Eliassen Rorbuer offers cabins in the red waterfront buildings at Hamnøy, the tiny village that appears on so many Lofoten postcards. The setting is the point: your cabin looks across the strait, the boats and the mountain wall, and the bridge viewpoint is a short walk. Rorbuer were the fishermen's winter lodgings, and these have been fitted out for visitors, many with kitchens so that you can cook your own meals. Reine is a few minutes by car, and the E10 gives access to Å, Sakrisøy and the southern tip of the islands. The position is hard to match for photography, and on a clear night it is also a good spot to look for the northern lights. Space and parking are limited in Hamnøy, so book early and ask about arrival.
Location and getting around
Hamnøy is a few minutes before Reine on the E10, about two hours from Svolvær by road. Most of the best-known scenes are within a short walk: the bridge, the strait and the quays. For Reinebringen in summer, the Reine kayak trips and restaurants, you will want a car or a short taxi ride. Regional buses stop along the E10, but winter services are thin. Parking at the cabins is limited, and the area around the bridge is sensitive, so follow the host's instructions and do not park on the road.
The rooms and the feel
Expect traditional cabins with simple, practical interiors, often with kitchenettes, bedrooms of varying sizes and views across the water. Confirm the details of the cabin you book, including heating, bedding, bathroom arrangement and whether a kitchen is included, as layouts differ. Because this is a working fishing area, you may hear boats and see activity at the quay in the early morning. Ask whether breakfast is available or whether you need to supply your own, and check food options in Reine, which are limited in winter.
Who it suits
Photographers, couples and hikers who want to be at the heart of western Lofoten. It is less suited to travellers who want hotel services such as a lobby, daily housekeeping or a restaurant on site. Good to know: book early for the aurora season, check winter opening and access, bring groceries from Leknes or Svolvær, and expect short daylight in November. Prices are relatively high because of the location, and they rise in summer.
Why stay here
- ✓Red rorbu cabins at Hamnøy
- ✓Steps from the bridge viewpoint
- ✓Water and mountain views
- ✓Many cabins with kitchenettes
- ✓Short drive to Reine
- ✓Dark skies for the aurora
- ✓Walk the Hamnøy quays
- ✓Base for Reinebringen in summer
Good questions
Where is Eliassen Rorbuer?+
At Hamnøy in Moskenes, a few minutes before Reine on the E10. It is about two hours from Svolvær by road.
Do the cabins have kitchens?+
Many do, but layouts differ, so check your chosen cabin before booking. Bring groceries, as food choices nearby are limited in winter.
Is parking easy?+
Parking is limited and the bridge area is sensitive. Follow the property's instructions and never park on the road.
