The trip getting here was a total nightmare. There was a huge storm system over Europe on Saturday; this made the flight to Munich the worst flight I’ve ever had. We were held in a holding pattern for over an hour over the airport being buffeted by wind. Most people were vomiting by the time we landed and the whole plane was like a huge sick bag. Once landed the ground crew couldn’t attach the steps as it was too windy so we spent an extra 30mins sitting in the reeking plane all very unpleasant. The airport was then shut for over an hour and the resulting delays meant I was over 6hrs late getting to Bergen.
Dave Hollinger picked me up early Sunday and we had a cool drive up to Laerdal, we even managed to get lost which was a bit lame as we are both guides. The accommodation here is pretty wacky, 4 person wee wooden huts on a campsite, pretty bijou and cosy.
The weather last week was really warm so there isn’t a whole lot in good condition but there is enough and it’s getting colder this week so fingers crossed on that.
There are a total of 8 clients this week and I climbed with Russ and Chris today who are on the advance course and looking for some steep ice. We all went to the same venue (at Hoggeberg) as folk were just finding their legs again as most haven’t climbed ice for a year or so. In total we climbed 3 routes with a few pretty steep pitches, which the boys both really enjoyed, Russ especially so, getting to each belay with a huge grin and demanding more.
The other groups all had a great day as well, it was quite nice all being at the same place as it proved to be really sociable.
Tomorrow my gang are off to this great looking 5-pitch route in a huge deep cut gorge. Martin did it on Saturday and raved about how good it is so there really is no choice but to go and do it.
Enjoy out there
Kenton
