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Haukland to Uttakleiv Hike

The circular walk connecting the white-sand beaches of Haukland and Uttakleiv is one of the most accessible in the Lofoten Islands, with two stretches of turquoise water separated by an easy pass. Haukland is often described as one of the most beautiful beaches in Norway, while Uttakleiv was voted the most romantic beach in Europe by The Times. Part of the route follows the old road used by locals before the tunnel opened, in 1998.

This makes it an ideal option for a half-day walk, with no technical difficulty involved, yet offering views typical of the Lofoten Islands. The downside is that the route and both beaches are very busy during the high season.

Remarks

Parking: Large paid car park at Haukland (payment via the EasyPark or VIPPS apps; indicative rates in 2026: 80 NOK for three hours and 110 NOK for four hours). There is a tourist office, toilets and an information point on site. The car park at Uttakleiv is also paid.

Possible extension: From the pass, a detour of about an hour and a half there and back leads to the summit of Mannen (400 m), which offers a bird's-eye view of both beaches. See the Mannen hike page for more information.

Difficulties and description of the hike

From the Haukland car park, it is best to walk the loop in a clockwise direction. First, take the old cart track that runs between the sea and the eastern face of Veggen. This section of the path is completely flat and straightforward. Follow the track as it winds around the vertical cliffs of Veggen for about 4 km until you reach the meadows of Uttakleiv.

At the Uttakleiv car park, which has toilets and a motorhome area, cross the hamlet towards the tunnel. About a hundred meters before the tunnel entrance, a track branches off to the left and winds its way up to the pass between Mannen and Himmeltindan. This is the only significant climb of the walk, with a 150-metre ascent with no difficulty, on a dirt and stony path. From the pass, cross over to the Haukland side, passing close to the small Lomtjønna lake, before beginning the descent towards the beach.

The path is unmarked, but it is easy to follow throughout. Until recently, the descent towards Haukland was muddy and slippery after rain, but stone steps are currently being built by sherpas in 2026 to make the route safer.

What you'll love

Two of the most beautiful beaches in the Lofoten Islands, with white sand, turquoise water, and sheer cliffs plunging into the sea.
The family-friendly, largely flat route which offers a welcome change from the archipelago's usual long climbs.