Henningsvær and Festvågtind

When thinking of the Lofoten Islands, one surely has seen the picture of a football field on an exposed island in the sea - that's Henningsvær. Of course, we didn't want to miss that on our route and the best way to view this great town with its many small islands is from above. This can be done by climbing the mountain Festvågtind and because we are now experienced hikers, the plan for today is clear.

Somehow, it is already afternoon when we finally start on July 17, 2022. The starting point for the hike is not easy to find and then it immediately turns into a climbing adventure. The trail is once again muddy and steep, but becomes somewhat more pleasant when reaching the first viewpoint at a small lake. We already have a great view of Henningsvær and the sea. For some, this might already be enough, but we want to keep going until we reach the summit. And who do we hear from afar? The group of Canadians and Norwegians from the Helgelandskysten are crossing our path again... What a funny coincidence! Then we continue, but hiking up in just one hour (total distance to the summit) is completely out of place, even with this Norwegian estimate of time. We slide and climb up the narrow path and are more than happy when it is finally behind us. Once again, the effort was worth it and the view into the distance over islands, mountains, bays, and of course Henningsvær with its football stadium is gigantic! Since the weather allows it, we take a long break for photos and a small snack and simply enjoy the view. When thinking about the extremely steep descent, we would rather stay up here forever, but Carsten's saying "No help for it" applies here as well and we finally start walking. The longer the descent, the worse the mood and then it starts raining as well... But after sliding multiple times, we somehow manage and eventually arrive safely at the car.

The weather quickly improves and we enjoy the long-awaited rays of sunshine at the football stadium in Henningsvær and fly the drone again. We discover a drop-in sauna in the small town and think that's just right after the strenuous hike. We have the sauna all to ourselves and afterwards go to the directly adjacent restaurant for a delicious meal. We think we have earned it ;)

Actually, there is still a free spot for our Freedolin right on Rørvikstranda. Since it is not raining the next morning (we can't expect more), there are no more excuses: into the sea! The Atlantic has a ruthless 9 degrees and one feels briefly shocked by the cold - but at least we were in and could enjoy the beautiful white beach and the wonderfully turquoise water. Besides, the outside temperature of 11°C doesn't feel so bad anymore...