Kabelvåg

Kabelvåg is a village in Vågan Municipality in Nordland county, Norway. It sits on the coast of Austvågøya island in the Lofoten archipelago, along the Vestfjorden. It is one of the oldest settlements in Lofoten and historically served as an important fishing harbor, with a long tradition of whaling and seasonal trade. The village’s historic core, Gamle Kabelvåg, features traditional wooden houses and old wharves that reflect its maritime heritage.

The area is characterized by rugged coastal scenery, with mountains such as Vågakallen rising inland and a sheltered harbor that has long hosted fishing fleets. The climate is influenced by the Gulf Stream, yielding relatively mild winters for its latitude.

Kabelvåg became a focal point for fisheries and crafts in medieval times. In the 19th and early 20th centuries it served as a commercial hub for Lofoten’s fish trade. The Lofoten Museum, located in Kabelvåg, presents exhibitions on the island’s culture, fishing technology, and daily life. The village has also long been associated with artists and cultural activities in the Lofoten tradition.

Today Kabelvåg is a center for tourism and services within Lofoten. Visitors come to explore the historic quarter, use the starting point for hikes, and learn about the region’s fishing heritage. The village remains connected by road to Svolvær and other communities in Lofoten, and ferry links connect the archipelago to the mainland.