Ryten

Ryten rises to 543 metres above Kvalvika beach, and the walk up from Fredvang takes about two hours on a path that climbs a boggy slope to a broad summit ridge. Just below the top, a slab of rock projects over the drop with the whole bay and the Atlantic behind it, and photographs taken sitting on that ledge have circulated so widely that a queue forms on summer afternoons. The view itself is genuine and does not need the ledge: the beach, the outer coast, and in clear weather the mountains of Vestvagoy and the open sea. Many walkers combine Ryten with a descent to Kvalvika, making a loop of five hours or more.

What you'll find

• The cliff ledge - the projecting slab above the drop to the beach.
• The Kvalvika view - the full bay and Atlantic coast from above.
• The summit ridge - broad open ground with views in all directions.
• The Kvalvika loop - a combined route down to the beach and back.

When to go

June to September for a clear path and long daylight; the midnight sun makes evening ascents possible in June and July, which also avoids the queue at the ledge. Winter needs spikes and experience.

Practical notes

The path is wet and boggy for much of its length and rocky near the top. The famous ledge sits above a lethal drop with no protection, and people take risks there for photographs. Parking at Fredvang is small, charged and fills early.

Nearby

Kvalvika beach lies below; Fredvang, Ramberg and Reine are on the road side of the island.

Key facts