Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Lofoten Islands

A Day of Discovery

Today was a beautiful blend of marine exploration, coastal serenity, and culinary indulgence. Liam and I set out to experience the diverse offerings of Lofoten, from the depths of its waters to the heights of its flavors. It's days like these that remind me why we chose this adventure, immersing ourselves in the raw, unfiltered beauty of the Arctic Circle.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Lofoten Sports And Leisure As. Fuelled up and ready for adventure, our first stop was the Lofotakvariet - The Lofoten Aquarium in Kabelvåg. I was eager to see the marine life that thrives in these northern waters. Being Norwegian, I have a deep connection to the sea, but living in Banff now, I don’t get to experience it as much. It was a welcome change from the mountainous landscapes I'm used to photographing in Canada.


Experience the magic of marine life at Lofotakvariet, the Lofoten Aquarium, where adventure meets education in stunning surroundings.
The aquarium was a fascinating experience. We saw everything from tiny crustaceans to impressive halibut and cod. The highlight, without a doubt, was watching the daily feeding of the otters and seals. Their playful antics and the clear bond they shared with their caretakers were heartwarming. Liam, ever the brewery man, was particularly intrigued by the exhibition on salmon aquaculture, sparking a conversation about sustainable practices in both fishing and brewing. I learned about the Atlantic cod, or Skrei, that migrates from the Barents Sea to Lofoten every year. It’s been the foundation for fishing in Lofoten for centuries. It was a great experience.

The ocean is a vast, interconnected web of life, and exploring Lofoten's aquarium offered a glimpse into its intricate beauty.

Leaving the aquarium, we drove towards Uttakleiv strand, a beach renowned as one of the most photographed spots in Lofoten. As we approached, the landscape transformed into a canvas of rugged beauty. The combination of the pink-blue sky meeting the open ocean was breathtaking. The beach was framed by huge rocks and large stones, with stretches of white sand peeking through.


Experience the serene beauty of Uttakleiv Strand, a stunning beach in Norway, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and breathtaking sunsets.
Even though it's September, the allure of Uttakleiv was irresistible. I couldn't resist capturing the landscape with my camera. The way the light danced on the water and the dramatic formations of the rocks provided endless opportunities for stunning shots. I could see why it's a favorite spot for photographers year-round. Liam, with his keen eye for detail, helped me find unique angles and perspectives, reminding me that photography is always a collaborative art for us. We walked hand in hand along the shore, the crisp air invigorating our senses. It was so quiet and peaceful.

After our coastal exploration, we headed to Leknes for lunch at Fellini Lofoten As. It was a delightful experience, savoring Italian cuisine with a Norwegian twist. I opted for a pasta dish featuring local seafood, while Liam enjoyed a hearty pizza with reindeer sausage. It was a delicious fusion of flavors that perfectly captured the essence of our travels.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Fellini Lofoten - where delicious pizzas meet breathtaking views in Svolvær.
Next on our list was a visit to Lofoten Wool / Høystålet, a shop I had been looking forward to exploring. As someone who enjoys knitting traditional Norwegian patterns, I was eager to see the local wool and craftsmanship. The shop was a treasure trove of hand-spun yarns, knitted products, and woven textiles, each item telling a story of Lofoten's heritage. I was particularly drawn to the plant-dyed hues, inspired by the island's wild landscapes.


Discover the essence of Lofoten at Lofoten Wool, a unique knit shop offering local wool products and an immersive cultural experience.
I ended up purchasing a skein of yarn made from the wool of Old Norse sheep, also known as Viking sheep. The shopkeeper shared stories of the sheep roaming freely on the hillsides, their wool naturally adapting to the harsh Arctic climate. Inspired, I envisioned knitting a warm, cozy sweater that would embody the spirit of Lofoten. Liam, with his usual charm, struck up a conversation with the shopkeeper about the local brewing scene, exchanging tips and stories about the art of crafting unique flavors.

As evening approached, we made our way to Reine, a picturesque fishing village known for its stunning scenery. Dinner was at Restaurant Gammelbua, a historic building dating back to the 18th century. The restaurant exuded charm, with a fireplace creating a cozy atmosphere. We indulged in a meal of local delicacies, including stockfish prepared in both traditional and international styles. The flavors were exquisite, a testament to the freshness of the ingredients and the skill of the chefs.


Experience exquisite Norwegian cuisine in the heart of Reine at Restaurant Gammelbua - where local flavors meet breathtaking views.
As we savored our meal, we reflected on the day's adventures. From the depths of the Lofoten Aquarium to the serene shores of Uttakleiv beach, and the cultural immersion at Lofoten Wool, every moment had been a celebration of Lofoten's beauty and heritage. I am glad that Liam and I get to experience this together.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Viewpoint Rock and hike Festvågtind. I’ve heard the views from Viewpoint Rock are incredible, and I’m excited to capture them with my camera. And of course, we’ll be sure to find a cozy spot for a well-deserved drink at Bacalao after our hike. I'm also looking forward to experiencing more of Lofoten's culinary scene, with plans to dine at Restaurant Nyvågar for breakfast, Restaurant Bevares for lunch, and Brygga Restaurant & Bar - Lofoten for dinner. The journey continues, and I can't wait to see what adventures await.