The best walks and hikes in Stø / Nyksund Naturreservat
4.8
(189)
1,191
hikers
13
hikes
Hiking in Stø / Nyksund Naturreservat offers diverse terrain within the Vesterålen archipelago, characterized by mountains, shorelines, marshlands, and white sand beaches. The region features both coastal paths and mountain treks, with elevations reaching up to 448 meters above sea level at Finngamheia. Freshwater lakes are present in the valleys, and some sections of the trails can be steep.
Best hiking trails in Stø / Nyksund Naturreservat
- The most popular hiking route is Skipssanden Beach – Wooden Shelter with Fireplace…
Last updated: May 14, 2026
4.5
(12)
38
hikers
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.9
(20)
128
hikers
12.6km
04:38
380m
380m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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5.0
(1)
24
hikers
3.23km
00:51
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
11
hikers
6.37km
03:14
430m
430m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
3.8
(4)
10
hikers
3.51km
01:02
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Tips from the Community
This colourful old fishing village is a creative hub these days. From here, runners and hikers have the option of the Dronningruta (Queen's Route), which combines coast and mountain paths into one superb journey.
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Skipssanden is a gorgeous white sand beach between the fishing villages of Nyksund and Stø. Hikers and runners on the Dronningruta (Queen’s Route) pass this way and a dip in the sea is tempting on warm days.
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Skipssanden is a gorgeous white sand beach between the fishing villages of Nyksund and Stø. Hikers on the Dronningruta (Queen’s Route) pass this way and a dip in the sea is tempting on warm days.
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The beach is called "Skipssand" on Google Maps. You can also camp there on the glass surfaces slightly higher up from the sandy beach. 🏕🌅🤩 Also easy to reach from the hikers' car park.
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People have been living here at the end of the world for a long time. But life was hard and people kept leaving the village. In the middle of the 20th century it became clear that the harbor was too small for modern fishing boats and so the houses were completely empty by 1977. Nyksund became a ghost town. In 1985 a German social worker from the TU Berlin discovered the village. Together with a group of young people he moved here, lived for free and renovated the village. The project only lasted a few years, then some people moved in again and Nyksund became an alternative artists' town. Source: https://find-the-silence.de/tour-item/2022-06-13-norwegen-vesteralen-nyk
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Nice to read something about Nyksund again. I lived there as a teenager from 1990 to 1994. One of the first to arrive there, but also the last to leave. I last lived in this storm house with 2 other teenagers and we had our own discotheque "Top Ten" back then... Memories upon memories, nice that this place is treated with dignity and respect...
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Nyksund is a cute little village that has a bit of a ghost town charm. In Holmwik Bruges you can really get to the bottom of the flair of the houses and the place. If you don't want to take the Dronningsruta over Nyksund detour, you are also advised to start in Sto, walk over the mountains and back along the coast and visit Nyksund by car. The road from Myre to Nyksund also offers spectacular views.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Stø / Nyksund Naturreservat?
Stø / Nyksund Naturreservat offers over a dozen hiking trails, catering to various preferences. The komoot community has documented 13 distinct routes in the area.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Stø / Nyksund Naturreservat?
The best time to hike in Stø / Nyksund Naturreservat is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, when the trails are clear of snow and the weather is most favorable. This allows for the full enjoyment of both coastal and mountain sections.
Are there any easy or moderate hiking options in Stø / Nyksund Naturreservat?
Yes, while the region is known for its challenging routes, there are several moderate options. For example, the Skipssanden Beach – Wooden Shelter with Fireplace loop from Stø Langøya is a moderate 3.9 km trail, and the Nyksund Village – View of Nyksund loop from Vottestadøya offers a moderate 3.2 km path with views of the historic village.
What are the main natural features and landmarks to look out for while hiking?
Hikers can expect a diverse landscape featuring mountains, shorelines, marshlands, and white sand beaches. Notable landmarks include the historic fishing villages of Nyksund and Stø, the stunning Dronningruta itself, and the panoramic views from Finngamheia, the highest point at 448 meters above sea level. Skipssanden Beach is another prominent natural highlight.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the area?
Yes, many routes in Stø / Nyksund Naturreservat are designed as loops. The famous Dronningruta is a circular trail connecting Nyksund and Stø. Other examples include the moderate Stø Harbor – Skipssanden Beach loop from Stø, which is about 3.4 km long.
What is the Dronningruta and how long does it take to hike?
The Dronningruta, or Queen's Route, is a renowned 12-15 km circular trail connecting Nyksund and Stø. It typically takes 5-8 hours to complete, offering a powerful experience of mountains meeting the sea. It's recommended to walk the mountain path towards Stø and the shoreline towards Nyksund due to some steep sections.
What should I wear or bring for a hike in Stø / Nyksund Naturreservat?
Given the varied terrain and coastal weather, it's advisable to bring appropriate gear. This includes good walking shoes, windproof clothes, and sufficient water, as there are no water sources directly on the trails. Layers are recommended to adapt to changing conditions.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Stø / Nyksund Naturreservat?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 180 reviews. Reviewers often praise the dramatic coastal scenery, the unique combination of mountain and shoreline paths, and the charm of the historic fishing villages.
Are there options for accommodation or food near the hiking trails?
Yes, both Nyksund and Stø villages offer options for accommodation, including cabins and campsites. These villages also provide opportunities for food and refreshments, with Nyksund being known for its revitalized artistic atmosphere and Stø as an active fishing village.
Is there parking available for hikers in Stø or Nyksund?
Parking is generally available in both Stø and Nyksund, serving as common starting points for many of the region's hiking trails, including the Dronningruta. It's always a good idea to check local signage for specific parking regulations.
Are there any historical or cultural points of interest along the trails?
Beyond the historic fishing villages themselves, the Dronningruta was historically used as a school route. Along the path, hikers can find evidence of a Viking-era longhouse and old house ruins at Enge, which also features a barbecue hut, offering a glimpse into the area's past.
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