Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Lofoten Islands

A Day of Discoveries

Today was all about soaking in the quintessential Lofoten experience – a blend of bustling harbors, breathtaking viewpoints, and, of course, the incredible local food. Liam and I set out with a sense of excitement, eager to capture the essence of these islands through our lenses and taste buds. It's amazing how quickly these past twelve days have flown by; each day has unveiled a new layer of Lofoten's charm, making it harder and harder to believe we're already approaching the end of our journey.

Our day began in Leknes, one of the larger towns in Lofoten. I must admit, after the serene landscapes we've been exploring, arriving at Lofoten Harbour felt like stepping into a vibrant hub of activity. The harbor was bustling with life, a mix of locals and tourists all eager to explore the islands. We took a leisurely stroll around, admiring the fishing boats bobbing gently in the water and the colorful buildings that lined the harbor front.


Explore Lofoten Harbour in Leknes for unique souvenirs, bicycle rentals, and unforgettable sightseeing tours amidst stunning Arctic landscapes.
The crisp September air, with a hint of sea salt, invigorated us as we watched fishermen preparing their nets, their weathered faces telling stories of years spent battling the elements. The weather in Lofoten this time of year is certainly brisk; September is known to bring both moderate temperatures and high rainfall. Luckily, today the weather was on our side, with dramatic, changeable light that is perfect for landscape photography.

We popped into a local shop in the harbor, Lofoten Gaver og Brukskunst, filled with handcrafted souvenirs. It was tempting to buy everything, from traditional Norwegian crafts to modern designs inspired by Lofoten's landscapes. I picked up a small, hand-painted wooden boat as a memento of our time here, something to remind me of the fresh sea air and stunning views. Liam found a cozy, hand-knitted wool scarf, perfect for the chilly evenings ahead.

For breakfast, we headed to Lofoten Food Studio in Ballstad. This place is a real gem! The cozy atmosphere made us feel right at home, and the food was simply divine. I opted for a traditional Norwegian breakfast, while Liam, ever the adventurous one, tried the local fish. Every dish tells a story of the region's culinary heritage. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of the dishes back in Banff, perhaps surprising Liam with a taste of Lofoten on a cold winter's day.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Lofoten Food Studio in Ballstad – where local flavors meet breathtaking views.

To travel is to take a journey into yourself.

With our appetites sated and cameras charged, we set off towards Reine. The drive itself was a treat, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the rugged coastline and towering mountains. Autumn is painting the landscape with vibrant colors, making the scenery even more spectacular. The grass is turning golden, and the mountain birch trees are shining brightly in the sun.

As we approached Reine, the iconic vista unfolded before us – the red rorbuer nestled at the foot of granite peaks. We stopped at the Reine photo point near the wooden bridge. The view was simply breathtaking. I can see why Reine is one of the most photographed villages in Lofoten.


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Reine, Norway, a scenic fishing village renowned for its stunning landscapes and photographic opportunities in the Lofoten Islands.
We spent a good hour wandering around, snapping photos from every angle. The reflections on the calm water were mesmerizing, mirroring the dramatic peaks above. I experimented with different lenses, trying to capture the grandeur of the landscape and the quaint charm of the village. Liam, with his keen eye for detail, focused on the textures and colors of the old wooden buildings, capturing the essence of Lofoten's fishing heritage.

After our photography session, we were ready for lunch. We chose Brygga Restaurant, enticed by its charming location by the water in Kabelvaag. The restaurant had a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and we found a lovely table on the terrace where we could enjoy the view. I ordered the traditional Norwegian fish soup, while Liam went for the shrimp and codfish. The food was delicious and the service was friendly.


Discover Brygga Restaurant in Å – where exquisite Norwegian flavors meet stunning views.
As the afternoon wore on, we decided to treat ourselves to a pre-dinner drink at Rolf's Bar. The bar had a relaxed vibe. Sipping on local beer, we chatted with some fellow travelers, sharing stories and travel tips. It's these small moments of connection that make traveling so special.


Explore Rolf's Bar in Austvagsoya – a cozy destination for drinks, local culture, and a welcoming atmosphere amidst stunning Norwegian landscapes.
For our final meal of the day, we made our way to Live Lofoten Restaurant in Stamsund. This restaurant is known for its fresh, local ingredients and traditional Lofoten cuisine. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with rustic decor and stunning views of the sea. I decided on the grilled cod, while Liam opted for one of the seafood options. The food was exquisite, a perfect ending to a day filled with culinary delights.


Experience exquisite Norwegian cuisine at Live Lofoten Restaurant in Stamsund, where local flavors meet breathtaking views.
Reflecting on the day, I realized how much Lofoten has to offer. It's not just about the landscapes; it's about the people, the culture, and the food. Each experience adds another layer to the tapestry of memories we're creating here. I feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this incredible region and share it with all of you.

As we head back to our cozy accommodation, I can't help but feel a tinge of sadness that our Lofoten adventure is drawing to a close. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Nusfjord Lighthouse and the Sildpolltjønna Ship Wreck. I am excited to see what other wonders this island has in store for us.

Until then, goodnight from Lofoten!