Imagine a place with endless mountains jumping straight from the sea, more ice than Canada - and oh yes - in 8 weeks climbing we haven't met a single other party on the hill. Exclusive to Alpine Guides, we give you the chance to take part in developing one of the most incredible winter climbing regions on Earth. (see: lofoten islands climbing photos)
The Lofoten Islands lie just off the west coast of Arctic Norway and are served by daily connections from the UK. Literally thousands of unclimbed ice lines of all grades await, with mountain routes and mixed climbing too.
We offer this itinerary as a private guiding special - with the optimum time for a visit being around the end of February. The price quoted includes all guiding fees and expenses up to a maximum of 2 climbers per guide.
Your own personal travel and accommodation costs must be met seperately.
Food and Accommodation During our visit to the area we stay in cosy Norwegian cabins, taking a mixture of meals out with some self catering - eg for breakfasts etc.
Sample ItinerarySubject to weather and conditions, we follow the general format:
Day 1
Sat
Outward flights + connections from the UK. Pick up car and settle into our accommodation.
Days 2-15
Mon-Sat
Explory winter climbing in the Lofoten islands. 10 days guided climbing are scheduled for the two weeks, concentrating on quality lines and first ascents - See Photos
The region boasts ice lines of all lengths and difficulties, as well as great mixed climbing and superb ridges and summits that provide excellent alpine style mountaineering days too.
Rest days will be taken as and when appropriate, to make best use of the prevailing weather.
Day 16
Sun
AM Return flights to UK
TravelFull travel details are provided with your joining instructions. Flights to the region cost about £350 & we will coordinate arrangements between the team as required. Whilst on the islands we use a hire car to travel between climbing venues (hire car + fuel costs to be shared between clients).
Fitness You will need god levels of fitness for this trip (see fitness level 3) - so we advise you to prepare well in advance with regular climbing related training down the wall or gym as well as cardiovascular exercise to handle route approaches and possible alpine style climbing too.
ExperienceYou need to be a competent ice climber and mountaineer with previous Scottish or Alpine climbing experience in order to get the most from the trip. (see: ice climbing course suitability)
EquipmentAll communal safety equipment (ropes etc) is provided by us. You are expected to provide personal clothing and climbing equipment for the trip.
