Festogtinde is one of those peaks that seems to rise straight from the sea. From the road, it looks incredibly steep, but the way to the top rounds the mountain and never becomes too steep (by lofotenian standards). Located north of Henningswehr, the easily accessible peak provides fantastic panoramic views of the village islands below. The view of Festvagthinda reminds you of Rheinbreedingen, making this short journey a pleasant end. Mount Festvogthinda offers breathtaking views of the fishing village of Henningsweier. This hike is very similar to Svolvaer Fløya and Reinebringen, in that it is a steep, somewhat calm ascent to an amazing viewing platform. 

How to get there

From anywhere in Lofoten, head towards Henningswehr, located on the south side of Austvegöy. Leaving the E10 and heading towards Henningswehr, after 5km the road will make a strong left turn towards some large buildings. Your first parking option is here. Or, continuing along the road for a few more hundred meters, the road makes a strong right turn, right past here is a clearing on the right side, you can also park here. The trail starts by climbing a rocky slope on the mountain side of the right turn. From the road you will see an obvious and trampled trail coming out of the bushes. You go that way.

Routes

Leaving the road, the trail heads to the bushes and a large boulder field. First you will pass through the foundations of the old building and then cross the rocks. Here you can easily lose the trail, as there are several paths. Just keep going up to the center of the hill in front of you.

After crossing the last of the big boulders, you should go back on the trail and go up the mountain. After a while you will come to the split on the trail – stay to your left (Route 1 on the map below). Another route goes to the lower lookout point (Route #2 on the map below).

The trail approaches the rocks on your left as you climb up the mountain. One of the small ponds visible at the bottom right of you on the trail will begin to circle the back of the mountain, taking you further north. It gets a little cooler and dirtier sometimes, but it’s never too bad.

Although it may seem that you have some rocks to climb, the trail continues to curl up the mountain slope until you finally reach the ridge and can see the sea from the other side. From here, follow the trail to the left, back south to the top. There are several rocky steps where you will need your hands, but nothing open or very complicated.
Once you reach the peaks you will have a fantastic view of Henningsvar, as the village spreads out over small rocky islands. If the weather is clear, you can also enjoy views of Stamsund on your right and through Westfjord to the Norwegian mainland.

Camping

There are several camping opportunities to pitch a small tent along the ridge, just before reaching the summit. Although it can be a bit messy here, and it can be easier to just sleep outdoors on a slightly sloping heather slope. There is no water after a small pond on the 1/2 way up the route. The ridge is exposed to all weather conditions.