Sea Eagles Safari with Lofoten Explorer
Taking a Sea Eagle Safari to Trollfjorden with Lofoten Explorer is a stunning experience, even in bad weather. Every traveller should take to the water in the Lofoten Islands.
Nestled within the awe-inspiring landscapes of Lofoten, Norway, lies the enchanting Trollfjorden, a place of mythical beauty and natural wonder. This narrow fjord stretches like a silent sentinel between towering cliffs, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the rugged magnificence of Norway's coastal scenery. But Trollfjorden is more than just a picturesque location; it holds deep cultural and historical significance, weaving tales of ancient legends and modern-day adventures.
The Significance of Trollfjorden
Welcome to Trollfjorden, where reality and myth intertwine amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Norway's Nordland county. Nestled within Hadsel Municipality on the island of Austvågøya, this 2-kilometre-long fjord beckons travellers with its narrow entrance and steep-sided mountains, evoking the essence of its namesake—trolls from Norse mythology.
As you venture into Trollfjorden, you'll find yourself in unparalleled beauty. Accessible only by boat or a rugged 10-kilometre hike, this hidden gem remains a sanctuary of untouched wilderness. Its allure is such that even the renowned Hurtigruten's ships deviate from their course between Bergen and Kirkenes to traverse its mystical waters.
Picture-perfect scenery unfolds before your eyes as you navigate through the fjord's narrow mouth, which is a mere 100 metres wide before widening to a maximum of 800 metres. Towering mountains, ranging from 600 to 1,100 metres in height, encircle Trollfjorden, with the imposing Trolltindan to the south and the majestic Blåfjell and Litlkorsnestinden to the north.
A Tale of Battle and Legacy
But Trollfjorden's allure extends beyond its natural splendour—it is steeped in history and legend. In 1890, the fjord bore witness to the Battle of Trollfjord, a clash between traditional open-boat fishermen and the emerging steam-driven fishing ships. This historic confrontation, immortalised in Johan Bojer's novel "The Last of the Vikings," epitomises the struggle between tradition and progress.
Gunnar Berg's iconic painting, "Trollfjordslaget," captures the intensity of this battle, serving as a poignant reminder of the fjord's storied past. Today, this masterpiece finds its home in the Art Galleri Gunnar Berg on the picturesque island of Svinøya in the charming town of Svolvær, offering visitors a glimpse into Trollfjorden's enduring legacy.
Preserving Nature's Bounty
Despite its rich history, Trollfjorden has not escaped the touch of modernity. Before 1960, a majestic waterfall graced its end until redirected to harness hydroelectric power for nearby communities. Yet, amidst these changes, Trollfjorden remains a testament to the delicate balance between progress and preservation, a testament to Norway's commitment to sustainability.
Embark on Your Adventure
As you immerse yourself in Trollfjorden's enchanting landscapes, you'll discover more than just a fjord—you'll uncover a tapestry of myths, history, and natural wonders waiting to be explored. Whether aboard a boat or trekking through rugged terrain, let Trollfjorden be your gateway to an unforgettable journey through Norway's timeless landscapes and legendary tales.
For those eager to experience the magic of Trollfjorden up close, a rib safari from Svolvær presents an exhilarating opportunity. Svolvær, the Lofoten archipelago's bustling hub, is the perfect starting point for this unforgettable adventure. Here, amid quaint fishing villages and breathtaking vistas, travellers can embark on a journey to discover the hidden treasures of Trollfjorden and beyond.
As the rib safari sets off from Svolvær, passengers are greeted by the salty breeze and the promise of wildlife encounters. Sea eagles, with their majestic wingspans and keen eyesight, are among the most coveted sights along the way. These magnificent birds of prey call the cliffs of Trollfjorden home, soaring high above the fjord in search of their next meal.
As the rib glides through the tranquil waters of Trollfjorden, the rugged beauty of Lofoten unfolds in all its glory. Towering peaks cast their reflections upon the mirror-like surface while seabirds dance overhead. Every turn reveals a new marvel of nature, from hidden coves to cascading waterfalls.
But it is the wildlife that truly steals the show. With their effortless grace and commanding presence, sea eagles command attention as they swoop down to snatch fish from the sea.
Where to stay
Lofoten Explorer offer fantastic experiences with their Trollfjorden Wildlife RIB Safari based in Svolvær. The easiest way to access this is to stay in Svolvær where there are many hotels and rorbuer available, such as Svinøya Rorbuer or Thon Hotel, and some extremely good restaurants such as Børsen Spiseri, Bacalao, Fellinis, and Sakura.