Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Lofoten Islands

Welcome to the End of the Road!

Our Lofoten adventure has officially begun! Today marked our first day exploring these stunning islands, and we decided to head straight to Å, the southernmost village accessible by road. The anticipation had been building ever since we boarded our flight from Banff, and let me tell you, the reality far exceeded our expectations. From the moment we set foot here, I felt an immediate connection to the raw, untamed beauty that Lofoten is known for. So grab a cup of coffee [or maybe some Norwegian glogg!] and join me as I recount our first day exploring this magical place.

The journey to Å was an experience in itself. After landing at the airport and picking up our rental car, Liam and I drove along the winding roads, surrounded by dramatic landscapes that seemed to leap straight out of a postcard. September in Lofoten is proving to be quite the experience; the air is crisp, and while the sun plays hide-and-seek behind the clouds, there's a certain magical quality to the light. It's definitely a season for layers, as the temperature hovers around 12°C during the day and dips to about 8°C at night. I was glad I packed my warmest woollens!

Our first stop was the Viewpoint at Å, and wow, what a view! From our vantage point, we could see the village of Å nestled against the dramatic cliffs and the vast expanse of the Norwegian Sea. The charming red rorbu cabins dotted the coastline, creating a striking contrast against the rugged landscape. I took countless photos, trying to capture the essence of this breathtaking panorama. Liam, ever the patient one, simply stood beside me, taking it all in. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated awe.


Discover the Å Viewpoint, a breathtaking destination in Norway's Lofoten Islands, known for its stunning landscapes and serene atmosphere.

Sometimes, the most beautiful places are those found at the end of the road.

After soaking in the views, we decided to explore the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum Å. This open-air museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the fishermen and their families who have called this place home for generations. We wandered through the well-preserved buildings, including a cod liver oil factory, a boathouse, and a traditional bakery. It felt like stepping back in time, imagining what life must have been like in this remote corner of the world. I was particularly intrigued by the rorbu, the traditional fisherman's house, and learned about the vital role fishing has played in shaping the region's culture and heritage.


Explore Norway's maritime heritage at the Norwegian Fishing Village Museum in Sørvågen, where history and culture come alive in stunning coastal scenery.

For breakfast, we enjoyed a delightful meal at Restaurant Gammelbua. The restaurant is housed in a carefully restored 18th-century building, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. I savoured the local stockfish, prepared in a traditional style, while Liam opted for a vegan dish. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, local ingredients, and you could certainly taste the difference.


Experience exquisite Norwegian cuisine in the heart of Reine at Restaurant Gammelbua - where local flavors meet breathtaking views.

Lunch was at Havet Restaurant Sørvågen, which offered stunning views of the harbor. We indulged in fresh seafood, savoring the flavors of the North Sea. The restaurant had a cozy, informal atmosphere, and we enjoyed chatting with the friendly staff, who shared stories about the local fishing traditions.


Discover exquisite seafood dining with breathtaking fjord views at Havet Restaurant Sørvågen—an unforgettable culinary journey.

In the afternoon, we popped into The Lofoten Store, a charming shop that showcases local crafts and souvenirs. I couldn't resist picking up a few small gifts for our families back in Canada, as well as a beautiful handcrafted piece of jewelry for myself. The store also serves as a tourist information center, and the staff were incredibly helpful in providing tips and recommendations for exploring the area.


Explore Lofoten's charm at The Lofoten Store, your one-stop shop for unique souvenirs and local insights in the stunning Lofoten Islands.

As the day drew to a close, we treated ourselves to dinner at Børsen Spiseri. This renowned restaurant is located in an old wharf dating back to 1828, and it exudes a sense of history and charm. We dined on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, savoring the unique flavors of Lofoten. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and we felt right at home as we enjoyed our meal.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Børsen Spiseri in Svolvær, where fresh local ingredients meet stunning harbor views.

As I reflect on our first day in Lofoten, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead. This place is truly special, and I can't wait to explore more of its hidden gems. Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Lofotr Viking Museum and the Lofoten Waterfall (Sørvågen). I'm particularly excited about the Viking Museum, as I've always been fascinated by Nordic mythology, a passion I've cultivated since my childhood in Kongsvinger. And perhaps later in the evening we will check out Magic Ice Lofoten for a nightcap. I'm sure Liam will enjoy that!

“To travel is to take a journey into yourself.” This quote resonates deeply with me as I embark on this Lofoten adventure. It's not just about seeing new places; it's about discovering new aspects of myself and my relationship with the world.

Until tomorrow, takk for i dag!