It is likely that many trips to Norway that you have heard of are in the Norwegian fjords near Bergen or Stavanger. These are the most popular fjords, which fill with tourists every year. After all, the Norwegian fjords in summer are a major attraction for visitors flying to this Nordic country, or spending their holidays in the fjords aboard one of the many cruise ships that sail along the coast in summer. The famous Preikestolen, or Pulpit Rock, is a particularly popular sight on the Lysefjord, near Stavanger.
We avoid the crowds, so here is a different journey through Norway’s fjords, over 1,700 km from the destinations mentioned above. We will explore unspoilt territory where the world’s largest fishing eagle nests: a quiet fjord surrounded by majestic peaks, with beaches reminiscent of the Caribbean where we will camp.
Kayak and hiking in the bay of Efjord
Nature reveals all its splendour during the intense months of summer in northern Norway, and we will immerse ourselves fully in the surroundings. In Nordland province, 190 kilometres from the Arctic Circle, Efjord offers sheltered, crystal-clear waters ideal for sea kayaking.
Our trip takes place in this unspoilt setting, combining peaceful days of paddling in a small group with walks to excellent viewpoints. From these natural lookouts, we can try counting the thousands of islets that seem to float amid the sea’s blue shimmer.
Fjord provides shelter and food
We will blend so completely into the Norwegian fjord of Efjord we sleep in camps set up during our adventure, bivouacking. With the kayaks safely secured, we repeat the nightly ritual: lighting a campfire and cooking the day's catch. We must make the most of the abundant fish! We share stories and highlights of the day as darkness seems reluctant to cover the landscape. Nights are short at these latitudes, and how well you sleep after a good walk or a day of sea kayaking!
We glimpse the Lofoten Islands
From the tops of the mountains that guard the fjord we will have the privilege of seeing the Lofoten Islands. Another reward after 3 or 4 hours of trekking is the sight of the obelisk crowning Mount Stetind (1,381 m). This beautiful peak was voted Norway’s national mountain in 2002. Its summit was not reached by climbers until 30 July 1910, an indication of how difficult it is to climb.
In the Peace and tranquillity reign in Efjord, and far from the concentration of tourists we will travel through one of the best preserved places in Norway. An ideal trip for lovers of open spaces who want to discover Nordic nature in all its summer splendour.