The Cortazu Journal
Ambassador | Robin Uthe
Robin Uthe is an Austrian outdoor and lifestyle photographer you’ll most likely find hiking in the mountains! The photos he captures are absolutely stunning and the audience he build with it in such a short amount of time is impressive to say at least.
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Ambassador | Laura Berghuis
Meet the exciting young talent; Laura Berghuis. Laura is a 17-year old Dutch Mogul Skier who has been hitting the slopes since she was 4 years old. Mogul skiing is a right of passage for the Berghuis family, Laura has followed in the footsteps of her mother and older sister Janneke.
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Ambassador | Kyle Vollaers
Kyle Vollaers is a South-African adventure and lifestyle photographer, currently freelancing throughout the world. Kyle is known for his soft cinematic style of photography, and his unique ability to capture seemingly ordinary locations in a beautiful way. Kyle began his creative career as a street artist and musician on the bustling streets of Cape Town, South Africa.
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Ambassador | Alexis Audisio
Alexis Audisio is a passionate Skier and self-proclaimed adrenaline hunter originally from France. He skis many disciplines but is predominantly a freestyle and off-piste enthusiast. He is best known for his gnarly air time and flips, the extreme tricks he hits look almost nonchalant with his laid back style. Seeing what he gets up to is really going to make you wish you were back on the slopes. Don't believe us? Check out his feed @alexisaud on Instagram.
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Ambassador | Cuno de Bruin
Cuno de Bruin is a travel photographer and content creator we're proud to work with. He's an insipration to many. Through the use of his jaw-dropping landscape photographs he shows his audience the beauties of the planet in an inspiring and unique manner. The atmosphere he is able to create in his shots really inspire you to get out there and is one of the main reasons we decided to team up with him. Also, he shows why traveling with his child is so special to him. Want to see what the fuss is all about? Check out his Instagram here!
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Surviking | Survival & Hiking
Surviking is an organisation specializing in the following, amongst others: Organizing multiday hikes/trekking in Scandinavia Wilderness guiding Outdoor equipment rentals Outdoor photography I'm talking with Maurice van den Boogaard at the office of Cortazu, in Amsterdam.Maurice, as the founder and owner of Surviking, can you tell us a little bit about what Surviking is all about, what does it offer to its customers? Our goal is to offer an experience that is attainable for anyone of average fitness. In our view, there is no need for anyone to venture out into the far Northern Scandinavian territories for an Arctic experience, nor is it necessary to brave the isolated wilderness of Siberia just to be able to spend a night in a Taiga forest. We offer diverse adventure packages with a range of activities at differing levels of intensity to fit your preferences. We’ll allow you to slow down and live in the moment for a bit. A chance to get away from the mundane and your daily routines, or the stress of a fast paced world we so often find ourselves in.The outdoors, nature, is far too beautiful to pass on by without taking notice, yet so many of us do, maybe even without realizing it. What is the story behind Surviking, the idea it is capturing? The travel and adventure packages we offer have been born out of a personal passion for the outdoors and a career path in wilderness guiding and outdoor photography. Whether it’s through guiding people, or by presenting pictures of the beautiful landscapes we seek out, we are looking to tell a story. Nature’s story! To be able to tell a unique story, we find our own path. We step off the beaten track, we do our own filming and photographing, bringing out a Drone to capture as much of a lasting visual impression to complement your memories. Experiencing what our natural world has to offer is the main guiding element in everything we do. Nature does not have a voice or even a vote in environmental issues, or any other discussion for that matter. Nature needs more of us to stand up and speak up on her behalf, to be her ambassadors. We often use the phrase “We are the ambassadors of Mother Nature at Surviking.” It may sound like just a funny quip, but when all is said and done, that’s exactly what we are. Somebody must give our natural world a voice and we are happy to be amongst those who do. I understand how important nature is for a company like Surviking. Subsequently, we cannot avoid mentioning the effect we all have on climate change. Where does Surviking stand in this heated debate? Indeed, climate and climate change are hot topics of late. At Surviking we are very acutely aware of this and we see the direct results of this change in our travels. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as zero-carbon, zero-emission traveling. Everything we do has an environmental effect and consequence. During our hikes/treks, we try to imprint on our clients how beautiful but also fragile our natural world is when not properly taken care of. We want to create an awareness of the absolute necessity to preserve nature for future generations. The benefits of reaching growing numbers of people and spreading a mindset that helps us preserve the world are, in our opinion, great gains to off-set our own “footprint”. We encourage people to carpool or use public transport to get themselves to where we set off and try to avoid using airlines. Given the extent and depth of the hikes Surviking offers, can you tell us a little bit about how these trips are supervised? Our guides are certified through the Wilderness Guides Association (WGA). As we take our clients out into (semi-)remote areas, we believe it is paramount to provide capable personnel who can safely and confidently navigate and handle the challenges traversing the outdoor environment brings. Our guides' knowledge of the natural world allows them to explain and narrate the ecosystems we visit and so enhance our clients’ experience and understanding. It might be an obvious statement, but it’s not so much about the destination as it is about the experience and the impressions we gather along the way. Back to basics, back to nature. Joining us at Surviking for an adventure that is a one of a kind experience...
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Ambassador | Francesco Capaccioni @kdallasteppa
Francesco, better known as @kdallasteppa, is a travel photographer who has worked with us since the beginning. It's been an absolute pleasure to have him on the team as a content creator and peer. We absolutely love his style and enthusiasm for travel photography. Make sure to check him out on Instagram and get inspired!
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Ambassador | Sjoerd Bracké
Sjoerd Bracké is a travel photographer and content creator who’s seen a lot of the world already. Through his mind-blowing photography he shows what this world has to offer in terms of going on adventures and beautiful landscapes. Do you need inspiration for your next trips? Make sure to check out his Instagram page and be amazed!
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How To Go Backpacking With Kids
If your family is like most in America today, chances are your children have become immersed in the technological craze that is spreading like wildfire throughout the world—and has been spreading for some time now. From video games to Facebook to Instagram to texting, the average child now spends much more time online than they actually do outside. This is an absolutely tragic statistic that needs to be changed, the sooner the better. For children, the outdoor world means truly connecting with people and a chance for adventure, while also gaining an important measure of physical exercise. As parents, encouraging our children to spend time outdoors is absolutely essential for the health benefits it offers them, and no outdoor activity is better or more uplifting than planning a backpacking trip with your kids. To help you pull this off without a hitch, in the article below we have provided several tips and strategies that will make backpacking with your kids a bit easier, safer and a lot more fun. How to Go Backpacking with Kids: Introduction Every year, millions of parents across the country struggle with the same agonizing decision: what to do and where to go on the yearly family vacation. Some will choose an amusement park of some kind while others will traipse off to visit relatives, but a select few people around the country will elect to go on a more engaging outdoor adventure—one that will cost much less than other vacation destinations: a backpacking trip on one of America’s great wilderness trails. Of course, you may be wondering, “is it really a good idea to take my kids on a multi-day backpacking excursion?’ Can they handle an event like that? Usually, the answer to those two questions is a resounding yes, but only if your planning is good. Children are very resilient, and while they might be reluctant at first to stray away from all their electronic devices in favor of the great outdoors, you are likely to be surprised at just how well they take to the activity of backpacking. With a chance to see new things like lakes, waterfalls and amazing wildlife, not to mention sleeping under the stars next to a roaring campfire, you just might get your kids hooked on backpacking in very short order, while also creating fond memories that will last a lifetime. So just how do you plan for a trip such as this? How do you get your kids—and yourself—ready for a fun and exciting trip into the backcountry? Read on as we provide several tips and strategies for how to backpack with your kids. Understand Your Kids’ Likes and Limits A backpacking trip can be a big change of pace for children, especially if they are accustomed to a more sedentary lifestyle. Likewise, very small children may need to go at a slower pace than their older siblings and parents. You should also account for what you will do to ensure your kids are engaged and having fun on the hike. When trying to get a full grasp on your kids’ likes and limits, you may want to ask a few questions when planning your trip, as getting answers to these questions can make the trip go much smoother. Here are just a few of the queries to consider before you set out on your excursion: What are you trying to accomplish? Are you trying to stress the importance of exercise via this backpacking trip or simply attempting to introduce your children to the beauty of nature? Understanding the goals for the trip will make things go much more smoothly in the planning stage. How long is the trip? While older children may be happy to engage in a two-week adventure, the smaller children in the household may not be up to that kind of challenge. How intense is the trail? Naturally, smaller children may not be able to handle very challenging trails, such as those with steep elevation gains. Thus, you will need to choose a trail that matches everybody’s ability. Things to do during your downtime. If you understand what your kids like to do, you can plan activities during your downtime that will help them enjoy the excursion even more. How you will get there. We all know that children despise long car rides, so you may want to initially choose a trail that is fairly local in relation to where you reside. Having an idea regarding what your kids love to do and the challenges they might not yet be able to accomplish can help you plan a very successful backpacking trip with your children. Start Small If your children are brand new to the world of backpacking, do not expect them to be able to hike 8-10 miles in a day—the distance that many experienced backpackers traverse. This is simply too long for them physically and from an endurance standpoint and you may just lose their interest for the activity entirely. Instead you should start with small hikes on the weekend, culminated by a campfire and sleepover at the end of your destination. These smaller, less intense treks will help them build up the endurance for longer hikes and will give them an appreciation for the majesty that is the outdoors. Get Them Involved There are many ways to get your kids more involved in your backpacking and camping adventure. And when they feel more involved in the activity, they are much more likely to enjoy themselves. Enlist your kids' help when setting up camp for the night: let them help set up the tent, build the fire, and prepare for the S’mores you will enjoy later. Show them pictures of the flora and fauna they are likely to see along the trail and give prizes for correctly identifying a plant or animal. Anything that keeps them actively engaged—rather than tired or bored—will make the time and the miles fly by. Treats Can Prevent Frequent Stops Walking with a pack on one’s bag can make anyone tired and hungry, and while experienced adult backpackers can just gut it out until the next “scheduled” stop, you cannot expect that with children. Once the first child fires the first “I’m hungry or I’m thirsty” whine you can almost guarantee it will result in a chorus of complaining, and unless you have some easy-to-access treats on hand you will find yourself making plenty of “unscheduled” stops along the trail. When choosing treats for the trail, be sure to keep the children’s nutritional needs in mind, but you will also need to satisfy their sweet tooth in most cases. Protein bars, those with chocolate or peanut butter, are a great option along the trail. Nuts will also work in a pinch, and juice boxes can quench their thirst until you make camp for the night. Candy is even okay in moderation, just keep it to a minimum to avoid sugar rushes and the ultimate crash from that rush. Don’t Be in a Rush If you are a goal-oriented person like this author, I am guessing you are likely to push yourself to get to your destination as quickly as possible. This is not necessarily a bad approach if you are backpacking solo, but it simply is not wise when backpacking with your children. There is simply no way to be in a rush when backpacking with kids, so you need to be in a “no rush” mindset. Children may need frequent rests; they may need to stop to retie their shoes, etc. This is okay. The important thing is that the whole family is together in a beautiful place, far away from the screech of technology and the hustle and bustle of your workaday lives. You can use these stops as valuable teaching moments as you point out various plants and landscapes. This is also a great time to just sit and talk, perhaps about the highlights of the hike on which you just engaged. Enjoy the environment and the time spent together and your rush-rush attitude will melt away. Keep Your Packs Light One of the best ways to ensure a successful backpacking trip with your kids is to keep your packs as light as possible. This, of course, is easier with shorter hikes, but as your children become more experienced with the activity and more willing to push their limitations, this becomes more and more challenging. There are, however, many things you can do to save ounces in your pack. If packing clothes, choose those with lightweight fabrics as much as possible—fabrics made from nylon, Lycra or other synthetic materials, without a lot of zippers and buttons. Select foods that are calorie dense—those with a lot of calories in small lightweight packaging—and keep your other gear to a minimum. If you are only going on a short overnight backpacking trip, keep your kids’ backpacks light while filling yours to the brim. The lighter their packs are, the less likely they are to complain. Last Words Following all of these tips can help lead to a successful and enjoyable backpacking outing with your children, but perhaps the most important tip we can leave you with is to keep a great attitude even when things go wrong—and they will go wrong. Showing your angst or frustration when problems occur on the trail may dissuade your children’s enthusiasm, so smile through it all and just be thankful that you are all together.
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Solo Backpacking Tips For Beginners
Backpacking, whether on trails, the deep woods or simply globetrotting around the world, can be a glorious pursuit. The activity gives you the time and opportunity to commune with nature, to escape from the hustle and bustle of your everyday life, to meet new like-minded people and see parts of the world of which others can only dream. And one of the hard and fast rules of backpacking, one based on safety, has always been to NOT do the activity alone. But what if you simply cannot find anyone to backpack with you, someone who shares your same dream? And what if you actually prefer to be alone as a way to keep your own schedule and do and see things that appeal solely to you and your interests? Although this has long been frowned upon in general, more and more people today are ignoring this “never backpack alone” rule and setting off on their own, preferring to buck this simple code in favor of a great solo adventure. Solo backpacking can be an absolute blast, but in order to get the most out of your trip, while still ensuring your health and safety, you will need to follow a few simple rules and tips. Fortunately for you, below we have compiled some of these easy-to-follow tips and strategies into a single article that will help you prepare for your trip. Solo Backpacking Tips: What You Need to Know If you intend to backpack solo, there are many things you will need to do both before and during your trip to ensure your safety and guarantee you get the most out of your journey. To help you get underway, here are just a few of the things you will need to do. Plan Your Trip Carefully While it is always important to plan your trip carefully and thoroughly regardless of how many people are traveling, this particular step becomes even more important when you are backpacking alone. When planning a solo backpacking trip, the first step is to determine where you are going. Are you going to the mountains of California to pan for gold, or perhaps to Europe to visit your country of origin and check out all the cool things there to see? Wherever you decide, it is crucial that you plan your trip meticulously. By doing this, you can avoid the possibility of getting lost, and you can let those that care about you the most know exactly where you are—or where you should be—on any given day of your excursion. One of the great things about backpacking solo is that your destination is 100 percent your choice. You do not have to worry about what the other people in your group want to do, which will allow you to more rapidly experience all the things that you want to do and see, without being slowed down by side trips of which you have no interest. With that having been said, deciding where you want to go is only about half the battle. There are also some other very important planning questions you will need to ask yourself to make sure your destination is realistic and to ensure the trip is a complete success. Here is just a sample of some of those questions: Timeframe. How much time do you have to enjoy this solo trip of a lifetime? Of course, if you have planned for a very long excursion—maybe a year or more—the sky is the limit in terms of where you can go. However, if you have a limited timeframe in which to travel, you might want to choose a place a bit closer to home. The last thing you want to do is spend all your time “getting to” your destination, leaving you little time to actually enjoy yourself once you get there. What Type of Things Do You Want to Do? Perhaps prior to settling on a destination—or destinations—for your upcoming solo backpacking trip, you should make a list of all the things you want to do. Are you looking to learn about a new culture, eat food you have never eaten, challenge yourself on a mountain trail, or just lounge on a beach somewhere with a good book? Once you decide what you want to do during your trip, deciding on a location will be much easier. Cost? Of course, you will also have to consider your budget before deciding where you want to go. Globetrotting through Europe will be much more expensive than a mountain getaway, which is why it is so crucial to plan every step of your trip based on the money you have on hand. Let Someone Know Where You Are Going Once you have asked and answered all of these important questions, and then decided on a destination, you can sit down and begin to plan your route and your schedule. This means planning on how you will reach each destination, where you will stay when you get there, and the activities in which you plan to engage. Once you have done this, give your schedule and route to a trusted family member or friend. Having someone back at home that knows where you are supposed to be on each day of your trip is always a good idea just in case of an emergency. Don’t Over-schedule Your Trip The great thing about backpacking solo is the freedom it provides you. Therefore, the last thing you want to do is over-plan for your trip, which will make you feel rushed. Even with the most well-thought-out schedule and route planning, there are bound to be hiccups or changes to that schedule. Perhaps you enjoy one destination so much that you decide to stay an extra day or two. Do not be so rigid with getting to each destination that you forget to smell the roses once you get there. Bring a Cell Phone Naturally, solo backpacking is about getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, which for some people means ditching their cell phones so as not to be disturbed. This is all fine and good, but you have to plan for emergencies as well. Because of this, you should always keep a charged cell phone on your person, even if you elect to turn it off. And if you travel to places where your cell phone doesn’t work, you can always purchase a local sim card if you want to use the Wi-Fi there. In addition to emergencies, a cell phone is a great way to plan your routes, check on prices for local lodging, and memorialize your trip through pictures and notes. Pack Lightly According to veteran solo backpackers, one of the most important tips to follow is to pack lightly. Nobody wants to lug around a heavy backpack jammed with things you may not need. One good rule of thumb when packing for your trip: if you have any doubts whatsoever about a given item, leave it behind. If you can get along without it there is no needed to add any extra weight to your pack. Know the Weather This is a tip that applies mostly to mountain and wilderness backpackers, but it could also apply to any type of travel. You should always try and have a pretty good idea regarding what the weather will be like on any given day. This will help you decide how to dress on that day and the mode of travel that is best. Stick to the Beaten Path Once again, this tip applies mostly to the mountain or wilderness backpacker, but it could technically describe any type of solo backpacking trip. By sticking to the pre-cut trails you can greatly reduce the chance of getting lost or off track. Although exploring into unknown areas might sound like the adventurous thing to do, it can also be the most dangerous course of action, especially when backpacking alone. Embrace the People You Meet This may sound odd, but one of the greatest things about solo backpacking is the people you will meet on the way. Mingling with the locals when you get to your destination is a great way to learn about new cultures and can help you significantly in terms of finding the cheapest meals and lodging. Just because you have chosen to take this trip alone, it doesn’t mean that you will be alone for long. Know Your Limitations Last but certainly not least, there is never a need to push yourself past your limitations when solo backpacking. Whether you are hiking a mountain trail or heading east to visit friends, be sure to go at your own pace and do not overexert yourself. After all, that’s one of the great things about solo backpacking. It allows you to travel and do the activities you want to do at your own particular speed, without having to worry about someone else. Slow and steady, rather than fast and reckless, is not only a safer way to travel, it also allows you to enjoy the adventure that much more.
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A Short Mountain Survival Guide: The Basics You Need to Know
Do you have an adventurer soul? Do mountains attract you like a magnet? If yes then read these pieces of advice , they will give you precious tips for surviving in the mountains and make your hike safer and more enjoyable. When viewing photos mountaineers and hikers capture from the mountains, it seems that these places are paradise on earth. The immensity of the landscape, the blue of the sky and the rivers that run through them, the immaculate whiteness of this pure snow. What can I say? They are real works of art that convey peace and serenity. When looking at these images, I never think of the dangers and risks that these people may have taken to walk that far and to have gone that high. I am sure that just like me, it spurs the desire to take your backpack and discover these beautiful landscapes. However, for those who venture up there without a minimum of preparation, the mountain can be a constant source of threat which will surely take away those who will show imprudence. So you have to be well prepared. Physical fitness must be at its top, you must have a strong spirit, climbing knowledge if you want to go further and a good understanding of mountain survival in case something happens to you. In this article, I will provide you with a little mountain survival guide. Some of that advice can most definitely make the difference between your survival or the end of your adventure, but you should certainly not limit yourself to them. There are so many mountains and mountain situations that I would have to write a series of articles on the subject to have a good overview of all the different risks someone can encounter in the mountains. Essential Gear: Mountain Hard Shell Jackets A critical part of your preparation involves selecting the right gear. For harsh mountain conditions, a quality mountain hard shell jacket is indispensable. These jackets offer the durability, weather resistance, and breathability needed for mountain environments.For women, it's important to choose a jacket that provides both protection and comfort. Check out our selection of mountain hard shell jackets for women, designed specifically to meet the unique needs of female adventurers. The general characteristics of mountains Because of its geological shape, a mountain is a place where the environment, climate, and temperature change rapidly. As you climb, you will go from rock to snow, from the tropical climate to winter, from sunny to stormy; it is necessary to be on the lookout for these sudden changes and be prepared accordingly. The winds will start to blow, and it will be more and more difficult for you to bivouac or find food. Mountain hazards The mere fact of losing ground in a more or less steep slope can be a deadly danger. The risks of sprains and strains are constant and the screes, due to freezing/thawing and the wind chasing you are highly possible. So stay always alert even when the danger does not seem to be present. Avoid at all costs moving at night. The risks you will take are far too high compared to the time you will save. Remember that you are always in the hands of rapid temperature changes in addition to not having a good vision of where you put your hands or feet. Frozen peaks In some mountains, you will be able to reach the snowy and icy areas without much difficulty. Remember, however, that the danger is even more present. In addition to all the other pitfalls, there is now the risk of avalanche and the invisible crevasses that you must consider. The avalanches You will not be surprised if I tell you that a simple noise can be responsible for an avalanche, but it is not the only cause that creates this kind of deluge. The temperature and the structure of the snow can also be responsible. When you walk on this snow, make sure it is well compressed using a stick that you will drive into it. You can also throw objects that are heavy enough like rocks and, of course, make noise. Avoid areas with a high slope or of a convex shape, as well as areas where snow has just fallen. These are the areas most at risk to trigger an avalanche. Sunny areas are also to be avoided, early in the day. The sun is strong enough to melt some of the snow, which makes it fragile. I let you guess the rest if you venture in these areas. Ideally, you should move around in areas protected by the forest or areas with irregular terrain, because the chances of avalanche are much less. Will this give you a chance to take a breath? No, because there is still a danger you need to be aware of, the dangerous crevasses. How to react if you are caught in an avalanche You have just been caught in an area that had all the characteristics of an avalanche zone. It rumbles, cracks and you see in the distance a great white wave surging towards you! What to do? Quickly head towards one of the sides. Do not try to go down the slope, let alone face it by telling yourself that you are stronger. And if you do not reach a safe area, try to cling to something in order not to be carried away by this mass that is tumbling faster than you. The last tip for those who want to play with avalanches, have an avalanche beacon with you. It could save your life if you are buried under hundreds of pounds of snow. The crevasses Crevasses are natural openings in a glacier. They are not so menacing, but they can play very bad tricks. Open crevasses are not so dangerous. You can see them from far enough to avoid them, but those covered with a thin bridge of ice, these are vicious. There are not so many ways to spot them, but if you have a doubt skirt the area or rope up. If you must pass on a crevasse you have spotted, cross it on only late in the night, meaning very early in the morning. The ice will be at its strongest. But still, this is to be avoided if you don’t have the equipment to rope up. How to react if you have fallen into a crevasse Getting out of a crevasse without help or rope is tough. If you are alone and cannot find a way out, plan as soon as possible to make a fire and build a shelter for the coming night. The night will come much faster in your hole. Also, think of making yourself visible from the outside by throwing a piece of brightly colored and big enough fabric outside the crevasse. The ideal would be to make a flag with possible branches or hiking poles. Shelters As I mentioned earlier in the article, the higher you climb, the harder it will be to find shelter. You can always use branches and tree trunks to build your shelter at low altitude. Only, when there are no more trees or branches, you will have to settle for snow and rock. The techniques to build this kind of shelter are quite technical and require more advanced knowledge that here too, can make the difference between your survival or your loss. Note that when in deep snow two types of shelter can be considered, snow caves and igloos. I strongly suggest that you perfect your knowledge in the construction of shelters and, even, put them into practice. To finish When going hiking in the mountains, as for any other adventure, you have to be prepared at least at minimum. You need to learn about the mountain you want to climb so that you will save yourself a lot of hassle. You can probably have a beautiful little adventure with only a small backpack on your shoulders. But the further you will wander in the mountains the more you will need to prepare yourself and the more your backpack will have to contain specific equipment. For small hikes in the mountains or for any other little adventures, I advise you to have with you a basic survival kit and a survival plan and most of all to know how to use it. You never know when it will be needed.
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Getting Into the Mountaineering Mode in Julian Alps
It seems to me that the mountains are the greatest source of excitement, fun, energy and visual beauty. They are the greatest source of so much in life that makes life worth living. The pulse quickens, the heart pumps, the mind searches for all kinds of excuses—and then, in one impetuous, soul-soaring moment, we say, “I’m going to do this!” And off we go. As we switch to summer hiking mode and follow the calls of the rugged mountainous world, it’s necessary that we’ve already done our share of physical and mental preparations beforehand. This year, after a few more or less stagnant months due to the coronavirus, when mountains were completely off the chart, preparations for mountaineering seem more important than ever! I started mine in May right after the lockdown finished. In a perfect setting of the idyllic mountainous world of the Julian Alps above a forested Alpine plateau of Pokljuka. With all those gorgeous peaks at hand – a mere 15-minute drive from our countryside house - I really couldn’t think of a better place for technically easy-to-medium difficulty hikes. The trails I opted for were marked about 700 meters of ascent and two hours one way, most of them being very straightforward, easy hiking trails. With a little bit of scrambling, challenging weather here and there, and a couple of extra via ferratas I feel I’m all set for the season. Ready to go! Comfortably accessible at just 20 km from Bled and with astonishing views of Triglav, amazing neighboring peaks and rolling hilltops of Pokljuka and Bohinj, Viševnik is one of the most rewarding mountains in Slovenia. It might be the easiest 2K peak to climb and as such suitable also for the less experienced, while also perfect for a quick afternoon hike. If you hurry a bit, you’ll easily squeeze those marked two hours into one or one and a half, and with a bit of time spent at the top and another hour walking down, the classic trail from Rudno Polje shouldn’t be more than 2.5-3 hours for the whole trip. Viševnik over Srenjski Preval Those of you who prefer rugged terrain to easy carefree trails might want to try this route to Viševnik. However, the trail is not marked and for the first-timers it’s desired they have already tackled the peak on the classic trail before, which should serve them well as a basis for a better sense of orientation. This route is also a bit longer – between 2-2.5 hours to the top and about an hour and a half for the descent, as well as a bit exposed. As fewer people pass here it’s important that you hike it with someone. For me, this route was a perfect playground for the body and mind as well as practicing the sense of direction. While going up was pretty straightforward, coming down onto another barely visible track turned out to be quite an adventure. Almost 2,000 meters high, just on the opposite side of Mt. Triglav, Slovenia’s highest, across the narrow and more than a 1000-meter deep glacial valley, stands an impressive mountain with awe-inspiring vistas. Utterly relaxing and, more often than not, completely forgotten by the masses on a normal weekday, Mrežce is the kind of peak that will surprise you unprepared. After a good uphill on a mediocre slope, you enter a gorgeous Alpine meadow filled with colorful wildflowers with views to die for. For all I know, I can become quite comfortable there in the soft grass, warm sunshine, and circling birds preying on a piece of snack. For those of you who need a little extra to Mrežce, you can extend your hike to its neighboring peaks, Lipanski Vrh and Brda. With a bit of secured scrambling in between the peaks, you’ll get your skills and fitness covered, while your soul is fed by the views from the tops. Cheers to that! My advice to you? If you haven’t done so already, get that body and mind back on track asap and you’ll be able to explore the Alps in an effortless way – you know, without panting and aching on long tours. You might discover that training for the real thing can be as rewarding as the actual tour. So, keep your heart and eyes open wherever you go. Enjoy!
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How to Lower Your Impact on the Outdoors
The natural environment is not only our playground, but also our home - and as outdoors-people, we should be on the frontlines of protecting it. However, the realities of climate breakdown can be overwhelming, and sometimes it’s hard to know where to begin. You don’t need to be a climate scientist, hardened activist or pro-skier to engage with environmental issues - and here we’ve pulled together some of our favourite ways to speak up for the planet whilst in the mountains, and help make your outdoor adventures a little more sustainable. 1. Embrace flygskam Let’s start at the beginning. All great adventures start the minute you step out of the door - and altering the way you travel to the mountains is the first step towards decreasing your impact on the environment. Budget flights and the existence of Skyscanner have brought the world to our fingertips, making it easier than ever to reach some of the world’s wildest places within a few hours of leaving home. Air travel accounts for 2% of the world’s CO2 emissions - which at first glance, doesn’t seem too overwhelming. Don’t be fooled. The aviation sector is growing so rapidly that estimates suggest that by 2050, it could consume 25% of the carbon budget required to keep levels of warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. The reality of climate breakdown is inescapable - and the mountains illustrate this perfectly. Retreating glaciers, dwindling snow levels and a shrinking winter season are all consequences of a changing climate - so next time you’re planning a week’s escape to the Alps, embrace the Swedish concept of ‘flygskam’, or flight-shame, and trade carbon-intensive flights for something a little greener. Rail travel is becoming more and more accessible, and getting to the mountains by train has never been easier. Check out Snowcarbon for tips on planning your next rail-powered ski holiday. 2. Buy better Spending time outside doesn’t mean you need to spend your whole pay cheque on the latest outdoor kit - however long hill days can be made safer and a lot more pleasant if you know you are able to rely on the gear you have with you. Outdoor brands are just like any other business - they survive by constantly innovating and redesigning the products they offer, and this endless cycle of production takes a toll on the planet. Cheap and cheerful outdoor clothing is readily available, and though the price tag is appealing, a £10 fleece is the outdoorsy equivalent of mainstream fast fashion. As consumers, it falls to us to hold brands to account, and as outdoors-people, we should be supporting those who value the planet over profit.. Companies that care will shout about it - but beware of greenwashing. Before purchasing, take the time to find out where and how an item was produced - and who it was made by. Invest in high quality items which will last a lifetime, and serve more than one purpose. 3. Give your gear some T.L.C. Often forgotten or neglected, taking proper care of the outdoor kit you own can make it last for much longer than it otherwise would. We all know cleaning muddy hiking boots is no fun - however leaving your outdoor footwear to fend for itself can drastically shorten it’s lifespan. Boots should be cleaned after each use, and reproofed regularly in order to maintain their waterproof properties. Waterproof garments also need reproofing to reboot water-repellency and remove dirt which can compromise the breathability of waterproof membranes - use a wash-in product to treat the whole garment, or a spray to focus on high-wear areas such as the shoulders and waist, which often come into contact with rucksack straps. Nikwax produce aftercare products for all outdoor equipment, which is water-based and PFC-free, letting you show your gear some love - and the planet too! 4. If it’s broke… Fix it! To borrow the well-known slogan, the best way to lessen the environmental impact of your outdoor gear is to use what you have, and make it last as long as possible. Basic sewing skills go a long way, as does puncture repair tape - a down jacket with a few patches always looks better than a shiny new one. 5. Ditch single use Heading into the mountains is no reason to subconsciously embrace single use products - sure, it’s convenient, but we’re all aware of the problems plastic pollution is causing around the world. Swap out plastic water bottles for reusable ones, and avoid flimsy plastic camping accessories like sporks by investing in a more durable alternative. Those aren’t the only offenders though - little things like freeze-dried meal pouches, energy bar wrappers and instant hand warmers all make outdoor life more comfortable, but all end up in landfill. Avoid buying into unnecessary luxuries, and support brands which are making a conscious effort to limit the volume of waste their products produce - for example Firepot or Outdoor Provisions, both of which use fully compostable packaging. For extra eco-points, go a step further and experiment with making your own snacks and dehydrated food to fuel your next mountain adventure. 6. Leave No Trace Something we should all already be doing. The principles of ‘Leave no Trace’ lay down some ground rules for spending time in the outdoors, ensuring that natural spaces are not degraded by our enjoyment of them. These can be condensed into 7 simple points, enabling us to pass through nature invisibly, leaving nothing behind and taking nothing with us. Plan ahead and prepare fully: properly planning your trip enables you to be prepare for all eventualities, including challenging terrain, gear issues and anything the weather may throw at you. Plan routes which minimise disturbance to natural habitats, avoiding ecologically delicate areas such as rocky slopes or thick vegetation. Travel and camp on durable surfaces: Soil erosion is becoming a serious issue in the mountains, particularly in popular areas with high footfall. More on this below. Dispose of waste properly: Pack. It. Out. Anything and everything you carry out into the outdoors you must always bring back with you - this includes any rubbish, toilet paper, and, yes, human waste. This can be buried, but always at least 6cm deep and away from all water sources, houses and campsites. Leave what you find: resist the urge to take home mementos of your trip. If it was there when you arrived, leave it. Unless it’s litter, in which case take it with you. Minimize campfire impact: campfires are iconic in outdoor culture, and the ability to build one is a key skill - however overuse of fires has led to the degradation of the appearance of wild places, especially in popular tourist areas. Camping stoves are a popular alternative, being lightweight to carry and having minimal impact on the environment. If firewood is needed, for example when staying in a bothy or using a wood stove, it should be carried in. Live trees should never be cut for firewood, and dead trees create habitats for a whole host of living things. Respect wildlife: ecosystems are fragile things, and simple steps can be taken to preserve them. Keep groups small and noise to a minimum, and avoid disturbing flora and fauna just to get a closer look. The natural world has intrinsic value, beyond providing us with landscapes to explore and enjoy. Take time to learn about the land you are travelling across, no matter whether it’s your back garden or a completely new country. The ability to read the landscape, and recognise certain features adds a new dimension to spending time outside, and subconsciously increases the drive to protect it. Be considerate to other visitors: everyone should be able to enjoy their time outdoors - so respect your fellow adventurers! Avoid shouting and loud music, or excessive phone use. If camping, arrive late and leave early, setting up tents away from the main trail. Put simply, stick to these 7 points, and we’ll all get along great! 7. Tread lightly It’s called “bog-skirting”. Tiptoeing around the edge of the giant puddle that has conveniently positioned itself in the middle of the trail, in an attempt to preserve the dryness of your boots for just a little longer. We’ve all been there at one time or another. However although it seems harmless, the longterm effects of hikers avoiding less favourable terrain, especially in areas of heavy footfall, aren’t great for the environment. Walking off-trail creates new pathways, resulting in vegetation damage and soil erosion on a massive scale - the very thing hiking trails have been created to prevent. Trampled vegetation can take up to 500 years to recover - it doesn’t take that long to clean your boots, so give the plants a break and just walk through the mud instead. 8. Get involved Individual changes are important, but can only go so far. Real environmental action comes about through collective collaboration - joining a group or organisation working on combatting the climate crisis provides community, support and a platform through which to influence governmental policy and decision-making. There are hundreds of environmental groups out there standing up for the planet, many of which combine environmentalism with a passion for the outdoors. Here are some or our favourites: Protect Our Winters: Founded by pro-snowboarder Jeremy Jones, POW is a network of athletes, scientists, resorts and brands, fighting to promote climate action within the snowsports community. Balkan River Defence: A river conservation movement connecting science and adventure sports, working to prevent the construction of dams on the last of the wild rivers in Europe. Surfers Against Sewage: a movement of ocean lovers aiming to combat plastic pollution and degradation of the UK’s coastlines. Climb It for Climate: organised by the non-profit One Tree at a Time, Climb It for Climate is a growing movement to raise awareness of climate change and the shortening winter season, by encouraging people to get outside and climb a hill. Head to their Facebook page to find the next event, or organise your own
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