The Ryten trail, leading to Kvalvika Beach, is one of the most sought-after hikes in Lofoten, Norway, and it’s easy to see why. This trail offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty, moderate difficulty, and breathtaking vistas. Reaching an altitude of 543 meters, Ryten’s summit presents some of the most stunning panoramic views of the Lofoten Islands. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just an outdoor enthusiast, this trail has something to offer.
Overview of the Ryten Trail
- Elevation: 543 meters
- Trail Difficulty: Moderate
- Distance: 3.6 km one way (7.2 km round trip)
- Estimated Time: 3 to 4 hours
The Ryten hike is often considered one of the easier hikes in Lofoten, though, like many trails in Norway, “easy” can vary depending on your fitness level. For someone used to hiking in flatter regions, this trail may feel moderately challenging. The trail is not extremely steep, but certain sections involve an incline that will get your heart pumping. Regardless, it’s a manageable hike for most people, provided you wear appropriate hiking footwear and clothing.
Starting the Hike
The Ryten trailhead is located on Moskenesøya, an island in the Lofoten archipelago. You can park in one of two spots near the trail. The first is a small private parking area where you’ll need to pay a small fee—around 100 NOK (cash only). The second parking lot is further from the trail but might be more convenient for those wishing to start closer to the hike’s main path. There are facilities like toilets at this lot, so it might be a better option if you need to refresh before you start.
The Trail Experience
The journey begins with a pleasant walk through a meadow, passing by some sheep grazing on private land. The first part of the trail is relatively easy, offering a gentle incline until you reach the base of the mountain. From there, the climb becomes a bit steeper, but the path is lined with rocks, providing good traction.
A small lake marks the halfway point of the trail, followed by another more challenging climb. Afterward, the trail evens out, with wooden planks guiding you through a flatter section where you can stop and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s an option to take a detour to visit a nearby mountain hut. However, after a week of hiking, we decided to skip this, opting instead to continue on the main path toward the beach and Ryten peak.
Reaching Kvalvika Beach
As you continue along the trail, you’ll pass through a small valley, flanked by steep mountain walls. Here, more wooden planks guide your way. The weather during our hike was excellent, with clear skies and minimal rain, which made the trail easy to navigate. However, I can imagine that it could get muddy during heavy rainfall, so the wooden pathways are quite helpful.
At this point, you can take a short detour to visit Kvalvika Beach up close. However, after reading reviews online, we decided that the view of the beach from a distance was more impressive, and the extra walk wasn’t worth the detour. There are plenty of other beautiful beaches in Lofoten, and Kvalvika doesn’t stand out as particularly special when viewed from the ground.
The Famous Viewpoint
The next section of the hike is a bit steeper, and you’ll work up a sweat. But once you reach the viewpoint, it’s all worth it. This spot offers the iconic view of Kvalvika Beach below, where the clear blue water contrasts beautifully with the surrounding mountains. This is where most people stop to snap their photos, and there’s even a famous rock that some daring souls climb for a dramatic shot.
Personally, I’m not fond of heights, so I opted to stay away from this particular rock. The viewpoint can get crowded, but it’s still a must-see, and the view is just as stunning as the photos suggest.
The Summit of Ryten
For those who want to take it a step further, Ryten’s peak is just a short distance away. Unlike the crowded viewpoint, the summit is quieter and offers 360-degree views of the Lofoten Islands. The terrain is flat, with no risk of falling, and it provides a peaceful place to sit, relax, and enjoy the breathtaking landscape. We spent around 20 minutes here, snapping photos and enjoying the solitude.
One of the highlights at the top is Forsvatnet Lake, which adds to the area’s tranquil vibe. From the summit, you can see the vast ocean to one side and the jagged peaks of the Lofoten range on the other. It’s a fantastic spot to absorb the beauty of Lofoten at its best.
Returning to the Trailhead
On the way back, we stopped at the Kvalvika Beach viewpoint again. This time, I switched to a portrait lens to capture the vivid blue of the water. The sunlight hitting the beach made the whole scene glow, and the contrasting colors were mesmerizing. We also took some time to photograph the small village near Ytresand and the friendly locals—mostly sheep—along the trail.
Conclusion
The Ryten trail is truly one of the most rewarding hikes in Lofoten. It’s not too difficult, but it provides enough of a challenge to give you a sense of accomplishment. The views are nothing short of spectacular, whether you’re gazing at Kvalvika Beach from above or enjoying the quieter summit of Ryten. If you’re looking for a memorable hike with incredible scenery, this trail should definitely be on your list.
