Privately-owned by the same family for six generations, Hattvika Lodge combines the authenticity of life in Ballstad, a picturesque fishing village just above the Arctic Circle, with the comfort and stylish design for which Scandinavia is so well known.
Situated on the small island of Vestvågøya in Norway’s idyllic Lofoten archipelago, the lodge offers exclusive accommodation in restored fishermen’s cottages overlooking the harbour, together with Hattvika Hillside – ten newly-built hotel rooms set on the hillside with mountains towering behind.
The freestanding rooms are partly nestled into the rocky terrain, partly perched on impressive steel supports and, their huge picture windows offer spectacular panoramic views over the Norwegian Sea and the mountains behind.
And, best of all, there is also the possibility of witnessing the Northern Lights during the winter months … from the comfort of your hotel bed.
The Northern Lights captured by Julius Michelle swirling over the over Hattvika Hillside
The recent restoration and refurbishment of 13 original fishermen’s huts dating back to the 1880s has resulted in a selection of luxurious accommodation in one-, two-, three- and four-bedroom cabins.
Modern upgrades include bathrooms with under floor heating, fully-equipped kitchens and contemporary artwork, all of which meld seamlessly with traditional features such as wood cladding from the original buildings.
High ceilings, clean lines, comfortable sofas, soft furnishings, log burners and clever lighting ideas, all add to the homely, yet exclusive ambience created by the owners, husband-and-wife duo, Guri and Kristian Boe.
The newly refurbished cabins include Seaside Suites for two, right by the waterfront, which include breakfast in the property’s new restaurant just a short walk across the quay, and use of a private hot tub, overlooking the harbour.
The newly refurbished cabins include Seaside Suites for two, right by the waterfront
The pièce de résistance at Hattvika is the main Lodge, a beautiful villa with annexe and small fisherman’s cottage, ideal for larger families and groups.
Whichever accommodation type is chosen, a warm welcome awaits all guests from Guri and Kristian, who are always happy to share their extensive local knowledge and to work closely with local suppliers and guides to ensure their visitors have the ultimate Lofoten experience.
Numerous guided activities are possible, such as sea kayaking, hiking, trail running, mountain biking and stand-up paddle boarding, as well as ski touring in the winter and photography tours taking in the spectacular landscape and the magical Northern Lights between September and April.
Fishing trips, boat rentals, surfing, diving and RIB tours are also available through local operators, as well as the possibility of hiring a private chef.
Hattvika Lodge’s newly-opened bistro-style restaurant, Fangst, offers fabulous views as you dine
Plus, the newly-opened bistro-style restaurant, Fangst, (meaning ‘catch’) aims to provide a memorable dining experience for its guests by producing a range of tasting menus based on sustainable ingredients sourced locally.
For an additional taste of Lofoten and its history, Hattvika is the only place in the world with a cod liver oil tasting booth. This pays homage to the islands’ rich heritage in producing Omega-3 oils and using them for everything from health benefits to painting the fishermen’s cabins red.
It is also possible for guests to join an excursion with local fishermen to learn more about the significance of Lofoten Fishery, its history and importance to the islands’ inhabitants.
Prices per night for accommodation at Hattvika Lodge range from approximately £172 to £645 in a Fisherman’s Cottage, from £293 in a Hillside Cabin, from £516 in a Seaside Suite and from £680 for the Lodge.
