Arriving into the quaint Norwegian seaside town of Risør early this morning, the National Geographic Orion pulled alongside a dock bordered by white houses and their orange tiled roofs. In this specific area of Risør it is a local rule that your house is painted white. A quirky tradition perhaps, but the backdrop is anything but uniform and as many of us set out on foot we discovered more of the charms and beauties of Risør hiding amongst the white houses.
The harbour front was another of Risør’s delights to behold: hundreds of stunningly crafted wooden boats were gathering for the annual Risør Wooden Boat Festival. From miniature pleasure craft to massive sailing crafts, the boats continued arriving throughout the day. Many of us took the chance to wander along the jostling jetties and soaked up the atmosphere as one of Norway’s great boating events gathered pace.
Some of us decided to take to the water ourselves this morning – perhaps not in a hand crafted wooden sailing boat, but instead in one of National Geographic Orion’s kayaks. This guided kayak around Risør’s harbour and its smattering of rocky islets was an opportunity to enjoy a serene morning and with the weather on our side it was a super way to take in Risør the way the locals enjoy most – by being out on the water.
For those more interested in being in the water than on the water, the pothole excursion this morning proved a huge hit, leaving those who were without bathing suits rather envious. Whichever option, however adventurous or calming, insightful or novel – none could quite compare to our experience this afternoon.
Returning to the ship before lunch we walked up the gangway and within the hour were headed back out, but not down the gangway… We were headed to Stangholmen Island in the Zodiacs for our barbeque lunch and one of the most unique and original events many of us could wish to experience. Yes the barbeque lunch was superb and we enjoyed our drinks and food overlooking Risør’s white and orange hues – but it was the music that made today so extraordinary.
You can hear about musicians, hear their work and enjoy their art. Yet few of us ever experience a renowned musician in their home country surrounded by fewer than 150 people and absolutely immersed in what it means to enjoy Norway. Stangholem Island is as picturesque small Nordic island at the entrance to Risør harbour with its quintessential Norwegian flag flying high and proud above the rustic and pretty restaurant. At the heart of Stangholem lies a natural amphitheatre, within which a small stage has been built.
This was to be the stage and amphitheatre for Annabjorg Lien, one of Norway’s – and indeed the world’s – most revered fiddle players. As we wrapped up in our blankets, nestled amongst the rocks of Stangholmen, we enjoyed a inimitable musical experience as we listened to Annabjorg and her partner Bjorn Ole Rasch perform moving, insightful and fulfilling music.
