For a ‘change of skyline’, we drove around the fjord this morning to climb a peak called Gråtinden. It was a beautiful thirty minute drive, during which we saw only a handful of other vehicles. The scenery around here is just incredible. Everywhere you look there another even better vista. And to be able to park up by the water, lift your skis out of the boot of the car and climb a peak is even better than I had imagined.

It’s a familiar routine now. Skins on skis, boots on feet, shuffle uphill marvelling at the views…

We opted to make our summit at the 707m spot height, rather than continue up the elegant, but rather exposed ridge to the summit. With just the two of us seemingly in the entire mountain range, there was no need to be doing anything too risky!

We were more than happy with the views we had.

A few rocks marked the high point and we set over to them while a halo circled the sun.

It was quite a place to enjoy a polar picnic.

Without any rush to head down and with plenty of warm gear on, we spent nearly two hours on the summit taking in the endless views!

Eventually we ran short on food and drink and decided we’d best begin our descent.

The power snow wasn’t quite as soft as yesterday’s fresh stuff, but it was still pretty fantastic. And the backdrop…. Wow…

Once again, we carved our turns all the way back to the sea. Magic.

You can barely see it in the photo below, but as we reached the car a huge eagle flew up the road and overhead! Then, while relaxing by the waters edge a porpoise calmly swam by!

With fresh socks on, we sat and enjoyed the view a while longer before heading back to base.

We’re both starting to tire somewhat, after five consecutive ski touring days. As we don’t really have time to factor in a ‘rest day’ now, we compensated by having two dinners instead! Feeling full and tired now instead…

Stats:

8.4km travelled

721m height climbed