Reine | Iceland

Reine is a village in the Lofoten archipelago of Norway, not Iceland. It serves as the administrative center of Moskenes Municipality and is widely cited as the most picturesque fishing village in the world, characterized by its "Rorbu" cabins (red fisherman's huts on stilts) and its location at the foot of the granite peak Reinebringen.

Historical Timeline

The area has been a trading post since 1743. Its development was dictated by the seasonal cod fishery (Lofotfisket), which has sustained the region for over a millennium. A primary event in its modern history was December 1941, when German forces burned portions of the village as reprisal for a British commando raid on the Lofoten Islands. In the late 20th century, the economy shifted from purely industrial fishing to elite-tier nature tourism.

Demographics & Population

The population is approximately 300 (2026 estimate). The demographic is predominantly Norwegian, though the service sector is heavily staffed by international seasonal workers. The population swells significantly during the summer months and the winter cod season.

Urban Layout & Key Districts

Reine is built on a promontory and several small islands connected by bridges. The Harbour area contains the commercial core and ferry dock. Sakrisøy and Hamnøy are the adjacent bridge-linked islands that effectively function as extensions of the village's tourism and residential infrastructure.

Top Landmarks

Reinebringen: A mountain peak (448m) offering the iconic panoramic view of the village; accessible via 2,000 stone Sherpa stairs.

Reine Church: A traditional white wooden "long church" dating to 1890.

Eliassen Rorbuer: Located on Hamnøy, these are the most photographed red cabins in Norway.

Bunes Beach: A remote Arctic beach on the "outer" side of the islands, accessible by boat from Reine.

Anita’s Sjømat: A landmark seafood bar on Sakrisøy famous for its gourmet fish burgers.

Transportation Network

Movement is facilitated by the E10 (Lofast) highway, which terminates shortly after Reine in the village of Å. There is no rail transit. Public transport is provided by the Lofotekspressen (Route 300) bus. Air travel is serviced by Leknes (LKN) for domestic flights or Evenes (EVE) for larger jets. The village is also a stop for the Hurtigbåt (express passenger ferry) from Bodø.

Safety & "Red Zones"

The safety level is high. The primary "red zone" is the Reinebringen trail during winter (November–May); the steep stairs become lethally icy and are prone to avalanches. Do not attempt the climb without micro-spikes and local weather clearance. At sea level, stay alert for heavy maritime traffic in the narrow harbor channels.

Digital & Financial Infrastructure

Average internet speed is 100–500 Mbps via fiber-optic. Main carriers are Telenor and Telia. Norway is almost entirely cashless; card and mobile (Vipps/Apple Pay) payments are universal. Parking in the center is strictly regulated and requires payment via the EasyPark or Apcoa apps.

Climate & Air Quality

Temperatures range from -2°C in winter to 14°C in summer. Despite being above the Arctic Circle, the Gulf Stream prevents the harbors from freezing. Air quality is pristine, dominated by the scent of salt air and drying cod (stockfish) during spring.

Culture & Social Norms

Tipping is not expected but 5–10% is appreciated for exceptional service. The culture is defined by Friluftsliv (outdoor life). Social life revolves around the water. Respect the privacy of residents; many rorbuer are private homes, and photographing through windows is considered a serious breach of etiquette.

Accommodation Zones

Stay in a Rorbu (Fisherman's Cabin) on Reine's waterfront for the authentic experience.

Stay on Hamnøy for the most dramatic mountain views and quieter surroundings.

Local Cost Index

1 Espresso: 45 – 60 NOK ($4.25 – $5.75 USD)

1 Standard Lunch (Fish Burger/Soup): 250 – 350 NOK ($23 – $33 USD)

1 Beer (0.5L): 110 – 150 NOK ($10 – $14 USD)

Nearby Day Trips

Village of Å: The end of the road and a living museum (10 km).

Nusfjord: A preserved UNESCO-candidate fishing village (40 km).

Rambergstranda: A massive white-sand Arctic beach (25 km).

Facts & Legends

Reine was voted the "Most Beautiful Village in Norway" by the country's largest weekly magazine in the 1970s, a title it has effectively held in global marketing ever since. A verified historical fact is that the village sits on the edge of the Moskstraumen, one of the world's most powerful whirlpool systems, which inspired Edgar Allan Poe’s A Descent into the Maelström.