Norway has been on our destination wish list for a long time. You can imagine our happiness when we were asked to visit Lofoten, a beautiful and scenic archipelago within the Arctic Circle. It’s got fjords, fishing villages, mountains and beaches: Everything you would expect when you think of Norway.
The fishing hamlet of Nusfjord is definitely a must visit. Here you’ll find original wooden fishermen cabins, a little harbor decorated with dried cod heads and an amazing view over the fjord. The little red huts (some dating back to 1900) are still intact, the only difference being that they now have a bathroom, living room and bedroom, where in the last century over 15 fishermen were crammed in the hut, together with their nets and fishing gear. You can imagine this was not the best smelling accommodation back then. Another interesting fact: a century ago the village used to be occupied by 30.000 fishermen! Now only 18 people live here (not the ideal place for secret affairs with your neighbor).
If you’re looking for a romantic and original place to stay, the huts are very comfortable and unique. And don’t miss the general store (excellent for souvenirs), beautiful restaurant (great views and local recipes) and the Oriana Tavern, where the owner will tell you all about the great love story of Nusjford. In short: An English sailor and his daughter Oriana came to Nusjford. A local fishermen fell in love with her, but of course the father objected. He gave the boy his boat, making him promise to leave his daughter alone. The boat sank, but they found the figurehead and used it as decoration. Oh, and the boy traveled to England and married the girl. At least, that’s what we want to believe…