It’s easy to envision being at the helm of a Viking warship as you approach the Lofoten Islands along Norway’s northern coast. Jagged mountains stand against the sky and deep fjords drop to sheltered bays and windswept beaches. In Leknes, a small town of under 4,000 nestled on the island of Vestvågøy, wild nature abounds – watch for the rare sea eagles flying overhead. In town, admire the work of local artists drawn by the stunning surroundings and enjoy a taste of stockfish, dried cod that dates to the Viking days and staple of the Norwegian diet.