What to do in Ballstad

Hurtigruten Ferry Terminal Stamsund is a port on the island of Vestvågøy in the Lofoten archipelago. It’s a great place to watch cruise ships dock, dine at waterfront cafés and enjoy relaxed walks. The terminal is also the starting point for dozens of excursions along the Norwegian coast and out to sea.

The Lofotr Vikingmuseum is an interactive museum built around the excavated site of a Viking chieftain house. See a precise reconstruction of a Viking longhouse and Lofotr, a full-scale replica of the 9th-century Gokstad Viking ship. Wander through the blacksmith’s forge and the boathouses in this immersive historic experience.

The formerly secluded fishing village of Henningsvær is easily accessible via the Henningsvær Bridges, two concrete arcs that span the straits between Austvågøya and its southern atoll. Cross Engøysundet Bridge and Henningsvær Bridge on foot, by bicycle or by car. Admire the stunning Vestfjord shoreline and the scattering of scenic islands that make up this pretty section of the Lofoten archipelago.

Experience life in a fishing village at the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum. This museum is dedicated to conserving the history of the Lofoten Fishery, spanning over 200 years. Enjoy sweet pastries and bread from the museum’s stone oven bakery. Walk through beautiful gardens and see the historic cabins of traveling fishermen.

Discover the history of stockfish and fishing in Lofoten at the Stockfish Museum. See how cod and other fish are dried on wooden racks to make stockfish. This method was used in northern Norway as early as the 9th century to preserve fish and allow for several years storage. The museum was previously a fish warehouse and features artifacts and exhibits relating to the region’s stockfish heritage.