Adventure in Norway's Finnmark Plateau

A Journey Through Time and Wilderness

Today marked the beginning of our adventure into the heart of Norway's Finnmark Plateau. Leaving behind the familiar comforts of Berlin, Hans and I embarked on a journey to immerse ourselves in the raw, untamed beauty of the Arctic. It's a landscape that whispers stories of ancient cultures and echoes with the promise of the midnight sun. The air is crisp, and the anticipation is palpable as we set out to explore Finnmarksvidda and the famed rock carvings of Alta.


Discover the breathtaking Finnmarksvidda Plateau in Norway, where expansive landscapes and unique wildlife await adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Our day began with an early flight from Berlin to Alta. The journey itself was a marvel, watching the landscape transform from the patchwork fields of Germany to the rugged, snow-dusted peaks of Norway. Landing in Alta, we picked up our rental car and began the drive towards the Finnmark Plateau [i]. I couldn't help but feel a thrill, a sense of stepping into a different world altogether.

Our first stop was the Fisherman's Cabin, where we enjoyed a hearty breakfast. The cabin was quaint and cozy, offering a glimpse into the region's fishing history with its nautical-inspired decor. It was the perfect way to start our day, fueling up for the adventures ahead. We savored every bite, knowing that the days to come would be filled with exploration and discovery.


Discover the authentic flavors of Norway at Fisherman's Cabin in Alta, where fresh seafood meets traditional culinary artistry.
With our stomachs full and spirits high, we ventured into Finnmarksvidda. The sheer vastness of the plateau is breathtaking. It stretches as far as the eye can see, an undulating landscape of birch forests, pine barrens, bogs, and countless glacially formed lakes. Despite the calendar reading May, there were still patches of snow clinging to the ground, a reminder of the Arctic's enduring winter. The air was still and quiet, save for the occasional call of a bird or the gentle rustling of the wind through the trees.

As we drove deeper into the plateau, I couldn't help but reflect on the Sami people, the indigenous inhabitants of this land. For centuries, they have roamed these expanses with their reindeer herds, their lives intertwined with the rhythms of nature. It’s a humbling thought, to be standing on land that holds such deep cultural and historical significance. I made a mental note to learn more about their traditions and way of life during our time here.

The carvings tell researchers a lot about ancient hunter-gatherer societies in the Arctic.

Our main destination for the day was the Alta Museum - World Heritage Center for Rock carvings. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to an extraordinary collection of petroglyphs, offering a unique window into the lives of the people who inhabited this region thousands of years ago. The museum itself is modern and well-designed, providing a comprehensive overview of the history and significance of the carvings.


Explore Alta Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site home to ancient rock carvings and rich local history in the heart of Norway.
Stepping outside the museum, we followed the boardwalk that winds its way through the rock carving sites. The carvings are spread across a series of smooth, sloping rocks, each one telling a story of hunting, fishing, rituals, and daily life. The oldest carvings date back as far as 7,000 years ago, a testament to the enduring human presence in this region.

I was particularly struck by the depictions of animals – reindeer, elk, bears, and whales – each rendered with remarkable detail and skill. It's clear that these animals were not just a source of sustenance for the ancient people, but also held a deep spiritual significance. As a linguist, I found myself pondering the stories these images might tell. What myths and legends were woven around these creatures? What beliefs and rituals were associated with them?

Hans, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the techniques used to create the carvings. How did these ancient artists manage to carve such intricate designs into the hard rock? What tools did they use? It's a mystery that has intrigued archaeologists for years, and one that continues to fuel research and debate.

We spent several hours exploring the rock carving sites, marveling at the artistry and ingenuity of our ancestors. The experience was both educational and deeply moving, connecting us to a distant past in a way that few other places can. As the sun began to dip towards the horizon, casting long shadows across the landscape, we reluctantly made our way back to the Fisherman's Cabin for dinner.

The evening was spent reflecting on the day's adventures and poring over maps and guidebooks, planning our itinerary for tomorrow. We're particularly excited about visiting the Pikefossen falls and Komsatoppen Viewpoint. I am a little concerned about the weather as it seems to change so rapidly here, but I have packed my weatherproof jacket and I am ready for anything!

As I write this, nestled in our cozy cabin, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible opportunity to explore the Finnmark Plateau. It's a place of stark beauty and profound history, a place that challenges and inspires in equal measure. I am so glad I remembered to bring my camera! I have captured so many beautiful images today, and I look forward to capturing many more in the days to come. I am slightly regretting forgetting my portable solar charger, but I am sure we will manage without it. I am also wishing I had brought my binoculars, as I would have loved to have gotten a closer look at some of the wildlife here.

Tomorrow, we continue our journey deeper into the heart of Finnmark, eager to uncover more of its hidden treasures. I have heard there is a nice bar called Nordlysbaren, and I am hoping we can stop there tomorrow after a long day of exploring! I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you all. Until then, goodnight from the Arctic!