Exploring the Enchanting Lofoten Islands

A Day of Triumphs and Tastes

Today was a day of pushing boundaries, both physical and culinary, here in the Lofoten Islands. From scaling a legendary peak to savoring local flavors, Élodie and I fully immersed ourselves in the Lofoten experience. It's days like these that make travel so rewarding, when you challenge yourself and discover new facets of a place and its culture.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Paleo Arctic. The restaurant's philosophy, drawing inspiration from the Paleolithic period, intrigued me. I opted for their extensive breakfast buffet, which included both hot and cold dishes. What stood out was their commitment to local suppliers. Élodie, of course, was in heaven with the freshly baked bread and homemade cold cuts. Apparently, their breakfast is award-winning, and I can certainly see why.

Fueled up, we headed to Svolværgeita, or 'The Goat,' as it's affectionately known. This iconic rock formation has been calling my name since I first laid eyes on photos of Lofoten. I'll admit, I was a bit nervous. While I enjoy hiking in the Laurentian Mountains back in Montreal, rock climbing is a different beast altogether. Luckily, we booked a guided tour with I Fri Natur.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Svolværgeita, a premier hiking destination in Norway's stunning Lofoten Islands.

The climb started with a 40-minute hike up to the base of the rock. The trail was steep, and there were a few sections where we had to use chains to pull ourselves up. It was a good warm-up, to say the least. Once we reached the base, our guide, Vegard, gave us a safety briefing and fitted us with climbing gear. He was incredibly professional and reassuring, which immediately put me at ease.

The climb itself was exhilarating. There were plenty of handholds and footholds, making it manageable even for someone with limited climbing experience like myself. However, there was definitely a sense of exposure, especially when navigating the narrow ledge around the outside of the horn. The views of Svolvær and the surrounding fjords were absolutely breathtaking.

Standing atop Svolværgeita, with the wind whipping around us and the vast Lofoten landscape stretching out in every direction, I felt an incredible sense of accomplishment.

Reaching the summit was an unforgettable experience. We took some photos, soaked in the views, and then rappelled back down. The entire climb took about four hours. I’m so glad we did it and it was worth the physical challenge. Élodie was so proud of me, and I was equally impressed by her determination. I think she enjoyed the view from the top even more than the climb itself!

After our climb, we were famished. We decided to grab lunch at Digg Lofoten • Restaurant & Bar in Leknes. This place came highly recommended for its modern twist on Norwegian cuisine and local ingredients. The menu changes with the seasons, which I always appreciate. Élodie and I both opted for the fish and chips, which apparently is a local favorite. The fish was perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It was the perfect reward after our morning adventure.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Digg Lofoten Restaurant & Bar in Leknes—where local flavors meet stunning views.

With our bellies full, we drove to Henningsvær, a charming fishing village known for its picturesque harbor and stunning mountain backdrop. We made our way to the Henningsvær Port Viewpoint. The view was exactly as the travel brochures promised: colorful wooden houses, traditional fishing boats, and dramatic mountains rising in the background. I spent a good hour taking photos, trying to capture the essence of this idyllic scene. Élodie, meanwhile, found a cozy spot to sit and sketch the harbor. She has such a great eye for detail. As the sun began to dip lower, casting a warm golden glow over the landscape, it was truly magical.


Discover the stunning beauty of Henningsvær Port Viewpoint, a breathtaking spot in Norway's Lofoten Islands, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Before heading back to Svolvær, we decided to treat ourselves to a drink at Styrhuset Pub. This pub is something of an institution in Svolvær, known as a place where everyone meets. It has a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, with a navy-style interior design. They have a great selection of Norwegian beers on tap. I tried a local lager, while Élodie went for a glass of wine. We chatted with some locals, watched a bit of football on the big screen, and soaked in the lively atmosphere.


Experience local culture and craft brews at Styrhuset Pub in Svolvær, a cozy retreat perfect for tourists seeking relaxation and socializing.

For dinner, we had reservations at Bacalao, a restaurant right on the harbor specializing in, you guessed it, bacalao. This traditional cod dish is a staple of Norwegian cuisine, and I was eager to try it. The restaurant sources most of its ingredients from local suppliers, which is always a good sign. I ordered the classic bacalao, while Élodie opted for a seafood stew. Both dishes were delicious, hearty, and flavorful. The outdoor seating offered stunning views of the harbor, making for a perfect end to the day.


Experience authentic Norwegian cuisine at Bacalao in Svolvær – where fresh ingredients meet stunning views.

As we walked back to our cabin under the faint glow of the moon, I couldn't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience. Lofoten has a way of captivating you with its raw beauty and unique charm. Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Lofoten War Memorial Museum and Gallery Lofoten [museum, gallery]. I’m also hoping we can squeeze in a visit to Lofoten Surfsenter [shop]. I’m curious to see the surfing scene here, even though it’s probably a bit too cold for me to try it myself. Good thing that I have packed appropriate clothing for these type of activities here in Lofoten. Perhaps I will have to buy a waterproof jacket, since I forgot to bring one.

“The Lofoten Islands aren't just a destination; they're an experience that awakens the senses and nourishes the soul.”

What a day it has been. I’m looking forward to see what tomorrow brings.