Family Adventure in the Lofoten Islands

A Final Day in Paradise

As our Lofoten adventure draws to a close, I find myself filled with a bittersweet mix of emotions. The past nine days have been an absolute dream, a tapestry woven with stunning landscapes, thrilling escapades, and heartwarming family moments. It’s hard to believe our time here is already coming to an end, but I know the memories we’ve made will last a lifetime.

Our last day began, as many others did, with a hearty breakfast. We decided to try Restaurant Lofotmat one last time, drawn back by the cozy atmosphere and the promise of more delightful Norwegian flavors. Astrid was particularly excited for their fish soup, which she declared the best she’d ever had. Maximilian and I enjoyed the perfectly sized portions, that had a variety of flavors. The chef even came out to chat with us about the food creations, making the experience feel even more special.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Restaurant Lofotmat in Henningsvær, where local flavors meet sustainable dining practices.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we set off for our first adventure of the day: Svolværegeita. This iconic rock formation, also known as the Goat, towers over the town of Svolvær, and I was determined to see it up close. The hike to the base was invigorating, a steep climb that got our blood pumping and offered breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. I must admit, I felt a pang of regret that I wasn’t quite brave enough to attempt the climb to the top, let alone jump between the horns like some daring souls do. Perhaps next time, when Astrid is a bit older, we can tackle it together!


Explore the breathtaking Svolværegeita in Norway's Lofoten Islands, a unique climbing destination offering stunning views and thrilling adventures.

Lofoten has a way of etching itself into your soul, a place where the raw beauty of nature meets the warmth of human connection.

Instead, we spent a happy hour simply admiring the majestic Svolværegeita, snapping photos and soaking in the atmosphere. It’s easy to see why this place is such a popular tourist destination; there’s something truly awe-inspiring about standing in the shadow of such a natural wonder. As we hiked back down, Astrid peppered us with questions about the mountain, its history, and the legends surrounding it. It was a wonderful opportunity to share stories of Norse mythology and Icelandic folklore, connecting her to her heritage even in this distant land.

Next on our agenda was the Ågvatnet Lookout. This viewpoint promised panoramic vistas of the lake Ågvatnet and the surrounding mountains, and it did not disappoint. The drive there was scenic in itself, winding through charming villages and past dramatic coastal landscapes. The hike to the lookout was moderate, a pleasant stroll that allowed us to stretch our legs and enjoy the fresh air.


Discover the stunning Ågvatnet Lookout in Sørvågen, offering breathtaking views and a serene escape into Norway's beautiful landscapes.

When we reached the top, we were rewarded with a breathtaking panorama. The still, blue waters of Ågvatnet stretched out before us, framed by towering peaks and lush green hills. It was a perfect spot for contemplation, a place to simply stand and appreciate the sheer beauty of the natural world. We spent a good hour there, taking photos, identifying the different mountain peaks, and simply breathing in the crisp, clean air. I even tried my hand at sketching the landscape, inspired by the stunning scenery.

For lunch, we decided to try Sakura Lofoten Svolvær, a Japanese restaurant that I had read rave reviews about. I was intrigued by the idea of Japanese cuisine in the heart of Lofoten, and I was eager to see how they incorporated local ingredients into their dishes. The restaurant itself was charming, with a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful, guiding us through the menu and offering recommendations.


Experience exquisite Japanese cuisine blended with fresh local flavors at Sakura Lofoten in Svolvær—where every dish tells a story.

We ordered a variety of dishes, including sushi, sashimi, and some creative fusion creations. Everything was incredibly fresh and flavorful, a testament to the quality of the local ingredients. Astrid particularly enjoyed the vegan sushi, which was a pleasant surprise. Maximilian and I savored the salmon maki, which was perfectly cooked and delicious. It was a delightful culinary experience, a unique blend of Japanese tradition and Norwegian innovation.

After lunch, we decided to indulge in a bit of shopping. We stopped by Butikken på kaia, a charming shop in Svolvær known for its local crafts and souvenirs. I was looking for a special memento to remember our trip by, and I knew this was the perfect place to find it. The shop was filled with unique treasures, from hand-knitted sweaters to locally made jewelry to intricate wood carvings. Astrid was immediately drawn to a display of colorful trolls, while Maximilian admired the intricate craftsmanship of a wooden Viking ship. I finally settled on a beautiful silver pendant with a small piece of lava stone, a reminder of my Icelandic heritage and the volcanic landscapes of my homeland.


Discover unique gifts and local craftsmanship at Butikken på kaia, a charming shop in the heart of Sørvågen, Norway.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Lofoten Links for our farewell dinner. This unique golf resort offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and I was excited to experience their restaurant, Låven. The restaurant itself was elegant and inviting, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The menu featured a variety of local specialties, and we were eager to sample some traditional Norwegian cuisine.


Discover Lofoten Links: A breathtaking golf course in Norway's stunning landscape, perfect for adventure and relaxation.

We started with a selection of appetizers, including smoked salmon, pickled herring, and reindeer sausage. Everything was incredibly flavorful and well-prepared, a true celebration of Norwegian culinary traditions. For our main courses, I opted for the grilled cod, while Maximilian chose the lamb shank. Astrid, of course, went for the fish and chips, a classic that never fails to please. The food was simply divine, a perfect ending to our Lofoten culinary journey.

As we savored our meal, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip. Astrid loved the boat trip through the Trollfjord, where we saw majestic sea eagles soaring overhead. Maximilian was particularly fond of the challenging hike to Reinebringen, with its breathtaking views of the surrounding fjords. And I, of course, cherished every moment spent exploring the stunning landscapes and connecting with my family in this magical place. It was the perfect way to end our Lofoten adventure, surrounded by good food, good company, and unforgettable memories.

As we prepare to leave Lofoten tomorrow, I can’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible experience. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it’s been a journey of discovery, a chance to connect with nature, and an opportunity to create lasting memories with my family. I know that we will carry the spirit of Lofoten with us long after we’ve left its shores, a reminder of the beauty, wonder, and adventure that life has to offer.

Until next time, Lofoten. Takk for alt!