Norwegian fjords adventure

October 2, 2023

Learning by Living

Your Norwegian Fjords Journey

Here’s what you’ll experience on this adventure:

My First Adventure in Norway
Exploring Bergen: Starting Your Norwegian Fjords Adventure
Meeting the Crew in Stavanger
Kayaking and Camping in Norway’s Fjords
Norwegian Fjords Adventure Checklist
More Adventures Beyond Your Norwegian Fjords Adventure

My First Adventure in Norway

I’ve just returned from my first-ever kayaking and camping adventure in Norway, and the beauty of the fjords has left a lasting impression on me., and WOW, it has left a lasting impression on me. Back at home, my thoughts keep drifting back to the four-day hike, kayak, and wild camping expedition I went on. Previously, I believed that summiting Mont Blanc or trekking the Andes would be the pinnacle of my travel, but Norway’s fjords proved that breathtaking beauty can be found much closer to home. Joining a Skyhook adventure made it all possible, and here’s how it went.

Exploring Bergen: Starting Your Norwegian Fjords Adventure

Settling into Bergen

I started my trip in Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city, giving myself a couple of days to settle in and soak up the atmosphere before the expedition officially began. Even in the rain, which is expected from the rainiest city in Europe, I wandered the streets, discovered cosy cafés, and indulged in a Norwegian vanilla custard bun once or twice!

Fløibanen Funicular and Forest Walk

I took the Fløibanen funicular up to Fløyen, which sits 320 metres above sea level, a 5 to 8-minute ride. At the top, Bergen was mostly hidden beneath mist and rain, but as I hung around, the city slowly revealed itself through the low clouds. I chose to walk back down via a peaceful 45-minute forest trail. The adventure had already begun, long before setting foot on a kayak.

Bergen Free Walking Tour

I made my way to the Bergen Free Walking Tour, which I had booked with ‘twenty four.’ It turned out to be a great way to see the city and actively learn about the famous colourful buildings, the trading district, and music composers like Edvard Grieg and his famous compositions, such as the Peer Gynt Suite. Walking tours certainly make it more memorable than reading about it in a book. I wrapped up the day at a neighbourhood bar, engaging in spontaneous chats with the friendly locals. In the short time I was there, it was easy to fall for Bergen’s charm, friendly locals, and easy navigation—well worth the effort before making my way south to begin my Norwegian fjords adventure.

Meeting the Crew in Stavanger

Journey to Stavanger

On Monday morning, I set off for Stavanger to join the Skyhook adventure group. The journey took just over four hours, with a bus ride and two picturesque ferry crossings along the way. What I thought would simply be a transfer turned out to be a surprisingly lovely part of the trip.

Our Cozy Lodge

We all met at a cosy lodge, part of the Norwegian Trekking Association (DNT), which manages more than 550 cabins across Norway. These huts offer hikers and outdoor lovers a comfortable and budget-friendly place to stay. So if you’re planning a trip to Norway, they’re definitely worth checking out.

Evening with the Crew

That first evening was spent getting to know the group and meeting our guide, Lukas. You always hope the group is fun and friendly, especially as a solo traveller when you don’t necessarily have someone to lean on. I’ve always had positive experiences, if others are booking the same trip as me, they’re usually like-minded. We enjoyed a delicious reindeer dinner that evening.

Kayaking and Camping in Norway’s Fjords

Packing and Preparing for the Fjords

The following day we all geared up for a full day of kayaking. Picture this: a kayak loaded with food, a tent, all our belongings and then we had to climb in. It was a bit wobbly… but so much fun! I was especially grateful to have mastered the art of packing light (and smart) before the trip.

Gliding Through the Fjords

As we paddled along the peaceful fjords, it felt like we were on a top-secret mission to reach the next destination. Except for a curious seal that momentarily appeared, and the occasional passing boat, the fjords appeared empty. I felt so lucky there weren’t loads of tourists with the same idea.
The fjords themselves are stunning and protected, learn more about them on the Visit Norway Fjords guide.

Fishing and Evening Meals

Our guide gave us the lowdown on the thriving local fish populations, which included cod, pollock, whiting, mackerel, salmon, and more. We decided to try our luck with some fishing. However, the fish seemed to be playing a game of hide and seek and we weren’t exactly the champions. Consequently, our dinner that evening turned into a “fishless” risotto. Our Scottish crew had brought their favourite bottles, making it the perfect way to relax and swap stories after dinner.

Paddling along the fjords and setting up camp was the highlight of my kayaking and camping in Norway experience. Uncomfortable night’s sleep? Who cares! Every time I unzipped the tent, those jaw-dropping views made it all worth it.

Another highlight of the trip was our hike to Pulpit Rock. Lasting just over three hours, it was one of those “pinch me” moments. I had always admired it from afar, through other people’s photos and stories, but being there in person exceeded all my expectations.

As my Norwegian adventure came to a close, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for all the experiences I’d had.

There’s something so special about arriving at a campsite by kayak, sleeping under the stars, warming yourself by a campfire, and enjoying camp-cooked meals. It’s an authenticity that no posh hotel room could ever provide.

Our guide, Lukas Hallberg, was at the heart of the trip. His passion for nature & the outdoors was clear to see. For a few days, I found myself in a world completely different from the one I’d left behind and that was the whole point.

I hope this article inspires you to embrace new, creative ways of exploring the world. In the end, it’s these experiences that shape our journeys, and there’s nothing quite like coming home and sharing stories of the places you’ve been with curious friends.

Until next time, keep wandering, keep exploring, and maybe plan your own kayaking and camping adventure in Norway.