The Lyngstuva hiking trail, nestled in the stunning Lyngen Alps of Northern Norway, is a perfect choice for those seeking an easy yet rewarding outdoor adventure. This 6 km round-trip hike offers magnificent views of the surrounding fjords, a chance to spot local wildlife, and a touch of cultural history, making it an ideal outing for hikers of all levels.
Why Lyngstuva is a Great Hike for Everyone
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual walker, Lyngstuva is a trail that welcomes all. The terrain is mostly flat with a slight ascent, making it accessible for most people, including families and those with dogs. In fact, it’s an excellent choice when the weather forecast isn’t looking ideal elsewhere. On our visit, while the rest of the region was overcast and rainy, we were treated to sunshine as soon as we arrived at Lyngstuva—a perfect example of how the weather can often be more favorable on the coastline.
The trail meanders through the rugged coastline, giving you a chance to admire a variety of birds along the way. During my hike, I spotted three majestic white-tailed eagles, as well as several cormorants and seagulls. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise, and you don’t even need a special tour to witness the birds up close. One eagle, in particular, flew so low over our heads, it felt like it was part of our adventure.
For those hiking with dogs, it’s essential to keep them on a leash to protect both the wildlife and your pet. The area is home to nesting birds, and a small dog could easily attract the attention of the area’s eagles.
Getting to the Trailhead
The Lyngstuva trailhead is located near the northern tip of the Lyngen Peninsula, starting from a small parking area in Russelv. From there, you’ll begin the hike on a gravel road that leads you toward the coast. The views of the fjords and nearby islands are spectacular, and the Lyngstuva lighthouse sits just beyond a small hill, marking your destination.
A note for visitors: while the parking area is equipped with a toilet, it’s important to remember that parking fees apply. You’ll need to download the EasyPark app to pay for parking, which can be a bit pricey considering the location. However, the fee contributes to the maintenance and development of hiking infrastructure in the Lyngen municipality, so it’s a worthwhile investment for the experience.
Hiking Lyngstuva: What to Expect
The trail begins along a gravel road, leading past a gate and continuing along the shoreline. It’s a gentle walk with the first major feature being the Lyngstuva lighthouse, which is a great place to rest and take in the views. The path itself is smooth for the most part, but as you approach the hill, things get a bit more interesting. The trail takes a right turn up the hill, where you can begin to see some of the more rugged terrain.
While it’s tempting to wander left, which looks like it could take you around the hill, I recommend sticking to the main trail to avoid losing your way. If you do venture off, you might find yourself scrambling over boulders, which adds a bit of extra challenge to the hike.
As you make your way to the top of the hill, the views open up dramatically. You’ll have panoramic vistas of the fjords surrounding you, including Hamrefjorden, Ullsfjorden, and Lyngen itself. If you’re up for it, you can also extend your hike and explore nearby areas, such as shipwrecks that dot the landscape.
The terrain here becomes a bit rockier, and in wet conditions, it can be slippery, so watch your footing. Still, the natural beauty of the landscape more than makes up for any difficulty.
A Touch of History Along the Way
Lyngstuva is not just about stunning scenery—it’s also steeped in history. As you hike, you’ll notice informative signs detailing the region’s cultural significance. The area was once inhabited by the Sami people, and you’ll learn about their traditional lifestyle, including how they produced oil from seal blubber during the Iron Age. This oil was used for various purposes, from waterproofing boats and ropes to fueling oil lamps and even as food.
The strategic location of Lyngstuva, with its views of the north, east, and west, made it a hub for fishing and seal hunting. Archaeological sites show that this area has been in use since the Late Stone Age, with evidence of habitation going back as far as 4500 BC. The oil production pits used by the Sami people date back to 600-900 AD, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.
The Lighthouse and Beyond
When you reach the lighthouse, you’ll find a small cabin nearby, which is available for rent—though it looked a bit weathered during my visit. Despite the cabin’s condition, it provided a great shelter from the strong winds we encountered as a storm began to approach the area. The winds picked up considerably as we neared the lighthouse, with gusts reaching speeds of up to 23 m/s later in the day.
After a short break behind the cabin, we braved the rocky trail to continue our hike. The return journey was slightly more challenging due to the increasing winds and a few drops of rain, but we were fortunate to avoid the heavy rain that had been forecasted for the rest of the peninsula.
Where to Stay Near Lyngstuva
If you’re planning to spend more time exploring the Lyngen Alps, consider staying at Solheim Fritidsgård in Svensby. It’s a cozy accommodation option, with friendly hosts, and it’s conveniently located near several trails, including Lyngstuva. We spent six nights there and couldn’t have asked for a better base to explore the area.
Whether you’re looking for an easy day hike with spectacular views or a peaceful walk through a region rich in cultural history, Lyngstuva is the perfect spot to experience the natural beauty of Northern Norway.
