On August 22, Fleury and Corentin Roux completed their 2,771km journey across Norway.
They set out on June 1 from the southernmost tip of the country, Lindesnes Fyr. Their finish line was the northernmost point of the country, North Cape. They only used maps and compass to guide them.
Photo: @acrossnorway_
They aimed to complete the hike in 100 days and exceeded their own expectations by 17 days. To maintain their pace, the brothers traveled light, with 10kg packs. Every three to six days, they collected supplies from their sister and brother-in-law, who drove a safety vehicle along the closest road.
“They are an important logistical support but above all, much-needed moral support,” the brothers commented. Both those family members are also physiotherapists, an ideal fringe benefit on such a trek.
Photo: @acrossnorway_
Both Rouxs lost a lot of weight on the trip, despite meticulous meal planning. Corentin also struggled with blisters and back pain, while Fleury had foot issues. Once, they took two full rest days to recharge. For the other 81 days, they forged on.
Photo: @acrossnorway_
River crossings the hardest
During the first few weeks, snow slowed their progress and made the hiking harder. Fog hindered their navigation, and constant rain plagued them for three weeks later on the trek. Crossing swollen rivers presented the most danger. Sometimes they need to detour from their route to find a safe fording spot.
Photo: @acrossnorway_
They spent about half the time off-trail and always took the most direct line possible, through heathlands, marshes, swamps, and across mountains and glaciers.
Routes became slightly harder to plan near the Swedish border since having to stick to Norway reduced their orienteering choices.
Photo: @acrossnorway_
While this is their largest project, both are experts in orienteering. Fleury, 24, teaches orienteering and is a mountain and ski guide. Corentin, 27, is a cartographer. Both compete in orienteering races on an international level.
