What Season is Best for Your Lofoten Elopement
You and your fiancé have decided to embark on the journey of a lifetime and elope in the Lofoten Islands. The islands are packed with endless adventure and beautiful scenery, creating picture-perfect backdrops making it the perfect destination for your intimate elopement.
However, planning the perfect moment to exchange your vows requires careful consideration. Lofoten experiences dramatic seasonal changes and weather shifts that might impact your planning especially if you're dreaming of an outdoor adventure. As a couple, you want to keep this in mind when choosing the date of your special day.
Here's an outline of the Lofoten seasons so that you choose the optimal time to create lasting memories on your elopement day.
Should You Elope in Lofoten During Winter?
Embracing the Arctic chill, the Lofoten Islands transform into a magical snow-covered haven during winter. Lofoten has a much milder temperature than most would think with average temperatures ranging from -3°C/27°F to 3°C/37°F. However, with the biting wind, these temperatures can often feel much colder.
Winter begins in November and lasts until the end of March. November and December tend to be bad weather months. With a mix of rain and snow, these months are usually unstable. The days are short and between December 8th and January 6th, polar nights prevail. During this time, the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon, leaving you with only a few short hours of twilight each day.
In January, the sun returns in Lofoten and the weather begins to stabilise. The days remain short, with sunrise and sunset in close succession this makes for a beautiful pink glow for a few precious hours.
If you are thinking of eloping in the winter, I would strongly suggest March. Though you can still have some storms, they are less frequent. As the days get longer, outdoor activities are more enjoyable. Also, on a clear night you might just get to see the aurora.
The winter months are a prime season for your Lofoten elopement if you wish to see the Northern Lights in the night sky. During this season you'll have to brave elements and most hiking trails in the higher elevations and some outdoor activities are also closed for the season.
Pack for extreme cold, storms and book a cozy cabin to kick back & relax with wine in front of a crackling fireplace after enjoying a hot tub or sauna. Then watch the aurora borealis light up the night sky.
Eloping During Spring in Lofoten
You should consider a spring elopement for a promise of brighter days with a touch of winter magic. The season welcomes warmer weather and the days get longer as it moves closer to Midnight Sun (more on this to come). Temperatures average between 0°C/32°F and 10°C/50°F.
The real magic happens when the landscape is a mix of winter and spring. It’s beautiful to walk around the stunning beaches and lower valley paths surrounded by snow covered mountains. These can create the perfect backdrop for your elopement photos.
Midnight sun begins around May 27th, so this means you can enjoy 24 hours of sunlight for your outdoor activities. Consider late spring for your elopement because you can enjoy the outdoors and summer crowds have yet to arrive.
Summer is Everyone’s Favourite Season for Eloping in Lofoten
Summer in Lofoten runs from June to August. The islands spring to life under the glow of the midnight sun, creating a picturesque vibe for saying ‘I do’ to your better half.
You can plan outdoor water adventures. Imagine taking a boat ride through Lofoten's fjords, kayaking, surfing or hiking up the mountain trails. Nature bursts to life with colourful blooms, an ideal backdrop for an elopement ceremony and having a picnic under the midnight sun.
There are also many gorgeous beaches such as Kvalvika Beach for your seashore elopement. Or, if you dream of saying “I do” on a mountain top, the possibilities are endless. Make sure you don’t forget to pack extra layers as weather hovers around 7°C/45°F to 15°C/59°F, with occasional rain showers.
One downside is that your popular trails and hotel rooms see a surge in visitors. Be prepared for a livelier atmosphere and book your accommodation well in advance.
Midnight sun is over July 14th, however in early August, there’s still plenty of daylight coupled with mild weather. You may want to consider the shoulder season in late August for lower prices as summer vacations wind down.
Eloping During Autumn in Lofoten
When autumn arrives in September, Lofoten’s landscape wears a warm palette of golds, yellows, reds, and oranges. You’ll feel the first chill of winter as the days get noticeably cooler and shorter. The weather also becomes very unpredictable with a mix of sun, rain and wind. Don’t forget to pack your warmest layers and a good raincoat as the temperature fluctuates between 3°C/37°F to 11°C/51°F.
Crowds slowly begin to wane making accommodations more readily available. The popular attractions and hikes are now quieter and more intimate especially on weekdays. This season is still great for hiking, with most mountain summits still accessible; however, toward the end of autumn snow starts covering the higher peaks.
The shorter days mean the nights are dark enough to witness the northern lights dance in the sky. If you love seeing wildlife, whale watching is at its best. If you plan your Lofoten elopement during autumn you might be lucky to capture colourful leaves and Northern Lights in your elopement photos.
Wrapping Up
As a local Lofoten elopement photographer, I know first hand that each season has it’s own special magic. Personally, I find shoulder seasons in late spring and early autumn provide the ideal balance of stunning scenery, comfortable temperatures, and fewer crowds.
When it comes to choosing which season is best for your Lofoten elopement, take into account the special moments and experiences that you will cherish.
Whatever time of year you choose, your elopement or wedding photos will be breathtaking with the Lofoten Islands as your backdrop.
If your planning your Lofoten Elopement send me a quick email here or check out my elopement packages.