After Susan pushed me and Lille Poro off she went to catch the Badebåden to Saltholmen Fyr, where we reunited and booked us in for the night.
Our welcome from Asne, Berit and Hans Christian was typical Norwegian, warmhearted and friendly. Also delighted due to the interest we had in their passion operating this magical place of Norway’s heritage under a foundation arrangement with some twenty plus volunteers. The lighthouse was lit first time on 11 November 1882, hosting one family at that time.
The impressions from this overnighter will last long as a one-off experience. Not only taking Lille Poro to the edge of the ocean but also the enthusiasm to preserve the history of Norway, which we have experienced multiple time by now. Kayaking back to Lillesand via Grunnesund became a highlight in itself.
The point I cannot get my head around is, that there are not many arrangements around, where you will, while staying at a house constantly see the sea, whatever window you look out. It does not matter you look through the window from the kitchen, living room, bedroom, toilet, etc., you will be facing the sea. Saltholmen Fyr is one of them.
A place to return on a Southwesterly gale force blowing day/night…
Fair winds…
PS: Hans Christian recently returned from Svalvard and did not miss to bring a bottle of Svalbard Aquavit, a spirit only being sold up in Longyearbyen. We got a zip on our tongues and felt much closer than ever to the glaciers of this particular archipelago.
PSS: My relationship with jellyfish remains as ambivalent as it could be. Pain at one moment (cleaning seacocks), pure pleasure at the next (video above from Salthomen Fyr).
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