Nestled in the Lofoten archipelago, Værøy is a remote island that offers unspoiled natural beauty and tranquility. It’s the ideal destination for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the raw wilderness of northern Norway. With its rugged landscapes, dramatic views, and rich history, this island may be small, but it certainly packs a punch when it comes to things to see and do.
Getting to Værøy
Reaching Værøy is an adventure in itself. You can catch a ferry either from Bodø or Moskenes, depending on your starting point. During my visit, we boarded the ferry at Moskenes, which took about 1.5 hours to reach the island. The ferry ride was a calm and scenic journey, costing approximately 45 Euros. On our return trip, we took the longer ferry to Bodø, which was around 5 hours and 15 minutes, but it was a peaceful, overnight ride.
Where to Stay and Eat
Though Værøy is a small and remote island, it still offers a few essential services. We stayed at Lofoten Værøy Brygge, a cozy lodge by the harbor. It was one of the few accommodations available, but it was comfortable, and they also have a lovely restaurant that opens in the evening. For those looking for a more outdoorsy experience, there are camping options available with facilities like showers and toilets. There’s also a small shop in the center of the island, and even though it’s remote, you’ll find everything you need to feel at ease during your stay.
Must-See Spots in Værøy
Værøy may be small, but it offers a variety of scenic spots and activities. If you’re into hiking, this island has numerous trails that showcase its rugged beauty. Here are some highlights you shouldn’t miss.
1. Måstadfjellet Viewpoint
The Måstadfjellet viewpoint is the island’s most famous landmark. I first discovered it through a National Geographic article, and it was one of the main reasons I decided to visit Værøy. The hike is relatively easy, mostly following a road to the summit, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding islands and coastline. The weather here can change quickly, so be prepared for a bit of unpredictability, as I found out when I had to hike to the viewpoint twice to fully capture the views.
2. Sørlandshagen Beach
A short walk from the Måstadfjellet trailhead takes you to Sørlandshagen, a stunning beach that’s almost surreal. The beach is dotted with smooth, round stones that are strangely mesmerizing. They look like they’ve been sculpted by nature, and you can’t help but admire their beauty. If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s a more challenging trail that continues towards Nupneset, but we stuck to the easier paths, enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
3. Breivika Settlement and Skarsursanden Beach
Breivika might not be as famous as Måstadfjellet, but it’s equally beautiful. The white sand and turquoise waters of Skarsursanden Beach are nothing short of magical. During the summer, you can even go for a swim, though the water is incredibly salty, which helps it stay so clear. From here, you can continue on to another viewpoint with a view of Mosken Island in the distance.
4. The Old Værøy Church
Værøy’s church, built around 1740, is the oldest still in use in the Lofoten Islands. It was originally constructed in Vågan and moved to Værøy in 1799. The church was expanded in the late 19th century and has been a part of the island’s history for centuries. Its red color, which was restored in 1974, makes it stand out against the island’s dramatic landscape.
5. Nordlandshagen
This area on the island is known for its breathtaking beauty. With towering mountains and a pristine beach, it’s a great spot to camp or simply soak in the tranquility of the surroundings. Every year, Nordlandshagen hosts a music festival celebrating the midnight sun. We visited during the off-season, so it was peaceful and completely deserted.
There are two challenging trails here, Måstad and Hornskaret, both of which offer incredible views, but I opted for the easier walks.
6. Puffin Safari and Måstad Village by Boat
Måstad was once a thriving village, home to over 120 people in the early 1900s. However, its remote location and lack of proper harbor facilities led to its abandonment after World War II. Today, it stands as a testament to the island’s history and is a place for those seeking adventure and solitude. Puffins used to be a major food source for the locals, and there’s even a special breed of dog, the Lundehund, bred to hunt them.
While I didn’t have the chance to join a puffin safari during my visit (as the puffins had already migrated by late August), this is a popular activity from May to early August. You can book a safari at the local ferry port or at Værøy Brygge.
Conclusion
Værøy may not be on the typical tourist radar, but that’s what makes it so special. Whether you’re an avid hiker looking to explore challenging trails or someone who simply wants to enjoy the island’s beauty at a slower pace, there’s plenty to see and do here. The island can easily be explored in a day by car, but to fully appreciate its serenity, I recommend staying at least one night. Whether you’re hiking, relaxing by the beach, or simply taking in the views, Værøy is a hidden gem that should be on your Norway itinerary.
