Exploring the Wild Beauty of Lofoten with My Wife

Conquering Heights and Catching Waves

Today was a day of pushing boundaries and embracing the raw beauty of Lofoten. From scaling the iconic Svolværgeita to braving the Arctic waves at Unstad, it was an experience that tested our limits and filled us with awe. Greta and I started our day early, eager to make the most of the endless daylight.


Explore the breathtaking Svolværgeita in Norway's Lofoten Islands, a unique climbing destination offering stunning views and thrilling adventures.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant The Kitchen in Svolvær. The cozy atmosphere and traditional dishes were the perfect fuel for the adventure ahead. I opted for a classic Norwegian breakfast of smoked salmon and eggs, while Greta enjoyed a plate of freshly baked pastries. With our stomachs full and our spirits high, we set off towards Svolværgeita, also known as The Goat.

The hike to the base of Svolværgeita was more challenging than I anticipated. The trail was steep and rocky, requiring a good level of fitness. However, the stunning views of Svolvær and the surrounding fjords kept us motivated. As we ascended, we passed other hikers, all equally determined to reach the summit. The anticipation in the air was palpable; everyone knew they were about to embark on something special.

Reaching the base of the climb, I could feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. Svolværgeita is a 150-meter tall granite pinnacle, and the climb to the top is not for the faint of heart. Fortunately, we had booked a guided tour with Northern Alpine Guides, and our experienced guide, Lars, put us at ease with his calm demeanor and expert knowledge. He kitted us out with rock shoes, harnesses, and helmets, ensuring our safety throughout the climb.

The climb itself was exhilarating. We scaled the backside of The Goat in two pitches, with Lars providing tips and encouragement along the way. There were moments when I questioned my ability, but with Greta cheering me on, I persevered. The feeling of accomplishment as I reached the summit was indescribable. The panoramic views from the top were simply breathtaking. I could see the entire town of Svolvær, the surrounding islands, and the vast expanse of the Norwegian Sea. It was a moment I will never forget.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

Of course, no climb of Svolværgeita is complete without the famous jump between the horns. It's a 1.5-meter gap, and the drop below is a dizzying 300 meters. I won't lie; I was terrified. But with Lars's guidance and Greta's unwavering support, I took the leap. The adrenaline rush was incredible! Landing safely on the other horn, I felt an overwhelming sense of triumph. I had conquered my fears and experienced something truly extraordinary.

After abseiling down from the summit, we hiked back down the mountain, our legs tired but our hearts full. We celebrated our achievement with a well-deserved lunch at Ramberg Gjestegård. I savored every bite, reflecting on the incredible experience we had just shared.


Experience traditional Norwegian cuisine amidst stunning landscapes at Ramberg Gjestegård in Lofoten Islands.

With the afternoon still ahead of us, we decided to head to Unstad, a small village on the west coast of Vestvågøya known for its world-class surfing. I had heard about Unstad's legendary waves, and I was eager to give it a try. Greta, ever the adventurous spirit, was equally enthusiastic.

Arriving at Unstad, we were greeted by a stunning sight. The beach was framed by towering mountains, and the waves were crashing in with impressive force. The Arctic Surf School was buzzing with activity, as surfers from all over the world geared up to ride the waves. We rented surfboards and wetsuits and joined the throng of eager surfers heading into the water.


Discover the enchanting beauty of Unstad, Norway: a serene destination perfect for surfing, hiking, and immersing in nature's splendor.

The water was cold, even with the wetsuit, but the thrill of catching a wave quickly made me forget the temperature. I'm no expert surfer, but I managed to stand up a few times and ride the waves for a short distance. It was an exhilarating experience, and I felt a deep connection with the power of nature.

Greta, on the other hand, took to surfing like a natural. She was gliding effortlessly across the waves, her laughter echoing across the beach. I watched in admiration as she carved her way through the water, her face beaming with joy. It was moments like these that made our travels together so special.

As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, we reluctantly left the beach, our bodies tired but our spirits refreshed. We returned our surfboards and wetsuits, thanking the staff at the Arctic Surf School for an unforgettable experience. Before leaving Unstad, we took a moment to soak in the beauty of the landscape, the mountains silhouetted against the twilight sky.

For dinner, we treated ourselves to a delicious meal at Brygga Restaurant & Bar in Lofoten. The restaurant's cozy atmosphere and stunning views of the harbor provided the perfect setting for a celebratory dinner. I ordered the fresh catch of the day, while Greta opted for a vegetarian dish. We savored every bite, reminiscing about the day's adventures.


Experience authentic Norwegian flavors at Brygga Restaurant & Bar in Kabelvåg - a culinary haven amidst stunning Lofoten scenery.

To cap off our incredible day, we decided to check out Lofoten Pub1. The pub was lively and welcoming, filled with locals and tourists alike. We enjoyed a couple of local brews, chatting with fellow travelers and sharing stories of our Lofoten adventures. It was the perfect way to unwind after a day of adrenaline-fueled activities.


Experience the charm of Lofoten Pub in Sørland, where local flavors meet a warm atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and socializing.

As I reflect on today's experiences, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this incredible corner of the world with my amazing wife. Lofoten has a way of pushing you out of your comfort zone and inspiring you to embrace the unknown. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Lofotodden Nasjonalpark and hike to Presten. I can't wait to see what adventures await us.

“Adventure is not outside man; it is within.” – George Eliot. As our trip nears its end, I find myself contemplating how much richer I feel for having seen and done so much in Lofoten. It's a sentiment I'll take back with me to Heidelberg, a reminder that adventure is always possible, no matter where you are.

Goodnight from Lofoten!