Flakstad Church
A historic red wooden church in Lofoten, built from Russian driftwood, featuring a unique onion dome and set against dramatic coastal scenery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Flakstad Church
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic red wooden church in Lofoten, built from Russian driftwood, featuring a unique onion dome and set against dramatic coastal scenery.
"Beautiful church off the beaten path, as per everything in northern Norway."
📸 Capture the Red Gem
The vibrant red exterior pops against the Lofoten scenery. Best light is often early morning or late afternoon.
🚪 Check Interior Access
The church may be closed or have an entry fee. Confirm hours and policies before your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Red Exterior
Flakstad Village
A striking red wooden church, a vibrant landmark against Lofoten's dramatic landscapes.
18th-Century Architecture
Flakstad Village
Discover its historic cruciform design and unique onion-shaped spire, a testament to Nordic craftsmanship.
Russian Driftwood History
Flakstad Village
Learn about its construction from Russian driftwood, a fascinating piece of maritime history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Accessing the Interior
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Red Gem
The vibrant red exterior pops against the Lofoten scenery. Best light is often early morning or late afternoon.
🚪 Check Interior Access
The church may be closed or have an entry fee. Confirm hours and policies before your visit.
🚗 Drive-By Worthy
Even if closed, the exterior and surrounding views are stunning. Worth a stop if you're driving through.
💍 Elopement Spot
This picturesque church has been a chosen venue for intimate weddings and elopements.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Red Gem
The vibrant red exterior pops against the Lofoten scenery. Best light is often early morning or late afternoon.
🚪 Check Interior Access
The church may be closed or have an entry fee. Confirm hours and policies before your visit.
🚗 Drive-By Worthy
Even if closed, the exterior and surrounding views are stunning. Worth a stop if you're driving through.
💍 Elopement Spot
This picturesque church has been a chosen venue for intimate weddings and elopements.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Flakstad Church is a charming, historic wooden church with a striking red exterior, set against the beautiful Lofoten landscape. Visitors appreciate its unique architecture, including the onion dome, and its history of being built from Russian driftwood. While the exterior is always a draw, interior access can be inconsistent, with some noting it's closed or requires a fee.
"Flakstad Church is a small and quaint wooden church surrounded by dramatic mountains. The current timber structure was built in 1780 using Russian driftwood after a storm destroyed the previous building, and it notably served as an election church during Norway’s first national elections in 1814. Unfortunately, it was closed during our visit, so we couldn’t see the interior."
Jan Rosenberg
"Beautiful old church originally built with timber and bell tower from Russia. The church was locked on the day we visited.
Apparently there is a holiday home nearby also."
Rick Beauchesne
"Inside closed, but beautiful outside"
David Korosec
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Flakstad Church is located in the village of Flakstad on Vestvågøy island in the Lofoten Islands, Norway. It's easily accessible by car, situated directly off the E10 highway, which is the main road through Lofoten. Parking is generally available nearby.
Public transport options in Lofoten can be limited, especially to smaller villages. While bus routes may pass through Flakstad, checking local bus schedules (e.g., Nordland fylkeskommune) is recommended for the most up-to-date information. Driving is the most convenient way to reach the church.
Most visitors arrive by car, as it allows for flexibility in exploring the Lofoten Islands. The church is a picturesque stop along the scenic E10 route, making it easy to incorporate into a road trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The exterior of Flakstad Church is always visible and free to admire. However, some visitors have noted that there might be a fee to enter the church's interior. It's best to check on-site or with local tourist information for current entry policies.
Opening hours for Flakstad Church can vary, as it is an active place of worship. It may be closed for services, private events, or during certain seasons. It's highly recommended to check the official church website or contact local tourist information for the most accurate and up-to-date hours before your visit.
Access to the interior of Flakstad Church is not always guaranteed. Some visitors have found it locked or requiring a fee for entry. If you wish to see the inside, try to visit during advertised public visiting hours or inquire locally.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are during the 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon. The red color of the church stands out beautifully against the natural light, especially during sunrise and sunset. 
Absolutely! The church is surrounded by stunning Lofoten scenery, including mountains and the sea. The nearby Flakstad beach also offers fantastic photographic potential, especially with the church in the background.
If you are able to enter the church, photography policies may vary. It's always respectful to check for signage or ask permission before taking photos inside a place of worship.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
Flakstad Church was built in 1780, replacing an earlier structure destroyed by a storm. It's notable for being constructed from Russian driftwood and features a unique onion dome, reflecting historical trade with Russia. It also served as an election church in 1814.
The church is painted red, a traditional color for many Norwegian churches, often using Falun red paint. This vibrant hue makes it a distinctive landmark against the often dramatic and sometimes muted landscapes of Lofoten.
Flakstad Church has a traditional cruciform design and is known for its distinctive onion-shaped spire, which is somewhat rare for Norwegian churches and hints at historical influences.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The proximity to Flakstad beach also provides an opportunity for kids to play and explore the coastline after visiting the church. Keep in mind that interior access might be limited or involve a fee, which could be less engaging for very young children. However, the exterior and the surrounding natural beauty are generally enough to make it a worthwhile, quick stop on a family road trip through Lofoten.
🚗 Road Trippers
It's an ideal spot for a short break to stretch your legs, admire the unique architecture, and learn a bit about its history, particularly its construction from Russian driftwood. Combine it with a visit to the nearby beach for a refreshing stop amidst the stunning Lofoten scenery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Construction of Flakstad Church
The church's distinctive onion-shaped spire is another architectural feature that sets it apart. This element is believed to be a nod to the historical trade and cultural exchange between Lofoten and the Russian Pomors (traders from the White Sea coast) during the 18th century. It adds a unique visual flair, distinguishing it from many other Norwegian churches.
Beyond its construction, Flakstad Church played a role in Norwegian history by serving as an election church during the country's first national elections in 1814. This historical significance adds another layer to its importance as a cultural landmark in the Lofoten Islands.
Experiencing Flakstad Church and its Surroundings
+1While the church itself is a focal point, the surrounding area offers additional charm. The village of Flakstad is picturesque, and the nearby Flakstad beach provides a beautiful coastal landscape. Many visitors enjoy combining a visit to the church with a stroll along the beach, taking in the expansive views and the fresh sea air.
It's worth noting that while the exterior is always accessible, the interior might be closed or require a fee. Visitors are advised to check local information for current access details. Even if closed, the exterior and its scenic setting are considered a worthwhile stop for anyone traveling through the Lofoten Islands.
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