A view of the sunset in Vieholmen.
Departing from bustling Oslo on Sunday morning, our extended study group headed for the island of Smøla, a picturesque getaway off of the coast of Norway, almost 300 miles north of Oslo. After an hour long plane ride, a quick ride on public transportation, a mesmerizing ride on a ferry, and a bumpy bus ride to our lodgings, our extended study group had arrived to the island, specifically Veiholmen, the northern-most tip of the island.
Stepping into the apartments that had been rented for the duration of our stay, we had endless views of the northern Atlantic Ocean and endless hours of daylight. Exploring the coast of the island upon our arrival, necessary after such a long day of travel, the group encountered tidal pools, black slugs, and gorgeous views that were a refreshing change to the large city of Oslo. It’s safe to say that the time away from the wind farm on the island was spent exploring the outdoors, whether it was walking along the rocky coastline, running, sitting on the deck reading, or jumping into the northern Atlantic Ocean.
Sara Reese ’16 (left), Claire Freehafer ’15 (right), and Hailey Elder ’16 (in water) jump into the northern Atlantic Ocean.
The rocky coastline in Vieholmen.
Although many of us feel that Smøla was one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever been (and are actively planning how we can purchase a vacation home there later in life), we are excited to continue to explore Norway, particularly our upcoming adventures in Trondheim. For those who are enjoying reading this blog and are planning their next vacation with their sights set on Norway, Smøla is absolutely necessary.