Lødingen: Rock Carvings, Protected Area and Culture

The rock carvings at Nes, the Møysalen Landscape Protection Area and activities in Vestbygd show different sides of Lødingen. For regional orientation, Lødingen lies between Lofoten, Vesterålen, Ofoten and Hålogaland.

Hiking and rock carvings at Nes

The rock carvings at Nes are visible in spring, summer and autumn, provided they are not covered by snow. The marked hiking trail to the site is about 2.5 kilometres long; trail conditions may change. For a longer walk, the circular trail around old Nes continues for 5.5 kilometres through easy terrain and takes about an hour. At the end, there is a climb of about 1 kilometre from Neshamn. The approximate distance and the climb described are specific points to consider when planning this hike.

Scenery and views

The Møysalen Landscape Protection Area covers 67 km² in the municipalities of Hadsel, Sortland and Lødingen. It has been protected since 2003 and preserves a coastal alpine landscape, its associated biological diversity and cultural heritage. The protected area therefore extends beyond the municipality of Lødingen.

On Offersøy, Mummihuset sits on a hill, about 200 metres from the holiday centre. It is located in a former military communications station and offers a 360-degree panoramic view. Check locally whether access is possible before visiting.

Culture, art and history

Kysthuset in Voje is a museum featuring boats, engines and items from houses, boathouses and quays in the municipality of Lødingen. The collection brings together maritime technology and objects from various local buildings and facilities. Opening arrangements may vary; check them before your visit.

Vestbygd Church, a wooden long church with 230 seats, is located in Vågehamn in the municipality of Lødingen. On the shore at Hustad Gård stands Anish Kapoor’s sculpture “Øye i stein” (Eye in Stone). It was created in collaboration with Lødingen Steinindustri. The large block is made of 180-million-year-old Lødingen monzonite, a granite.

Guided tours about the history of Lødingen and Dampskipsbrygga are offered for groups of more than 8–10 people. Guests learn more about Lødingen’s history from the Viking Age to the present day. Group arrangements should be confirmed before arrival.

Farm café and farm products

Den Sorte Gryte has a farm café and farm shop. They offer their own goat’s cheese as well as other farm products, including goat hides, goat meat and gift items. The café is open in July; groups are welcomed year-round. As visitor arrangements may change, check them in advance.

Activities in Vestbygd

A guided moose safari is offered on Offersøy in Lødingen Vestbygd. It lasts two and a half to three hours and runs from September to March. The season may change; check current dates when planning this tour.

Offersøy Feriesenter offers diving holidays around Offersøy. The archipelago there is home to many fish species, old shipwrecks and underwater vegetation. Seasonal conditions and availability may change; check current offers before planning.

Cycling and hiking in Vestbygda offer a different kind of activity: you can explore the area at your own pace. Offersøy Feriesenter offers options for doing so in Vestbygda.

Discover more destinations: Lødingen, Vestbygd, Andøy, Sømna, Nesna, Leirfjord, Lurøy, Herøy.

For the broader travel overview: Nordland.