Jumping the horns at
Svolværgeita

Overview

The Svolværgeita is one of Norway´s most iconic rock formations. As the most famous symbol of Svolvær it is a popular tourist destination. “Svolværgeita” means “the goat of Svolvær” and is named so because of its shape as a goat with horns on its head. It´s easy to hike to the foot of Svolværgeita. A longer hike, but still doable, is onwards to the mountain Fløya above and beyond, where you get a great view down to Svolværgeita.

Do you dare to jump the horns of Svolværgeita? It´s the most spectacular adventure to have in Lofoten!

If you want to climb on top of Svolværgeita, you must hire a professional climbing guide. The climbing starts at the foot of Svolværgeita and continues all the way to the top. Most guides accept only two climbers at a time, and the climb takes several hours. Prior climbing experience is not required, but you must be in decent physical shape. When you reach the top it´s a spectacular experience (for those who may wish to) to jump from one horn to the other.

The top of Svolværgeita is at 345 meters above sea level, but the rock formation itself is 150 meters tall and freestanding, starting at the foot of the mountain. The hike and climb takes 4-6 hours, depending on weather, route, and your physical shape. If you want to jump, the leap is 1,5 meters and you always jump from the tallest to the lowest horn (from right to left on the pictures above).

Svolværgeita was first climbed by Ferdinand Schjelderup, Alf Bonnevie Bryn and Carl Wilhelm Rubenson on 1 August 1910.

You should never try to climb Svolværgeita without a professional climbing guide. But with an experienced guide, this is a great adventure.

There are many other activities to try, once in Svolvær. Examples are fishing trips, sea eagle safari in Trollfjorden, guided history walk, a visit to the war history museum and maybe a trip to Henningsvær.

Here are some good suggestions for summer activities in Lofoten.