Family Adventure in the Lofoten Islands

A Day of Art and Wool in Lofoten

Today was a delightful mix of art, cozy shopping, and stunning viewpoints here in the Lofoten Islands. With the family in tow, I set out to explore more of what this incredible region has to offer, blending cultural experiences with the raw natural beauty that defines this part of Norway. It’s days like these that make me appreciate our decision to come here, trading the familiar comforts of Hannover for the rugged charm of the Nordic landscape.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Underhuset in Sakrisøy. Though known as a Mexican restaurant, it was once a trading place. It was a delightful surprise to find such a vibrant and unexpected culinary experience in the heart of Lofoten. The blend of Mexican flavors with fresh, local ingredients was a unique and delicious start to our day. Astrid, surprisingly, loved the mild quesadillas, while Maximilian enjoyed a spicier dish that reminded him of our favorite spot back in Germany. I savored a breakfast burrito, which gave me the energy I needed for the day ahead.

After breakfast, we drove towards our first planned stop: the Skulpturlandskap – Lauerbærblad in Moskenes.


Explore Skulpturlandskap - Lauerbærblad: An outdoor sculpture park blending art and nature in Norway's stunning Lofoten Islands.
This sculpture is part of an art project spread across the Nordland region. Finding it was a bit of an adventure in itself. We initially followed a path from the parking lot that seemed to lead nowhere, crisscrossing the landscape in vain. Eventually, we discovered the small, almost hidden path near the turnoff from the E10. After a short walk, we finally arrived at Cristina Iglesias' 'Laurbærblad'. The two silver-colored plates, adorned with laurel leaf imprints, stood on either side of a cave known as Djevelgrotten (the Devil's Cave).

I must admit, the sculpture left me somewhat puzzled. While the project's homepages suggest the artwork symbolizes collaboration, I found it a bit disconnected from its surroundings. The laurel leaves, not native to Lofoten, felt like an alien element. However, the interplay between the man-made structure and the natural cave was intriguing. Astrid, of course, was more interested in the 'devil's cave' and imagined all sorts of mythical creatures lurking inside. Maximilian, ever the pragmatist, appreciated the craftsmanship and the sheer effort involved in creating such a piece in this remote location.

Sometimes, the most rewarding journeys are those that lead us to unexpected places, both geographically and artistically.

Next on our itinerary was a visit to a viewpoint, hoping to capture some of the iconic Lofoten scenery.


Discover breathtaking views and tranquil ambiance at the stunning view point in Å, Norway, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
We drove along the winding roads, the landscape unfolding before us in all its glory. Jagged peaks, crystal-clear waters, and charming red cabins dotted the coastline. We stopped at a particularly scenic spot overlooking Reinefjorden, where the view was simply breathtaking. The vista of the traditional red cabins of Eliassen Rorbuer against the backdrop of the mountains was picture-perfect. Even though it was a popular spot, the sheer beauty of the place made it worth sharing with other travelers. I snapped several photos, trying to capture the essence of this magical place, knowing full well that no picture could truly do it justice.

After soaking in the views, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Klatrekaféen in Henningsvær, a place I had read about that seemed to capture the unique spirit of Lofoten.


Discover Klatrekaféen: A culinary treasure in Henningsvær offering local flavors and stunning views amidst Norway's natural beauty.
This café is known as a gathering spot for climbers, artists, and adventurers. The atmosphere was indeed unique – a blend of café, pub, and meeting place with a relaxed vibe. The walls were adorned with climbing gear and artwork, and the air buzzed with the chatter of locals and tourists alike. We enjoyed warm meals and coffee, surrounded by inspiring surroundings. Astrid was fascinated by the climbers' stories, while Maximilian and I enjoyed the laid-back atmosphere.

In the afternoon, with our appetites sated and spirits high, we ventured to Lofoten Wool / Høystålet, a farm shop located between Stamsund and Leknes.


Discover the artistry of Norwegian wool at Lofoten Wool, where craftsmanship meets the breathtaking beauty of the Lofoten islands.
As someone who enjoys knitting traditional Icelandic sweaters, I was particularly excited about this stop. The shop is housed in a refurbished old barn, adding to its rustic charm. We were greeted by a flock of Old Norse sheep, happily roaming around their shelter. Inside, we found a wide range of hand-knitted and woven wool products, yarn, and knitting patterns. The selection of yarn dyed with plant-based shades was particularly appealing.

I spent a considerable amount of time browsing the various items, admiring the craftsmanship and the dedication to sustainable practices. Ragnhild Lie, the founder of Lofoten Wool, has created a haven for wool enthusiasts, utilizing as much of the raw ingredients as possible. I purchased some yarn made from the farm's own sheep, along with a pattern for a traditional Lofoten sweater. Astrid picked out a soft sheepskin rug for her room, while Maximilian found a beautifully crafted scarf. It was a delightful experience, connecting with the local culture and supporting a business that values sustainability.

Our final stop of the day was dinner at Brygga Restaurant & Bar in Kabelvåg.


Experience authentic Norwegian flavors at Brygga Restaurant & Bar in Kabelvåg - a culinary haven amidst stunning Lofoten scenery.
This restaurant is known for its authentic Norwegian flavors and stunning Lofoten scenery. Housed in a historic building dating back to the 1800s, it once served as a fish reception and stockfish warehouse. The atmosphere was warm and rustic, filled with antiques and old photographs that told stories of a bygone era. We enjoyed fresh seafood, locally sourced and prepared with care. The fish was caught that day – not yesterday. I savored the traditional stockfish, while Maximilian opted for the halibut. Astrid, surprisingly, enjoyed the fish soup, a creamy concoction that captured the essence of coastal cuisine.

As the day drew to a close, we reflected on our adventures over dinner. From the thought-provoking sculpture to the cozy wool shop and the breathtaking viewpoints, it had been a day filled with discovery and connection. Lofoten continues to surprise and delight us at every turn, offering a unique blend of culture and nature that is both inspiring and humbling.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Gallery Lofoten and Vik Beach, hoping to experience more of the artistic and natural wonders of this incredible region. I’m particularly looking forward to visiting the Gallery Lofoten, as I’ve heard it houses a remarkable collection of Norwegian art. And of course, a relaxing stroll along Vik Beach will be the perfect way to unwind and soak in the serene beauty of Lofoten.

As I sit here writing, the midnight sun casts a soft glow over the landscape, reminding me of the endless possibilities that await us here in Lofoten. It's a privilege to share these experiences with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I am truly grateful for this opportunity to explore the world and connect with different cultures, all while strengthening the bonds that tie us together. And who knows, maybe I’ll even finish knitting that Lofoten sweater before we head back to Hannover!