Norway insider tips: Off the beaten tracks

The first alternative to Lofoten is the Vesterålen archipelago, which includes the islands of Andøya, Langøya, Skogsøya, Hadseløya and parts of Hinnøya and Austvågøya. The archipelago adjoins Lofoten to the north and should not be missing from the list of the most beautiful places in Norway. Lots of sandy beaches, especially compared to other places in Norway, clear, sometimes turquoise sea, rugged mountain formations and small fishing villages make the Vesterålen Islands a real highlight of your trip. Especially cool: Vesterålen is the only place in the country where you can go whale watching all year round - without the crowds. In summer, you can also explore the island around the clock thanks to the midnight sun, and in winter you have a good chance of seeing the Northern Lights. You can also learn more about the Sámi culture on site.

The many hiking and cycling trails are not overcrowded even in summer, just like the beautiful campsites, some of which are located right by the water. You often don't even need to make a reservation or book in advance (no guarantee). In undeveloped areas and outside of nature reserves, the right of public access also applies, so wild camping and free standing are permitted at many spots. Nevertheless, we have selected a few campsites for you on some of the islands - all with good ratings and in the best locations.

Senja, a peninsula north of Lofoten and Vesterålen, is another great alternative to camping in Lofoten. Here you will encounter even fewer tourists than in other places in northern Norway. You can look forward to wide beaches, clear sea water, rugged mountain scenery and hiking trails that are not crowded with tourists, as well as small, uncrowded authentic fishing villages. There are plenty of cheap campsites and motorhome pitches, but thanks to the right of public access, you can also camp away from the campsite on Senja (as long as you follow the rules of the right of public access). There are many different activities on offer, depending on the time of year you can watch the Northern Lights, go hiking or cycling and much more.

There's no question that the Geirangerfjord with its impressive mountains and many, no less impressive waterfalls is a real eye-catcher. However, it's not just us who think so, but also the crowds of tourists who flock to the fjord every year. Several cruise ships and countless day trip boats every day ensure that the Geirangerfjord is very busy. The viewpoint at the head of the fjord, where you can take the typical photo on the overhanging rock, is also naturally crowded with tourists. What's more, right next to the campsites at the head of the fjord is the mooring point for the huge cruise ships - peace and quiet and an idyllic setting tend to look rather different, in our opinion.

If the Geirangerfjord is too busy for you, pay a visit to the Sognefjord instead. It lies to the south of the Geirangerfjord and is much less crowded with cruise ships, although it is the longest and deepest fjord in Europe - and also boasts beautiful landscapes and unspoilt nature. There are several campsites, many of which are located directly on the water and also offer fantastic mountain panoramas.