Lofoten Basecamp is aimed at people who come to the islands to be outside. Its position on Vestvågøy, the central island in the chain, puts it within reach of the white-sand beaches of Haukland and Utakleiv, the Lofotr Viking Museum, the surfing at Unstad and the hiking routes of the middle islands. It is a useful place to stay if you want to split your trip between the north and the south, because from the middle of the islands the drives to Svolvær and to Reine are both manageable. The style is that of an outdoors base rather than a luxury hotel, with straightforward accommodation, a relaxed atmosphere and a focus on what you do during the day. That suits hikers, surfers, photographers and anyone who plans to be out in the landscape from morning until late evening. It is usually less expensive than the rorbu complexes of the better-known villages, which makes it a good choice for longer stays and for travellers on a budget who still want to sleep in the middle of the scenery. The long summer evenings give you light for a hike after dinner, and in winter the area is open and dark enough for northern lights, subject to the weather.
Location and getting around
Vestvågøy is in the heart of Lofoten, linked to the northern islands by a causeway and to the southern islands by the E10. A car is highly recommended, because the beaches, trailheads and viewpoints are spread out and public transport is limited. Weather changes quickly, so keep a flexible plan, and check road conditions and daylight hours in winter.
Rooms and facilities
Accommodation is practical, and the type can vary from simple rooms to apartments or cabins, so read the details when you book. Kitchens, breakfast and other facilities differ by room type and rate. Because the nearest supermarkets may be in the larger villages, it is wise to buy groceries on the way in, particularly outside the busy summer season.
Who it suits
Active travellers, surfers, hikers and families who want to be central. It is less suited to travellers who want a polished hotel with a spa or a harbour full of restaurants on the doorstep. If you want that, Svolvær and Reine are better, but for access to the middle of the islands at a fair price, this is a good base.
Book early for summer and keep a day spare for bad weather. If you plan to surf or paddle, ask local operators about conditions, equipment hire and the safest times of day, and pack a windproof shell and warm layers whatever the forecast says.
Why stay here
- ✓Central Lofoten location
- ✓Close to the big beaches
- ✓Base for hikers and surfers
- ✓Private bathrooms
- ✓Heated rooms
- ✓Mountain and sea scenery
- ✓Reached by car
- ✓Good for longer stays
Good questions
Where is Lofoten Basecamp?+
It is on Vestvågøy, the central island of Lofoten, within reach of the big beaches and the Lofotr Viking Museum.
Do I need a car?+
Yes, a car is strongly advised, as trailheads, beaches and villages are spread out and buses are limited.
Is it good for splitting the trip?+
Yes. From the middle islands both Svolvær in the north and Reine in the south are manageable drives.
