Most of us have probably dreamed of taking a break from everyday life to experience something entirely new and exciting. Perhaps it’s a journey to a distant, exotic location or simply relaxing in nature closer to home. Whatever the dream may be, it can sometimes feel unattainable or even daunting. But if Guro and Mina have learned anything, it’s that life can change quickly and unexpectedly, and we can never fully predict what lies ahead.

There’s something truly special about experiencing nature up close. Feeling the cold against your cheeks and hearing the silence can evoke a sense of magic in life. Guro and Mina have had the joy of immersing themselves in this closeness to nature for nearly ten weeks.

When they first began planning their adventure, they had no idea what to expect. Initially, Guro and Mina had intended to travel to Alaska, but the pandemic disrupted those plans. As they pondered what to do instead, the idea of spending several weeks in Norway’s mountains started to take shape.

They agreed it was time to explore their own backyard. Both had heard of the adventures awaiting in Norway’s mountain landscapes but had never taken the time to experience them firsthand. So, they decided to pack their gear and embark on a winter wilderness journey in 2021.

Their plan was to live in a Venor Gamme tent, deep in the heart of Finnmarksvidda, surrounded by snow and winter scenery. They faced everything from strong winds to freezing temperatures. Yet, despite the challenging weather, the two adventurers kept their spirits high and pursued their dream of mountain living.

When they first arrived in the mountains, it was far from the glamorous adventure they had imagined. They encountered difficulties like poor visibility, precipitation, wind, and cold. Hunting, fishing, and trapping proved to be tough, and there were many days without any success. After two and a half weeks of harsh weather, they finally saw the sun again.

When the sun finally appeared, it felt as if it melted away their worries. Suddenly, nature came alive again—ptarmigans moved within range, and the big fish started biting.

Life in the gamme gradually became more routine, and the women began establishing traditions. Friday pizza nights became a cherished ritual, and they relished the peace and stillness surrounding them.

Even on days when bad weather kept them indoors, boredom was never an issue. They had brought books, a deck of cards, and other small items to entertain themselves. Most importantly, they had each other, and they spent the time talking, laughing, and planning future adventures.

They found their own little oasis in the wilderness, where the river provided water, and the forest offered shelter. They hunted, fished, set snares, and mushed sled dogs. By day, they explored the breathtaking landscape, and by night, they returned to the gamme to light the fire, cook meals, and enjoy a cup of coffee.
 

Now back in their everyday lives, they look back on their adventure with a sense of fulfillment, knowing they achieved a dream. They learned a lot about themselves and each other—how to tackle challenges and navigate difficult situations. They experienced a side of nature they had never seen before.

Guro and Mina are deeply grateful for the opportunity to embark on this unique journey during such a strange and surreal time. They realized that you don’t always need to travel far to experience something extraordinary. Sometimes, the adventure is right in front of you—you just need the courage to seize it.

Ten weeks on the Finnmark Plateau has been an incredible experience. Your travels don’t have to be grand or extensive. They can be small everyday adventures or a weekend trip to the mountains. With a base camp as your starting point, your time in nature can be as long or short as you choose.