Fjørtofta

Hosting a film festival on a small island? No problem. Getting involved in the local community? Absolutely! On the island of Fjørtofta, the residents are used to taking matters into their own hands - creating, organizing, and making things happen. It’s easy to become part of this close-knit community, and it certainly doesn’t hurt that the surroundings are breathtaking.

Tekst

-What stands out to me as classic Fjørtofta is the incredible volunteer spirit on this island, says Elisabeth Fjørtoft.

-People here care about building the community, looking after each other, and making sure the island remains a great place to live. And they truly care about their fellow human beings. Just take the knitting café, for example. People gather there to socialize and knit. And yes, even the men join in. They may not knit, but they’re around for the cup of coffee and a chat. Well, for many years, everything made at the knitting café -soft sweaters, socks, hats for little kids- has been sent to an orphanage in Ukraine. Long before the war started, way back. To me, that says a lot about the people of Fjørtofta. They have a deep, heartfelt commitment to others, says Elisabeth.

Tekst

Tekst

Fjørtofta, home to around 130 residents, is part of Nordøyane. These are six islands strung together like pearls along the Sunnmøre and Romsdal coast. The other islands are Haramsøya, Flemsøya/Skuløya, Harøya, Finnøya, and Lepsøya (yes, they do have that many names). Islanders travel back and forth with ease, crossing majestic bridges and passing through tunnels. Getting from A to B is no challenge. This has made Nordøyane function as a shared community, despite each island having its own unique character.

Tekst

Tekst

Fjørtofta lies at the mouth of the Romsdalsfjord, a place where people have lived since time immemorial. Archaeological finds from the Stone Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age, and Viking Age have all been discovered on the island. And just like the generations before them, today’s residents are deeply connected to nature. For Elisabeth, growing up on Fjørtofta was kind of magical.

-Here, you are so close to nature, and we are used to embracing it. Taking the boat out to fish, hiking through the forests and fields, or maybe making our way out to the lighthouse. It’s just part of life. Watching how the island and landscape change with the seasons, seeing the birds leave for winter and return in spring, and noticing which flowers bloom as summer unfolds… it’s a good thing. And the ocean is breathtaking, whether it’s calm as glass or raging in a storm. Growing up here was both wonderful and safe, she says.

Tekst

Children on the island often gather at the playground and football field, which they also have on this small island.

Fjørtofta is mostly flat, making it a perfect place for biking. It’s easy to find a quiet little cove to yourself or take a refreshing dip at one of the island’s beautiful sandy beaches. Malesanden being the largest and most stunning.

Tekst

Tekst

It may be a small island, but a lot of the people here like being social. The local store is a natural meeting place for many. Those who want to chat over a cup of coffee can head upstairs, where there’s always room for good conversation.

-My best tip? Head to the shop in summer and treat yourself to a delicious soft-serve ice cream. Or just grab a coffee. Most people end up chatting with someone; people on Fjørtofta are friendly, says Elisabeth.

-And it’s great that the shop is open 24/7. Sometimes the local youth gather upstairs, hanging out until late at night. To me, that says a lot about the trust people have in each other here.

There’s also an active community life on the island, with people involved in many different organizations. They often participate in activities on the neighboring islands as well.

-That’s just how it is in a small place. If you want something to happen, you have to take responsibility yourself. You help shape the community you want to live in. That’s why so many people are engaged, and I grew up being part of various clubs and organizations, Elisabeth states.

The community center on Fjørtofta is also run by volunteers and hosts different events, concerts, and gatherings from time to time. Make your own fun!

In short, Fjørtofta offers warmth, a strong sense of community, wild and beautiful nature, and a safe place to call home. Welcome to Fjørtofta!

Tekst

Top photo: Eldar Fjørtoft

Sources:

Fjørtofta – Wikipedia

Fjørtoftneset