Winter Wonders in Lofoten: A Family Adventure

First Impressions: Lofoten's Captivating Allure

After a long journey from Canmore, Alberta, via Oslo, the Lofoten Islands have finally welcomed us with open arms. I’m here with my family, ready to capture the raw beauty of this Arctic archipelago. Today was all about immersing ourselves in the Viking history, soaking in the panoramic views, and savouring the local flavours. It's a blend of culture and scenery that's already exceeded my expectations.

Our adventure began in Borg, with a visit to the Lofotr Viking Museum. The crisp Arctic air nipped at our cheeks as we approached the reconstructed chieftain's house. The museum was celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, which added a special significance to our visit. The kids were immediately captivated by the sheer scale of the longhouse, imagining the feasts and gatherings that once took place within those walls.


Discover the Viking Age at Lofotr Viking Museum, featuring authentic experiences, engaging activities, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Inside, the museum transported us back over a thousand years. We explored the living quarters, the blacksmith's forge, and even got a glimpse of Viking ships. The immersive exhibits brought history to life, and I found myself fascinated by the stories of these seafaring warriors and their intricate culture. It was easy to picture how the chieftain and his people lived, worked, and celebrated in this very spot. Learning about their craftsmanship, their beliefs, and their daily routines gave me a profound appreciation for the resilience and ingenuity of the Viking people.

To truly appreciate a place, one must not only see its beauty but also understand its history.

Leaving the museum, we headed towards Henningsvær Port Viewpoint, a picturesque fishing village known for its stunning views. The drive itself was a photographer’s dream, with snow-capped peaks rising dramatically from the turquoise waters. As we approached Henningsvær, the iconic image of the football field surrounded by the sea came into view. It was even more striking in person than in the photos I had seen. We parked the car and walked towards the Henningsvær Port Viewpoint, eager to capture the panoramic vista.


Discover unparalleled coastal views at Henningsvær Port Viewpoint, where nature's beauty and local charm intertwine in the heart of Lofoten Islands.

The viewpoint offered an incredible perspective of the village, with its colourful houses huddled together against the backdrop of the mountains. The harbour was bustling with fishing boats, and the air was filled with the salty scent of the sea. I spent a good hour taking photos, trying to capture the essence of this charming village. Liam, ever the patient husband, entertained the kids while I experimented with different angles and compositions. He even managed to snap a few candid shots of me in action, which I’m sure will become treasured memories of this trip.

By lunchtime, our stomachs were rumbling, so we made our way to Restaurant Lofotmat in Henningsvær. This cozy restaurant is known for its focus on local ingredients and traditional Norwegian cuisine. We were greeted with warm smiles and seated by a window overlooking the harbour. The menu was filled with tempting options, but we ultimately decided to try the catch of the day, which was freshly caught cod. The fish was cooked to perfection, flaky and moist, and the accompanying vegetables were bursting with flavour. It was a true taste of Lofoten, and we savoured every bite.

After lunch, we explored the charming streets of Henningsvær, popping into the small craft shops and art galleries. I was particularly drawn to a gallery showcasing the work of local painters, their canvases filled with depictions of the Lofoten landscape. It was inspiring to see how other artists interpreted the beauty of this region. We also stopped by The Lofoten Store. It wasn’s just a souvenir shop; it was a treasure trove of local wonders. We picked up a few handcrafted items to remind us of our visit, and I couldn't resist buying a beautiful print of the Northern Lights to hang in my studio back in Canmore.


Explore the captivating Lofoten Islands through unique souvenirs and essential travel tips at The Lofoten Store.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Svolvær, where we had reservations for dinner at Børsen Spiseri. This renowned restaurant is housed in a venerable quayside warehouse dating back to 1828, and the atmosphere was rich with history. The aroma of tar and rope filled the air, adding to the rustic charm. We were seated at a table overlooking the harbour, and the setting sun cast a golden glow over the water.


Discover authentic Norwegian cuisine at Børsen Spiseri in Svolvær – where fresh ingredients meet stunning views for an unforgettable dining experience.

Børsen Spiseri is known for its fresh ingredients from Lofoten’s unique larder, and the menu was a celebration of local flavours. Liam and I both opted for the stockfish, a Lofoten specialty, while the kids chose simpler dishes that were equally delicious. The meal was a culinary journey, each bite a testament to the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the chef. The service was impeccable, and we felt truly pampered as we enjoyed our final meal of the day.

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll along the harbour, admiring the twinkling lights of Svolvær. The air was crisp and cold, but we didn’t mind. We were filled with a sense of contentment, grateful for the experiences we had shared on our first day in Lofoten. As we walked, we discussed our plans for tomorrow, which include exploring Lofotodden Nasjonalpark and Uttakleiv beach. I’m particularly excited about capturing the winter light on the beach, and Liam is keen to try some landscape photography himself.

Back at our cozy cabin, I couldn’t help but reflect on the day. Lofoten had already cast its spell on us, and I knew that this trip would be filled with unforgettable moments. The blend of Viking history, stunning viewpoints, and culinary delights had been the perfect introduction to this magical archipelago. As I drifted off to sleep, I dreamed of snow-capped peaks, colourful fishing villages, and the promise of more adventures to come. I also made a mental note to buy a portable phone charger; it was a rookie mistake to forget one, and my phone battery was constantly running low.

Tomorrow promises more exploration and photographic opportunities, and perhaps even a visit to Molldøra Lounge & Bar, if we're feeling adventurous. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of winter wonders in Lofoten.

I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Oh, I almost forgot! I had a funny moment at The Lofoten Store. I was so engrossed in choosing a postcard that I accidentally knocked over a display of tiny troll figurines. They went tumbling like dominoes, and I felt my face flush with embarrassment. The shopkeeper, a kind-faced woman with a twinkle in her eye, simply laughed and said, Don't worry, the trolls are just playing! We both chuckled as we gathered them up, and I ended up buying one as a souvenir of my clumsy moment. It's these little unexpected moments that make travel so memorable! And it reminded me of the importance of having a first-aid kit. I really should add it to my list of essentials.