Heritage Fisherman Cabins in Nusfjord Offer Authentic Glamping in the Lofoten Islands
May 20, 2025 . . . Escape to a remote corner of the Lofoten archipelago and experience glamping like never before at Nusfjord Village & Resort, Norway’s oldest and best-preserved historic fishing village. Dotted with rust-red and sunshine-yellow cabins, this unique location—where mountains rise dramatically from the sea—offers an authentic glimpse into the adventure and beauty of Norway’s wilderness. For a truly immersive experience in one of Norway’s most picturesque fishing villages, there is no better way to connect with the past than by staying in Nusfjord’s Heritage Cabins. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and the sounds of the harbor, these cabins invite guests to experience life as Norwegian fishermen once did.
Nusfjord has been one of Lofotens most important fishing harbours for centuries. The fishermen came for the seasonal cod fishery and stayed in the traditional ‘rorbu’ cabins. During the “golden age”, there were 500 boats and 1,500 men staying during the annual 'Lofotfiske' fishing season.
There is no doubt the spirit of the hardened fishermen who set out to sea still lives on in the village.
Built between 1888 and 1900, the cabins seamlessly blend old-world charm with modern comfort—perfect for those seeking a touch of adventure without sacrificing home-like amenities.
Unlike traditional glamping accommodations such as canvas tents or yurts, Nusfjord offers a unique experience with its historic cabins, each reflecting a distinctive blend of rustic charm and contemporary comfort. The Heritage Cabins evoke the spirit of a fisherman’s lifestyle while still offering the comfort and adventure that makes glamping so popular, all while providing guests with a touch of history.
Staying in one of Nusfjord’s Heritage Cabins is like stepping back in time. It’s an immersive experience that allows guests to connect deeply with the rhythm of the sea and the enduring spirit of the village. Guests are fully immersed in a setting where tradition, nature, and history converge, making Nusfjord one of Norway’s most captivating destinations.
Nusfjord's Heritage Cabins are authentic, government-protected fishermen's cabins—known as rorbu—dating back to the late 19th century. These cabins have been meticulously preserved to maintain their historical integrity. The cabins retain their original structure and features, including visible holes in the timber walls where fishermen once prepared their nets with bait.
In keeping with their historical authenticity, these cabins do not have running water or indoor plumbing. Guests have access to a private external bathroom located approximately 100 meters from the cabin, and fresh water is available from a tap near the entrance. The cabins feature a double bed situated in the living area, echoing the compact living arrangements once typical for fishermen.
The fishing cabins stand as a testament to the standards of construction at a particular time, as well as to the evolution of those standards. The layout, consisting of an outer room for tools and equipment, and an inner room with a stove, table, benches, and sleeping spaces, has been the dominant design for several hundred years and remains clearly visible here. Originally, the cabins featured open trusses and timber walls, but over time, both the interior and exterior were paneled. For example, the area used for storing fishing lines was eventually moved to a separate compartment, though this work was often still carried out in the same room where meals were prepared, eaten, and where fishermen slept—often until after World War II. These cabins not only preserve the physical form of historical craftsmanship but also tell the story of changing social and living conditions for generations of Norwegian fishermen.
Staying in a Heritage Cabin provides a truly unique experience, immersing guests in the rich history of the village.
For guests seeking a higher degree of luxury and added amenities, Nusfjord also offers additional authentic fisherman's cabins or 'robu". Set within the village or along the waterfront, each has been lovingly refurbished to attend to the needs of today’s modern traveler, yet they maintain a rustic quality embracing their rich heritage. Soak in a steaming hot shower, enjoy a warm beverage under cosy wool blankets in the living area, or watch the ever-changing Lofoten weather from the waterfront terrace.
You’ll find the heritage at every turn and in the buildings that make up the Nusfjord experience where five protected buildings are under the Norwegian Directorate for Cultural Heritage. The traditional fishing boat Elltor is docked at the centuries old wharf and is ready for excursions where the captain regales guests with ancient stories of Norse myths and legends that have been passed down for generations.
Traditional architectural practices are still respected and some of the buildings are maintained as cultural exhibitions while others have been transformed. Landhandleriet Café was the office of the hamlet owner himself, Mr. Dahl. The old general store dates to 1905 and has preserved its original interior, taking you back in time from the moment you enter. The Landhandleriet Café now occupies all the rooms, but the first room within the store itself was once the office of the "væreier" (fishing village owner). From this vantage point, he had a clear view of the harbour, closely monitoring the arrival of boats laden with fish, while also keeping a meticulous eye on the store's sales activities.
Originally, Oriana Tavern functioned as a former whiskey cellar – you will still find food and whiskey, as well as rustic pizzas in a comforting environment. At the heart of the resort lies Salteriet, a former fish salt house turned art gallery that displays contemporary works by Nordic painters, ceramicists, sculptors, and all manner of artists and craftsmen. On the ground floor, curated exhibitions of art in all genres are shown. On the second floor you can experience exhibitions in collaboration with The Queen Sonja Print Award.
ABOUT NUSFJORD
Underscoring the fact that Nusfjord is one of the most distinctive experiences in the world, it is comprised of 26,000 acres - an area nearly twice the size of Manhattan – offering a playground of activities to stretch even the wildest of imaginations. Despite the vastness, community means a great deal to Nusfjord where there remains 20 full-time residents living in the village, many of whom work for the property in various capacities, in many cases offering a level of expertise and knowledge on the region that would otherwise be difficult to find.
Open year-round, adrenaline seekers will be exhilarated at the possibilities of activities offered, while those seeking beauty and tranquility will easily find their peace in this rugged corner of the breathtaking Lofoten archipelago. In Nusfjord, guests will find a surprising refuge of warmth and hospitality in the wild.
OWNERSHIP
The Krefting family’s company, Carucel Eiendom in Oslo, acquired the historic village of Nusfjord Village and Resort with the intention to maintain its rich heritage and proud culture, yet they have breathed new life into it and opened it up for a world of modern travelers. “The family fell in love with the place and made a considerable investment with the goal to preserve and communicate the fishing village's history while offering the highest level of comfort and service. For us it’s about operating sustainably,” says Caroline Krefting, COO of Carucel Eiendom. “The most important thing is that the overall experience is a total immersion in the greatness of nature.”
Nusfjord has been recognized by TripAdvisor Traveler's Choice in 2022, 2023 and 2024. This year, Nusfjord is a member of Small Luxury Hotels in their Considerate Collection indicating the property as Environmentally Conscious, are Cultural Custodians, and are Community Minded. Nusfjord has also become a member of The Aficionados a tightly edited collection of creatively inspired hotels, houses, and villas that possess a strong style narrative and have a natural warmth about them. To make a reservation, please write to booking@nusfjord.no or call +47 760 93 020. Follow us on Instagram.
Media Contact: For further information and high-resolution images, please contact Kathleen Duda kathleen@kvdcom.com or Angela Nigoghossian an@kvdcom.com at KVD Creative Communications in New York.