Winter Wonders in Lofoten: A Family Adventure

Embracing the Lofoten Magic

Today was a beautiful blend of iconic landscapes and delightful culinary experiences. The kind of day that etches itself into your memory, making you want to relive every moment. It’s days like these that remind me why Liam and I chose a life filled with adventure and photography. Sharing these moments with my family makes it even more special.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Makalaus in Leknes. This charming restaurant is known for its Italian and Norwegian fusion cuisine, and it certainly didn't disappoint. The atmosphere was cozy, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. I opted for a traditional Norwegian breakfast, while Liam, ever the adventurous one, tried the whale steak! He said it was surprisingly delicious, a testament to the chef's skill. The kids enjoyed their homemade pastas, a welcome change from the usual travel fare. It's these little culinary discoveries that add so much flavor to our travels – quite literally!


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Makalaus in Leknes—where local flavors meet cozy hospitality.

After breakfast, we headed towards Lofotruna, a symbol of Lofoten designed by combining elements of the human, the fish, and the boat. It was fascinating to see this iconic sculpture in person, capturing the essence of what Lofoten is. We spent some time taking photos, trying to capture the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The light was perfect, soft and diffused, creating a magical atmosphere. It reminded me of why I became a landscape photographer in the first place – to capture these fleeting moments of beauty and share them with the world.


Discover the breathtaking landscapes and Viking heritage of Lofotruna, a must-visit tourist attraction in Leknes, Norway.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are found in the simplest of moments, shared with the people you love.

Next on our agenda was Hamnoy Rorbu, perhaps one of the most photographed spots in Lofoten. As we drove towards it, the scenery became increasingly dramatic, with towering mountains rising from the sea. Hamnoy Rorbu itself was even more breathtaking in person than in the photos. The charming red fishermen's cabins nestled against the backdrop of the Reinefjord created a picture-perfect scene. We spent a couple of hours wandering around, soaking in the atmosphere and taking countless photos. I even managed to capture a few shots that I think will be among my best from this trip. Liam, of course, was in his element, experimenting with different angles and compositions. He’s such a natural behind the camera, sometimes I think he missed his calling as a photographer!


Discover the enchanting Hamnoy Rorbu, a Norwegian fishing village full of breathtaking landscapes, rich traditions, and outdoor adventures in the Lofoten Islands.

After our photography session, we decided to indulge in some local shopping at Rødsand. This souvenir shop in Svolvær is a treasure trove of Norwegian craftsmanship. I was on the hunt for a cozy wool sweater to keep me warm during our winter adventures, and Liam was looking for a unique piece of local art to add to his collection. We ended up finding both, along with a few other trinkets and souvenirs. The staff were incredibly helpful, sharing stories about the local artisans and the history behind the products. It’s always nice to support local businesses and take home a piece of the culture with us.


Discover the essence of Norwegian craftsmanship at Rødsand, Svolvær's premier souvenir store, offering unique gifts and local art.

For lunch, we stopped at the Lofoten Seafood Center. Being in Lofoten, we knew we had to sample some of the local seafood, and this place came highly recommended. We tried a variety of dishes, from fresh cod to succulent shrimp, all prepared with simple yet flavorful techniques. The seafood was incredibly fresh, a testament to the region's rich fishing heritage. Even the kids, who can sometimes be picky eaters, devoured their meals. It's moments like these, sharing delicious food and laughter with my family, that make traveling so rewarding.


Experience authentic Norwegian flavors at Lofoten Seafood Center - where sustainability meets culinary excellence.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Holmen Lofoten for dinner. This restaurant is renowned for its innovative cuisine and stunning location. Holmen Lofoten is nestled on the edge of a fjord, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and sea. The restaurant itself is beautifully designed, with a modern yet cozy atmosphere. The menu featured a variety of dishes, all made with locally sourced ingredients. We opted for the tasting menu, which allowed us to sample a range of flavors and textures. Each dish was a work of art, showcasing the chef's creativity and passion. The service was impeccable, and the staff were knowledgeable and attentive. It was the perfect way to end our day of Lofoten adventures.


Discover serene landscapes and exquisite local cuisine at Holmen Lofoten, your gateway to Norway's breathtaking Lofoten Islands.

“The best view comes after the hardest climb.” This quote perfectly encapsulates our day. We had to navigate icy roads and brave the winter chill, but the rewards were well worth it. From the iconic landscapes of Lofotruna and Hamnoy Rorbu to the culinary delights of Makalaus, Lofoten Seafood Center, and Holmen Lofoten, today was a feast for the senses. And sharing it all with my family made it even more special.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such beauty and wonder. Lofoten has truly captured my heart, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Speaking of tomorrow, our last day in Lofoten will be spent exploring Steinetind and Olenilsøya kystfort. We'll be having breakfast at Lofoten food studio, lunch at Restaurant Gammelbua, and dinner at Solsiden Lofoten. I'm particularly excited about visiting Olenilsøya kystfort, a coastal fortress with a rich history. It's always fascinating to learn about the past and imagine what life was like in these remote islands centuries ago. And of course, we'll be ending our trip with a visit to SKJENKERIET LOFOTEN AS for a celebratory drink. It's the perfect way to toast to our Lofoten adventure and create lasting memories with my family.

Until tomorrow, happy travels!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention that I managed to capture a few shots of the Northern Lights tonight! It was a truly magical experience, watching the vibrant colors dance across the sky. I'll be sure to share them with you soon!