Norway 2024 : Impressions.

    Our second sailing trip in Norway in 2024 is done!

    Here is small report, how it went and what did we do during the trip :-)

    First of all, this is report about [Sailing impressions] Sailing in Norway, so you can read and have picture for yourself, how it looks like to sail in norwegian fjords. And of course JOIN to our next sailing trips!

    We recently enjoyed a sailing trip to the stunning Hardangerfjord, often called the Queen of Fjords, in Norway. It was a relaxing and joyful experience filled with sailing, hiking, exploring islands, and immersing ourselves in nature. Despite Norway's reputation for rain, particularly in Bergen—Europe's rainiest city—we were blessed with fantastic weather most of the time. Only once did we experience chilly, cloudy conditions; otherwise, it was sunshine and a perfect breeze. The Atlantic weather rarely penetrated deep into the fjord.

    It was a great time, especially in middle of June as there weren't many tourists, but the weather was already warm, and we had enough wind for a relaxing sail.Overall, the Norwegian fjords are a superb sailing destination. Sheltered from the Atlantic swell, they offer thousands of cozy bays and marinas to explore.

    Since there weren't many people around, we got to enjoy the natural beauty and peace of the area. It's a perfect place for a quiet vacation, whether you're going with friends or your family. So, if you're thinking about your next vacation, consider Norway. The memories we made on this sailing trip are priceless, and I hope you'll be inspired to have a similar adventure soon. It's a fantastic experience that's both relaxing and exciting.

    I want to share some of our experiences with you, hoping it will inspire you to go on a similar trip with your friends and family. Norway is amazing, with beautiful fjords, a lot of sailing and charming villages.

    • Our floating home for the next couple of days

      Our first task was to locate our yacht, and we were delighted to discover that it would be a Elan 45 IMPRESSIONS named "Perlen," perfectly suited for our adventure in the Fjords. This elegant and well-appointed vessel promised not only comfort but also the ideal platform for our sailing experience over the upcoming week of sailing. Its spacious interior, state-of-the-art navigation equipment, and excellent sailing capabilities ensured that our novices' journey would be both enjoyable and educational. We couldn't wait to step aboard and begin our unforgettable voyage.

    • Important task - crew instructions, training and food!

      As always, we've packed our supplies, the crew is ready, and we've reviewed safety instructions. It's time to set sail! Our first task is to teach the crew the basics of operating the yacht. For some, it's their first time at the helm, so learning the compass and directions takes a bit longer. Others, with some experience, just need a quick refresher. Once everyone is comfortable steering the 5-ton vessel, we set our course into the fjord, to a charming bay close to the famous "Salmon Eye" restaurant.

    • Always keep an eye on the sky—you don't want to miss the beauty of a squall line.

      Sailing in the fjords near the Atlantic demands vigilant weather monitoring. We consistently tracked the forecasts, ready for the dramatic passage of a beautiful squall line. Witnessing the rapid change was exhilarating, and behind it, the weather often turned surprisingly pleasant. The unpredictability added to the thrill, making each day unique and rewarding. That’s the essence of sailing—embracing nature’s dynamic moods while enjoying the adventure.

    • Time to connect, with the nature and with eachother

      Once the course was set and the crew had refreshed their steering skills, it was the perfect time to relax with some afternoon tea. We gathered in the cockpit, surrounded by breathtaking views, sharing thoughts and ideas about our upcoming adventures. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect, discuss the day’s highlights, and plan our next explorations in the stunning fjords.

    • Attempt to catch some fish :-)

      Fjords are renowned for their rich abundance of fish, so we decided to stop and try our luck. Unfortunately, the fish weren’t biting this time, but we didn’t lose hope—that’s just part of the fishing experience. In the evening, we anchored in the beautiful bay of Kalvasundet, ready to enjoy the serene surroundings and plan our next adventure.

    • Slowly progressing to the north

      The next day, we continued our journey, venturing deeper into the fjord. With little to no wind, we motored slowly, soaking in the breathtaking views of the towering cliffs and serene waters. Our plan was to make a brief stop at Sundal, where we could enjoy a short hike to the picturesque lake Bondhusvatnet. The landscape promised stunning scenery and a perfect opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area.

    • Power of nature

      On our way, we encountered one of Norway’s famous natural wonders: the magnificent Furebergfossen waterfall. As we passed by slowly, we admired the sheer power of the cascading water, thundering down the mountainside and carving its path through ancient granite. It was a breathtaking reminder that persistence is the key to every success, as nature's relentless force continues to shape the landscape over millions of years.

    • Sails are better than iron wings - no noise

      After our hike, we sailed further north toward the hill of Samlen, where we planned to hike to the summit. We seized every opportunity to hoist the sails, immersing ourselves in the tranquility of nature as the motor's noise faded away. With the wind filling our sails, we felt a deep connection to the surrounding beauty, enhancing our adventure and appreciation for the fjords.

    • Summit of Samlen

      Another day began early as we aimed to summit Samlen, rising 400 meters above us. The hike was challenging and demanding, yet achievable with determination. As we ascended, the trail tested our endurance, but the promise of a breathtaking view over the fjord kept us motivated. Finally reaching the summit, we were rewarded with an awe-inspiring panorama—a sweeping vista of the fjord below, its deep blue waters framed by rugged cliffs and lush greenery. It was a moment of triumph, where the effort of the climb melted away in the face of nature's grandeur.

    • Ancient history under our feet.

      While hiking, one must always keep their eyes wide open, especially in Norway where surprises abound. As we trekked along, we stumbled upon a remarkable discovery—a collection of prehistoric paintings etched into the stones. What struck us most was the pristine condition of these ancient artworks, untouched by modern graffiti or vandalism. Later, in a nearby village, our amazement grew as we found an entire garden adorned with more stone paintings known as the Herand Petroglyphen. These relics offered a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich history and cultural heritage, adding an unexpected layer of intrigue to our journey through the Norwegian landscape.

    • Pureness of Norway

      For the evening, we set our course towards the northernmost part of the fjord, navigating through a narrow side fjord until we stumbled upon the quaint tourist town of Granvik. It was a rare sight for sailors to visit, and we were warmly greeted by the curious locals. Despite its size, we found charm in exploring every nook and cranny of the town within an hour.

      As night descended, we retreated to the comfort of our boat and concluded the day with a cozy and friendly board game session on board, accompanied by refreshing Cuba Libras. It was a delightful way to unwind, reflecting on the day's adventures while enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of Granvik.

    • Sailing is the high performance patience

      The next day, deep within the fjord, we decided to challenge ourselves by sailing out against the wind and current. It required a lot of patience and skill. We had to navigate through squalls and make the most of every change in the wind. But we did it!

      It was a test of our sailing abilities. We had to maneuver carefully and work together as a team. Each gust of wind was a chance to make progress, and each change in the current meant adjusting our course.

      After a tough struggle, we finally sailed out of the fjord. It felt amazing to overcome the challenges and succeed in navigating against nature's forces in Norway's beautiful fjords.

    • Are we modern expats and down shifters ? - No, we are sailors :-)

      For the night, we sought a secluded bay or island where we could relish solitude and the untouched beauty of nature. Our quest led us to discover an island with a serene bay. Though inhabited, we found ourselves alone there that day.

      As we settled in, surrounded by the tranquil landscape, our minds naturally wandered. We couldn't help but ponder what it would be like to be marooned on such an island, akin to a modern-day Robinson Crusoe. The thought sparked conversations about survival skills, resourcefulness, and the simplicity of life away from modern conveniences.

      Under the vast expanse of starlit skies, we savored the peacefulness of our temporary haven, appreciating the solitude and the opportunity to disconnect from the rush of everyday life. It was a moment of reflection and wonder, deepening our appreciation for the raw beauty and solitude found in Norway's remote corners.

    • Sizzle it, pepper it, flip it and enjoy it!

      Our overnight stay provided us with a charming pier, and we decided to seize the opportunity by hosting a small BBQ party, enjoying dinner with a breathtaking view of Hardangerfjord. Setting up the BBQ, arranging the table, and preparing the food didn't take long, allowing us to unwind and conclude the day with a delightful meal.

      The sizzle of grilled steak, accompanied by fresh vegetables and local cider, filled the air with enticing aromas. As we gathered around, sharing stories and laughter, the setting sun painted the fjord in hues of orange and gold, creating a picturesque backdrop for our evening.

      The tranquility of the surroundings enhanced our dining experience, making it a memorable occasion spent appreciating the beauty of nature and the camaraderie of good company. It was a perfect way to end a day filled with exploration and adventure in the serene landscapes of Norway.

    • Lucky in the end

      The journey passed quickly, and over the next few days, we made the most of our time sailing back towards the finishing marina, with a stopover in the quaint village of Vage. Sailing out of the fjord tested our patience as we navigated against the wind and current, which slowed our progress. However, with perseverance as our guide, we eventually succeeded in sailing out of the fjord's embrace.

      As we approached the end of our voyage, I decided to try my luck fishing once more. To my surprise and delight, this time I caught a fish! It was a rewarding moment after days of enjoying the scenic beauty and challenges of the Norwegian fjords. The thrill of the catch added a satisfying conclusion to our adventure-filled journey.

      Reflecting on our experiences, from exploring secluded bays to navigating challenging waters, we cherished the memories created amidst Norway's stunning landscapes. Each day brought new discoveries and moments of triumph, reminding us of the joys of sailing and the unpredictability of nature.

    Here is also a short summary as a cheeryfull video. Enjoy!

    Conclusion

    Looking forward to come to the Norway again!

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