Эйнбухтен дар Квалвика

Here in Fredvang, the abundance of motorhomes and campervans in the Lofoten Islands presents itself in all its glory. The biggest challenge of our hike today is finding a legal parking spot for free. We take a detour and are able to safely park Gretchen and start our tour.

Since we are neither experienced hikers nor do we have the appropriate footwear, we start with an easy beginner's route. The path to the Kvalvika Bay, which can only be reached on foot or by boat, is well signposted and even equipped with wooden planks in the first meters, so we can reach the first rocks with dry feet. We cover some altitude between them until the path leads between two mountains on the other side down to the bay. The view of the untouched white beach from above is fantastic!
The descent over the rocks is not particularly difficult under good conditions, but requires a minimum level of surefootedness. However, you arrive directly at the destination after the work is done. We take a short break and then thoroughly explore the surrounding rocky landscape and the beach.

Some other hikers have set up their tents here, and some daring individuals brave the freezing cold wind to go surfing. We scramble along a small path and some rocks to the neighboring bay, where there is significantly less going on. This crossing certainly adds to the adventure factor and is not recommended when wet. By the way, two Norwegian surfers spent a whole 9 months in a self-built hut in this bay, which is still supposed to be available as an overnight accommodation. We keep our eyes open, but cannot spot it. The shelter must either have succumbed to the harsh conditions or be masterfully hidden in the rocks.

Tip: You can watch the film about the two adventurers "North of the Sun" on Netflix.

We skip the ascent to the nearby Ryten summit for our "warm-up hike" and hike back to Gretchen, patiently waiting for us. We have to save our climbing legs and manage our energy well, as there are still some hikes ahead of us.

On the way to the next parking spot, we have a pleasant surprise in the form of a well-stocked supermarket where we can actually buy plant-based margarine and oat milk. (Let's not talk about the price of this shopping.)

As the saying goes: "The vegan has a hard time."
For us, tomorrow will take us high up to Reinebringen. Until then, stay strong!

The hike to the 'Kvalvika' Bay at a glance:

Starting point

Parking spaces are about 700m from the starting point.

Distance

approx. 3.5km + approx. 1.3km to the more remote parking lot

Elevation

390m

Duration

Walking time approx. 2.5h

Difficulty

Relaxed, but better be cautious in wet conditions.