Our route is based around the Lofoten Long Crossing, a multi-day unsupported trek which runs the length of the Lofoten archipelago. We'll hike some of the best sections of the the route, with a few variations, to make our way along this spectacular island chain.

 

Our starting point is the small fishing town of Kabelvag, where café's and seafront apartments meet the traditional Rorbuer we'll be staying in - wooden cabins built out over the waters' edge to accommodate the many fishermen who flock to the area during the spring cod fishing season. Our base for the evening is just outside town, and provides an opportunity to meet the rest of the team, chat about plans, and relax after the journey from home. 

 

Before we start hiking we'll have time to organise our clothing and equipment - we'll each need a light day-pack to hike with and a small duffle bag containing our overnight kit, which will be transported between campsites each day.

 

Our route takes us southwest, along the outer islands of the Lofoten archipelago - we'll follow trails which thread a line up spectacular ridges, crossing saddles between jagged granite spires, and skirting around the many high mountain lakes along the way. When we're not up high amongst the ridges and summits, we'll weave an intricate line along rugged coastal trails, on the lookout for sea eagles hunting in the surrounding waters. If you fancy a dip in the chilly waters of the lakes or the sea, there'll be time along the way.

 

Using the superb road and tunnel network which links the villages, we'll move from island to island by short vehicle transfers, allowing us to knit together a route through the some of the most spectacular sections of hiking, whilst taking advantage of fully-serviced campsites. Our proximity to the many small villages along the way means we’ll be able to get supplies regularly, allowing us to prepare hearty, fresh meals each evening. Mid-way through the trip we'll have a night in a Rorbuer in the small fishing village of Ballstad on a half-board basis.

 

Each day we’ll explore a different area, looking to continue our journey along the islands, with new views opening up each time we set out. There’s a well-established trail network, giving us flexibility to adjust our route if the weather dictates, or if we’d like an easier day.

 

Some mornings we’ll set out to hike directly from the camp, whilst other days we’ll take a short drive to the trailhead. At the end of the day, our hikes will either end at the campsite, or a short drive away. Nearing the western end of the archipelago, we'll use the ferry network to access trails and beaches on the northern shoreline, traversing the mountainous heart of an island back to the villages on the coast. Being out on the water here offers an entirely different perspective to our view from the mountains, with steep granite walls towering above the dark waters of the fjords - these fishing communities are often best seen and understood from the sea.

 

Our trip finishes in the village of A, the last settlement before the islands give way to the vast expanse of the Norwegian Sea. Our journey complete, we’ll have a final night on the islands, before beginning the journey home in the morning.