired adventure.

  • For the Northern Lights experience, consider doing it with your photographer or hire a guide for an enhanced and memorable experience. 

Wrap-Up: Enjoy your Dream Lofoten Elopement

Some local photographers are able to provide assistance and referrals for items found in this checklist which will help remove the stresses and confusion with planning a foreign elopement.   

With a little bit of work and planning your Lofoten elopement will be fun, and these tips will help make your dream come true.

To begin planning your Lofoten Elopement Adventure send me a quick email here or check out my elopement packages.