Leknes (Lofoten Island), Norway – Day 9

Another breathtaking port. Norway certainly rates up there with the most beautiful places we have visited. Leknes is situated in the middle of the Lofoten Archipelago. Today was a beautiful day weather wise…we have been very fortunate with our weather up in northern Norway.

In the picture to the right you can see the Hol Church (red) which dates back to at least the mid-14th century.

Leknes is also home to the Lofoten Bio Centre which is described as a competence hub. Most of the organizations located there are involved with aquaculture (2nd largest industry in Norway after petroleum).

Lofoten Bio Centre

The route of our tour

Our tour today was “Panoramic Lofoten by Land & Sea”. You can see the circle we made…the first half by land. We learned from the guide that farmers grow carrots, potatoes and cabbage. Lamb meat is a major product of this area, but the farmers must keep the lambs inside until they weigh 22 pounds, otherwise the white tailed eagles will eat them.

They had also started planting pine trees in the area to use for building but found their trunks didn't get large enough for lumber. They also complain that the pine needles make the soil too acid, so there is a movement to cut them all down.

Then we had a stop in the charming village of Henningsvaer. We spent about an hour there looking into various shops. We have been amazed by the beautiful flowers but they currently have 24 hours of sun!!