Wild nature, mountains and forests in Fjord Norway. The boat is safe and steady and the river is mostly calm. Green sometimes. At other times blue. It is a feeling of freedom, really, to float down the river and be a part of it. There are some currents which suggest we could call the expedition light river rafting in some areas. But mostly the river is just calm and friendly.
The river expedition
Bjørn Moe at Mo Laksegard is our skipper, passing mountains and forests. He has given instructions on safety. You just follow his commands.
About half way down the river, we make a stop to have lunch. There is a lavvo on the river bank. And a bonfire to sit around. Everyone gets a small frying pan and batter. But the lunch is more than food. It is time for Bjørn Moe to tell stories. Stories about the river. What it has meant to his family through the last centuries, and what it means now. Fascinating. The man, his stories, the river.
Salmon fishing
After lunch you get to try salmon fishing in the Suldalslågen River. If you are dreaming of the big one, this is the place to try. The biggest fish ever caught here weighed 34 kilos. Mr Grieg, an Englishman who took this salmon fly-fishing, had to play the fish for 12 hours. There are still catches that exceed 20 kilos every year. Between 300 and 2,000 salmon have been caught here annually since 1957.
You can stay at Mo Laksegard, rent a cabin or stay in a hotel in Suldal. And if you would like to get even closer to the river than in a boat, you can join a salmon safari, floating down the river in a dry suit.
Locally brewed beer
After lunch the expedition continues down the river. And we stop just before the river gets to the Salmon Studio. Next thing on the programme is the bar at Mo Laksegard. Bjørn Moe is in the beer business. He brews two kinds of beer. One of them is called Happy Salmon. Spinx is not the last person to accept an invitation to try both of the beers, in the outdoor hot tub.
- I need to see which of them is the happiest one, smiles Spinx.
Where to stay in Ryfylke
Spinx stayed at Mo Laksegard. The lodge has hotel standard and is definitely recommendable. Find other places to stay in Ryfylke.
How to get to Ryfylke
Ryfylke is accessible from major Norwegian towns and ports of entry. Find ways to get to Ryfylke.
Other activities in Ryfylke
Besides river expedition and salmon fishing, you should try horseback riding and kayaking, or go on a cruise on the Lysefjord. Find out what to do in Ryfylke.
Stories for Life is produced by Sheriff Film Company.