Haukland Beach, Norway

The island of Lofoten, off Norway's northwest coast, rises like a dragon's backbone from the Norwegian Sea and is the Arctic dream, whether viewed in the never-ending light of the Midnight Sun or under shimmering Northern Lights in winter snows. With jagged granite peaks protruding above milky sands and azure water, Haukland Beach is out of this world. The water is cool (never exceeding 15°C), but you'll be wanting to plunge in anyhow.

Haukland Beach on the Lofoten archipelago is undoubtedly the area's most recognized sandy site, making it a popular destination for beachgoers and hikers both. And it's easy to understand why, with its crystal-clear blue seas and mountains background. Voted Norway's greatest beach and located on Vestvagoy Island on the west side of Lofoten, this beach will be with you forever.

Haukland Beach, located just a few minutes' drive from Leknes (a small town in Nordland county and the administrative capital of the municipality of Vestvagoy), offers plenty of parking and is also accessible by bus. If you're traveling from Leknes, take the E10 toward A (a diversion off this route is part of Norway's Scenic Route Lofoten) and turn right after 6 kilometers into Offersoyveien, following the signs to Haukland. Continue for about 2 kilometers until turning left onto Voieveien. After 5 kilometers, you will arrive at the beach.

Location: Uttakleivveien 200, 8370 Leknes