Litløya (meaning "Little island") is an island overlooking Lofoten in Bø municipality, in Vesterålen, Norway. The 0.67 km2 island is best known for its lighthouse. Its highest point is «Litløytinden» measuring 103 meters above sea level.
From the middle-ages until the 20th century the island, together with its neighbour Gaukværøya, was a busy sea port and centre for local fishermen[1][2]. There were 71 inhabitants registered on Litløya in 1865. Fishing was their main commerce and when the cod arrived in springtime many regional neighbours came flocking to take part. In 1895 there were 875 fishermen registered at Litløya and Gaukværøya, in 1890 there were 880 registered. These numbers probably includes fishermen from other municipalities[3].
Once inhabitants on the mainland got electricity, water and phone connections and boats became motorised, many inhabitants left the islands for a more comfortable life. Those who stayed were offered government support to move to the mainland in the 1950s. Only remains of the houses exist today.
Currently, the island's only inhabitant is the lighthouse owner. The lighthouse offers overnight accommodation[4].
The county archaeologist visited Litløya and Gaukværøya in the spring 2010. Several sites from the stone, iron and middle ages were identified, including two farms and a grave possibly containing a boat.
A coastal path is currently being established in order to share the current knowledge of the island with visitors[5]
There is also a cave at Litløya, called «Trollhola». This means «Cave of the troll». The cave is 40 meters deep and can be explored with a torch. Access to the cave is slightly cumbersome. The cave was formed whilst this part of the island was under water, possibly 100.000 years ago, according to NGU, Norsk Geologisk Undersøkelse.