In 2022, Fleury and Corentin Roux marked a remarkable achievement as they completed their 2,771-kilometer journey across Norway. Embarking on June 1 from Lindesnes Fyr, the southernmost tip of the country, their ultimate destination was the iconic North Cape, the northernmost point of Norway. What set their adventure apart was not just the distance covered but their reliance on old-fashioned navigation tools: maps and compasses.
Their journey, chronicled through breathtaking photos shared on their Instagram account (@acrossnorway_), captured the essence of their adventure. Celebrating their finish line moment at North Cape, the Roux brothers showcased the triumph of human spirit and determination against the backdrop of Norway’s rugged landscapes.
Setting out with the ambitious goal of completing the hike in 100 days, the Roux brothers exceeded their own expectations by a staggering 17 days. To maintain their pace and agility, they traveled light, carrying packs weighing only 10 kilograms. However, their journey wasn’t a solitary endeavor. Every three to six days, they received crucial supplies and moral support from their sister and brother-in-law, who followed along in a safety vehicle.
The logistical support provided by their family was invaluable, especially considering the physical toll of the trek. Both brothers experienced weight loss despite meticulous meal planning, with Corentin battling blisters and back pain, while Fleury contended with foot issues. Yet, their determination to push forward remained unwavering, with only two full rest days taken over the span of 81 days.
Navigating the Norwegian terrain presented its own set of challenges. Snow slowed their progress in the initial weeks, while fog and rain tested their navigation skills and endurance. However, it was the swollen rivers that posed the most danger, often requiring detours to find safe crossing points.
Approximately half of their journey was spent off-trail, navigating through heathlands, marshes, swamps, and scaling mountains and glaciers. Despite their expertise in orienteering – with Fleury teaching orienteering and serving as a mountain and ski guide, and Corentin working as a cartographer – planning routes near the Swedish border proved particularly challenging, constrained by Norway’s borders.
While this expedition marked their largest undertaking to date, the Roux brothers are no strangers to adventure. Both are seasoned orienteers, competing in races on an international level. Their journey across Norway stands as a testament to their resilience, expertise, and the enduring allure of exploring the great outdoors.
As the Roux brothers concluded their epic trek, their story serves as an inspiration to adventurers worldwide, urging them to embrace challenges, push boundaries, and discover the extraordinary within themselve