Reine is as picture-perfect as what I have envisioned and beyond. This Norwegian fishing village surrounded by idyllic mountains and seascapes is stunningly beautiful like a postcard. In addition, the shoreline dotted with red and white fishermen’s Rorbuer blend in nicely which created a very scenic appeal. Hence, it’s not surprising that Reine has often been cited as the most beautiful fishing village in the world. Reine is definitely among the many breathtaking places in the world where you will run out of superlatives to describe them.

I am glad to make it here although my mind is still attempting to recover from the Scandinavian price shock. It would be nicer if there were a display of Northern Lights during my stay. Dear Viking Gods, next time ya?

The weather here has the tendency to change in quick succession. My first day in Reine has been mostly gloomy, cloudy and snowy, with the clear blue sky making guest appearances.

Thankfully the next day I get to see more blue sky accompanied with strong wind and some snow. I continue to explore where I left off yesterday after a much-needed rest in Trineloftet. The refurbished fishermen cottage is a warm and cosy haven during my stay.

My wander around Reine

From what I have read, this Norwegian fishing village has a population of around three hundred plus. I was here during a long holiday weekend and it was all calm and quiet. Perhaps most are away since I only met a few villagers during the stay. My Reinebringen hike plan did not materialise as I was forewarned by the receptionist about the possibility of an avalanche.

So I ended up driving around the village to capture its beauty instead. I am definitely glad to choose Reine Rorbuer as my base in Lofoten Islands.

The presence of those huge granite mountains is indeed a gorgeous backdrop to the village.

Cod stockfish of Lofoten Islands

The lovely fishing village is such a treat to the senses, especially the smell of the Cod stockfish. This lethal combination of scene and scent is keeping ‘fresh’ in my memory of Lofoten Islands LOL.

Although the smell of drying Cod stockfish will not appeal to everybody, they are great objects for interesting pictures. This age-old preservation method prolonged the storage life of these famed Norwegian stockfish. And the countless wooden racks or ‘hjell’ which I have come across ensure that the pungent smell will always be memorable to me. A local tells me that the aroma (wow!) is the smell of money. Norway stockfish exporters must be laughing all the way to the bank since these highly demanded stockfish are exported worldwide. It must definitely be one big cash cow for the stockfish companies in Norway.

The rows and rows of beheaded fishes can be quite a gruesome sight to behold. The bodies sway with the wind while making an eerie sound. Perhaps as an attempt to fend off busybody like me?