There are few countries that can match Norway as a destination for a Gold DofE expedition. The country is home to vast swathes of open land, mountains, forests and lakes, it is the perfect destination for a single or multi discipline expedition.

Our expeditions are based in the south of Norway, dedicated transport, boats, and back-up safety cover are provided by an in-country agent which ensures high standards throughout. This choice of area ensures we get the best of the weather, are not impacted by the flies and the tides and have a superb safety net at all times whilst giving the participants a feeling of real isolation in a challenging environment.

Kristiansand airport in Norway is accessible with very reasonably priced direct flights from Stanstead airport, from there another hour or so by private coach will put you into the expedition base town of Evje. We will set up base here for a day or so in a very comfortable campsite with fantastic facilities, Evje itself is well serviced by outdoor gear suppliers and a number of relatively cheap cafes and food shops. From the campsite we will do some additional canoe refresher training (if required), there are also a number of activities that can be undertaken in and around the area (white water rafting SUP Boarding, Via Ferrata etc)

From Evje a short journey by private coach takes us into the Setesdal mountains for the walking part of the expedition, this can be either a two, three- or four-day crossing depending on the route chosen. The area is not particularly high or steep, but it is remote and rough with challenging navigation, some river crossings and wild camping, it is very unlikely you will see another soul during the days spent in this beautifully rugged area. On day three or four we come down from the mountains to the top of a long internal fjord where the canoes will be waiting for us. Paddling this non tidal and slowly flowing fjord filled with crystal clear water and surrounded by steeply rising mountains on all sides takes a further two or three days. On the way we will camp on beautiful sandy beaches only accessible by boat. The fjord is accessible by vehicle at most points which provides an excellent safety net however the roads are generally hidden in the forests that line the waters edges and this keeps the feeling of isolation and independence for the participants which is of course a fundamental part of the DofE expedition criteria.

This is a truly magical journey that will provide the participants with once in a lifetime experience.

Read the trip report on the Wildcountry Consultants Blog https://chrishorobin.wordpress.com