Far above the arctic circle lies a small archipelago off the west coast of Norway called Lofoten. This string of small islands pokes out from the Norwegian coast into the gulf stream, a current of warm water flowing up from the coast of Spain, giving this arctic community abnormally mild weather given their latitude.

The gulf stream brings with it a wealth of fish and this small group of islands has been the home of fishermen for over 500 years. The cottages that these itinerant fishermen used are called rorbuer, translating to mean fishermans cottage strangely enough, and many have now been converted into accommodation for tourists.

Here are rorbuer on the island of Hamnøy in the heart of the Lofotens. It is an ideal spot to spend a week if you enjoy fishing or reading but beware there is absolutely nothing else to do except admire the stunning scenary.

The Green Man stayed at Eliassen Rorbuer which was most pleasant and the owner most hospitable.

This section of the Lofotens was voted the most scenic spot in Norway and it is hard to disagree.