Hiking in Lofoten

The view from Reinebringen — down onto the red cabins of Reine scattered across turquoise water between granite spires — is one of the defining images of Norway, and reaching it has become a pilgrimage: around ninety thousand people a year climb the mountain each summer.

What was once a dangerous scramble up an eroding gully is now a remarkable stone staircase of 1,566 steps, hand-built by Nepalese Sherpa craftsmen, that hauls you steeply up the mountainside to the ridge.

It is short but genuinely stiff, and the payoff at the top is simply breathtaking — the whole drama of Lofoten's coastline laid out beneath your feet.

For the effort-to-reward ratio, and the sheer photogenic power of the summit, it is the most popular hike in the islands and an unmissable half-day.

A short but steep climb — roughly two kilometres each way but almost relentlessly uphill on the Sherpa-built stone staircase, gaining around 450 metres to the viewpoint ridge.

Most people take one to three hours round trip, and while there is no technical difficulty on the stairs, it is a real leg-and-lung workout and the upper ridge is exposed with big drops, so care is needed near the edge for photos.

It is very popular, so expect company and some congestion on the steps in peak season. Arctic weather can make the stone slick and the summit cloudy, so timing and footwear matter. The reward is instant and spectacular: the iconic bird's-eye view over Reine and the surrounding peaks and fjords.

Hike from roughly May to September, once the staircase is clear of snow — outside that season it can be icy and dangerous, and is best avoided or left to winter-equipped hikers.

Start from the trailhead near Reine; parking is limited, so come early or use the bus, which also beats the worst of the crowds. Wear proper footwear with grip for the stone steps, and bring a windproof layer for the exposed top.

Take care near the unfenced edges at the summit, especially in wind or when it's busy. It needs no guide or permit, but do check the forecast — the view is the whole point, and low cloud hides it.

Allow two to three hours and go steady on the relentless climb.