Adventure in Norway's Finnmark Plateau

Nature's Majesty and Stone's Legacy

Today was a day of embracing the raw beauty and unique heritage of the Finnmark Plateau. Leaving our cozy fisherman's cabin, Hans and I set out to explore the natural wonders and cultural treasures that this Arctic landscape holds. It's amazing how much this region has to offer, blending serene landscapes with fascinating history.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at the fisherman's cabin, fueling up for our adventures ahead. The simple, wholesome meal of local bread and smoked fish was the perfect start. I made sure to pack our reusable water bottles and a few extra snacks, ever mindful of minimizing our footprint on this pristine environment.

First on our itinerary was Orvvosfossen, a majestic waterfall nestled in the Gargia Valley. The drive there was stunning, with the vast expanse of the Finnmark Plateau unfolding before us. The landscape is still waking up from winter, with patches of snow clinging to the higher ground, contrasting beautifully with the emerging greenery. I couldn’t help but feel a sense of peace as we drove, the only sounds were the hum of the engine and the occasional call of a bird. I was so glad that we remembered to pack our hiking boots, as they were essential for the somewhat rocky trail leading to the waterfall.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Orvvosfossen Waterfall in Gargia, Norway – a stunning must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The hike to Orvvosfossen was relatively easy, about 2 kilometers each way. The trail meandered through a beautiful, tree-rich forest. As we got closer, the sound of the cascading water grew louder, building anticipation. Finally, we reached the waterfall, and it was breathtaking! The water plunged down with such force, creating a misty spray that kissed our faces. We spent a good hour there, taking photos and simply soaking in the serene atmosphere. The power of nature is truly humbling. I even managed to capture a few stunning shots with my camera, the light playing beautifully on the water.

The earth has music for those who listen.

After Orvvosfossen, we were ready for our next destination: Peskatun. This location is home to one of the original slate quarries of Alta, offering stunning views of the Alta River and the Alta Fjord. It was fascinating to learn about the history of slate extraction in this region. The slate from Pæska Mountain is known for its exceptional quality, considered among the best in the world. We watched a demonstration by skilled slate workers, who showed us how they extract roofing slates from the hard rock. It was incredible to see the craftsmanship and precision involved in this traditional trade.


Explore the rich heritage of Alta at Peskatun, a unique visitor center and museum showcasing the artistry of slate quarrying and local history.
While at Peskatun, we learned that this location is also an excellent spot for viewing the Northern Lights. Although it was daytime, I could imagine how magical it must be to witness the aurora borealis dancing across the sky from this vantage point. It’s definitely something I’d love to experience in the future. They also offer dog sledding trips in the Finnmark Plateau , which sounds like an amazing adventure.

For lunch, we enjoyed a simple picnic at Peskatun, overlooking the stunning landscape. I had packed some traditional Danish smørrebrød (open-faced sandwiches) that I had prepared back at the cabin. As we ate, we discussed how different this landscape is from Berlin, yet equally captivating. It’s these contrasts that make traveling so enriching.

After our time at Peskatun, we decided to stop by the Norrøna Concept Store in Alta. As someone passionate about sustainable living, I appreciate Norrøna's commitment to quality and durability. Their store offered a wide range of outdoor clothing and equipment. Though I didn't need anything specific, I admired their collections and their focus on sustainability. The store was quite large, offering all of Norrøna's collections, including a dedicated area for hunting.


Gear up for adventure at Norrøna Concept Store Alta, your destination for high-quality outdoor clothing and equipment in Norway.
Before heading back to our cabin, we took a leisurely stroll through Alta, soaking in the atmosphere of this Arctic city. It’s amazing how different the light is here, even though it’s not quite the midnight sun yet. The days are long and bright, creating a unique ambiance. We stopped at a local café for a cup of coffee, savoring the moment and reflecting on our day's adventures.

Back at the fisherman's cabin, we prepared a simple dinner of reindeer stew, using locally sourced ingredients. As we ate, we reminisced about the day's highlights – the awe-inspiring Orvvosfossen, the fascinating slate quarry at Peskatun, and the charm of Alta. It was a day of contrasts, blending nature, culture, and history into a truly unforgettable experience. I am so grateful for these moments and the opportunity to share them with Hans.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Seidekjerringa/Ahkku, a unique rock formation, and Sapmi Park, where we hope to delve deeper into Sami culture. Perhaps we’ll even stop by Trasti & Trine for a drink in the evening. I am looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery in this beautiful corner of the world. I am also grateful that we will continue to eat at the fisherman's cabin tomorrow, as it is convenient and the food is delicious.

As the sun dips low on the horizon, casting a golden glow across the Finnmark Plateau, I feel a deep sense of contentment. This journey is not just about seeing new places; it’s about connecting with nature, learning about different cultures, and creating lasting memories with the one I love. And, of course, doing it all in a way that respects and preserves the environment for future generations. This trip is already shaping up to be an extraordinary adventure, and I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings.