Exploring the Wild Beauty of Lofoten with My Wife

First Impressions of Lofoten: A Day of Remembrance and Discovery

After months of planning, Greta and I finally touched down in Lofoten! The journey from Heidelberg was long, but the anticipation of witnessing these legendary islands kept our spirits high. Today was all about absorbing the atmosphere, paying our respects to the past, and savoring the local flavors.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Solsiden Lofoten. Located in scenic Ballstad, the restaurant offered a delightful spread with a focus on local ingredients. I opted for a traditional Norwegian breakfast of smoked salmon and eggs, while Greta enjoyed a selection of freshly baked pastries. Sipping our coffee while overlooking the serene harbor was the perfect start to our Lofoten adventure.


Experience exquisite seafood and pizza at Solsiden Lofoten in Ballstad—where Norwegian culinary tradition meets stunning coastal views.

After breakfast, we drove towards Svolvær, eager to delve into the region's history. Our first stop was the Lofoten War Memorial Museum. As someone deeply interested in history, I found this museum incredibly moving. It offered a balanced perspective on a dramatic period, from 1940 to 1945, with a vast collection of uniforms, artifacts, and literature from the Second World War. The exhibitions are presented in an informal manner, yet with great respect for the context and the objects themselves. Greta and I spent a good couple of hours here, absorbing the stories of courage, brutality, and resilience. The section dedicated to the Lofoten Raid, considered the first true Allied victory, was particularly impactful. It was a sobering reminder of the sacrifices made during the war and the impact it had on this remote region.


Discover the rich wartime history of the Lofoten Islands at this captivating museum, showcasing unique artifacts and personal stories from World War II.

The beauty of Lofoten is not just in its landscapes, but also in its ability to evoke deep emotions and reflections.

Leaving the museum, we drove towards Henningsvær, often referred to as the Venice of Lofoten. The drive itself was stunning, with dramatic mountains rising from the sea and picturesque fishing villages dotting the coastline. Henningsvær is a charming village spread across several small islands connected by bridges. We headed straight for the Henningsvær Port Viewpoint, and the views from up there were simply breathtaking. The panoramic vista encompassed the surrounding fjords, jagged peaks, and the colorful fishing huts lining the harbor.


Discover the stunning views at Henningsvær Port Viewpoint, a must-see tourist attraction showcasing Norway's breathtaking landscapes and charming village life.

I tried to capture the scene with my camera, but no photograph could truly do justice to the sheer beauty of the landscape. The vibrant colors of the village against the backdrop of the deep blue sea and rugged mountains were a sight to behold. I can see why this spot is so popular among photographers; it's a visual feast. Greta, with her architect's eye, was fascinated by the way the village blended seamlessly with the natural environment.

For lunch, we stopped at Nordis Restaurant Svolvær. The restaurant had a varied menu, and we decided to try some local specialties. I opted for the Fish and Chips, while Greta went for the Poke Bowl with salmon. Both dishes were delicious, and the portions were generous. Nordis has a sunny outdoor terrace, which faces the harbor and the square, and we enjoyed our meal while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Svolvær. It’s clear this place is popular with locals and tourists alike.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Nordis Restaurant Svolvær - where local flavors meet stunning views.

As evening approached, we made our way back to Svolvær for dinner at Børsen Spiseri, a restaurant renowned for its traditional Lofoten cuisine. Housed in a historic wharf dating back to 1828, the restaurant exuded a rustic charm. The interior was filled with artifacts from the past, creating a cozy and atmospheric setting. Børsen Spiseri is known for its focus on fresh, local ingredients, and their specialty is stockfish, sourced from a fish factory just 50 meters away. I decided to try their signature dish, the Stockfish Royal, while Greta opted for the Catch of the Day. Both dishes were expertly prepared and bursting with flavor. The stockfish was tender and flavorful, and the Catch of the Day was fresh and perfectly seasoned.


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

To complete our day, we decided to check out Styrhuset Pub in Svolvær for a nightcap. The pub had a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, and we enjoyed a couple of local beers while chatting with some of the locals. It was a great way to unwind after a long day of exploring.


Discover the heart of Svolvær at Styrhuset Pub, where local brews and vibrant atmosphere meet for an unforgettable experience.

As we headed back to our guesthouse, Greta and I reflected on our first day in Lofoten. It had been a day filled with history, stunning views, and culinary delights. We had paid our respects to the past, marveled at the beauty of the present, and savored the flavors of the region. Lofoten had already cast its spell on us, and we were excited to see what tomorrow would bring.

Tomorrow, we plan to immerse ourselves further in Lofoten's cultural heritage with visits to the Lofotmuseet and the Lofotr Viking Museum. We're also planning to grab breakfast at FURU Café, lunch at Karoline Restaurant, and dinner at Restaurant Feskarheimen. And, if we have time, we might even pop into Lofoten Gaver og Brukskunst for some local crafts. I'm particularly excited about the Viking Museum – I've always been fascinated by Norse history.

“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” – Ibn Battuta

Lofoten is already doing just that, and I can't wait to share more stories with you all!

As I sit here, penning down the day’s adventures, I realize I forgot to pack sunscreen! A rookie mistake, I know. And Greta keeps reminding me about the power bank I left behind in Heidelberg. Lesson learned: always double-check your essentials, even when you're too excited to think straight. But hey, that’s part of the adventure, right?

Good night from Lofoten!