Although the cross country skiing network connects Kabelvåg and Svolvær, my preferrence was a quick bike ride to Kabelvåg over a short walk in Svolvær to get to one of the main starting points of the prepared XC track.  Same time I was keen to visit the ski hut operated by Kabelvåg locals to check it’s open or still closed.

By the time now, I have figured out how best to attach ski and poles to the bike to minimize impact on riding comfort and efficency. Some more optimization work needed to reduce the time spent getting overall ready in order not to get cold before setting off.

I got on the track and enjoyed a first glide on a perfectly prepared track, which suits both styles, classic and skating. While initially a lot of my attention was needed to stay on the track, it was not possible to hover through this winterized landscape without recognizing its shear unspoiled beauty.

Having been around here many times by now, in summer and autumn, winter comes as a novum to me. Magical, thanks to the current conditions.

The skiing hut was open, run by the locals. Waffles, snacks and hot beverages on offer.

I could not resist a hot chocolate and a traditional Norwegian waffle with brown cheese and strawberry jam next to the fireplace. Hard to get back on the track afterwards but the daylight helps to keep the schedule. Did not plan for lights.

We hear that the amount of snow received at this time of the year is unusual. Asking locals, if it will stay, the answer is pretty unisono: maybe, maybe not.

All we know is, that a weather change will happen next week towards warmer tempertaures but if the precipitation will be rain or snow…we will find out.

Fair winds…