Every day throughout the winter, we have ski rental customers asking the same question: "Where do you recommend we go?"

So I thought, why not write it up in an article for everyone to see? What follows are my top 5 recommendations for epic, safe (depending on conditions, of course!) ski tours within a short drive of the RETUR shop in Svolvær. In no particular order…

Store Kvittind

This is a fun mountain, with super easy access and a varied and interesting descent.
Park in the pull-off next to the E10 and start climbing almost immediately. Hike up to the frozen lake at about 300 meters and stick to the trees below if avalanche conditions are unstable, or if conditions are stable, continue to the top for fantastic 360-degree views.

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The Cod Man

A relatively long approach (for Lofoten) that can be fun in itself, as you navigate some small rivers and wind your way up through the forest before reaching the ridge and ascending steeply to the open face of Torskmannen. An outrageously beautiful approach that is often much colder than more coastal peaks. A powder paradise on a good day, with options to ski Breitind and Sukkerbrettet to the left as you look up, the main peak further to the right, or Baken even further to the right. It’s very hard not to ski the same run over and over again on a good day!

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Rundfjellet

At over 800 meters, Rundfjellet towers high above the rest; sometimes the view is so breathtaking that you forget there’s a magnificent descent waiting for you.
It can be approached from the east for a relatively long day out with a real sense of adventure and plenty of sunshine, or from the north for a quicker approach and often drier snow. Skiing the south face in the sunshine is an unbeatable Lofoten experience.

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Sautind

A quick, safe, and easy ski run perfect for beginners looking to get a taste of ski touring and advanced skiers looking for fast, fun runs. With the option of the higher Pilan to the west, Sautind often holds snow well and offers spectacular views of Higravtind and Rulten from its rounded summit.

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Varden

A classic that always seems to gleam pure white, even when other mountains are bare and brown.
With its intriguing ridgeline approach, massive open bowl, deep snow, and wind-exposed summit, Varden is always a bit of an adventure—a great challenge for those just starting out, and a ton of fun.
Usually skiable well into June if you’re willing to hike the first section, Varden offers fantastic views of Vestfjord and nearly the entire Lofoten archipelago.