- Location: Norway, Region Nordland
- Area: 369 sq. M. km
- Thickness: 450 m
In northern Norway there is a glacial system, called Svartisen. It consists of two independent glaciers :
- Vestre Svartisen (western), its area is 221 square meters. km, it is considered one of the largest glaciers on the mainland of Norway;
- Estre Svartisen (eastern) is slightly smaller, its area is 148 square meters. km.
Features of the Svartisen glacier in Norway
Svartisen is the lowest glacier in Europe: it is 20 m above sea level, and its highest point is at an altitude of 1,594 m. In some places, the ice thickness may be 450 m. Today, Svartisen belongs to the Saltfjellet-Svartisen National Park, which is located on a mountain range with the same name. Water from this glacier system is used in the production of hydroelectric power.
The ice of Svartisen, depending on the degree of illumination, can acquire different color shades: pure white, saturated blue or bright blue. No wonder the name of this glacier Svartis in translation means a deep color of ice, contrasting with white snow.
Those who wish can climb the glacier Svartisen. Experienced instructors for 4 hours will help beginners to explore the glacier, advise how to properly equip for a hike. However, in active periods, when movements begin on the glacier, a visit to these places is prohibited.
Near the glacier there are cozy houses, as well as a tent camping. You can stop at the hotel, which is located next to the pier, where the ferry is moored from Holland. Here you will be treated with dishes from lamb, beef, trout. From the windows there is a picturesque glacier panorama.
Svartisen Glacier - how to get there?
Before you go on a trip to the glacier Svartisen, find it on the map. If you want to get to Svartisen in the summer, then you can do it by swim across the lake of Svartisvatnet. It only takes about 20 min. When approaching the shore, it will be necessary to walk to the glacier on foot for about 3 km. Some decide to go by this way, renting a boat or a bicycle. You can reach the glacier and the ferry that departs from the village of Brassetvik.