The team, largely self sufficient with transport and equipment for much of the activity phase, left Montgomery House TAC in Birmingham on the morning of the 24^th and arrived in Bergen after an overnight Ferry crossing of the North Sea. On reaching the Jotunheim mountain region, the group began a series of treks in generally good to excellent weather conditions, regularly peaking at heights well in excess of the highest peak in the UK.

The activity leader, with considerable experience of walking in Norway, noted the very heavy snow still lingering into the high summer. This in fact enhanced the already spectacular scenery and made the treks far more enjoyable for all concerned. The Jotunheims are far less frequented than the European Alps, and offer some spectacular, high level trekking routes, often with more chance of seeing wild reindeer than other walkers in some locations. Such sights emphasised that this was a far better region for our activity than the well trodden paths of more common European locations.

Highlights of the exercise included summiting Norway’s two highest peaks, Galdhopiggen (2482 m) and Glittertind (2478m). Although the former is officially Norway’s highest peak, its bare summit, blighted by an unnecessary observation cabin, actually made Glittertind, with its far more isolated location, ice capped summit, and spectacular slopes, the hands-down team favourite.

The team based itself near to Stavanger, some 150 miles south of Bergen, for a short R&R period before returning to the UK on the 5^th August, bringing to an end a safe and successful trip.

Major TG Hann