Exploring the Winter Wonders of Lofoten with Family

A Day of Peaks and Ice in Lofoten

Today was a day of contrasts, a true Lofoten experience that combined breathtaking heights with icy depths. From conquering a legendary peak to sipping drinks in a bar made entirely of ice, it was a day filled with unforgettable moments. I'm so excited to share all the details with you!

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Livland Gård. It’s such a charming place, and the Scandinavian breakfast spread was just what we needed to fuel our adventures. Maximilian particularly enjoyed the freshly baked bread, while Linnea couldn't get enough of the local berries. I savored the strong coffee, knowing we had a big day ahead. It’s funny, I always feel a little bit closer to my Swedish roots when I start the day with a proper Scandinavian breakfast.


Discover the essence of Norway through authentic cuisine at Livland Gård - where every meal tells a story.

After breakfast, we set off to Experience Lofoten Islands DA, eager to immerse ourselves in the stunning landscapes. The drive itself was a treat, with snow-dusted mountains rising majestically on either side of us. The air was crisp and clean, and the winter light painted the scenery in soft hues of blue and pink. It felt like driving through a postcard.


Explore the stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventures of the Lofoten Islands, a unique gem in Norway's Arctic region.

Our main challenge for the day was climbing Svolværgeita, also known as The Goat. I must admit, I was a little nervous. I’m not exactly a seasoned climber, but the allure of this iconic rock formation was too strong to resist. Maximilian, ever the supportive husband, assured me that we would take it slow and steady. Linnea, surprisingly, was very excited about the climb, which gave me an extra boost of confidence.


Discover the iconic Svolværgeita, a breathtaking natural landmark in Lofoten, perfect for climbing and stunning views of Norway's rugged landscapes.

The ascent was definitely challenging, but the views were more than worth it. As we climbed higher, the panorama of Svolvær and the surrounding fjords unfolded before us. The winter landscape was stark and beautiful, with the sea sparkling under the pale sun. I paused for a moment, taking a deep breath and feeling an incredible sense of accomplishment.

Sometimes, the greatest adventures are the ones that push us beyond our comfort zones and reward us with breathtaking perspectives.

Reaching the top of Svolværgeita was an exhilarating experience. The famous horns, two vertical summits separated by a narrow gap, were truly awe-inspiring. I didn’t attempt the jump, though! I was content with simply admiring the view and soaking in the moment. Maximilian took some amazing photos, capturing the sheer beauty of the landscape and our triumphant smiles.

After our descent, we were all ravenous. We headed to FANGST Restaurant Lofoten for lunch, and it was an absolute delight. The restaurant is known for its fresh fish dishes, and everything we ordered was incredibly delicious. Maximilian raved about the cod, while Linnea devoured her fish and chips with gusto. I savored a delicate seafood soup, feeling grateful for the warmth and comfort after our chilly climb.


Experience fine dining at FANGST Restaurant Lofoten – where local seafood meets breathtaking views in Norway's stunning landscape.

In the late afternoon, we decided to embrace the icy side of Lofoten. We ventured into Magic Ice Lofoten, a bar made entirely of ice. It was truly a surreal experience. The bar was filled with intricate ice sculptures, depicting everything from Vikings to local fishermen. The temperature inside was well below freezing, but we were provided with warm ponchos and gloves, which made the experience surprisingly cozy.


Experience the magic of art and ice at Magic Ice Lofoten, a stunning gallery and bar in the heart of Svolvær, Norway.

Linnea was absolutely mesmerized by the ice sculptures. She ran from one to the next, her eyes wide with wonder. Maximilian and I enjoyed a couple of drinks served in glasses made of ice. It was a unique and fun way to end our adventurous day.

For dinner, we indulged in a fantastic meal at Holmen Lofoten. The ambiance was magical, and the food was simply divine. I tried the reindeer, a local delicacy, and it was cooked to perfection. Maximilian opted for the seafood platter, which was overflowing with fresh catches of the day. Linnea enjoyed a simple pasta dish, which she declared was the best she had ever tasted. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive, making our dining experience even more special.


Discover serene landscapes and exquisite local cuisine at Holmen Lofoten, your gateway to Norway's breathtaking Lofoten Islands.

As the day drew to a close, I reflected on our incredible experiences. Lofoten truly has a way of captivating the soul. The combination of stunning natural beauty and unique cultural experiences makes it a destination unlike any other. I felt so grateful to be sharing these moments with my family.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Gallery Lofoten and Vik Beach. I'm particularly excited about visiting the gallery, as I've heard it has an impressive collection of Norwegian art. And of course, I'm always up for a stroll along a beautiful beach, even in winter! I'm also hoping to find some unique souvenirs at Lofotenshop.

I'm also pondering a visit to the Lofotr Viking Museum later in the trip. I read that you can explore how the Vikings used to live in a reconstruction of the largest Viking longhouse ever found from this era! It sounds like a very interesting experience, and something that would be very educational for Linnea.

But for now, it’s time to rest and recharge for another day of Lofoten adventures. Goodnight from the Arctic!

I must admit I did forget to pack a portable charger and binoculars, which would have been useful today. I will make sure to buy those tomorrow!

I'm really glad Maximilian and Linnea are here with me. It makes the whole experience so much more special.

I still miss Heidelberg sometimes. I wonder what's going on at the university library. I hope everything is running smoothly in my absence.

I'm also thinking about my parents back in Eksjö. I hope they're doing well and staying warm during this cold winter. I should give them a call tomorrow.

I think I'll try to incorporate some of the Lofoten scenery into my baking when I get back to Heidelberg. Maybe a cake inspired by the Northern Lights?

Lofoten in January is truly a magical experience, and I'm so glad I decided to come here with my family.