Family Adventure in the Lofoten Islands

Reflections on History and Beauty

Today was a day of contrasts, blending the solemn contemplation of war history with the serene beauty of Lofoten's coastal landscapes. It’s amazing how much you can pack into a single day, and I’m so grateful to be sharing these experiences with my family. The blend of history and scenery today felt very grounding.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Livland Gård. The MatLystHuset at Livland farm serves superb high quality local food and drinks. Astrid was particularly excited about the locally sourced cheeses, while Maximilian enjoyed the traditional Norwegian bread. I savored every bite, knowing that a day of exploration awaited us. It's always a treat to start the day with such delicious and authentic flavors, especially when the setting is as picturesque as Livland Gård.


Discover the essence of Norway through authentic cuisine at Livland Gård - where every meal tells a story.

After breakfast, we drove to Svolvær to visit the Lofoten War Memorial Museum. As a librarian specializing in Nordic literature, I've always been drawn to stories of resilience and historical significance. This museum was deeply moving, offering a balanced perspective on a very dramatic time period, from 1940 to 1945. The museum contains uniforms and other artifacts to express tales of courage, brutality and woe between 1940 and 1945. The exhibits are quite 'un-informally' in their structure. Still, it is of high importance to present the context and each object with respect. Maximilian, with his keen interest in history, was engrossed in the displays of uniforms, weaponry, and literature from World War II. Astrid, though young, seemed to grasp the gravity of the stories being told, asking thoughtful questions about the people affected by the war. The Lofoten raid has its own exhibition room at the museum. The museum probably offers Norway´s most extensive collection of uniforms and smaller objects from the second World War.


Discover the rich wartime history of the Lofoten Islands at this captivating museum, showcasing unique artifacts and personal stories from World War II.

The Lofoten War Memorial Museum has received an award in the category “Small Operators” on the occasion of the 2025 European Arival TourReview Spotlight Awards.

History is a relentless teacher, urging us to remember the past so that we may build a better future.

Leaving the museum, we drove towards Henningsvær, a charming fishing village known for its stunning views. The drive itself was breathtaking, with dramatic mountains meeting the sea. We parked the car and strolled along the harbor, taking in the sights and sounds of this bustling village. The fresh sea air was invigorating, and the colorful buildings added to the charm of the place. Henningsvær spreads across several islands on Austvågøya's southern coast. It was accessible to the rest of the Lofoten archipelago only by boat until the early 1980s, sparing the community from modern development through the 20th century. Today see its stunning collection of historic architecture.

Our main destination in Henningsvær was the Henningsvær Port Viewpoint. From this vantage point, we could see the entire harbor, with its fishing boats, quaint buildings, and the iconic football pitch surrounded by water. The view was truly spectacular, and we spent a good hour taking photos and simply soaking in the scenery. The Henningsvær Port Viewpoint is a beautiful, well-preserved harbor for this quiet fishing village in Lofoten. There are better views elsewhere, but it is worth a stop here to see some of the small and commercial fishing operations in action.


Discover the stunning views at Henningsvær Port Viewpoint, a must-see tourist attraction showcasing Norway's breathtaking landscapes and charming village life.

For lunch, we stopped at Digg Lofoten • Restaurant & Bar in Leknes. Digg Lofoten • Restaurant & Bar is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts exploring the stunning landscapes of Leknes, Norway. This restaurant captures the essence of local cuisine with an inviting ambiance that makes it perfect for both casual dining and special occasions. The warm atmosphere of this restaurant makes guests feel relaxed and have a good time. The staff are professional, attentive, and accommodating to dietary requirements. I opted for the fish soup, while Maximilian enjoyed a hearty burger. Astrid, of course, chose the classic Norwegian waffles with berries. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent.


Experience local Norwegian cuisine at Digg Lofoten in Leknes - where fresh ingredients meet breathtaking views.

After lunch, we made a stop at Lofotsenteret, a shopping center in Leknes. As much as I love exploring historical sites and natural landscapes, I also appreciate the chance to browse local shops and pick up a few souvenirs. I was hoping to find a new Lopapeysa, perhaps one with a more modern design. I didn’t find a sweater to my liking, but I did manage to pick up some lovely hand-knitted mittens for Astrid, perfect for the chilly evenings. We also stocked up on snacks for our upcoming hikes. Lofotsenteret shopping mall is centrally located in the regional center Leknes in Lofoten. With its wide selection of shops and retailers, both residents and tourists in Lofoten will find what they need at Lofotsenteret. Sunkost Lofotsenteret is the only true organic food shop in western Lofoten. You can find Organic options in the Coop Extra (market) which is located in the same shopp. Sport 1 Lofotsenteret AS is an apparel retailer.


Experience the vibrant shopping culture at Lofotsenteret, the heart of retail therapy in Leknes, Norway, offering a unique blend of local and international stores.

Before heading back to our rorbu, we had dinner at Karoline Restaurant in Nusfjord. This charming restaurant is housed in one of Nusfjord's old warehouses, offering a cozy and intimate atmosphere. We started with the seafood platter, a delightful assortment of fresh catches from the local waters. For the main course, I chose the grilled cod, while Maximilian opted for the lamb shank. Astrid, predictably, ordered fish and chips. The food was exceptional, and the service was impeccable. Karoline Restaurant is one of Nusfjord's old warehouses is now the resort's fine-dining restaurant and bar. Reservations are required, as Karoline is also open to outside guests.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Karoline Restaurant, nestled in the stunning Nusfjord Arctic Resort with breathtaking fjord views.

As we drove back, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the Lofoten landscape. The views were simply magical, and I felt a deep sense of gratitude for being able to share this experience with my family. It was a day of reflection, beauty, and connection, one that I will cherish for years to come.

Tomorrow, we plan to hike Offersøykammen and visit the Andstabben viewpoint. I’m looking forward to another day of breathtaking views and memorable experiences. I’ve heard the hike can be a bit challenging, but the panoramic vistas from the top are well worth the effort. I'm also excited to try Lofoten food studio for breakfast, Tapperiet Bistro for lunch, and Makalaus for dinner. And perhaps we'll end the day with a visit to Styrhuset Pub for a nightcap.

Good natt from Lofoten!