Exploring the Enchanting Lofoten Islands

A Day of Discovery in Lofoten

Today was all about embracing the raw beauty and rich history of Lofoten, a place that continues to surprise me at every turn. It’s funny, isn’t it? How a place so far north, so seemingly isolated, can hold such a vibrant tapestry of experiences? Today, I set out to capture more of that essence, camera in hand and a heart full of anticipation.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Nihao Lofoten in Svolvær. Liam and I were craving something different from the usual Norwegian fare, and this place hit the spot. It's a cozy spot known for its Chinese cuisine, a delightful surprise in the heart of Lofoten. We opted for the wonton soup and some stir-fried veggies. I must admit, finding such authentic flavors this far north was unexpected. The friendly owner even asked if we wanted the dishes prepared authentically, a testament to their dedication to quality. Fueled up, we were ready to explore.

Our first stop was the Ågvatnet Lookout. The drive there was breathtaking, with snow-capped peaks reflecting in the still waters of the fjords. As we ascended towards the lookout, the landscape transformed into a winter wonderland. The panoramic views from the top were simply mesmerizing. The vast expanse of the Ågvatnet lake, surrounded by towering mountains, created a scene that felt both serene and majestic. It's moments like these that remind me why I fell in love with wildlife photography in the first place – capturing the untouched beauty of our planet.


Experience the stunning vistas of Ågvatnet Lookout in Sørvågen, Norway, where nature’s beauty meets tranquil waters and rugged landscapes.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet corners of the world, where nature whispers its ancient stories.

Next on our itinerary was the Olenilsøya kystfort, a coastal fortress with a storied past. This site, dating back to World War II, offered a glimpse into Lofoten's strategic importance during the conflict. Walking through the well-preserved structures, I couldn't help but reflect on the resilience of the Norwegian people. The fort itself is nestled amidst stunning natural beauty, with panoramic views of the surrounding fjords and mountains. The informative plaques scattered throughout the site provided valuable insights into its historical significance, making the experience both educational and awe-inspiring.


Explore Olenilsøya Kystfort, a historical coastal fortress in Reine, Norway, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich military history.

After immersing ourselves in history, we decided to indulge in some local flavors at Paleo Arctic for lunch. Situated in Svolvær, this restaurant is renowned for its authentic Norwegian cuisine, with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. Liam opted for the fiskegrateng, a traditional fish gratin, while I savored the flavors of Lofoten lamb. The meal was a delightful culinary journey, showcasing the region's rich gastronomic heritage.


Discover authentic Norwegian cuisine at Paleo Arctic in Svolvær – where local flavors meet breathtaking scenery.

With our appetites satisfied, we ventured off to Lofoten Wool / Høystålet, a charming farm shop and workshop located between Stamsund and Leknes. As a knitter myself, I was eager to explore the world of Lofoten wool. The shop was a treasure trove of hand-knitted sweaters, hats, mittens, and woven products, all crafted from the wool of local sheep. I learned about the unique qualities of Lofoten wool, which is known for its warmth, durability, and natural lanolin content. I couldn't resist purchasing a skein of yarn to take back home to Banff, a tangible reminder of my time in Lofoten.


Discover the artistry of Norwegian wool at Lofoten Wool, where craftsmanship meets the breathtaking beauty of the Lofoten islands.

As the day drew to a close, we treated ourselves to dinner at Underhuset, a restaurant in Sakrisøy known for its fusion of Mexican and Norwegian cuisine. The chef, a talented transplant from Oaxaca, Mexico, has masterfully blended the flavors of his homeland with the local ingredients of Lofoten. Liam and I shared a selection of tacos, each bursting with unique and tantalizing flavors. The spicy margaritas were a welcome addition, adding a touch of warmth to the chilly evening air. The ambiance of Underhuset was cozy and inviting, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration.


Discover Underhuset in Reine for an authentic taste of Norway amidst stunning natural beauty.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Nusfjord, a historical fishing village, and attempt to spot the Svolværgeita. I'm particularly excited about Nusfjord, as it promises a glimpse into Lofoten's rich maritime heritage. And who knows, maybe we'll even be lucky enough to witness the Northern Lights dancing across the sky. Until then, goodnight from Lofoten.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I’m excited about visiting Nusfjord, a historical fishing village that promises a glimpse into Lofoten’s rich maritime heritage. The colourful rorbuer and the stories they hold are something I am eager to capture through my lens. We’re also hoping to spot the Svolværgeita, a unique rock formation that I’ve heard is quite the sight. And, of course, the eternal hope of witnessing the Northern Lights dancing across the sky remains.

I feel like I’m beginning to understand why my ancestors held this land so dear. There’s a magic here, a sense of peace that’s hard to find anywhere else. It’s in the way the mountains meet the sea, in the resilience of the people, and in the quiet beauty of the Arctic light. As I drift off to sleep, I can’t help but feel grateful for this journey, for the chance to reconnect with my roots and to discover the hidden gems of Lofoten.

Ågvatnet Lookout: A Panoramic Embrace

The Ågvatnet Lookout offered a vista that was nothing short of breathtaking. The crisp Arctic air invigorated my senses as I gazed upon the vast expanse of the lake, cradled by the majestic peaks that define Lofoten's skyline. The play of light and shadow across the snow-dusted landscape created a painter's masterpiece, each hue more captivating than the last.

The climb to the lookout was a gentle ascent, allowing ample time to absorb the serene surroundings. Towering pines stood sentinel along the path, their branches laden with snow, creating a scene straight out of a winter fairy tale. The silence was profound, broken only by the occasional call of a distant bird, a reminder of the vibrant life that endures even in this remote corner of the world.

Reaching the summit, I felt an overwhelming sense of tranquility. The panoramic view stretched out before me, encompassing the entire Ågvatnet lake and the surrounding mountains. The sheer scale of the landscape was humbling, a reminder of the raw power and enduring beauty of nature. I spent a long time simply absorbing the view, capturing its essence with my camera, and etching its memory into my heart.

Olenilsøya Kystfort: Echoes of History

The Olenilsøya Kystfort was a journey back in time, a poignant reminder of Lofoten's role in the tumultuous events of World War II. The weathered structures stood as silent witnesses to a bygone era, their walls whispering tales of courage, resilience, and sacrifice.

As I wandered through the fort, I could almost hear the echoes of the soldiers who once manned its defenses. The barracks, the gun emplacements, the observation posts – each element of the fort spoke volumes about the strategic importance of this coastal outpost. The informative plaques scattered throughout the site provided valuable context, shedding light on the fort's history and its significance in the broader narrative of the war.

Beyond its historical significance, the Olenilsøya Kystfort also offered stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Perched on a rocky promontory, the fort commanded panoramic vistas of the Reinefjord, with its towering mountains and crystal-clear waters. The juxtaposition of the fort's somber history and the landscape's serene beauty created a powerful and thought-provoking experience.

Lofoten Wool / Høystålet: A Knitter's Paradise

Lofoten Wool / Høystålet was a haven for a knitter like me, a treasure trove of handcrafted wool products and a celebration of local craftsmanship. The farm shop exuded a rustic charm, its shelves lined with skeins of yarn, knitted sweaters, and woven scarves, each item bearing the unique character of Lofoten's wool.

As I explored the shop, I learned about the unique qualities of Lofoten wool. Sourced from local sheep that graze on the island's lush pastures, the wool is known for its warmth, durability, and natural lanolin content. The shop also featured a selection of plant-dyed yarns, their hues inspired by the colors of the Lofoten landscape. I was particularly drawn to a skein of deep blue yarn, reminiscent of the Arctic sky at twilight.

The workshop attached to the shop provided a glimpse into the art of wool production. I watched as skilled artisans spun yarn, knitted sweaters, and wove scarves, their hands moving with practiced grace. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, a testament to the passion and dedication of the people behind Lofoten Wool / Høystålet.

Culinary Delights: Nihao Lofoten, Paleo Arctic, and Underhuset

Today's culinary journey was a delightful exploration of Lofoten's diverse flavors, from the authentic Chinese cuisine of Nihao Lofoten to the traditional Norwegian fare of Paleo Arctic and the innovative Mexican-Norwegian fusion of Underhuset.

Nihao Lofoten was a welcome surprise, a cozy restaurant in Svolvær that served up delicious Chinese dishes. The wonton soup was particularly comforting, its broth rich and flavorful, and the stir-fried veggies were crisp and fresh. The friendly owner made us feel right at home, adding to the restaurant's inviting atmosphere.

Paleo Arctic offered a taste of traditional Norwegian cuisine, with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. The fiskegrateng was a hearty and satisfying dish, its creamy sauce complementing the delicate flavor of the fish. The Lofoten lamb was equally delicious, its tender meat infused with the flavors of the island's pastures.

Underhuset was the culmination of our culinary adventure, a restaurant in Sakrisøy that dared to blend the flavors of Mexico and Norway. The tacos were the star of the show, each one a unique and tantalizing creation. The reindeer taco was a particular standout, its tender meat paired with a tangy guacamole. The spicy margaritas were the perfect accompaniment, adding a touch of warmth to the chilly evening air.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore the hidden gems of Lofoten. From the panoramic vistas of Ågvatnet Lookout to the echoes of history at Olenilsøya Kystfort, from the handcrafted treasures of Lofoten Wool / Høystålet to the culinary delights of Nihao Lofoten, Paleo Arctic, and Underhuset, each moment has been a testament to the beauty, resilience, and diversity of this extraordinary archipelago.