A Memorable Guided Packrafting Adventure in Stjørdal, Norway
This past summer, I had the pleasure of guiding an extraordinary packrafting tour, taking us from the comfort of the Britannia Hotel in Trondheim to the breathtaking wilderness of Stjørdal. I had the privilege of leading two enthusiastic participants, Ian and Emily, on their first-ever packrafting adventure. This journey was filled with thrilling new experiences, delicious food, and a magical encounter with a majestic eagle, making it a memorable adventure for all. I'd like to share our incredible journey from my perspective as their guide at Tundra Tours.
First-Time Paddling a Packraft
As a guide, there's something truly special about introducing someone to a new outdoor adventure. Ian and Emily were both eager to try their hand at packrafting for the very first time, and I was thrilled to be a part of their journey. Our tour began with a brief but thorough packrafting tutorial, ensuring that they were comfortable and confident on the water.
The lake, with its gentle currents and tranquil surroundings, provided the ideal setting for our novice paddlers. It was truly heartwarming to witness the joy on their faces as they successfully navigated the packrafts through the pristine waters. Their excitement was infectious and set the tone for an incredible day ahead.
Fishing Adventures
One of the joys of exploring the great outdoors is the opportunity to engage in various activities, and so, we decided to incorporate a bit of fishing into our packrafting tour. Equipped with fishing gear, we cast our lines into the water, eagerly awaiting a catch. Though the fish were elusive on that particular day, the experience of fishing amidst such picturesque surroundings added an extra layer of adventure to our trip.
The Delicious Reindeer Wrap
After a few hours of paddling and fishing, it was time to replenish our energy. I had the pleasure of preparing a reindeer wrap on a portable stove. Using local ingredients, I crafted a mouthwatering reindeer dish that showcased the flavors of Norwegian cuisine at its best. Dining alfresco by the lake, with the sounds of nature surrounding us, was a moment of pure culinary delight. We washed it down with Rhubarb fizzy drinks from Røros distillery and and after lunch a freshly brewed coffee over an open fire, further immersing ourselves in the wild, rustic experience.
A Majestic Encounter
Our journey reached its peak when we were graced by the presence of a majestic eagle. As we just to embark in our packrafts, this magnificent creature soared just a few meters above our heads. The sight was nothing short of awe-inspiring. Ian, in particular, was deeply moved by this encounter, and the eagle's visit added an unforgettable touch of magic to our adventure. Moments like these remind us of the beauty and wonder that can be found in the great outdoors.
Blending Urban and Wild
One of the defining aspects of our packrafting tour was the seamless blending of urban and wild experiences. Starting and ending our adventure at the Britannia Hotel in Trondheim provided a unique juxtaposition. It allowed us to savor the comforts of the city and then quickly transition into the untamed beauty of Stjørdal's wilderness. It was a testament to Norway's incredible diversity and the ease with which urban and natural experiences can be combined.
Conclusion
Guiding Ian and Emily on this packrafting adventure was an absolute pleasure. It's a privilege to introduce newcomers to the wonders of the great outdoors and share unforgettable experiences with them. This journey, filled with first-time packrafting, fishing, a sumptuous reindeer meal, and a close encounter with a majestic eagle, will remain etched in my memory as a truly extraordinary adventure. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our friends at UP Norway for making this experience possible. It was a fantastic blend of urban and wild, providing us with the best of both worlds and reminding us of the magic that lies in the heart of Norway's wilderness.
