Ex Troll Challenger offer participants the opportunity to undertake an expedition either on foot, by canoe or cycle. The Setesdal Valley in Southern Norway offers an exceptional environment for outdoor enthusiasts, where trekking, canoeing, and cycling reveal the region’s raw beauty and rich cultural heritage. Winding trails lead hikers through serene forests, dramatic mountain landscapes, and past traditional villages, offering a peaceful connection to nature. Canoeing on the valley’s tranquil rivers and glacial lakes provides a unique perspective of the pristine surroundings, while cycling along quiet roads and rugged paths allows participants to cover more ground and discover hidden gems. Whether on foot, by paddle, or on two wheels, Setesdal invites exploration at every turn.
Trekking through Setesdal Vesthei is challenging, yet well-supported with clearly marked trails and a reliable network of DNT (Den Norske Turistforening) cabins. The red “T” signs guide hikers through varied terrain, including high plateaus, forests, and open hills. DNT hyttes, provide places to rest and prepare meals and sleep. The established trail and cabin system makes it ideal for multi-day hikes of different lengths and difficulty level.
Canoeing touring in the Setesdal Valley offers an accessible way to explore the region’s lakes and rivers. The waterways are generally calm, making them suitable for developing paddlers. There are plenty of natural spots along the shores where you can set up camp with access to facilities. Campsites are typically informal, so you can choose where to stop based on distance and conditions. Canoeing in Setesdal valley combines steady paddling with flexible, self-sufficient camping, allowing for a quiet, yet challenging adventure.
Cycle touring from Ose to Kristiansand through the Setesdal Valley offers a varied and challenging route that follows quiet roads and trails along the rivers, lakes, passing through traditional Norwegian village along the way. The journey gradually descends from the high mountains near Ose to the coastal city of Kristiansand, making it suitable for developing cyclists. Along the way, you’ll pass through small towns, local farms, and scenic rest spots, with opportunities to stop for supplies. Participants will stop overnight in the community campsites and shelter which are spread along the full length of the route. The terrain is generally undulating, mostly paved and generally well-maintained, it’s a rewarding way to experience the length of the Setesdal Valley at a steady, self-guided pace.
Duration: 9 days in total, 5 training and 4 days on expedition.
Location: CCAT Halton near Lancaster and Setasdal Valley, Norway
Course fee: £500
Eligibility: Cadets aged 15+ and CFAVs
Prerequisites: This is an expedition for developing mountaineers, paddlers and cyclists. Cadets must be at least 15 years old and have completed the relevant CCAT foundation skills course or have demonstrable equivalent skills. They must also have completed their 3-star ACS, have a genuine interest in expeditions and have completed their Cadet Force Water Safety Test. CFAVs do not need to be qualified, but it would be beneficial to have completed the Cadet Force Water Safety Test and be prepared to fully support the Cadets throughout the expeditions.
Please speak to your detachment or contingent commander if you are interested in attending this course.
Ex Troll Challenger Photo Gallery
Explore the stunning Setesdal Valley in Southern Norway through trekking, canoeing, or cycling. This gallery captures the raw beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure of this unforgettable expedition.
CLICK ANY IMAGE BELOW TO VIEW LARGER
