Norway, a land of fjords, glaciers, and the Northern Lights, is a paradise for those seeking wild and pure nature. I had long dreamed of a Scandinavian road trip, and this summer, we finally made it happen. Our journey took us through Denmark and up the western coast of Norway, where we explored the country’s breathtaking landscapes and indulged in our favourite activities: climbing and surfing.
Klitmøller: The Cold Hawaii of Denmark
Klitmøller, affectionately known as „Cold Hawaii,“ is a hidden gem on the North Jutland coast of Denmark. Renowned for its consistent surf and breathtaking natural beauty, this small coastal town has become a haven for surfers and nature enthusiasts.
Nestled within the sparsely populated Thy National Park, Klitmøller offers vast stretches of unspoiled wilderness. Its coastline offers endless sandy beaches and towering dunes, providing a perfect setting to experience the rugged Nordic nature and the North Sea.
After checking out the reef break in Klitmøller, we ventured south to Nørre Vorupør, a nearby beach break offering superior conditions. The abundant waves provide suitable opportunities for surfers of all skill levels. And we consistently found surf spots with only a handful of other surfers who always greeted us with a friendly welcome. This made it a refreshing contrast to the crowded and competitive surf spots we had experienced in France.
The breathtaking scenery and friendly locals make Klitmøller more than just a surfing haven. It’s a place to reconnect with nature, unwind, and escape the daily grind. We didn’t expect much of Denmark and just planned it as a stop on our way North, but Klitmøller totally changed our mind: it is a wonderful place to spend your time and we definitely will come back.
Flatanger: A Climber’s Paradise
From Hirtshals, Denmark, we boarded a ferry bound for Larvik, Norway, from where we continued our road trip through the heart of Norway, all the way to the remote fishing village of Flatanger.
As we left the bustling city of Oslo behind, the roads became narrower and the scenery more picturesque. Hours passed as we wound our way through stunning landscapes, marvelling at the fjords, forests, and mountains that unfolded before us.
Flatanger itself is a remote coastal village, located about an hour from the nearest major city. We stayed at a basic campsite on a local farmer’s field, providing a convenient base for our climbing adventures. A short 20-minute hike along the sea coast and up the hill led us to the iconic crag of Flatanger, a climber’s dream come true.
The crag of Flatanger offers world-class granite routes, ranging from moderate to extremely challenging. The most demanding climbs are found in the iconic cave on the upper right side of the crag, while the left side boasts more vertical routes suitable for climbers of all levels. If you climb 7c or harder you will have a lot of fun tackling those endless endurance routes and pushing your limits. And as you climb, you’ll be inspired by others casually conquering some of the hardest routes in the world right next to you.
The breathtaking scenery surrounding Faltanger is a bonus. From the crag, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the coastline, featuring a labyrinth of secluded bays and picturesque islands. The world-class climbing together with the remote location and the amazing landscape makes it an outstanding climbing spot.
Hoddevik: A Surfer’s Heaven
After nearly two weeks of climbing in Flatanger, we packed our gear and made our way south to Hoddevik, a quaint fishing village nestled on Norway’s western coast. Renowned for its consistent surf, Hoddevik attracts surfers from around the globe seeking to conquer the powerful waves of the Atlantic.
The charming village, home to just 14 permanent residents, boasts colourful houses perched on a hill overlooking the sandy beach. The surf scene is relaxed and welcoming, with surfers of all levels sharing their passion for the ocean. The village’s remote location ensures a peaceful and uncrowded atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil surf experience.
We spent our days riding waves and soaking up the laid-back vibe of Hoddevik. While the surf could be challenging at times, with stormy winds and unpredictable swells, the rewards were immense. Catching a wave on the North Atlantic coast is an unforgettable experience.
Beyond the Mountains and Waves
Our Norwegian adventure extended beyond climbing and surfing. We took the opportunity to explore the surrounding region, visiting historic sites such as a historic mountain village and a centuries-old stave church. Additionally, we made time for iconic landmarks like the Geirangerfjord, a breathtaking natural wonder surrounded by towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and charming villages.
While the Geirangerfjord’s dramatic beauty is undeniable, the crowds and the challenge of capturing its essence made it a less-than-ideal experience. We were glad to have avoided many tourist spots, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the surreal beauty of the landscape at more remote locations.
After over three weeks of surfing, climbing, and exploring Norway, we returned to Bergen and boarded a ferry to Hirtshals via Stavanger. Having fallen in love with Klitmøller, we extended our stay there before returning to Germany.
Final Thoughts
Our road trip to Denmark and Norway was an unforgettable experience. We were captivated by the country’s stunning natural beauty, the friendly locals, and the opportunity to pursue our passions of climbing and surfing. Whether you’re a seasoned climber, a dedicated surfer, or simply seeking a unique adventure, Norway has something to offer for everyone and if you love water sports, make sure to visit Klitmøller, the „Cold Hawaii“ of Denmark, on your way.
