Bjerkvik between Fjord, Beach and History

Bjerkvik lies at the innermost end of the Herjangsfjord, on the northern arm of the Ofotfjord. The town combines a fjordside beach promenade with seasonal cross-country ski trails and a complex history of remembrance. This offers more than one possible focus when choosing a holiday destination: you can consider whether you would most like to explore the fjord area, enjoy outdoor activities, or discover the area's culture and history.

Beach Promenade on the Herjangsfjord

The Bjerkvik beach promenade includes a beach, park and seating area close to the centre. The beach is shallow and has fine white sand. If you enjoy combining time by the water with a park and seating area during your stay, you will find a range of features along the promenade.

Fishing, boating and mountain hiking are also among the activities for which Bjerkvik is considered a suitable destination. These options offer different ways to spend your time: when planning your holiday, you can weigh up whether you would rather spend it by the fjord, on the water or in the mountains. Together with the beach promenade, they give you a picture of Bjerkvik that is not focused on just one leisure activity.

Ski Trails in Bjerkvik Idrettspark

Bjerkvik Idrettspark has seasonally prepared, illuminated ski trails measuring 1, 2 and 3 kilometres. There is also a 5-kilometre trail, 2 kilometres of which are unlit. The trail lengths and differing lighting details help you compare the routes based on these specific features. The trails are prepared seasonally, so plan them as a seasonal part of your trip.

For a different kind of exercise, there is also a 1.5-kilometre paved summer trail. It is designed for wheelchair users, inline skaters and roller skiers. Its surface, length and intended use set it apart from the seasonal cross-country ski trails.

Church and Memorial Sites

Bjerkvik Church is a long church built of concrete and brick. It was designed by Arnstein Arneberg and Per Solemslie and consecrated on 14 August 1955. Its furnishings include an altarpiece painted by Axel Revold. The church's design, materials, architect, consecration date and altarpiece give it a clearly defined cultural character.

The cemetery in Bjerkvik contains memorial stones commemorating 18 unarmed civilians. They were killed during the night of 13 May 1940 by Allied naval artillery fire and, in the following days, by German air raids. The Norwegian war memorial in the church park commemorates the war victims in Bjerkvik and Vassdal. The memorial to French soldiers also stands in the park by Bjerkvik Church; it was moved there in 1984. These memorial sites refer to different groups of victims and places that feature in the history of Bjerkvik and Vassdal.

Getting There and Choosing a Holiday Destination

In Bjerkvik, the E10, Kong Olavs vei, branches off westwards from the E6. The road was formerly called Lofotveien. Buses also run to and from Bjerkvik. When choosing a holiday apartment, you can consider not only how to get there but also which of the aspects of the area described above you would like to shape your holiday: the beach promenade, seasonal ski trails, activities such as fishing and mountain hiking, or cultural and historical themes.

More local guides: Elvegard, Narvik, Ankenesstrand.

Back to the main travel guide: Narvik.