Reinebringen is one of the most famous and spectacular hikes in the Lofoten Islands. This iconic peak offers breathtaking views of the village of Reine and the surrounding fjords. You will discover a breathtaking panorama.
In this blog post, I will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of this hike, from preparation tips to practical details, ensuring a safe and memorable experience!
Table of contents
Useful links
Before starting, here are a few useful links to help you plan your trip to the Lofoten Islands:
- ✈️ Compare flights
- 🚘 Find a car rental at the best price
- 🏩 Our favorite accommodations :
Solsiden Brygge Rorbuer cosy rooms and breakfast
Lofotlove Apartments like at home - ❤️ Our favorite activities in Lofoten : Sea eagle watching boat tour
Why choose Reinebringen for your hike in the Lofoten Islands?
Reinebringen is undoubtedly the most iconic viewpoint in the archipelago. The mountain provides a unique perspective of the village of Reine and its colorful cabins, set against a backdrop of fjords and turquoise waters contrasting with steep, rugged mountains. For photography enthusiasts, it’s the perfect spot to capture the raw beauty of the Lofoten Islands.
Preparing your hike to Reinebringen
Distance, elevation gain, difficulty
Although relatively short, the hike to Reinebringen is intense and requires some preparation. The ascent is steep, but the stone steps built into the trail will guide you to the summit. Here are the key points to know before you go:
- Distance: Approx. 5 km round trip from the nearest parking lot.
- Elevation gain: 448 meters starting from the first step.
- Estimated time: 1.5 to 3 hours (depending on your physical condition and photo breaks!).
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging. The trail is steep, with stone steps along the way.
Reinebringen: how many steps?
To reach the summit of Reinebringen, you’ll have to climb 1,978 stone steps, carefully crafted by Nepalese Sherpas. These steps make the ascent easier and more accessible, although the climb is still demanding.
Where can I park for the Reinebringen hike?
To start your hike to Reinebringen, the Steffenakken parking lot is the closest to the trailhead. This parking lot is free, but it often fills up quickly, especially if you arrive late in the morning. To maximize your chances of securing a spot, try to get there early.
If the Steffenakken parking lot is full, another option is to park in the village of Reine. The tourist office offers parking options.
This parking area also provides amenities such as public restrooms (available during the center’s opening hours) and a souvenir shop.
Preparation tips
- Equipment: Wear good hiking shoes, a waterproof jacket, and layered clothing to adapt to the changing weather. Bonus tip: bring hiking poles for better balance on the steep sections.
- Weather: The weather in the Lofoten Islands is unpredictable, so check the forecast and be prepared for wind or rain. With a bit of luck, you might catch a rainbow over the village of Reine!
- Safety: The stone steps make the climb easier, but the slope remains steep. Descend with caution, especially if the trail is wet. In winter, the steps can become dangerously slippery due to ice, making the ascent hazardous. For safety reasons, it’s strongly recommended to avoid this hike during the winter season.
- Best time to go to Reinebringen: During the peak season (June to August), the trail can get busy. To enjoy some tranquility and avoid crowds, plan your hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon (or why not take in the midnight sun?). The Reinebringen trail is best accessed between mid-May and mid-October, when conditions are most favorable for hiking.
A unique experience
The hike to Reinebringen is a true crescendo of sensations. The iconic view of the village of Reine, framed by fjords and steep mountains, only reveals itself as you near the summit. Along the way, you can look back and see the steps you’ve climbed, but the spectacular view remains hidden. It’s only upon reaching the top that you’re rewarded with this breathtaking panorama, a moment that personally brought tears to my eyes.
The photos are beautiful, but in reality, it’s even more breathtaking. The shades of blue and green in the fjords and mountains create a mesmerizing view, and if you’re lucky, like we were, a rainbow might sneak into the scene, adding an extra touch of magic. Reinebringen is a place that exceeds all expectations. While the trail is popular and you likely won’t have it to yourself, the beauty of the place is incredible, and it’s something you absolutely wouldn’t want to miss.
Where to sleep near Reinebringen?
To enhance your experience, consider staying nearby. Lofotlove Apartments offers fully equipped accommodations, perfect for cooking and relaxing “like at home.” Conveniently located less than a 10-minute drive from the Reinebringen trailhead, this accommodation makes it easy to come home for a shower and a meal after your hike.
Other nearby hikes
If Reinebringen has sparked your interest in hiking in the Lofoten Islands, several other trails are worth exploring:
- Kvalvika Beach: A hike to a secluded beach with spectacular views.
- Ryten: A longer trail offering equally stunning views of the coastline and mountains.
- Offersøykammen: Short but steep, this hike rewards you with a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding area.
Conclusion and review of Reinebringen
Reinebringen is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular hikes in the Lofoten Islands. The combination of its iconic view, the physical challenge, and the sense of accomplishment at the summit makes it an unforgettable experience. While the trail is steep and popular, the breathtaking panorama at the top, with its dramatic fjords, turquoise waters, and the charming village of Reine, is worth every step.
Reinebringen is more than just a hike, it’s a full immersion into the raw and majestic beauty of the Lofoten Islands. Its summit offers a breathtaking view that makes every step of the climb worthwhile. Yes, the trail is steep and the weather can be unpredictable, but the views waiting at the top quickly make you forget the effort.
If you’re ready to tackle the 1,978 steps, know that the journey is worth every step and every moment.
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Don’t hesitate to leave a comment if you have any questions, or if you would like to share your own Lofoten adventures! And for even more travel inspiration, follow us on Instagram @ephemeos – where we share incredible landscapes and tips for exploring dream destinations. See you soon!
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