Winter Wonders in Lofoten: A Family Adventure

Coastal Discoveries in Lofoten

Today was a day of embracing the raw beauty of Lofoten's coastline. We set out to explore the western side of Vestvågøy, eager to capture the unique light and landscapes that this area is known for. It was a mix of dramatic seascapes, charming local encounters, and cozy dining experiences that made for a truly memorable day. The crisp Arctic air filled our lungs as we ventured out, cameras in hand, ready to document the magic of Lofoten in winter.


Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Paleo Arctic in Svolvær.
It’s always a treat to start the day with a meal that focuses on local, fresh ingredients. I opted for a traditional Scandinavian breakfast with smoked salmon, dark rye bread, and a side of skyr. Liam, ever the fan of a hot breakfast, enjoyed a custom-made omelette from the chef's counter. With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off towards Eggum.


The drive to Eggum naturreservat was scenic, with snow-dusted mountains rising sharply from the coastline. As we approached Eggum, the landscape opened up to reveal a dramatic meeting of land and sea. The winter light cast long shadows across the snow-covered fields, creating a stark yet beautiful contrast.



Experience the pristine beauty of Eggum Nature Reserve, a serene coastal paradise with breathtaking views, rich wildlife, and historical significance.

Eggum is a place where you truly feel the power of nature. We spent a couple of hours exploring the coastline, capturing the rugged beauty of the Arctic landscape. The waves crashed against the rocky shore, and the wind howled around us, creating a symphony of natural sounds. I found myself drawn to the old radar station, Borga, a structure that seemed to stand as a silent sentinel against the elements. The architecture was fascinating, and I learned it was designed by Snøhetta architects.


The kids were fascinated by the sheep roaming freely around the area. These hardy creatures seemed unfazed by the winter weather, grazing peacefully on the windswept hillsides. I managed to snap a few photos of them against the backdrop of the dramatic coastline, which I think will make for some great prints.

Sometimes, the most profound beauty lies in the simplicity and starkness of nature, a reminder of the raw power that shapes our world.

After Eggum, we drove towards Vik Beach, another gem along Lofoten’s coastline. The landscape here was equally stunning, with a wide sandy beach framed by towering mountains. The light was particularly magical as the sun began to dip towards the horizon, casting a warm golden glow across the scene. We spent some time walking along the beach, enjoying the tranquility and serenity of the surroundings.



Experience the breathtaking beauty and serene tranquility of Vik Beach, a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventurers in Norway.

Vik Beach offered incredible opportunities for slow-shutter photography. I showed Liam how to capture the waves, creating subtle leading lines in the foam. The light was exceptional, with soft pink and blue tones painting the sky.
It was an idyllic way to spend the afternoon, capturing memorable shots in calm and beautiful conditions. The kids enjoyed running along the shore, their laughter echoing in the crisp winter air. These are the moments I cherish most – sharing my passion for photography with my family and creating lasting memories together.


As the day progressed, we made a detour to Lofoten Wool / Høystålet, a local shop I had read about that produces yarn from sheep reared within the Lofoten Islands. As someone who appreciates sustainable practices, I was curious to see their operation. The shop was located in a charming old barn, and we were greeted by the sight of contented sheep grazing nearby. Inside, we found a beautiful selection of yarn, scarves, and blankets, all made from the wool of local sheep. I learned that the sheep graze on wild mountainsides and remote ocean islets during the summer months, and the fresh air, salt, seaweed, and rich pastures contribute to the high quality of the wool.



Discover the artistry of Norwegian wool at Lofoten Wool, where craftsmanship meets the breathtaking beauty of the Lofoten islands.

I purchased a few skeins of yarn in natural, undyed shades, planning to knit a cozy scarf for myself as a reminder of our trip. Liam bought a warm, hand-knitted hat, perfect for the cold Canmore winters. It was a wonderful experience to support a local business that is committed to sustainability and quality. I was particularly drawn to the yarn made from the wool of native sheep like Old Norse (Gammelnorsk sau), Norwegian Spæl, and Gammelnorsk Spæl. The longer hairs lend resilience, while the finer fibers provide comforting warmth.


For lunch, we stopped at FANGST Restaurant Lofoten, located at Hattvika Lodge. This restaurant places a strong emphasis on utilizing the proximity to the fishing fields outside Ballstad and working with local producers and fishermen to create a diverse menu. The restaurant's goal is to incorporate the surrounding fauna, such as herbs, seaweed, and kelp, to showcase the flavors of the region on the plate. The emphasis on fresh, local ingredients was evident in every dish, and we savored the flavors of the sea and the land. I opted for the catch of the day, a perfectly grilled cod served with locally sourced vegetables. Liam chose a hearty fish stew, which he declared was the best he had ever tasted. The kids enjoyed simpler fare, but they too appreciated the quality and freshness of the ingredients.



Experience fine dining at FANGST Restaurant Lofoten – where local seafood meets breathtaking views in Norway's stunning landscape.

In the evening, we enjoyed a delicious dinner at Brygga Restaurant. The restaurant had a rustic atmosphere, with antiques and old photographs that told stories from a bygone era. The menu reflected the fishing village of Å, with a focus on local and short-traveled food. I chose the traditional skrei (winter cod), while Liam opted for the lamb. Both dishes were cooked to perfection, and we enjoyed the cozy ambiance of the restaurant as we savored our meal. It was the perfect way to end a day of coastal discoveries in Lofoten.



Discover authentic Norwegian cuisine at Brygga Restaurant in Å – where local flavors meet stunning landscapes.

As we drove back to our accommodation, the sky began to clear, and we were treated to a glimpse of the Northern Lights. A faint green glow danced across the sky, a magical reminder of the beauty and wonder of Lofoten. We pulled over to the side of the road and watched in awe as the aurora borealis shimmered above us. It was a moment that we will never forget, a perfect ending to a day of coastal adventures.


Tomorrow, we plan to delve deeper into Lofoten's cultural side with visits to the Lofoten Aquarium and Gallery Lofoten. And perhaps, Liam and I will sneak away for a drink at Magic Ice Lofoten. I'm excited to see what new perspectives and memories await us as our Lofoten adventure continues.

I'm so grateful for these days exploring with my family by my side. Lofoten continues to surprise and inspire me at every turn.

The kids are already fast asleep, dreaming of sheep and beaches, and I’m about to join them. Goodnight from Lofoten!