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Embark on a long-distance walking journey along the Svartisen ice river, connecting the northern border of Norway with the Arctic Circle. It's the second-largest ice river in Norway.
Covering an area of 370 km2, Svartisen stands as Norway's second-largest ice river and is the easiest to reach in Europe. The name Svartisen originates from the old term 'Svartis,' meaning black ice, capturing its distinct deep green hue, contrasting with the pure white snow. The ice blocks display a range of blue tones, from transparent ice to emerald and deep blue.
The captivating Svartisen ice river. Photo by @visitbodo
Introducing the marvel of Svartisen ice river.
Svartisen ice river, Norway's second-largest and the largest ice-covered area in Northern Norway. Located at the Arctic Circle, Svartisen boasts the vast West Svartisen, spanning 220 km2, and the East Svartisen, covering around 147 km2. Separated by a deep valley known as Vesterdalen – Glomdalen, these ice tongues contribute to 60 glaciers. Situated in Nordland county, Northern Norway, south of the coastal city of Bodø.
Significant transformations have reshaped Svartisen over the past 50 years, primarily attributed to climate change. Photo by @visithelgeland
Over half of the glaciers terminate at elevations ranging from 1000 meters to 700 meters above sea level. Larger ice tongues flow into adjacent narrow valleys and fjords. The glacier peaks themselves, forming ice accumulation zones, reach heights of approximately 1500 meters above sea level. One impressive branch, the elegant Engenbreen glacier, concludes around 200 meters above sea level. To reach Engenbreen, it's a scenic 2-hour drive from Bodø, Norway.
Svartisen Ice River – Engenbreen. Photo by @postcardstoriesblog
The hues of the glacier. Photo by @postcardstoriesblog
Engabreen, one of Svartisen's flowing arms, concludes at an elevation just below 20 meters above sea level, marking the lowest point of any glacier on the European continent. Svartisen's low elevation makes it one of the most visited glaciers in Norway, attracting over 25,000 tourists annually.
Exploring the wonders of Svartisen Ice River
Svartisen is accessible from late April to the end of September. June, July, and August attract the most visitors, while May and September are less crowded.
Experience the Svartisen ice river in various ways. Adventurous souls can try ice climbing, or if you prefer a less daring approach, hike to the glacier's starting point for a close-up view. Alternatively, observe from a distance while having lunch at Brestua. Camp under the midnight sun at Svartisen. Photo by @visitbodo
Set up camp under the midnight sun at Svartisen. Photo by @visitbodo
Walking on the ice river is a fantastic experience. Guided with ropes, crampons, and ice axes, you can witness the enchanting world of Svartisen ice. The journey to Svartisen is an adventure suitable for everyone, provided they have the guidance of an experienced leader. Peer into deep crevasses, witness unprecedented shades of blue. Test your luck ice climbing and perhaps bring back some ice for late-night cocktails.
Embark on mesmerizing walks over the Svartisen ice river. Photo by @visitbodo
Svartisen Ice River – Austerdalsisen. Photo by @postcardstoriesblog
The base of the Austerdalsisen ice tongue appears small from a distance but is immense up close. Surrounding the glacier, you'll constantly hear the flow of water from melting ice, illuminated by the shining sun, causing the ice to melt. However, this is where you can witness the ongoing global warming process. The water from the glacier is the purest you'll ever taste.
One of the many ice tunnels underneath. Photo by @postcardstoriesblog
For travelers eager to witness Svartisen, there are several options. The quickest is to stop at the Braset Rest Area in Holandsvik. From there, you'll have a clear view of the ice river, although from a considerable distance. For a closer encounter, take a boat shuttle from Holandsvik to Svartisen.
You can also get a closer look at Svartisen from the Brestua Café. To reach Brestua, cross Holandsfjorden until the Svartisen AS boat company operates a shuttle from the Holandsvik dock. The journey across the narrow fjord takes 10-12 minutes. Brestua Café is approximately 1.4 km from the Svartisen dock, accessible via a well-maintained gravel path suitable for walking and biking. Renting a bike can save considerable time, especially if you plan to get close to the ice river.
Svartisen AS boat. Photo by @visitbodo
Brestua opens for summer dining, offering homemade fare for light meals, lunch, or dinner. With around 100 seats and a spacious outdoor terrace, the restaurant provides an excellent atmosphere with stunning views of Svartisen.
Brestua Café. Photo by @tilSvartisen
Photo by @visitbodo
To get even closer to the Svartisen ice river, follow the gravel path for an additional 2 km. If you have a bike, leave it at the end of the gravel paths. The final stretch is just over 1 km, clearly marked and traversing rocky terrain. As this part can be slippery, wear shoes with good traction.
The path leading to the ice river. Photo by @withnorwegianeyes
The end of the trail touching the ice river. Photo by @withnorwegianeyes
Remember, in mountainous regions, weather can change at any time. During our observation, we experienced both sunshine and rain within thirty minutes. Occasionally, the wind can be quite strong, so it's advisable to bring warm clothing.
Svartisen ice rivers are hazardous due to constant movement, and ice sections may become loose and fall down the mountain. Always maintain a safe distance, as parts of the ice river can break without warning! Are you ready to explore the stunning Svartisen ice river?
Fleurdelys (compiled) – luhanhvietnam.com.vn
Photo: Internet
Posted by: Đỗ Hiểu Phong
Keywords: Walking on the world's most accessible Svartisen ice river in Norway
