Bensvik Brygge – Værøy
If we had to use “one” word to describe Værøy in Lofoten, it would be dreamy. But Værøy is more. Much more!
Discover Værøy – Lofoten’s Wild, Untamed Outpost
Far out in the sea, between Moskenes and Røst, lies Værøy – a remote island where raw nature, dramatic history, and local legends come alive. This is where the adventurous go to escape the ordinary.
At the heart of the island is Sørland, a cozy harbor village with charming places to stay, local eateries, and hidden gems like antique shops and traditional crafts.
But Værøy is more than a peaceful village. It’s an island shaped by the elements – carved by storms and surrounded by the legendary Moskenesstraumen, one of the strongest maelstroms in the world.
Fishing is the island’s lifeblood, and the cool sea air makes it ideal for producing world-famous stockfish. Centuries of trade even forged a surprising friendship: Venice is Værøy’s twin city.
For hikers and explorers, the island’s steep but walkable peaks are irresistible. The most iconic trail? Håheia, where the payoff is a jaw-dropping panorama of the Lofoten Wall and the endless Vestfjord. Look closely, and you’ll spot the abandoned village of Måstad, once home to the legendary Puffin dog. Adventurers can hike all the way there – starting from the old airport at Nordlandshagen.
Explore Lofoten’s oldest church, dramatic bird cliffs, and ancient eagle-catching caves, where hunters once caught sea eagles with nothing but their bare hands.
Værøy is not for everyone. But if you crave something wild, real, and far from the crowds – this island is calling.
Experience raw nature
Sometimes, you’ll watch as a single wall of fog spills silently over a mountain, like an avalanche made of air. Other times, clouds twist and curl along the sky’s edge, creating an almost cinematic backdrop to your hike or view from the shore.
Stay at Bensvik Brygge
Bensvik Brygge offers accommodation in charming apartments right on the quay in Værøy harbor. Bring your family and friends to explore everything the island has to offer — for both young and old.
They offer cozy and well-equipped apartments with scenic views of the sea and surrounding mountains. All six units are located on the second floor and include a private balcony with seating.
All apartments — except for one double room — come with a fully equipped kitchen featuring a stovetop, oven, kettle, refrigerator, and dishwasher. Bathrooms are equipped with a hairdryer.
Bed linens, towels, and final cleaning are included in the price. Some units can accommodate an extra bed, and a baby travel cot is available upon request.
Each apartment includes board games and playing cards, and guests are welcome to borrow books. All rooms have a radio, and most also come with a TV. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property.
Please note: They do not offer breakfast or food service.
Sauna and cold plunge
In the harbor, they also offer a proper arctic experience with our floating sauna. Get a fresh start each day with a proper arctic cold plunge.
Kayaking on Værøy
There’s little that beats a kayak trip when the sea is calm and you can see everything from sea urchins and crabs below you to cormorants and sea eagles above. Sometimes, a curious seal might even pop up. That’s when you’re truly present in the moment.
The weather changes quickly on Værøy, so kayak rentals are weather-dependent.
To rent a kayak at Bensvik Brygge, you need a paddling license or solid prior kayaking experience.
Værøy’s rich cultural and natural offerings
If you think you’ve experienced untouched nature, silence, and true tranquility — you haven’t been to Værøy yet.
Puinn sand
A remote beach on Værøy – awarded one the worlds most beautiful beaches.
This remote and breathtaking beach is surrounded by steep cliffs and dramatic mountain backdrops. With its white sand, crystal-clear water, and total isolation, it feels like a secret paradise – far removed from the busy trails of mainland Lofoten.
Explore Værøy from the ocean
Bird cliffs, caves and mountains characterized by some of the oldest rocks in Europe.
Cool fact: Approximately 400 million years ago, during the Caledonian orogeny, tectonic forces shaped these mountains, creating the dramatic peaks and valleys seen today. Later, during the Ice Age, glaciers sculpted the landscape, smoothing peaks and carving out fjords, yet leaving much of Værøy’s geological features remarkably intact.
Rich bird life and a hidden haven for seabirds
Værøy is a paradise for birdwatchers, offering a rare combination of dramatic landscapes and rich birdlife.
The island’s isolated cliffs, open skies, and untouched coastline make it a prime nesting and resting site for both seabirds and migratory species.
Hiking and incredible views
Værøy is indeed a hiker’s paradise.
How to get to Værøy
Take the ferry, or jump on the world’s northernmost helicopter route!
You can reach Værøy by ferry from either Bodø or Moskenes in Lofoten. If you’re traveling by car, we strongly recommend booking your spot in advance, as ferry traffic can be heavy—especially during peak season.
Another option is to fly to Værøy via helicopter from Bodø Airport, operated by the company Lufttransport. The scenic helicopter ride is an experience in itself, offering stunning aerial views.
Ready for you adventure to Værøy?
We hope this article inspired you to visit a truly remote and exotic island community filled with rich history and natural wonders!
Be sure to book your stay at Bensvik Brygge as the base for all your adventures on Værøy.