When I say Norway, you think of fjords, music, northern lights, and strangely Asterix and Obelix! But, did you think of architecture? I’m sure some of you did. Because apart from revelry and serenity, Scandinavia is also widely known for its excellent architects, designs and structures.
But before we dive into that, let’s talk a little about the country. Whether it’s the Flam Railway, or the Stave Churches, Fjord Cruises or the Pulpit Rock; Norway has it all, and in every season too. Choose Bergen for some UNESCO highlights and stave churches (old-time, now almost blackened church structures), or Oslo for some excellent modernization, or the world’s most beautiful railway journey towards the south, through Flam.
Stavanger is the gateway to South Norway’s delights. But somewhere along the way, you have to lose yourself in the Lofoten Islands; the perfect combination of awe-inspiring nature and contemporary luxury experiences. An offering of rugged vistas, ancient Viking history, robust wild sea life and exhilarating activities; who can say no to this tender group of exciting islands? The pure air, the pristine waters, the magical icescapes make this an ideal halt on your journey whether you are here to just take in the atmosphere, head on nature safaris, whale and seal watching, skiing or summer alpine activities like surfing, cycling, golf, hiking, rafting and kayaking!
Yes, there is so so so much to do here; but never enough time! Here’s a quick must-do’s for when you visit the Lofoten Islands:
– Taste ‘stockfisch’, a Lofoten specialty made from codfish
– Visit the medieval villages of Eggum and Unstad
– Visit the Skomvaer Lighhouse which overlooks the Artic Ocean
– Northern Lights & Polar Nights
– Fishing expeditions; whether it’s a zodiac boat or a speedboat, the thrill is the same!
– Nature safaris to spot eagles, seals, cormorants, whales
– In summer, this is the best spot to chase the Midnight Sun!
It is truly very hard to miss quaint villages that dot the shorelines of the fjords; much like not being able to skip the beachside and oceanside towns of Italy. Mesmerizing at best, and offering a wealth of culture and experience. To complement your visit is the right off the grid and into the Norwegian wilderness experience; the Manshausen Glass Cabin. Here steps in Scandinavian architecture, with their minimalistic designs, wooden structures, modern contemporary luxury and unmatched quality!
Manshausen is typically a 55-acre island just across a fjord from the Lofoten Islands, well worth a night’s stay, if not more. Initially a part of a trading post in the 1600s, the long history of the island remains owing to its protected harbour and good fishing grounds. Nature around the island is a treat for aching eyes – paradise island, little islets, stunning beaches, snow-capped mountains, the midnight sun beckoning you after a tasteful Norwegian dinner in summers and the Northern Lights playing hide-and-seek while you keep wanting for even just a glimpse!
Holding seven cabins with a sauna and a restaurant and library on the main grounds, this is an experience for those that crave privacy and exclusivity. Located on stone pads, each cabin is built keeping in mind wave heights in normal and extreme weathers as well as clad in aluminium sheets to protect from the saltwater effects!
For a truly memorable experience, you know where I am going to stay when I cross Norway off my bucket-list; unless you beat me to it!
Written By Anisha Masand
Week 45, November ’20
