PADDLER 98
PADDLER 98
# LOFOTENSUPADVENTURE DAY TWO
The corner where we stopped looked like something out of a postcard . We decided to take a walk around the area and admire the breathtaking landscapes .
‘ Offshore wind ’ is the wind that pushes us away from the shore . It makes it harder to return and requires more effort from the paddler , increasing the risk of dangerous situations .
We admired a couple of kayakers who set off north after spending the night on the beach . This part of the Lofoten Islands is tempting but requires exceptional experience and physical preparation . Moreover , sea kayaks are a better choice for such challenges – they allow you to paddle in stronger winds and handle waves better than SUP boards .
The weather forecast showed a change : wind increasing every hour and rain . This motivated us to return to Reinefjord ( which meant another portage ) and continue exploring the area .
Although the route wasn ’ t as planned , we knew that nature followed its rules , and we had to respect them for our safety . Once again that day , we decided to let go .
Crossing the windiest section , we joined our boards to avoid separating us too much . We were heading towards a spot we had discovered the day before . It was perfect for pitching the tent for the next two nights . This was going to be a test of its durability and waterproofing .
THE RIGHT TO ROAM
‘ Allemannsretten ’ is a Norwegian law that translates to the ‘ right to roam ’ or ‘ right to freely access nature .’ It allows everyone to freely use rural areas , including forests and mountains . This means that tourists can enjoy nature , set up tents , and walk along trails .
However , there are certain restrictions : private property must not be trespassed on , the environment must not be polluted , and wildlife should not be disturbed . Additionally , camping is only allowed a certain distance from houses and buildings . Respecting these rules is essential for protecting nature and local communities . There is also a time limit : camping in one spot is allowed for a maximum of two nights .
In the evening , gusts of wind reached up to 60 km / h . We also had to tie down our boards because they seemed ready to fly away at one point . The sound of raindrops pounding on the tent ‘ lulled ’ us to sleep ...
# LOFOTENSUPADVENTURE DAY THREE
The next day greeted us with clouds hanging over the peaks of the surrounding mountains . Waterfalls appeared after the night ’ s heavy rain , flowing like silver ribbons . What a sight it was !
The forecasted wind made us abandon our further trip , and once again , we adjusted our plans to the weather conditions . We decided to spend the time exploring the surrounding area , enjoying the tranquillity of nature around us . We circumnavigated a nearby lake , admiring its crystal-clear water and the reflections of the mountains on its surface . As we walked around the area , we discovered remnants of former inhabitants of these lands – ruins of stone huts , overgrown paths , and mysterious , moss-covered spots that could have hidden many stories . Each step brought us closer to the past .
There was time for a peaceful coffee and hammock swinging , and every moment seemed to make the world seem to stand still . Conversations flowed freely , filled with laughter , memories , and plans for the future . Then came the time for a swim in the lake – the water wasn ’ t nearly as cold as Piotrek claimed .
After two days of respite from seeing people , we met Roman and his group of kayakers . It felt so surreal and completely different from Poland and Mediterranean countries . And that was another thing that captivated us – we had found ourselves in a remote place where nature could show its most beautiful face .
The evening rain didn ’ t ruin our mood . We were prepared for it . The weather forecasts , showing strong winds and a wall of rain since the morning , kept me awake at night . With Marek , our advisor , we devised various contingency plans . His experience and knowledge made me feel more confident . We prepared different options and actions to help us survive whatever nature might throw our way . It wasn ’ t an easy night , and I was a bit nervous .
# LOFOTENSUPADVENTURE DAY FOUR
Due to the rain , we had breakfast in the tent . After the coffee , my bladder demanded relief and ... that ’ s when the rain stopped . Contrary to earlier forecasts , there was no rain when we were packing our stuff . We made sure to take our trash and the litter we found with us because we saw signs of their presence despite the lack of people .
The Lofoten Islands are a fascinating place . The mountains surrounding the fjords make the wind behave unpredictably , not always following the app ’ s direction . We decided to return to Hamnøya , where