26/07/2010

Gravdal is the main port of the Lofoten islands off the north coast of Norway between Tromso and Bodo. The rocky islands are often snow-capped, with the highest peak of the Lofoten Mountains rising to 1,1161 metres above sea level. On the lower slopes sheep can be seen grazing and at the coast white sand beaches border the emerald blue water.
A series of bridges connect the islands, apart from Vesatgoy and Flakstadoy, which can be reached by ferry. The mountains, around Vestfjord, form a barrier that protects the west coast from the Atlantic Ocean. In winter the coast from the Lofoten islands to the north are often swept by gales from the Atlantic Ocean and chilling rainfall. The weather conditions can change rapidly, producing a sky of dramatic and extraordinary colours. The fjords and straits of the islands are rich in herring and cod, attracting thousands of fishermen during the winter season who stay in special huts called fiskevaer where they leave their catch of cod to dry on hangers called hjell. After about five to seven weeks the cod, which swim down from the Barents Sea, are dried and salted, ready for export.
One of the most interesting excursions from Gravdal is to an underground tunnel at Sund and restoration sites for traditional fishing vessels at the Lofotmuseet. On Flakstad Island can be found a white sand beach with a 12th Century red-wood church. Flakstad also features the pretty fjord of Nusfjord and a picturesque fishing village.

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Gravdal: Arrival

Lofoten: From Leknes to Å

Leknes to Nusfjord by Bus

Nusfjord

Nusfjord to Sørvågen by Bus

Sørvågen

Å

Å to Leknes by Bus

Gravdal: Departure

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