Today, we explore Lofoten, a striking group of islands that rise out of the Norwegian Sea. As soon as you see the towering peaks around you with fishing villages clinging to their sides, you'll understand why this island chain is so often praised as one of Norway's most stunning locations. We'll dock in the town of Svolvaer mid-morning. Located on the island of Austvagoya in the heart of Lofoten, Svolvaer is the biggest town of the archipelago, humming with shops, restaurants, galleries, and cafes to enjoy. You can also admire views of the Svolvaer Goat, a nearby mountain named for resembling a goat and its horns. A variety of optional excursions are available from Svolvaer, including winter fishing, paddling along the coastline in a kayak, or embarking on a bus tour to learn more about Lofoten's history. We can't visit the area without spending some time in Stokmarknes. This historic town is part of Vesteralen, an archipelago just northeast of Lofoten. Of all the places we visit, this one is particularly special. It was here that the Original Coastal Express was founded in 1893 by shipping pioneer Richard With. The Coastal Express soon became a lifeline for Norway's remote coastal communities, and fittingly, Hurtigruten's legacy has been immortalized in the place where it all began. Standing on the waterfront, you'll find the 1956 ship MS Finnmarken encased in a glass building like a ship in a bottle. This is Hurtigrutemuseet, the museum that chronicles Hurtigruten's history as Norway's leading expedition cruise line from start to now. On a guided tour, you can explore the retired vessel and experience the atmosphere of a past era. ...
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