Horseid Beach - Assateague Island wild ponies on the beach by Sara L. Cottle.
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Horseid Beach

4.9
·7 reviews·, Norway

A remote, stunning sandy beach accessible by a rewarding hike, offering unparalleled seclusion and dramatic mountain vistas in Lofoten.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Fewer crowds, best light

CrowdLow
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Horseid Beach - Assateague Island wild ponies on the beach by Sara L. Cottle.

Horseid Beach

Best Time

Summer mornings

Fewer crowds, best light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A remote, stunning sandy beach accessible by a rewarding hike, offering unparalleled seclusion and dramatic mountain vistas in Lofoten.

4.9
(7 reviews)

"This was by far our favorite and our most recommended for the views and seclusion!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots

The trail can be rocky and steep. Good footwear is crucial for a safe and comfortable hike .

🎒 Pack for All Weather

Lofoten weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, rain gear, and sun protection.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Horseid Beach

Horseid Beach

Moskenesøy

A vast, often secluded sandy beach framed by dramatic mountains. Perfect for a peaceful escape.

The Hike to Horseid Beach

The Hike to Horseid Beach

From Selfjord or Vindstad

A challenging yet incredibly rewarding trek with stunning coastal and mountain vistas.

Mountain Views from the Skeret

Mountain Views from the Skeret

Above Horseid Beach

Panoramic views of the beach and surrounding fjords from a higher vantage point.

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Planning Your Visit

The Hike is Part of the Adventure

Horseid Beach isn't accessible by car. The journey involves a rewarding hike, often from Selfjord or via a ferry to Vindstad. Be prepared for varied terrain, from rocky paths to steep descents. Good hiking shoes are essential, and some recommend dog booties for furry companions.Reddit

Timing is Everything for Seclusion

While Horseid Beach is a gem, its popularity means crowds can build. Visiting during shoulder seasons or opting for longer hikes like the one from Selfjord can offer a more secluded experience. Check ferry schedules if using public transport to avoid long waits.Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, best light
Crowd
Low
When
Late Spring/Early Autumn
Why
Quieter, beautiful colors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

I was camping on the Horseid Beach, Norway this summer [OC] [3840x2160]

🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots

The trail can be rocky and steep. Good footwear is crucial for a safe and comfortable hike.Reddit

🎒 Pack for All Weather

Lofoten weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, rain gear, and sun protection.

reddit.com

Horseid Beach on the Lofoten Islands, Norway. Accessible only on foot or boat. One of the most northern beaches in the world. Great backpacking overnight.

reddit.com

Horseid Beach, Norway- June 2019

🚤 Check Ferry Schedules

If taking the ferry to Vindstad, plan your return trip to minimize waiting time.Reddit

📸 Bring Your Camera

The scenery is breathtaking, especially the views from the skeret.Reddit

reddit.com

Lofoten in March

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots

The trail can be rocky and steep. Good footwear is crucial for a safe and comfortable hike.Reddit

🎒 Pack for All Weather

Lofoten weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, rain gear, and sun protection.

🚤 Check Ferry Schedules

If taking the ferry to Vindstad, plan your return trip to minimize waiting time.Reddit

📸 Bring Your Camera

The scenery is breathtaking, especially the views from the skeret.Reddit

🏕️ Overnight Stays Possible

Consider camping for a truly immersive experience, but be prepared for no facilities.Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(7 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Horseid Beach, calling it a 'gem' and their 'most recommended' hike for its seclusion and stunning views. The challenging hike is consistently described as 'so worth it.' While the journey requires effort, the reward of having the vast beach often to oneself is unparalleled. Some note the terrain can be tough, especially the rocky descent, and advise good footwear.

"We hiked to Horseid Beach from Selfjord (RT about 13miles, 3,500ft elevation gain, 6hrs including time for pictures/lunch) definitely a taxing hike but so worth the views and having the beach to yourself! Out of our 10+ hikes across the Lofoten Islands this was by far our favorite and our most recommended for the views and seclusion 🙌🏽 follow me on insta for more travel content! @montanalucky 🫶"

montana lucky

"Awesome beach, often overlooked but great gem"

YC Law

"A nice walk to Horseidstranda, great views when you get up to the skeret. A nice walk to take when you are in Reine. Fast boat from Reine to the small harbor at the bottom of the Kjerkfjord. On the way into the Kjerkfjord you stop by Vindstad. From the pier in Kjerkfjorden the path goes over the skeret at about 200 meters in altitude. High mountains on both sides. The path is clear and somewhat steep down on the other side. Fantastic views down to the beach and the sea. The weather was humid, and good shoes keep you warm, and fit well on the path. The beach is huge, 1 km long and 700 meters wide.
It took us a couple of hours to get to the beach, and the same back, without breaks. The trip is 10 km long. Check the timetable for the fast boat, so you don't have to wait a long time. No facilities at the pier."

Jens Eirik Leitan

What People Like

Secluded, vast beach
Dramatic mountain backdrop
Rewarding hike

What People Dislike

Challenging hike
Rocky terrain
No facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Horseid Beach is primarily accessed via hiking. You can start from Selfjord for a longer, more challenging hike (approx. 10 km round trip, 6 hours),Reddit or take a fast boat from Reine to Vindstad and then hike over a mountain pass (approx. 200m elevation gain) to reach the beach.Reddit There are no direct car routes to the beach itself.

Parking can be challenging. If you're taking the ferry to Vindstad, check local parking regulations as they can be strict and fines are issued for improper parking.Reddit Some areas offer limited 3-hour parking, while others have 24-hour options before a bridge.Reddit

Yes, you can use the fast boat service from Reine to Vindstad. This is a popular option for those without a car. Remember to check the ferry timetable in advance to plan your journey efficiently.Reddit

The hike from Vindstad involves crossing a mountain pass with about 200 meters of elevation gain. The path is generally clear but can be steep, especially on the descent towards the beach. The views on the way are spectacular.Reddit

The hike is considered moderately difficult, especially the ascent and descent. It requires good physical condition and appropriate footwear. The length and terrain can be taxing, but the reward is immense.Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Horseid Beach itself. The costs are associated with transportation, such as ferry tickets if you use that option.Reddit

Horseid Beach is a natural attraction and does not have set opening or closing hours. You can visit at any time, though daylight hours are recommended for hiking and safety.Reddit

There is no admission fee for the hiking trails leading to Horseid Beach. The primary costs are related to getting to the starting points, like ferry fares or potential parking fees.Reddit

While not as common as for more accessible locations, guided tours might be available, especially during peak season. However, many visitors prefer to hike independently to enjoy the seclusion.Reddit

There are no facilities at Horseid Beach, including restrooms, shops, or cafes. It's a wild, natural beach, so come prepared with everything you need, including water and snacks.Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

The best way is to hike there and spend ample time enjoying the vastness of the beach and the surrounding dramatic scenery. Many visitors recommend staying overnight to experience the sunset and sunrise.Reddit

While the water is clear and beautiful, it is the Arctic Ocean, so expect very cold temperatures. Swimming is possible for the brave, but it's more of a place for scenic walks and relaxation.Reddit

You might see seabirds along the coast. The surrounding mountains are home to various bird species. Keep an eye out for marine life in the clear waters.Reddit

Yes, camping is a popular option for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the experience. It's a wild camping spot, so be sure to practice Leave No Trace principles.Reddit

Bring plenty of water, snacks, a packed lunch, rain gear, warm layers, sun protection, and a camera. A map and compass or GPS device are advisable for the hike.Reddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

The entire beach offers stunning photographic opportunities. Don't miss the panoramic views from the 'skeret' (the mountain pass above the beach).Reddit The long stretch of sand with the dramatic mountains as a backdrop is iconic.

Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers the most magical light for photography. However, the dramatic landscapes are impressive throughout the day, especially with moody Lofoten weather.Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vastness of the beach and mountains. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the landscape. A sturdy tripod is recommended for low-light conditions or long exposures.Reddit

Always check current drone regulations for Norway and Lofoten before flying. Be mindful of wildlife and other visitors. Respect any no-fly zones that may be in place.Reddit

Include a person or a recognizable object in your frame to give a sense of scale. Shooting from a lower angle can emphasize the height of the surrounding mountains against the beach.Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the hike to Horseid Beach can be challenging for very young children, families with older, active kids might find it a rewarding adventure. The vastness of the beach offers plenty of space for kids to run and play. Ensure children have appropriate footwear and are supervised closely, especially near the water and on the steeper parts of the trail. Packing plenty of snacks and water is essential, as there are no facilities. The sense of accomplishment after the hike can be a great motivator for kids.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Adventurers

Horseid Beach is an excellent destination for solo travelers seeking solitude and stunning natural beauty. The hike itself provides a sense of accomplishment and connection with nature. While the trails are generally well-marked, it's always wise for solo hikers to inform someone of their plans and carry navigation tools. The opportunity to camp overnight offers a unique chance for introspection and experiencing the Lofoten wilderness under the stars.Reddit

📸 Photographers' Paradise

For photographers, Horseid Beach is a dream location. The dramatic interplay of light and shadow on the mountains, the vast sandy expanse, and the ever-changing coastal weather provide endless opportunities. The hike to the 'skeret' above the beach offers unparalleled panoramic views, perfect for capturing the scale of the landscape.Reddit Visiting during golden hour or even during moody, overcast conditions can yield spectacular results. Remember to pack a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur and a tripod for stable shots in varying light.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Journey: Hiking to Horseid Beach

Reaching Horseid Beach is an adventure in itself, as it's not accessible by road. The most popular hiking routes offer a true taste of the Lofoten wilderness. One option is the hike from Selfjord, a more strenuous trek that can take around 6 hours round trip and involves significant elevation gain.Reddit This route often rewards hikers with fewer people and spectacular, uninterrupted views. Another common approach is to take a fast boat from Reine to Vindstad, a small village on the southern side of Moskenesøy. From Vindstad, a well-trodden path leads over a mountain pass, approximately 200 meters high, before descending to the beach.Reddit This route is generally shorter but still requires a good level of fitness and sturdy footwear.

Horseid Beach: A Natural Wonder

Once you arrive, Horseid Beach unfolds as a magnificent expanse of soft sand, stretching for about a kilometer. It's often described as a hidden gem, frequently overlooked by tourists flocking to more accessible spots. The beach is dramatically framed by towering, steep mountains, creating a breathtaking natural amphitheater. The seclusion and raw beauty make it an ideal spot for quiet contemplation, photography, or simply enjoying the power of nature. Many visitors find the experience so profound that they recommend staying overnight to witness the magical light of the Lofoten islands at dawn and dusk.Reddit

Practicalities for Your Visit

Given the remote nature of Horseid Beach, preparation is key. Footwear is paramount; sturdy hiking boots with good grip are essential due to the rocky and sometimes steep terrain.Reddit Some reviewers even suggest booties for dogs to protect their paws from sharp stones.Reddit Weather in Lofoten can change rapidly, so packing layers, waterproofs, and sun protection is crucial. Since there are no facilities at the beach or at the ferry drop-off points, bring all your own food, water, and any other necessities. If you plan to camp, remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the pristine environment.Reddit

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