Exploring the Majestic Lofoten Islands: A Norwegian Adventure

Echoes of the Past, Tastes of the Present

Today was a day of contrasts, a journey through Lofoten's history, its hauntingly beautiful landscapes, and its vibrant culinary scene. It was a day that stirred my soul, made me reflect on the passage of time, and appreciate the simple joys of good food and good company.

Our day began in Reine, a village that always feels like stepping into a postcard. After a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Gammelbua, we set off to explore Olenilsøya kystfort, a coastal fort with a history as rugged as the landscape surrounding it. The morning air was crisp, carrying the scent of the sea and the promise of a day filled with exploration.


Discover Olenilsøya Kystfort, a historical gem in Reine, Norway, offering stunning views and a deep dive into coastal history amidst breathtaking landscapes.
The drive to the fort was stunning, each turn revealing a new vista of towering peaks and serene fjords. As we approached Olenilsøya, the weight of history settled upon us. This fort, once a crucial military installation during World War II, now stands as a silent testament to Norway's wartime efforts. Walking through the remnants of bunkers and artillery placements, I tried to imagine the lives of the soldiers who once stood guard here, their eyes scanning the horizon for any sign of threat.

The views from the fort were breathtaking. From our vantage point, we could see the surrounding islands and fjords stretching out before us, a panorama of natural beauty juxtaposed against the stark reality of war. It was a humbling experience, a reminder of the sacrifices made to protect this land. Liam, ever the history enthusiast, was captivated by the informative plaques detailing the fort's history, while I found myself drawn to the serene atmosphere, a place for quiet reflection.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet echoes of the past.

After immersing ourselves in history, we sought out a different kind of experience at Sildpolltjønna Ship Wreck, a site Liam had been particularly excited about. The shipwreck is located near Laupstad, and the drive there offered more stunning views of Lofoten's dramatic landscapes. The contrast between the rusted metal of the wreck and the pristine natural beauty of the fjords creates a surreal and captivating atmosphere.


Explore the haunting beauty of the Sildpolltjönna ship wreck in Lofoten, Norway, where history meets breathtaking natural landscapes.
The Sildpolltjønna Ship Wreck is a haunting reminder of the region's maritime past. The remnants of the vessel, lying in the icy waters, tell a story of journeys long past. I imagined the ship sailing through these waters, its crew braving the elements, their hopes and dreams carried on the wind. Now, only fragments remain, a poignant reminder of the impermanence of life.

As a photographer, I was mesmerized by the interplay of light and shadow on the wreck. The rusted metal, the jagged edges, the way the water reflected the sky – it was a scene of haunting beauty. Liam and I spent hours exploring the site, capturing its essence from every angle. It's a perfect spot for reflection and contemplation, inviting visitors to ponder the stories and journeys of those who once sailed these waters.

By lunchtime, our appetites were calling, and we headed to Underhuset for a bite. This restaurant promised a unique culinary experience, and it certainly delivered. Though Lofoten is known for its seafood, Underhuset offered a delightful change of pace with its Mexican cuisine.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Underhuset in Reine – where breathtaking views meet delectable flavors.
The cozy atmosphere of Underhuset welcomed us in from the coastal air. The warm wooden interiors and the friendly staff created an inviting space. We started with the guacamole, which was absolutely amazing. For the main course, Liam opted for the beef rib mole rojo, while I chose the salmon mole rosa. Both dishes were bursting with flavor, a testament to the chef's skill in blending Mexican traditions with local ingredients. It was a delicious and unexpected culinary adventure.

After lunch, we decided to indulge in a bit of shopping at Lofoten Wool in Henningsvær. I've always been drawn to the traditional crafts of Norway, and wool is such an integral part of our heritage. The shop was a treasure trove of hand-knitted sweaters, hats, and woven scarves, all made from local sheep's wool.


Discover authentic Norwegian craftsmanship at Lofoten Wool in Henningsvær, your go-to spot for exquisite sheepskin and wool products.
I was particularly fascinated by the process of plant dyeing, a technique that dates back to the Viking era. The shop used tansy flowers for yellows, madder root for reds, and indigo baths for blues, each batch resulting in a unique shade. It was a beautiful example of how nature can inspire art.

I ended up buying a beautiful hand-knitted sweater in a deep blue hue, a color reminiscent of the Norwegian Sea. It was a perfect souvenir, a tangible reminder of our time in Lofoten. Liam, ever practical, chose a pair of warm wool socks, essential for our upcoming hikes.

As evening approached, we made our way to Lofoten Seafood Center for dinner. After a day of exploring history and landscapes, we were eager to savor the flavors of the sea. The center offered a unique opportunity to learn about aquaculture and traditional fishing, two pillars of Lofoten's economy.


Discover the flavors of Norway at Lofoten Seafood Center - where fresh catches meet culinary excellence amidst stunning coastal scenery.
The restaurant at the Lofoten Seafood Center boasts a spectacular view of the harbor, and we enjoyed watching the fishing boats come and go as we savored our meal. Liam started with the creamy lobster soup, while I opted for the seared scallops. For the main course, we both chose the oven-baked cod, a classic Lofoten dish. The fish was incredibly fresh, cooked to perfection, and served with a medley of local vegetables. It was a true taste of Lofoten.

As we savored our meal, we reflected on the day's adventures. From the echoes of war at Olenilsøya kystfort to the haunting beauty of Sildpolltjønna Ship Wreck, from the unexpected flavors of Underhuset to the traditional crafts of Lofoten Wool, it had been a day of contrasts and discoveries. It was a day that reminded us of the importance of honoring the past, appreciating the present, and looking forward to the future.

Tomorrow marks the last day of our Lofoten adventure. We plan to explore Selfjorden and Vikten beach [see tomorrow's itinerary]. I am looking forward to capturing the beauty of these locations before we bid farewell to this magical place. We might even stop for a drink at Børsen Spiseri to celebrate our trip [see tomorrow's itinerary].

Lofoten, you have captured our hearts. Thank you for the memories, the landscapes, and the flavors. Until next time.