Norway’s Hidden Gem: The Stunning Lofoten Islands

Hiking:

Moskenesøy (each hike is moderate to difficult)

• Reinebringen: One of most famous hikes, breathtaking views of the Reinefjord and surrounding islands. Budget around 2-3 hours round trip plus time at the top. The hike is steep with over 1900 stairway steps and requires caution as it is unprotected.

• Munkebu Hut: An all-day hike through diverse terrain, including lakes, peaks, and valleys. Includes chains, but the trail is well-marked. Exhibit extreme caution using chains if raining or wet.

• Kvalvika Beach and Ryten: Hike up boulders to a scenic viewpoint of Kvalvika Beach, a remote and beautiful beach surrounded by mountains. Find the secluded hut made famous in a Netflix Documentary called North of the Sun. Continue up to Ryten for panoramic views of the beach and the open sea, however, this adds 1-2 hours.

• Vestvågøy (each hike is moderate)-

• Mannen: Incredible views over Haukland Beach and the surrounding coastline. Start at Uttakleiv Beach for an easy warm up around the coastline, then ascend for much of the rest of the hike to the summit. Note, this hike is unprotected in parts if you have a fear of heights.

• Nesland to Nusfjord: An out-and-back along the coast between two famous fishing villages. There are portions of the hike that include bouldering as well as ladders and chains. Make sure to stop and explore Nusfjord, a World Heritage Site!

• Justadtinden: Explore one of the highest peaks on the island of Vestvagoy! This hike is less crowded than some of the more popular routes. At the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the Lofoten archipelago, making it well worth the effort!

Water Activities:

• Kayaking in the Fjords: Your options are endless here, but when the winds are calm, the fjords are like glass. If you go in the peak summer months when the sun doesn’t go down, take a Midnight Summer kayak tour! My personal favorite provider is Reine Adventure, who also offers fishing charters!

• Sauna and Swimming in the Fjords: The ultimate Nordic wellness experience! After warming up in a cozy, wood-fired sauna, jump in the fjords for a refreshing dip. It’s the perfect way to rejuvenate with the beauty of Lofoten surrounding you!

Historical Activities

• Lofotr Viking Museum: Located in Vestvagoy, the museum focuses on Viking history and culture, social life, customs, and more. It’s built on a reconstructed longhouse, a recreation of the largest one in Lofoten history.

• Explore Nusfjord Village: A UNESCO world heritage site. It's one of the most realistic fishing villages in Lofoten. To protect themselves from the weather, you’ll find numerous fishing cabins secluded in a cove behind the Norwegian Sea while seagulls squawk around your heads! Make sure to check out the fishing museum, the market, and a lunch or drink on the water at Karoline’s!

• Karoline’s in Nusfjord: While it serves a limited menu, Karoline’s has some of the freshest fish in the area! Make sure to get the halibut or lamb! It is in an authentic, cozy setting and looks right over the fishing village.

• By The Way food truck: This serves a variety of sandwiches, including seafood, chicken, and vegetarian options. My recommendation is to get the fish sandwich on foccacia, one of the best sandwiches I’ve ever had!

• Bakeriet på Å: Get the cinnamon buns at this bakery all the way at the end of the Lofoten Islands in the town of Å.

• Gammelbua Restaurant: Located in Reine, a perfect stop after you complete Reinebringen to get some authentic dishes such as Stockfish or Moose. The building itself is a relic of the past!

• Polarhagen: Craving pizza? Make a reservation at this pop-up pizza shop for amazingly delicious wood-fired pizza. With most of their ingredients fresh from their land or elsewhere nearby, your evening with Parsa and Lisa will be magical and interactive!

• Aimee’s: Known for its burgers, this cafe’s dishes are almost all locally sourced and well-liked by locals. While it’s a slight detour, stop by on your way from one hike to the next and don’t forget about inquiring about a farm tour!

• Holmes Lofoten: One of the more upscale options in Moskenes, enjoy more fresh seafood accompanied by seasonal greens/produce. They have seasonal set menus that run about 1500 NOK. They are authentically Norwegian yet inventive as well, such as lamb hearts with lingonberries!