Exploring the Winter Wonders of Lofoten with Family

First Impressions of Lofoten: History, Art, and Culinary Delights

After a long journey from Helsinki, with a layover in Oslo and a connecting flight to Bodø, followed by that scenic ferry ride, we finally arrived in Lofoten! The crisp Arctic air filled my lungs as I stepped onto the pier, and the sight of the snow-dusted mountains rising from the sea was simply breathtaking. I knew this trip with Markus and Aino would be one for the books.

Our first day was a blend of historical exploration, artistic immersion, and, of course, indulging in the local cuisine. Lofoten in January is a unique experience. The sun barely peeks over the horizon, casting long shadows and painting the landscape in hues of blue and pink. It’s a photographer’s dream, and I was eager to capture it all with my camera – though I already regretted forgetting that extra memory card!

Our first stop was the Lofoten War Memorial Museum in Svolvær. As a librarian specializing in Arctic and Nordic literature, I've always been drawn to stories of resilience and the human spirit, and this museum promised to offer just that. The museum houses Norway's largest exhibition of uniforms and artifacts from World War II, and it aims to provide a balanced view of this dramatic period.


Discover the rich wartime history of the Lofoten Islands at this captivating museum, showcasing unique artifacts and personal stories from World War II.
Stepping inside, I was immediately struck by the sheer volume of items on display. Uniforms lined the walls, each with its own story to tell. There were personal items, photographs, and documents that brought the war years to life in a way that history books simply can’t. Aino was particularly interested in the displays about children during the war, and Markus, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the weaponry and equipment. I was moved by the exhibit dedicated to the Lofoten Raid, a daring commando operation in 1941 that struck a blow against the German occupation. It was a sobering reminder of the sacrifices made by so many during those dark years.

History is not just about dates and battles; it’s about the people whose lives were shaped by those events.

After a morning steeped in history, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Restaurant Gammelbua in Reine. The restaurant is located in a charming 18th-century building that once served as the town's general store. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, with a large fireplace in the center of the room.


Discover exquisite Norwegian cuisine amidst breathtaking fjord views at Restaurant Gammelbua in Reine.
The menu featured traditional Lofoten dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. I opted for the fish soup, while Markus chose the stockfish, a local specialty. Aino, always a bit more adventurous, tried the whale meat. Everything was delicious, and it was the perfect way to warm up after a chilly morning of exploring.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we continued our journey to Henningsvær, a picturesque fishing village known as the Venice of Lofoten. The village is spread across several small islands, connected by bridges and causeways. The colorful houses and fishing boats created a postcard-perfect scene.

Our main destination in Henningsvær was Gallery Lofoten, which boasts one of Norway's largest collections of North Norwegian paintings from the 19th century. As we walked through the gallery, I was captivated by the stunning landscapes and seascapes captured by artists like Otto Sinding, Gunnar Berg, and Adelsteen Normann. Their paintings brought the beauty of Lofoten to life in a way that words simply couldn't. The gallery also featured sculptures by Nico Widerberg and artwork by Lars Lerin. Aino was particularly drawn to the watercolors of Lars Lerin, who lived in Lofoten for several years. His unique technique and use of color perfectly captured the ethereal light of the region.


Explore Gallery Lofoten, where art meets the stunning landscapes of Norway's Lofoten Islands, showcasing local culture and creativity.
Before leaving Henningsvær, we made sure to stop at the Henningsvær Port Viewpoint. From there, we enjoyed panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, with its dramatic mountains, clear waters, and charming fishing villages. Despite the winter chill, the view was simply mesmerizing, and I snapped dozens of photos, hoping to capture the magic of the moment.


Discover the stunning views at Henningsvær Port Viewpoint, a must-see tourist attraction showcasing Norway's breathtaking landscapes and charming village life.
Our final stop of the day was Lofoten Gaver og Brukskunst, a local shop in Leknes known for its gifts and traditional crafts. I was hoping to find a warm, hand-knitted hat to replace the snow goggles I’d forgotten to pack, but instead, I found the perfect souvenir: a small, wooden carving of a puffin, a bird that’s become a symbol of Lofoten. Aino picked out a few postcards to send to her friends back in Helsinki, and Markus found a book on the history of Lofoten fishing.


Explore Lofoten Gaver og Brukskunst for unique gifts, local crafts, and unforgettable experiences in the stunning Lofoten Islands.
As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Børsen Spiseri in Svolvær for dinner. This renowned restaurant is housed in an old trading wharf dating back to 1828. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, with exposed timber walls and a cozy fireplace. The menu featured fresh, local ingredients, with an emphasis on seafood. I ordered the catch of the day, while Markus opted for the traditional stockfish dish. Aino, predictably, chose the reindeer stew. Everything was delicious, and it was the perfect way to end a day of exploring.


Discover authentic Norwegian cuisine at Børsen Spiseri in Svolvær – where fresh ingredients meet stunning views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Back at our cozy cabin, nestled amidst the snow-covered landscape, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible experiences of the day. From the poignant history at the War Memorial Museum to the artistic beauty of Gallery Lofoten, every moment had been a feast for the senses. The flavors of local cuisine lingered on my palate, and the stunning vistas of Henningsvær were etched in my memory. It was a day of discovery, a day of immersion, and a day that reaffirmed my love for this enchanting corner of the world.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the natural beauty of Uttakleiv beach and the Eggum naturreservat. I’m particularly excited about visiting the Andstabben viewpoint, which promises even more breathtaking views. And perhaps, if we’re lucky, we’ll catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights dancing across the Arctic sky. Tonight, though, I’ll drift off to sleep, dreaming of snow-covered peaks and the promise of more adventures to come.

It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel – to learn, to experience, and to connect with the world around me. And to share those experiences with my family, making memories that will last a lifetime.