Excursion North cape stairs hike & cloudberry beer tour at Honningsvåg

“Nothing ventured, nothing gained” is a fitting catchphrase for this invigorating guided hike that begins on the streets of Honningsvåg and leads you up a 1,000-step Sherpa-built stone staircase to awe-inducing views of the harbor and Arctic fjords beyond. This is Nordkapptrappa – the North Cape Stairway – and the bragging rights for ascending it are as priceless as the panoramas you’ll see from the summit.

The hike begins at sea level with a walk from the pier along Honningsvåg’s main street. As your guide shares facts about Far North life, you’ll witness locals going about their daily activities. In 15 minutes, you’ll be at the base of the stairs to begin the ascent. This steep, winding staircase – designed and built by skilled Nepalese craftsmen –stretches some .75 mi /1.2 km up the hillside to a summit some 1,000 feet above sea level. Stable and scenic every step of the way, the stairs twist and turn to blend naturally into the rugged Storfjellet mountain landscape. Expert guidance and photo stops along the way up – and back down – help make this a challenging but thoroughly accessible experience for any physically fit hiker.

Once you’ve returned to sea level, next stop is Sjøgata Pub, a cozy retreat and brewery known for its friendly atmosphere. Your mission: celebrate your stairclimbing exploits over a glass of cloudberry beer – a true Arctic-region treat. Enjoy its unique flavor as your guide provides background on the brew’s origins and this pub’s role here in the Honningsvåg community. Afterwards, stroll back to the nearby ship or hang in town for a while longer at your leisure.

Points of interests

Points of Interest: Nordkapptrappa (North Cape Stairs), Sjøgata Pub

Note

Please note: This adventure hiking activity is intended for the physically fit. It involves extensive walking, including up and then down a 1,000-step natural stone staircase. The ascent takes about 50-60 minutes. Total distance covered on the hike is approximately 2.3 mi / 3.75 km. Wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy closed-toe walking or hiking shoes. Bring your preferred sun protection, hydration, and rain jacket in case needed.