How to visit

There are two ways to visit Flåm and ride the Flamsbana, either as a day-trip with the very famous Norway in a Nutshell tour (from Bergen or Oslo), or as a DIY trip by buying train tickets separately. 

Flam as a day trip

You can even replicate the entire Norway in a Nutshell tour yourself, which will be significantly cheaper, but involves some planning – see my dedicated post about how to do this. 

En route from Oslo to Bergen

The full price of the Flamsbana one way is around 42€. If you have an Interrail or Eurail pass you can get 30% off, but you need to call to book your ticket or do it in person. The best way to do it yourself is to stop on the way from Oslo to Bergen (by the way, this stretch called the Bergsbanen is also a famously beautiful train ride in its own right!), take the round trip with the Flamsbana and continue to Bergen from Myrdal. The Oslo – Bergen ticket usually costs around 100€ full price (included in Interrail and Eurail).

Experience

The Flåm Railway is one of the highlights of a Norway trip, and is thus very crowded. It is essential to book in advance, otherwise you get stuck at the Myrdal train station in the middle of nowhere waiting for hours. The train itself is an old style nostalgic train with a wooden interior and benches.

Tips

– Go out on the platform 10 min before the train arrives so you can get on early and secure a window seat (the FLamsbana has free seating). 

– From Myrdal to Flåm, sit on the left side, which has slightly better views (don’t worry, both are great though)

– Some windows open on the Flåm train but not all of them (about every third window). If you want to take photos try to grab a seat by an opening window to avoid the reflections – there are some tunnel sections on the ride where it can get really loud with the windows open, it’s better to close it for these short sections.

When to Visit

All seasons offer something unique, though summer and early autumn being the easiest to do the trip (it gets very cold!) In summer you can see neon green landscapes and can visit until late due to the long daylight hours, but it’s also the busiest time. In autumn you can enjoy vibrant fall colors and fewer crowds as it starts to get more chilly. Winter is exceptionally atmospheric all across Norway when there is snow – you will have a peaceful and unique experience but will probably freeze your ass off. In spring the melting snow feeds into roaring waterfalls, and the landscape becomes green, but there’s a(n even) higher chance for rain.

Quick links

– Purchase your Flåm train tickets from Myrdal to Flåm (unless you have a Eurail/Interrail Pass). If you hold a Eurail/Interrail Pass, you can receive a 30% discount on your Flåmsbana ticket, but note that these discounted tickets must be booked at a staffed train station in Norway or via the VY Call Centre (+4761051910) – they aren’t available for online booking.

– Consider buying a Eurail Pass or Interrail Pass if you’re planning more extensive rail travel. 

– Book your train tickets from Oslo or Bergen to Myrdal in advance. Alternatively, you can opt for a guided tour from Bergen to Flåm that includes the scenic railway and a fjord cruise, or embark on an epic day trip from Oslo to Flåm.

– For accommodation in Flåm, check out the best options on booking.com. The most budget-friendly stay is Flåm Cabins & Camping, but it sells out fast! 

1 Explore Historic Bryggen

Bryggen is one of Bergen’s most iconic sights and a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its colorful wooden buildings lining the harbor. These old merchant houses date back to the 14th century when the Hanseatic League controlled trade in the region. Walking through this area feels like stepping back in time, with its narrow alleyways, wooden structures, and small artisanal shops selling everything from traditional crafts to souvenirs. In the backstreets and hidden courtyards behind the main row of buildings you’ll find small museums and cafes.

2 Ride the Floibanen to Mount Floyen

Mount Floyen is a must-see when you’re in Bergen, and the best part? It’s super accessible. Get on the Floibanen funicular, which takes you up to the top of Mount Floyen in about 6-7 minutes. The views from the summit are stunning, offering a panoramic look at the city, the fjords, and the surrounding mountains.

Once you’re at the top, there’s a lot to do. You can grab a coffee and enjoy the view, take a short hike, or even rent a bike if you’re feeling more adventurous. The trails around Mount Floyen are well-marked, and you can even hike all the way back down to the city center if you want a scenic walk.

3. Visit the Fish Market (Fisketorget)

Bergen’s Fish Market is a great place to experience Norwegian cuisine firsthand. Located right on the harbor, it’s a lively spot where you can pick up fresh seafood like salmon, king crab, and shrimp. Many stalls also offer ready-to-eat dishes, so it’s a good place for a casual lunch or snack. Although definitely geared towards tourists, here are even some local delicacies like reindeer or whale meat.

4. Learn Some History at the Hanseatic Museum

Located in one of the original buildings on Bryggen, the Hanseatic Museum is actually pretty interesting – it shows the lives of German merchants who controlled Bergen’s trade for over 400 years. You can get a realistic feel for the cramped living quarters and strict working conditions of the time. The museum does an excellent job of explaining the role of the Hanseatic League and how it influenced Bergen’s development. Even if you’re not much into history, the authentic setting makes it worth the visit.

5 Climb to the Top of Mount Ulriken

If you’re up for a more challenging hike, head to Mount Ulriken, the tallest of the seven mountains surrounding Bergen. You can either hike up (which takes about 1.5-2 hours) or take the Ulriksbanen cable car for a faster ascent. The views from the top are nothing short of spectacular—think endless fjords, mountain peaks, and, on a clear day, even a glimpse of the North Sea.

There are several hiking trails once you’re at the top, including a popular route to Mount Floyen if you’re up for a longer adventure.

6 Bergen Aquarium (Akvariet i Bergen)

Bergen Aquarium is perfect if you’re traveling with kids, but it’s also fun for adults interested in marine life. The aquarium is home to a wide variety of sea creatures, including seals, penguins, and fish native to the Norwegian coastline. They also have informative exhibits about Norway’s marine environment and conservation efforts.

Tip: the penguin feeding and seal shows are highlights, so try to time your visit around one of these events.

7 Take a Fjord Tour

You can’t visit Bergen without experiencing the magic of Norway’s fjords. There are plenty of boat tours leaving from Bergen’s harbor that will take you into the heart of the fjords. One of the most popular tours is the Norway in a Nutshell tour, which includes a boat trip through the fjords as well as a scenic train ride on the famous Flåm Railway and which you can replicate much cheaper yourself – see here how).

How to get there

By Plane | The easiest way to get to Bergen is by flying into Bergen Airport (BGO), also known as Flesland Airport. There are direct flights from major European cities like London, Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and Stockholm, as well as frequent domestic flights from Oslo and other Norwegian cities. From the airport, it’s just a 20-30 minute journey to the city center by:

– Light Rail (Bybanen): The most affordable option, costing around NOK 40-50 ($4-5), with trains departing every 10 minutes.

– Airport Shuttle (Flybussen): A bit quicker than the light rail and costs around NOK 130-150 ($12-15).

– Taxi: If you prefer convenience, a taxi ride to the city center will cost approximately NOK 400-500 ($40-50).

By Train | If you’re already in Norway, taking the train to Bergen is one of the most scenic options. The Bergen Line (Bergensbanen) from Oslo to Bergen is often considered one of the world’s most beautiful train journeys. The 7-hour ride takes you through dramatic landscapes, including fjords, mountains, and rivers. You can book tickets through Vy (Norwegian Railways), with prices ranging from NOK 300-800 ($30-80) depending on the class and time of booking.

By Car | Driving to Bergen can be a fantastic way to explore the Norwegian countryside, but keep in mind that some routes involve ferries, tunnels, and winding mountain roads. If you’re driving from Oslo, it’s a 7-8 hour journey, while from Stavanger, it’s about 5 hours. Be prepared for tolls along the way and beautiful but often narrow and winding roads, especially in the fjord regions.

By Bus | Several bus companies, such as Nor-Way Bussekspress and Vy Bus, offer routes to Bergen from other Norwegian cities. Traveling by bus is a good option if you’re coming from cities like Stavanger or Trondheim. While the journey can be long (about 5-6 hours from Stavanger), it’s more budget-friendly, with tickets costing between NOK 300-600 ($30-60).

By Ferry | For a unique experience, you can arrive in Bergen by ferry. Hurtigruten, known for its coastal cruises, operates daily ferry services along Norway’s coast, with Bergen being one of the main stops. This is a more leisurely option and offers stunning views of the coastline, fjords, and islands along the way. Ferries also connect Bergen to nearby towns like Stavanger and the fjord regions, perfect if you want to explore the western coast of Norway by water.

Pro tip |  If you have time, the combination of train and ferry (Norway in a Nutshell tour) from Oslo to Bergen is a fantastic way to see some of the best scenery Norway has to offer, including the fjords and mountains.

Where to stay

Budget | If you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay, Marken Guesthouse is a solid choice. Located just a short walk from Bergen’s city center and train station, this hostel offers both private rooms and dormitories at reasonable rates. It’s clean, comfortable, and has a cozy communal area where you can meet fellow travelers. You’ll also have access to a shared kitchen, which is a great way to save on dining costs in an otherwise pricey city. Book well in advance, especially in summer, as this hostel is popular with budget travelers and backpackers.

Midrange | For a charming, midrange option, Hotel Park Bergen is a great choice. It’s located in a historic building near the University of Bergen, just a short walk from the city center. The hotel offers individually decorated rooms with a cozy, boutique feel and a great breakfast spread in the morning. Guests love the warm, welcoming atmosphere and the fact that it’s slightly away from the hustle and bustle of the touristy areas. Ask for a room on the upper floors for a better view of Bergen’s scenic rooftops and mountains.

Boutique | For a more boutique experience, Det Hanseatiske Hotel is an excellent option. Located right in the heart of Bryggen (the old Hanseatic wharf), this hotel offers rooms full of character with a mix of historic charm and modern comfort. The exposed wooden beams and rustic decor give it a traditional Norwegian feel, but with all the modern amenities you need. Plus, you’ll be staying steps away from some of Bergen’s top attractions, like the Hanseatic Museum and the Fish Market. Book a room with views of Bryggen for an authentic Bergen experience.

High-End | Opus XVI is one of Bergen’s top hotels. This upscale hotel is housed in a grand historic building, offering spacious and elegantly designed rooms. Located in the city center, it’s within walking distance of most of the major attractions, but it also feels secluded and peaceful. The hotel also offers an excellent on-site restaurant and impeccable service. Perfect for those looking to indulge in some Norwegian luxury.

Cost of travel

Bergen can be pricey, but it offers something for every budget. For accommodation, budget travelers can expect to pay around NOK 300-500 (€25-45) per night for hostels or guesthouses, while midrange hotels range from NOK 800-1,500 (€70-130). Luxury stays cost upwards of NOK 2,000 (€170) per night.

Food prices vary from NOK 150-250 (€13-22) for a meal at a casual cafe, while dining at midrange restaurants costs around NOK 250-400 (€22-35). Public transport is affordable, with fares around NOK 40-50 (€3.50-4.50), and the Bergen Card offers discounts on attractions and free public transport. On average, budget travelers can expect to spend NOK 700-1,000 (€60-85) per day, while midrange travelers might spend NOK 1,500-2,500 (€130-215).

Overview

The Reinebringen hike is one of the most iconic and rewarding hikes in Lofoten, offering sweeping views of Reine and the surrounding fjords. Known for its steep climb and unparalleled panoramas, it’s a must-do for anyone visiting the Lofoten Islands. The hike, although short, is intense and requires a good level of fitness, but the effort is well worth it once you reach the top.

The Hike

• Difficulty: Moderate due to its steep incline.
• Distance: Approximately 1.5 kilometers each way.
• Elevation: The trail ascends about 450 meters.
• Time: 2-3 hours round trip, depending on your pace and time spent enjoying the views at the summit.

The hike starts just outside of Reine, and you’ll quickly find yourself on a steep path with a series of stone steps built by Sherpas to help prevent erosion and improve the safety of the route. Though the trail is well-marked and relatively short, the incline is unrelenting, so be prepared for a leg workout. The final stretch involves a few rocky sections, so take care if the conditions are wet. As you reach the summit, the incredible views make all the effort worthwhile. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the turquoise fjords, tiny fishing villages, and jagged mountains that define the Lofoten landscape.

What to Expect at the Top

Once you make it to the top of Reinebringen, the views are truly spectacular. The fjords spread out below you like something out of a postcard, and the colorful fishing cabins in Reine look like tiny dots on the water’s edge. Whether you’re there at sunrise, sunset, or midday, the scenery is unforgettable. Be sure to bring a camera – the photos you capture here are bound to be some of the best from your trip.

Tips for the hike

– Safety First: The hike is steep and can be slippery, especially in wet conditions. Proper hiking shoes with good grip are a must.

– Best Time to Go: Early mornings or late evenings during the summer months are ideal for avoiding the crowds and capturing the best light for photos.

– Bring Water: There are no facilities along the trail, so be sure to bring enough water and snacks for the climb.

– Check the Weather: Weather in Lofoten can be unpredictable, so check the forecast before you set out. Avoid hiking in heavy rain or fog, as the trail can become dangerous.

Is It Worth the Hike?

Absolutely. While the Reinebringen hike is demanding, it’s a must for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone looking to experience Lofoten’s natural beauty from a bird’s-eye view. The combination of challenging terrain and stunning rewards makes it one of the best hikes in Norway. Just remember to take your time, stay safe, and soak in the view from the top – it’s one you won’t forget.

Hiking in the Lofoten

Lofoten’s hikes are generally shorter but steeper due to the islands’ unique geology. You won’t find long-distance, gradual trails here—instead, expect routes that take you straight up and down the mountains. Most hikes reward you with panoramic views over the dramatic fjords, tiny fishing villages, and the open sea. Popular trails, like Reinebringen or Nubben, are well-trodden and offer built-in steps to help with erosion and safety, but many lesser-known hikes are more rugged and require good trail-finding skills.

Other popular hikes

Ryten: If you’re looking for a hike that balances effort and reward without being overly strenuous, Ryten might be the perfect choice. This moderate hike takes you to an elevation of around 543 meters, offering awesome views of the white sands of Kvalvika Beach below. The trail begins near Fredvang. While it’s longer compared to some other hikes in Lofoten, the terrain is fairly forgiving, making it accessible for most hikers.

Munkebu Hut: For a more challenging adventure, the hike to Munkebu Hut offers a true view of Lofoten’s rugged beauty. Starting from Sørvågen, this trek takes you through varied terrain, with mountain lakes, streams and rocky outcrops. The elevation gain is tough, and there are a mix of steep climbs and rocky paths. After about five hours, you’ll reach Munkebu Hut, a cabin high in the mountains managed by the Norwegian Trekking Association, where you can stay overnight (check availability, as the hut operates on a first-come, first-served basis).

Bunes Beach: Accessible by ferry from Reine to Vinstad, the hike to Bunes Beach is a completely different experience – simple and peaceful. This relatively easy trek, just about an hour each way, is a great option for a relaxing day. The path is mostly flat, leading to the wide, sandy expanse of secluded Bunes Beach.

Tips for Hiking in Lofoten

– Be Prepared for Steep Terrain: Lofoten’s hikes may be short in distance but are often steep and can be challenging. Good hiking boots with ankle support are essential.

– Weather Can Change Quickly: The weather in Lofoten is notoriously unpredictable, so pack layers, a waterproof jacket, and be prepared for sudden changes.

– Respect Nature: Many of the trails go through pristine natural environments, so be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles, stick to marked paths, and take all your trash with you.

Best Time to Hike

The summer months, from June to September, are the best time for hiking in Lofoten. During this time, you can take advantage of the midnight sun, allowing you to hike late into the evening with full daylight. However, the shoulder seasons of May and October can also be rewarding for those looking to avoid crowds, though weather conditions may be more unpredictable.

Finish

The very end of the trail leads you to the touristy part of the plantation. You can buy drinks and snacks here. To leave, you’ll need to walk up towards the road and unfortunately you’ll need to pay the entrance fee to the plantation (yes, they will stop you on the way out with eagle eyes!).

To get back to Tanah Rata, you will either have to hitchhike (which shouldn’t take long as there are lots of cars heading towards Tanah Rata), or you can flag down a taxi from the road. You can also try calling a Grab, but you’ll probably have to wait a long time as they are not so frequent here.

Hiking in Norway

Trail markers in Norway

In Norway, hiking trails are usually well-marked, making it easier for both experienced and novice hikers to navigate the country’s stunning landscapes. The trail marking system is designed for visibility and simplicity, ensuring you stay on track, even in more remote areas.

The most common type of trail marker in Norway is a red “T” symbol, often painted on rocks, trees, or cairns. This symbol is maintained by the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT), which manages thousands of kilometers of hiking trails across the country. The red “T” is easily spotted and is often found along the most popular and scenic routes, leading hikers through mountains, valleys, and along coastal trails. In addition to the red “T,” you’ll often see cairns (piles of stones) marking trails, particularly in rocky or exposed areas where there are no trees. In more open terrain, wooden poles are sometimes used to guide hikers along the path. These markers are spaced close enough to remain visible, even in poor weather conditions. At trailheads or key intersections, you’ll find wooden signposts indicating the distance to various destinations, often with estimated hiking times. These signs are very helpful for planning your hike and ensuring you’re on the right path. Norwegian hiking trails are often categorized by difficulty and color-coded on maps and signs:

• Green: Easy hikes, suitable for beginners or family-friendly trails.
• Blue: Moderate difficulty, requiring a bit more endurance but still accessible for most hikers.
• Red: Challenging hikes, often involving steep or rugged terrain.
• Black: Expert-level trails, which may involve scrambling or technical climbing sections.

Getting there

There are different transport option, depending where you come from:

– From Bodø, take a ferry to Moskenes or a speedboat to Svolvær

– From Oslo, Bergen or Bodø, fly directly into Svolvær or Leknes with Widerøe

– From Tromsø take the Hurtigruten coastal steamer (16-18h) or take a bus to Harstad and then a ferry

Arriving from Bodø, I chose to take the Moskenes ferry both ways. The speedboat to Svolvaer is pretty limited in departures and the times didn’t work for me. It takes longer than the ferry, and can be rougher too. The best part is, the ferry to Moskenes is free if you don’t have a car (you can pre-book tickets for a fee, but don’t do this, half the tickets are always available at boarding).

Getting around

One of the biggest challenges in the Lofoten Islands is actually getting around. All the travel guides and sources I could find make it sound like you absolutely cannot get by without a car or a van. Fortunately this is not true. The car rental in June would’ve cost around 300€ (!) per day, so I was determined to find another solution. Sure, it’s hard to get to certain areas or to explore in-depth on foot, but it’s easy to meaningfully spend 4-5 days and focus on the highlights or on only one area of Lofoten.

1 Buses in Lofoten

Lofoten has a reliable bus network that connects the main towns and villages across the islands The main bus route runs on the E10 highway, between the larger towns like Svolvær, Leknes, and Å (actually this is a combination of different routes, but it generally shows where you can get to by bus.

These buses are operated by Torghatten Nord and Nordland fylkeskommune. They don’t run often – typically a few times a day, with more frequent services in the summer. Use the Reis Nordland website or app to check bus schedules and plan your trips. You can buy tickets on the bus with cash or a card. Alternatively, purchase tickets in advance using the Reis Nordland app, which might offer slight discounts.

2 Cycling Around Lofoten

For an adventurous and eco-friendly way to explore, cycling is a fantastic option. Several shops in Svolvær, Leknes, and Reine offer bike rentals. Some accommodations might also rent out bikes to their guests. Here are the bigger bike rentals:

In Svolvær:

Lofoten Aktiv | Offers bike rentals, including electric bikes. They also provide guided cycling tours.

Lofoten Explorer | Known for kayak and boat tours, they also offer bike rentals. It’s a convenient option if you’re looking to mix activities.

In Leknes:

Intersport Leknes | A sporting goods store that provides bike rentals, especially in the summer. They offer a range of bicycles suitable for exploring the area.

Lofoten Basecamp | Located just outside Leknes, they offer bike rentals along with various other outdoor gear for hire, including tents and hiking equipment.

In Reine:

Reine Adventure | Known for their adventure activities and kayak rentals, Reine Adventure also offers bike rentals for exploring the nearby areas.

Reine Rorbuer | This accommodation provider sometimes offers bike rentals for their guests and can arrange rentals if needed. It’s a good option if you’re staying there or nearby.

The E10 highway, which runs through the islands, has relatively low traffic and stunning views, making it popular with cyclists. There are also quieter side roads and paths where you can cycle at a more leisurely pace. Lofoten’s terrain is varied, so be prepared for some hills and changing weather conditions. That said, the breathtaking landscapes make every pedal worth it.

3 Hiking: Discover Lofoten on Foot

Lofoten is a hiker’s paradise, and many of its most beautiful spots are best explored on foot. Trails like Reinebringen, Kvalvika Beach, and the trek to Munkebu Hut offer some of the most iconic views in Lofoten. These hikes vary in difficulty, so there’s something for everyone. Most trailheads are accessible by bus, and some are even walkable from towns. Always check the bus schedules to ensure you can return after your hike. Wear proper hiking boots and carry a map or GPS, as weather can change rapidly, and some trails can be challenging.

4 Guided Tours and Activities

If you prefer structured experiences, guided tours are an excellent way to see the islands. Here are some of the most popular tours from Svolvær, Leknes, and Reinebringen that you can book on GetYourGuide:

From Svolvær:

RIB Sea Eagle Safari to Trollfjord | This exciting boat tour takes you through the scenic Trollfjord, where you’ll have the chance to spot sea eagles up close. It’s one of the most popular wildlife tours in Lofoten and lasts about 2 hours.

Lofoten Islands 5-Hour Tour | This guided tour explores the islands’ landscapes, from scenic fjords to charming fishing villages like Henningsvær and Nusfjord.

Northern Lights Tour by Van | If you’re coming in winter, this 4-hour small-group tour provides expert guidance on where and when to spot the aurora.

From Leknes:

Private Lofoten Tour with Transfer | Explore Lofoten’s iconic spots, from Vik Beach to the picturesque village of Reine. This private tour allows flexibility, perfect for cruise passengers or with limited time.

Lofoten Landscapes Photography Tour | Designed for photography enthusiasts, this full-day tour takes you to some of Lofoten’s most photogenic locations, including Ramberg and Reine.

Tips

Why is it good, not to drive?

– Cost savings – obviously. As mentioned above, car rental can get extremely expensive. Not only that, but gas in Norway is also expensive, and unless you’re splitting the cost across several people, it adds to an already expensive destination.

– The roads are beautiful, but hard to drive. With lots of blind curves, heavy traffic (compared to the size of the place) and narrow lanes it looks pretty advanced to drive a van here.

– Lack of parking at destinations is very annoying and a big issue especially in high season.

The most important tips

1. Plan well where to enter and exit the Lofoten – ferries and buses are not that frequent and distances can be big.
2. Choose your bases carefully: I based my trip in Reine, which has easy access to other highlights, accessible trailheads and organized tours, like kayaking. 
3. Plan your transit ahead of time: schedule your bus trips between the cities and for your flight in advance. Transportation options also vary by season, with more services available in the summer, so keep this in mind. 
4. Be ready to bike: you can reach places like Henningsvær and lesser-known trailheads by bike. If you’re not open to cycling, you’ll likely have to stick to more structured, package tours.
5. Travel light – a great idea on any trip, but especially important here.
6. Be patient – embrace the slower pace of travel. Waiting for a bus or taking the scenic route often leads to unexpected discoveries.

Where to stay

Stay in a rorbuer (traditional fishermen’s cabin), which is a highlight in itself: Reine Rorbuer offers cozy, traditional rorbuer cabins right on the waterfront with breathtaking views of the surrounding fjords and mountains. The cabins combine rustic charm with modern amenities, so you can have a comfortable and warm stay.

Other than a rorbuer, here are the best options in all 3 towns:

(Reine) Catogården is a unique, cozy guesthouse that offers a blend of comfort and community. The house has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with shared kitchen facilities, beautiful common areas, a sauna and stunning views of the fjords. They also organise kayak tours. 

(Leknes) Scandic Leknes offers a comfortable, modern stay in the heart of Leknes. It’s a great base for exploring the nearby beaches and fjords, with free parking and a convenient location. The hotel offers a cozy atmosphere with a restaurant serving traditional Norwegian dishes, ideal for both solo travelers and families.

(Svolvær) Thon Hotel Lofoten is a high-quality hotel located right by the harbor in Svolvær. Offering modern rooms with spectacular views, it’s a top choice for those who want to explore the town and its surroundings. The hotel also features an excellent restaurant serving local cuisine, and it’s well-known for its eco-friendly initiatives.

My actual itinerary

Day 0: Getting to Reine – hike to Hamnøy
I chose the Bodø – Moskenes ferry to get to the Lofoten, then made my way to Catogården, a comfortable guesthouse in Reine with great views, where I closed the day with a sauna session (and did manage a dip in the arctic water after 3 rounds of sweating!)

Day 1: Reine – Reinebringen Hike
I started the first day in Reine. First up was hiking Reinebringen – steep but totally worth it for the epic views over the fjords and villages.

Day 2: Å and Kayak Tour
On day two, I took a quick day trip to Å by bus, the last village on the archipelago, followed by a kayak tour around the fjords. Seeing Lofoten from the water was a highlight, offering a peaceful change from the mountain hikes.

Day 3: Flakstad – Lofoten Beach Camp and Nubben Hike
I moved to Lofoten Beach Camp in Flakstad, set up camp, and hiked to Nubben near Ramberg Beach. It’s an easy hike with great views over the coastline, and the beach camp was a nice, laid-back spot to relax afterward.

Day 4: Arctic Surfing and Midnight Sun Photography
On my last day, I went arctic surfing – not as cold as it sounds, but you do need a very thick wetsuit. Afterward, I made the most of the midnight sun to capture some amazing photos, with the sun never fully setting in the summer.