Early in the morning we will leave Longyearbyen with one of our closed and comfortable RIB boats. The boat will take us to the Russian settlement Colesbay, located 30 km south in the majestic Isfjord.
During the cold war, Colesbay, together with Grumant, was one of the biggest mining towns on Svalbard. In the end of the fifties, over 1000 people used to work and to live in this area. Today there are only a few houses and ruins left. Having a look along the shoreline, we can see the 7,7 km long railway that connects these two settlements.
After exploring Colesbay, we will enjoy a morning snack before we start our hike back to civilization. We will start easy and follow the old railway along the coast. After a short walk we will leave the shoreline and head up towards the bird cliffs. On the top of the bird mountain we will follow the edge, where we will have an amazing view. If time and weather conditions allow it, we will hike down a small valley and explore the twin town of Colesbay, Grumant. Here the guide will decide where to set up the camp for the night. It could be close to Grumant, near the sea, or we might hike up to the top of the bird mountain again to set up the camp where we have a stunning view.
During the night we have to be on guard for polar bears. They are curious animals, but seldom mean any harm. However, for safety (our own and theirs), we will all take turns to stay awake and be on polar bear watch. This is a unique part of all hiking trips on Svalbard. Sitting there, enjoying the deafening silence while the midnight sun is above you – this will be an unforgettable moment for life. For many guests this is one of the best memories to take from the trip.
Before we begin the new day and start hiking again, we will enjoy a hearty breakfast. We will follow the edge of the mountain for a few kilometers before we will find the path down to Bjørndalen (Bear valley). This valley is one of the most diverse flora terrains “close” to Longyearbyen. In this green valley the Svalbard reindeers are common and if we are lucky we might get close to some. It will also get adventurous when we have to help each other to cross a shallow, but rapid stream that runs through the valley. If you are not afraid of cold water, you can cross the stream barefoot.
After lunch we will exit Bjørndalen and follow the old dust road that leads us towards Longyearbyen. Close to the airport a car will pick us up to drive us the last kilometers back to town.
Day 1 distance 11-16 km, altitude 600 meters, all in all max. accent of 1200 meter.
Day 2 distance 14 km.
This is not a very exhausting hike, but for some it might be a challenge. You should be used to hike in rocky terrain, outside roads and paths. Besides, you are going to carry a personal backpack with all personal equipment, plus tent and sleeping bag. This backpack might weigh up to 15kg.
Important information
This trip includes:
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Pick up at your hotel
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Boat trip from Longyearbyen to Coles Bay
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Food and snacks
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Tent, sleeping bag and matt
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Backpack
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Guide with all necessary safety equipment
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SAR insurance
Personal equipment:
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Good hiking shoes for rough terrain (can be purchased at any store in Longyearbyen, Tax Free)
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Wind- and waterproof clothing
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Warm mid layer and woolen underwear
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One dry shift
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We provide a good sleeping bag, but you are welcome to bring your own.
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We also provide back packs, but if you bring your own it needs to be min. 60L
- 01.07.2023 – 31.08.2023
- Only on demand
- Duration: two days
- Good physical fitness requiered
- From NOK 4990,-
Minimum 6 participants
