Littleisland Lighthouse

We stayed for two nights and loved the walks, the landscape, the incredible views, and the food, some of it with a distinctly local touch. Elena shared the story of the island, its people, and the lighthouse. We were even allowed a glass of wine in the lighthouse, with an unbelievable view. Golden eagles were around the whole time, and we spotted a seal on the way back. Litløy lighthouse is a remote, unique, and stunning place. We highly recommend visiting if you're after an unspoiled getaway.

Elena’s care shows in all the little handmade details at Litløy Fyr, from the warm curtains and wool duvet covers to the cushions. The place feels special, thoughtful, and eco-friendly. She even grows mint for tea, along with sprouts and other vegetables, and cooked traditional Norwegian dishes while sharing stories about the island. Her years as a tour guide mean she knows plenty about Norway and Sweden. I had the perfect winter retreat, and borrowing her snowshoes is a great idea. I’d love to return in summer.

We lost nearly $4,000 US after cancelling a two-night stay booked for February 2024 for me and my clients. I’m an Arctic guide, and two days before arrival we were told that, at best, the weather might keep us on the island for three extra days. That uncertainty made the trip impossible for us. The owners offered only a chance to rebook within 12 months, even though the island couldn’t honor our original booking. I know the weather is part of staying somewhere remote in the Arctic, and I understand those were the booking terms, but that still doesn’t feel right. They wouldn’t offer even a 50% refund, and the email I got from the owners felt insulting as they kept pointing back to the terms. In ten years of taking guests to the Arctic, weather-related bookings I’ve made have always offered some kind of refund when plans were disrupted. I’d think carefully before booking unless you can afford to lose that much money.

The scenery on Littöy is breathtaking. It’s a unique island, way out on the western edge of northern Norway’s archipelago. I spent three memorable weeks there as a volunteer in 2013, building a firewood shed and starting work on the boat house, or naust, with Nicholas Jallan. We also fished in our spare time and brought cod, mackerel, coalfish, and crabs to the meals. It’s pleasing to hear how the building work has progressed. I have a lot of respect for Elena’s steady drive to make Littelöya an increasingly appealing place to visit.