This trail leads to the cozy DNT Nøkksætra hut, located above Svolvær, offering space for 16 overnight guests amidst a dramatic natural amphitheater of mountains and a pristine mountain lake. Even if you don’t plan to stay overnight, the hike itself is worth every step for its beauty and tranquility.

Starting point: The hike begins just outside Svolvær and there is a free parking lot at Svolvær Stadium (coordinates for Google Maps: 68.245421, 14.546560) or at the lake Sommartjønna (coordinates for Google Maps: 68.246699, 14.550513). From here, you have to walk the road Vannverksbakken until a path leads on the right hand side onto the trail.

Route: The first section of the trail is easy-going, with wooden planks crossing marshy areas, offering a pleasant start through colorful landscapes. After crossing an impressive wooden bridge, take the right fork in the path and follow the route along the shore of Øvre Svolværvatnet, a scenic lake reflecting the surrounding mountains. Then a sign marks the ascent to Nøkksætra. Here, the trail turns sharply left, the path narrows and can become muddy, especially after rain, with parts of the trail resembling a small stream. The final stretch crosses a rocky plateau before reaching the Austre Nøkkvatnet lake, where the dark wooden Nøkksætra hut sits majestically by the water’s edge.

Tip: If you plan to stay overnight, make sure to the get the keys for the cabin. Svolvær Tourist Information handles the booking for Nøkksætra. Keys must be collected during the tourist information's opening hours.

Svolvær Tourist Information
Tel: (+47) 76 07 05 75
Email: info@visitlofoten.no
www.lofoten.info

Difficulty according to Norwegian standards: Blue = Suitable for moderately trained hikers with basic hiking knowledge and some experience in the terrain.

Distance: ≈ 10 km
Elevation gain: ≈ 345 meters up & down
Duration: ≈ 3.5 hours