Exploring the Majestic Lofoten Islands: A Norwegian Adventure

A Day of Heights and Hidden Waterfalls

Today was a day of conquering heights and discovering the serene beauty that Lofoten holds. From the challenging climb of Reinebringen to the tranquil Lofoten Waterfall, every moment was a testament to the raw, untamed allure of this Norwegian paradise. It’s days like these that remind me why I traded the familiar landscapes of Kongsvinger for a life chasing the extraordinary.


Explore the breathtaking vistas of Reinebringen in Norway's Lofoten Islands, where stunning landscapes await every adventurous traveler.

Our day began early, with a hearty breakfast at Brygga Restaurant in Sørvågen. The restaurant was charming, with a rustic atmosphere that made you feel like you were stepping back in time. It was located right by the sea, offering a fantastic view as we enjoyed our meal. Liam and I enjoyed a traditional Norwegian breakfast, fueling up for the adventures that lay ahead. I had some local pastries which were delicious. The kids were excited and eager to start the day. They had heard so much about Reinebringen and were looking forward to the hike. I reminded them to pace themselves and enjoy the scenery along the way.

After breakfast, we set off towards Reinebringen. Having heard so much about the Reinebringen hike, I was a little apprehensive about the crowds. It’s one of the most popular hikes in Lofoten, and I generally prefer quieter, more secluded spots. However, I also knew that the views from the top were supposed to be incredible, and I didn’t want to miss out. We managed to find parking at Reinehalsen Parking. From there, we followed the signs towards the trailhead. As we started our ascent, I was immediately grateful for the Sherpa-built steps. There are nearly 2,000 of them, winding their way up the steep mountainside. Without those steps, I imagine the hike would be significantly more challenging, and perhaps even dangerous, especially with the kids. The steps made the hike more accessible, but it was still a strenuous climb.

The kids were troopers, taking breaks when needed and encouraging each other along the way. We passed several stone benches along the route, which offered a welcome respite and a chance to catch our breath while soaking in the views. The climb was definitely a leg-burner, but the views just kept getting better and better as we ascended.

The view from Reinebringen is more than just a panorama; it's an embrace of nature's grandeur, a reminder of the beauty that awaits those who dare to climb.

Reaching the summit of Reinebringen was an exhilarating experience. The panoramic views were simply breathtaking. Reine, with its charming red cabins and turquoise waters, looked like a picture-postcard village from above. The surrounding fjords and mountains created a stunning vista that stretched as far as the eye could see. I took out my camera and started snapping away, trying to capture the beauty of the moment. Liam helped the kids find a safe spot to sit and enjoy the view. We spent a good hour at the top, simply taking in the scenery and savoring the feeling of accomplishment.

The descent was much quicker, but we still had to be careful on the steep steps. Once we were back at the bottom, we decided to reward ourselves with a well-deserved lunch. Karoline Restaurant was our choice, and it proved to be a delightful experience. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere and offered stunning ocean views. We enjoyed a delicious meal of local specialties. The kids were thrilled with their fish and chips, while Liam and I savored the fresh seafood.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine amidst stunning fjord views at Karoline Restaurant in Nusfjord.

After lunch, we decided to explore another of Lofoten’s hidden gems: the Lofoten Waterfall (Sørvågen). The hike to the waterfall was an easy and pleasant walk from Sørvågen, taking us through lush green landscapes and alongside tranquil waters. The path was well-marked and accessible, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll with the kids. The waterfall itself wasn’t particularly large or dramatic, but it was beautiful nonetheless, cascading down the rocky cliffs into a serene pool below. The sound of rushing water and the fresh mountain air created a peaceful and refreshing atmosphere.


Explore the breathtaking Lofoten Waterfall in Moskenesøya, a stunning natural attraction surrounded by majestic landscapes and wildlife.

The kids enjoyed exploring the area around the waterfall, skipping stones in the pool and climbing on the rocks. I took the opportunity to capture some photos of the waterfall and the surrounding scenery. The combination of the waterfall, the surrounding lakes, and the towering mountain peaks made for a truly picturesque setting. We spent a couple of hours at the waterfall, simply relaxing and enjoying the tranquility of nature.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to treat ourselves to dinner at Maren Anna. This restaurant is known for its Nordic traditions, using local ingredients to create gourmet food of the highest quality. We started with some cocktails, and the kids enjoyed some non-alcoholic beverages. For dinner, I chose the oven-baked cod with beurre blanc, while Liam opted for the whale tenderloin with pumpkin puree. The food was exquisite, and the service was impeccable. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, making it the perfect place to unwind after a long day of hiking and exploring.


Discover authentic Norwegian flavors at Maren Anna in Sørvågen – where stunning views meet exceptional cuisine.

After dinner, we decided to check out Styrhuset Pub. I had read that it was a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and I wanted to experience the nightlife in Sørvågen. The pub was lively and bustling, with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. We enjoyed some local beers and listened to live music. The kids enjoyed the music and the lively atmosphere, and they even made some new friends. It was a perfect way to end a perfect day.


Experience local culture and craft brews at Styrhuset Pub in Svolvær, a cozy retreat perfect for tourists seeking relaxation and socializing.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I’m filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Lofoten has a way of captivating the soul, of reminding you of the simple joys in life. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Lofotr Viking Museum and the historical fishing village of Nusfjord. I’m excited to delve deeper into the history and culture of this fascinating region, and to continue exploring the natural wonders that surround us. I am particularly excited about the Viking Festival, which I read is happening from August 2nd to 6th. It seems like there is always something new and exciting to discover here, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.

The islands are hosting the Lofoten Triathlon between August 14th and 16th. While we will have left by then, it is nice to know that the area attracts athletes from around the world. Perhaps Liam will want to participate in a future trip.

“Not all those who wander are lost,” as the saying goes, and here in Lofoten, I feel like I’ve truly found myself.