Munkeferden (munk = munk (Norwegian), ferd = journey (Norwegian) is a 34 kilometer long ski racing from Sandnes to Neiden. It takes place every year at the end of March/beginning of April.
Since it is not allowed to bring dogs to this event, I start with my Alaskan Husky at midday, long after the first participants have already reached the finish line. But therefore, we are the only ones on the cross-country ski-track. Only sporadically do we meet some skiers on their way back.
It is beautiful spring weather and we cover the distance of 10 kilometers to the first refreshing station quite quickly. In addition, the cross-country ski-track is rather flat and well-known to me and my dog because it is not so far away from where we live. We use this track quite often in winter time. Although we are the last ones today, there are still some drinks waiting for us at the refreshing station.
On the continuing way, a steep ascent awaits us. And it is on this exhausting part of the way that I feel the most how intense the sun is shining on us. But the vastness and beauty of the landscape outweighs all the sweating on the way up to the mountains.
After 20 kilometers we reach the second refreshing station and soon afterwards the cross-country ski-track descends into the valley Korsdal towards the coast.
In Munkelv we leave the cross-country ski-track to Neiden and descend further until we reach the road E6. We will be picked up here and 26 kilometers are really enough for us for today.