The History

Originally the hostel was a fisherman place dating back to the 1930s, with the first building named "Bua". A place where fishermen could relax and also seek refuge from storms and bad weather. This building is still the main building today where the authentic fisherman athmosphere is preserved. Gradually the place got more structures to adjust the needs for the fishermen. A building for salting the fish, called "salteriet" and others for storage and gutting fish. 

After decades of hosting fishermen a new era began in the 70s when Roar Justad turned it into a hostel. Roar Justad was the owner of the place from 1975 to 2023. He has welcomed guests from Norway and around the world and has established the distinctive character of the hostel.

He has become a host and friend to world travellers, keen fisher-people, families with young children, students and retirees. Many guests return year after year.

Under the name "Stamsund Youth Hostel", Justad Rorbuer og Vandrerhjem became famous among travellers around the world. In the paper The Times in 2002, it was named "best youth hostel in the world". On Lonely Planet, Roar was described as a "benevolent wizard". Guests describe the place as "a gem in the middle of Lofoten".

Time has passed. The world has changed. Stamsund Hostel has also changed a bit - there is WiFi on site today! But in a way, the atmosphere is still the same. It is something that cannot be described. You can only experience it.

In 2024, Matias Nordahl Carlsen took over the hostel and runs it together with his partner Alexandra. With the aim of preserving the authentic style and comfortable atmosphere for both old and new guests.

Dear Stamsund Hostel Community,

For several decades, Roar has been the heart and soul of this oasis of a hostel, creating a sense of community that has become synonymous with the experience. Roar is now stepping back from the operations, and we express our heartfelt gratitude for the legacy he leaves behind.

Now, it's me, Matias, who welcomes you to the most charming hostel in the Lofoten Islands! With fresh perspectives and a commitment to preserving the essence of the hostel, I am ready to build upon Roar's foundation.

Safe travels and welcome,

Matias Nordahl Carlsen (January 2024)

About this website

The Website was created on behalf of Roar. In collaboration with him and now also with Matias, it eventually became a joint project of the owners and several of the regular guests. Thanks to everyone who contributed their experiences, photos and translation.
Please be aware: All images and other content are subject to the laws of copyright and intellectual property

MM (February 2024)