There is no other country like Norway. The drought western coast of the country has fjords that are deep and carved. The fjords that have thousands of meters thick glaciers that have gouged these valleys and when the ice retreated the sea flooded. This created waterways that are over 1300 meters deep and have mountains that sheer rise over the walls.
These waterways are perfect for distinct outdoor activities. You are closed off in the water but are free to sail. Just a couple of kilometers near the open Atlantic, you can hike these trails that rise quickly to the alpine terrain and fish in the pristine water that have growing fish. The fjords of Norway are not only beautiful, but, are a place to play for the outdoor adventurer.
Sailing the Sheltered Highways
There are over 25,000 kilometers of the norwegian coast. If you measure every inlet and island, that is more than the entire continental United States. The fjords themselves are thousands of kilometers of of protected sailing and along the coast is steep and high. That means the mountains block the worst weather. It’s even calm when there is a storm along the coast.
Sailing here is very different from the Mediterranean and the Caribbean. The water here is colder, darker, and much deeper than any other body of water. Mountainous regions have 24 hours of sunlight, leading to endless golden evenings and an extraordinary sailing experience. The rocks are almost vertical, and their waterfalls are hundreds of meters high, flowing from valleys hanging above them. You can drop an anchor on the rock and go on to explore the waterfalls and valleys.
One of the prime examples is the Sognefjord, the longest and deepest of the Norwegian fjords. It stretches 200 km inland from the Norwegian coast and has many branched side fjords, each with their own unique character and charm. The Nærøyfjord is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the narrowest part of the fjord at only 250 meters wide with towering cliffs of about 1700 meters on each side. It is an almost surreal experience to sail through here, as it feels like sailing through a steep sided canyon where the mountains are so close that you can differentiate the trees.
Sailing in the fjords is like being in the open ocean when you are in more powerful, open settings. It’s crucial to stay aware of the surroundings. Weather systems can move in with rain and powerful winds within minutes, so you need to stay vigilant in case the weather gets bad. While the fjord is very well charted, submerged rocks can cause problems. Over time, charts become outdated. While reading the depth in smaller passages, be sure to stay aware of submerged rocks that can cause big problems.
Walking from the water to the top of the mountain
One of the beauty in the fjords is the immediate accessibility to the mountains. Many of Norway’s best hikes have their endpoints at the water. This means that you can easily sail to the start of the trails, hike, and sail back. However, the trails are often and very challenging. With an elevation gain of more than a thousand meters, you should be prepared to work, but don’t let that discourage you. The dying leg muscles are worth the calories burned.
Each summer, thousands hike to the summit of Preikestolen to capture the view that overlooks Lysefjord to the south. Surprisingly, view of the rock formation is just as stunning as the view behind it. It is unfortunate that this landscape is busy. However, It is near Kjerag, which is one of the less famous hikes. It is just as breathtaking although less populated. This hike is 1000m to the fjord, and it finishes with a view of the fjord and a mountain pass that captures the view of the m \n!! \n With permission, it is possible to step out onto the rock formation, Kjeragbolten. This rock is suspended above the fjord and a mountain pass, which opens to another highland filled with mountains. The view, although still breathtaking, becomes more nerve-wracking as there is no rail. It takes a lot of courage, and hopefully not a fear of heights, to stand on it. It’s a sight you won’t regret. \n \n The famous hike, Romsdalseggen, is not far from Aandalsnes. It is very straightforward, yet still very beautiful. It is said to be one of Europe’s most beautiful hikes, although it is fairly quiet. The hike is a has a lot of elevation, 970m of vertical, and is hard. However, it is well worth it to see a mix of the landscape and the beautiful countryside. It climbs, descends, and eventually finishes in a village. \n \n Overall, Preikestolen and Kjerag are Norway’s most famous and most beautiful hikes, although Romsdalseggen is one of the most beautiful. It depends, what are you more excited to see? The view of the fjord and the famous hike, or Romsdalseggen. The choice is clearer for some than others.
The hiking trail system of Norway has a mix of styles when compared to other countries. Some hiking paths have DNT (Norwegian Trekking Association) cabins that have beds and meals for people hiking on a trail for multiple days. Every person has the right to camp and roam freely on the land as long as they are respectful. Because of the absence of people, and the fact that Norway is a popular country among outdoor enthusiasts, many people are still able to find true solitude.
Fishing Cold, Deep Waters
The waters in Norway are home to a diverse fishing landscape, especially for those who are used to smaller catches. In the Bradest, Cod over 20kg can be caught regularly, and is halibut are caught that can grow to over 100kg, with caught fish being smaller than that.
A common fishing experience in Norway is spending nights in a Rorbu, a fishing cabin built on stilts. Many have been modernised, and as you stay in the cabin, you can use a smaller boat that is usually included to fish at your desired location.Representing the Arctc Norway’s finest fishing are the Lofoten Islands. Sccod abound in the striking islands, from Jan1th year through April. This type of fishing is serious. For many the experience involving fishing in 50- 100 meters of water, shanty towns are built on the ice in the winter and angler clubs will set and be in position for many days.
Fishing for halibut in the deepbottom water of Norway, such as in these islands, will require different strategy and sadly, for the halibut it is a type of fishing is a type. weak lines, large heavy bottom soft plastics, or pirks are needed to be used. There are many structures to snag as the behemoth goes for them. A large one won’t run off as a salmon and won’t fight, will rather try to hold the bottom and resist. The working of a body will be like a parabolic dish. The larger the halibut over 30 they become, the more excitement to get one, and especially from a small boat. The fishes entering the boat will require teamwork to get aboard and safe, so in the end it will need to be careful handling to keep the large one safe.
If you’re looking for something a little more civilized, Norway hosts Atlantic salmon & sea trout in its many fjords and rivers. While Norway’s salmon rivers are famous, they can be expensive and difficult to access. In fjords, sea trout run with the tide. In summer, they offer the chance to catch sea trout that are well conditioned and healthy, having fed at the sea. It is usually done in a wading and casting way, requiring more skill than deep sea boat fishing, but is more satisfying.
Combining Elements: A Week Well Spent
Norway’s fjords really shine when you are able to combine pursuits. With a coffee in hand, watch the mist rise from the water and calm the fjords. Take your time prepping the boat and sailing to a new side fjord for the day. Once anchored, hike to the viewpoint for a panorama from your steered destination. Once back aboard, head to a fishing spot that looks promising for some afternoon cod jigging and then prepare your feast for sunset at mid-dip. Finish the day and watch the sun dip below your view uninterrupted, resting for its next climb.
Summer is the best time for hiking and long sailing trips due to the warm weather and the midnight sun. Autumn offers stunning light.