Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Lofoten Islands

A Day of Discovery in Lofoten

Today was a tapestry woven with the rugged beauty of Lofotodden National Park, the tranquil charm of Vikten Beach, and the exquisite tastes of Lofoten's culinary scene. It was a day where the wild Norwegian landscape met moments of serene reflection, leaving me with a deeper appreciation for this remarkable corner of the world.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Lofotodden National Park, where majestic mountains meet serene lakes in Norway's stunning wilderness.

Liam and I started our day with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Bevares. The cozy atmosphere and the aroma of freshly baked bread and strong coffee were the perfect way to kick off our adventures. I opted for a traditional Norwegian breakfast, while Liam, ever the Irishman, went for a full plate of eggs and bacon. Fueled and ready, we set off to explore Lofotodden National Park.

The park itself is a relatively new addition to Norway's national parks, established in 2018, and it protects the westernmost part of the Lofoten archipelago. The dramatic landscape here is a mix of rugged mountains and pristine coastline, offering hiking trails for all skill levels. We chose a trail that promised stunning views without being too strenuous, given the unpredictable September weather.

As we hiked, the landscape unfolded before us in all its glory. The wind was brisk, carrying with it the scent of the sea and damp earth. The sun played hide-and-seek behind the clouds, casting dramatic shadows across the mountains. I couldn't resist stopping every few minutes to capture the scenery with my camera. Liam, ever patient, would wait, occasionally pointing out a particularly interesting rock formation or a bird soaring overhead.

The beauty of Lofoten lies not just in its grand vistas, but also in the intimate moments of connection with nature.

After a satisfying hike, we decided to visit Vikten Beach. Known for its soft, golden sands and dramatic surroundings, it was the perfect spot to unwind. The village of Vikten itself is charming, with quaint shops and a relaxed atmosphere. We strolled along the shore, enjoying the sound of the waves and the feel of the sand between our toes. The sun peeked out from behind the clouds, turning the water into a sparkling turquoise that reminded me of the Caribbean, a far cry from the Arctic Circle.


Discover the tranquility of Vikten Beach, a stunning Norwegian coastal gem perfect for relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking photography.

For lunch, we headed to Nordis Restaurant in Svolvær. This modern and stylish restaurant is idyllically located on the waterfront, offering stunning views of the harbor. The menu is diverse, with Italian pizzas, pasta, juicy burgers, and grilled stockfish. Liam chose a burger, while I opted for the grilled stockfish, a local delicacy. The fish was perfectly prepared, with a delicate flavor that was enhanced by the accompanying herbs and spices.


Experience local cuisine at Nordis Restaurant in Svolvær – where every dish tells the story of Norway's rich culinary heritage.

In the afternoon, we decided to indulge in a bit of local shopping. We visited Lofoten Seaweed, a shop in Napp that specializes in innovative seaweed products. As someone passionate about sustainable living, I was intrigued by their focus on organic, sustainably harvested seaweed. We sampled various seaweed salts, seasonings, and even seaweed chocolate. I learned that seaweed is incredibly nutritious, packed with protein, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids. We ended up buying a few items, including some Arctic Seaweed Salt and a bar of Seaweed Chocolate, perfect souvenirs and additions to our pantry back in Banff.


Explore the health benefits and culinary versatility of seaweed at Lofoten Seaweed, a premier destination for organic and natural goods in Norway.

For dinner, we had a reservation at Holmen Lofoten, a renowned restaurant known for its exquisite cuisine and stunning location. The restaurant focuses on local ingredients, with the menu changing daily based on what's available. We started with ember scallops with pepper dulse butter and roe, followed by blue halibut ceviche with fermented plum and horseradish. For the main course, Liam chose the ex dairy cow bavette from Vik Gård, while I opted for the Skrei cod with roast cabbages and fennel. Each dish was a work of art, both visually and in terms of flavor. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting.


Experience exceptional Norwegian cuisine at Holmen Lofoten while surrounded by breathtaking fjords and mountains in Sørvågen.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our adventures over a glass of wine. Lofoten had once again captivated us with its raw beauty and unique charm. We are already looking forward to tomorrow, where we plan to visit the Hamnøy Scenic Viewpoint and Molneva Waterfall. Perhaps we will even stop by Anker Brygge Bryggebaren for a nightcap.

This evening, as I write this, wrapped in a cozy blanket, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a special place. It is experiences like these that make me appreciate my job as a wildlife photographer, as well as sharing my experiences on Evendo. I hope that my stories and photos inspire others to explore the world and connect with nature, just as I have done today.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Lofoten's iconic viewpoints and hidden waterfalls, continuing our quest to capture the essence of this extraordinary archipelago. I'm particularly excited about visiting Hamnøy, a place I've seen countless photos of, and to experience its beauty firsthand. Until then, goodnight from Lofoten.