Wild Camping in Lofoten
Why Allemannsretten Doesn’t Mean You Can Park Anywhere in Norway
When travelling through Norway, especially the rugged and remote areas like Lofoten, many visitors come across the term “Allemannsretten”—the Everyman’s Right. It’s a beautiful part of Norwegian culture, rooted in respect for nature and the freedom to roam. But it’s often misunderstood, especially when it comes to parking.
Let’s clear things up: Allemannsretten gives you the right to access nature on foot, not by car. It’s a right to wander, not a right to drive or park wherever you like.
What Is Allemannsretten?
Allemannsretten is an old Norwegian law, officially written into the Outdoor Recreation Act of 1957, but based on customs dating back centuries. It allows everyone—locals and visitors alike—to access uncultivated land for hiking, camping, berry picking, and enjoying the outdoors, as long as it’s done responsibly and respectfully.
The key idea is this: you have the right to travel across the land on foot, to rest, and to experience nature. But this was established in a time when crossing the country meant walking over mountains and valleys, not driving campervans or parking in roadside lay-bys.
Why It Doesn’t Apply to Parking
Parking a vehicle on private property, cultivated land, or restricted areas is not covered by Allemannsretten. Roadsides, fields, driveways, and even scenic coastal spots may look like public land, but many are privately owned. Just because you can walk on uncultivated land doesn’t mean you can park on it.
In fact, parking without permission on private property can lead to fines or towing, and in many places—especially in Lofoten—locals are actively monitoring and protecting their land due to the rise in tourism. There are specific signs that indicate restrictions, but even when signs aren’t visible, the absence of a "no parking" sign doesn’t mean permission is granted.
Respecting Nature Means Respecting Landowners
Allemannsretten is built on trust and mutual respect. It assumes that you’ll leave no trace, avoid disturbing wildlife, and treat the land as if it were your own. That same respect should extend to property boundaries and infrastructure.
Many areas in Lofoten, for example, now have designated parking zones and regulated access to ensure sustainability. These aren’t there to make things difficult—they exist to preserve the landscape and maintain a good balance between visitors and locals.
So Where Can You Park?
Stick to:
Official car parks or marked parking areas
Campsites and overnight stopovers for campervans
Designated trailheads with posted signage
Public lots in towns and villages
And if you're ever in doubt, ask a local. Most Norwegians are proud of their land and happy to help you enjoy it responsibly.
The Bottom Line
Allemannsretten gives you the freedom to explore Norway’s wilderness—but it doesn’t extend to your car. Use it as an invitation to get out, stretch your legs, and experience the land as it was meant to be experienced: on foot, with respect.
Want to explore Lofoten the right way? Join a guided tour and get deeper insight into the land, the culture, and the places you won’t find in the guidebooks.