Day 75 (17): A taste of civilization

Buadalen to Haukelisetter

Distance: 25km


With the grocery store calling, getting up and hitting the trail goes relatively easy despite the cold temperatures.


While the beginning is a bit rough going, the middle part of today's hike is wonderful. Nice trails, even better views. In  fact one of the best views I have had in while. Maybe especially because I was expecting a rather dull walk. Despite the food calling, I take it slow, taking in the views, going for a quick swim.

Right in time, actually. The trail is getting busier shortly afterwards. A lot of day trippers. Doesn't really matter. The nice views are gone anway and so are the nice trails. So I sped up as much as I can and descend the last 5 or so kilometers to Haukelisetter, restaurant, hotel, a tourist hotspot. Crazy busy. Yet, getting a hitch out of there is not that easy. Cars either full or old people ignoring me.

After 45 minutes a red car (my lucky car color) stops and the lovely woman "just heading to where the sun is shining" is taking me to the next town. The drive is spectacular and a joy per se.


In town I first start looking for a power outlet. Getting my priorities straight. Food can wait. I get lucky near the sports ground, where I have my peace and quiet and plenty of space to lay out my stuff, update my blog etc etc.


Shopping is generally a breeze. In and out. A small but well stocked grocery store.

Packing is more time consuming. However, getting rid of packaging, saving weight and space, is worth the energy.


I'm still in Roldal as I write this, just finished a phone call with Fredy. All in the green back home.

Soon my phone is fully charged and I will try to hitch a ride back to Haukeliseter. If it works, sweet, if not, I will try my luck tomorrow. Anyway, it will get late. So I post today's blog already and will give an update on how things have worked out tomorrow. 

Morning view. First time I notice the moon on this hike.
Morning view. First time I notice the moon on this hike.
A beautiful morning
A beautiful morning
Norwegian swing bridge. Highly unstable.
Norwegian swing bridge. Highly unstable.
Gravel beach
Gravel beach
Ice cold water
Ice cold water
Enjoying the views
Enjoying the views
And the flowers
And the flowers
Unpacking
Unpacking
Hell yeah! 400 grams of utter bliss
Hell yeah! 400 grams of utter bliss
Then there's work to do...
Then there's work to do...
Work done. Fuel for 6 to 7 days
Work done. Fuel for 6 to 7 days

Write a comment

Comments: 3
  • #1

    Rob Firmin (Tuesday, 23 July 2024 21:24)

    � we talked about this with Angela (the returnee TA who came to see us and stayed a night the other day) about set cameras and taking selfies. We were talking about how many accumulated kms TAs do, who do that. Set their camera, timer, then walk back so far to then walk into shot or video. She reckoned kms. I noted your front on, walking the bridge ✔️
    I noted it more with videos ... how far people would walk back. Clever.
    Your resupply sounded fun. Bur as you say, the decanting (that's what I call it) from boxes and packets, into daily rations, meals, and snacks - is a chore. We've certainly been witness to that many many times over the years. Particular individuals who not only resupplied themselves for their section Whanganui to PNth, but one in particular who did 4 bounce boxes for Te Waipounamu. We ended up with so much recycling and rubbish haha. But he felt SOOO good afterwards. One big worry off his shoulders - as he said.
    So I was imagining you repacking and decanting your rations �

  • #2

    Fredy Koster (Wednesday, 24 July 2024 06:20)

    Hi Rob, You are right. Food is a real big and importent task. Imaging to packing and ration for around six days.

  • #3

    George Mills (Thursday, 25 July 2024 11:59)

    The moon doesn't go away it just hides.
    You're certainly getting a good share of snow to wander through. Looks like a good supply of food to keep you fed. Decent ice cream also. Keep on tramping.

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