Ballstadheia and Nonstinden in Lofoten

A nice variant is the round trip up Nonstinden (459 m) and around Brurstolen (approx. 7 km).

Ballstadheia is a large, open moor that stretches like an amphitheater towards Nonstinden (459 m). There are several nice trails to choose from, and it’s easy to customize the length and duration of the hike as desired. For the little ones, it may be enough to walk up to the plateau (approx. 200 meters above sea level) and dive crow on the grassy slope. If you want to go further, there are great views from Fløya (268 m above sea level) and the aforementioned Nonstinden.

This description also includes the loop around Brurstolen – a beautiful coastal walk that concludes this varied, easy and exceptionally beautiful hike.

Gentle uphill

The tour starts from Kræmmarvika on Ballstadlandet, right by Kræmmarvika Rorbuer. A good path goes up and along the mountainside, and the view is beautiful from the first step. At 200 meters above sea level, you’ll be on a large, green plain and see several trails. Take the path to the right and follow the eastern side of the plateau. Walk via Fløya and gently uphill to Nonstinden, the highest point of the hike. It’s a great place to rest, with views of Nappstraumen and the tempting mountains of both Flakstadøy and Vestvågøy.

Along the sea

Continue the round trip down the somewhat steeper path that runs along the west side of the moor. Continue down the steep slope towards Grænvika. The path that winds around Brurstolen and leads back to the starting point is somewhat rockier and rougher than the silky smooth paths up on the moor. Can you find the small caves you can crawl through? This is an exciting and varied hike that gives you great value for little effort!

This article is taken from the book:“Turguide LOFOTEN – 60 flotte turer i verdens beaureste øyrike” – a book by Kristin Folsland Olsen.

The book can be ordered here at Lofoten.Store

Photo/text: Kristin Folsland Olsen