Steep granite peaks rise above clear fjords in this Norwegian national park. Explore valleys on foot, spot sea eagles, or visit nearby fishing villages for fresh seafood.
Lofotodden National Park covers 99 square kilometers of Norway's northern coastline. From the 1,029-meter peak of Hermannsdalstinden, you'll see white sandy beaches and deep fjords below. Walk to Kollhellaren cave to examine 3,000-year-old rock paintings, or watch white-tailed eagles circle above the Norwegian Sea as you hike along coastal paths.
Location and Geography
Lofotodden National Park sits on the western side of Moskenesøya island in the Lofoten archipelago, just north of the Arctic Circle. The park extends 36 kilometers from north to south, encompassing steep mountain ranges that rise directly from the sea. The landscape includes narrow fjords cutting through the mountains, creating a network of isolated peaks and valleys. About 13 square kilometers of the protected area consists of coastal waters.
Early Human Settlement
Stone Age communities left their mark throughout the park. The cave paintings in Kollhellaren and Bukkhammerhola date back approximately 3,000 years, showing how humans adapted to life in this challenging landscape since prehistoric times. The park's establishment in 2018 protects these archaeological sites alongside the natural environment.
Wildlife in the Park
White-tailed eagles and golden eagles nest among the park's peaks, while European shags and black guillemots live along the coastline. Grey seals, weighing up to 300 kilos, hunt for cod and catfish in the surrounding waters. Mountain hares inhabit the higher elevations, and otters hunt for fish and crabs along the shoreline.
Hiking Trails and Beaches
You'll find several marked hiking trails with different difficulty levels. The trail to Ryten and Kvalvika Beach takes about 5 hours round trip and covers 7.5 kilometers of moderate terrain. If you're an experienced hiker, try the route to Hermannsdalstinden - it takes 12-13 hours and spans 23 kilometers. The white sandy beaches of Bunes, Horseid, and Kvalvika make natural rest stops along the coastal trails.
Visitor Guidelines
You can camp freely within the park boundaries and light fires in designated spots or on sandy beaches. The park prohibits drone usage to protect wildlife and maintain the natural atmosphere. Cycling is restricted to specific trails and completely forbidden between Bunesfjorden and Bunessanden, as well as between Torsfjorden and Kvalvika. Dogs must be leashed from April 1 to August 20, with additional restrictions in areas with livestock.
Visitor Center and Access
The visitor center in Reine provides information for exploring the park. From June 20 to August 31, the center opens daily from 9:00 to 20:00, while during the rest of the year it operates from 10:00 to 17:00. The center displays exhibits about the park's natural and cultural history, and staff can tell you about current trail conditions and safety information.
