Thinking of joining us for the 85th anniversary of Operation Gunnerside in 2028? Following their legendary attack route, but unsure if your winter skills or skiing ability are up to the challenge?
Never spent a night in a true winter environment, but keen to learn the skills needed to operate confidently in Arctic conditions? Want to experience ski touring across one of Europe’s most remote landscapes while carrying your own equipment and pulling a traditional expedition pulk?
Then join us in Norway for our Operation Grouse & Freshman Winter Training Expedition, designed to prepare you for the historic Gunnerside route.
During this expedition you will learn the essential skills required to operate safely and confidently in winter mountain environments. Under expert instruction you will develop cross-country ski touring techniques, learn how to travel efficiently while hauling equipment by pulk, and gain valuable experience living and sleeping overnight in remote winter terrain.
The training takes place on the vast Hardangervidda Plateau, Europe’s largest mountain plateau and the same unforgiving terrain where Norwegian commandos trained and operated during the Second World War.
Historically, the story begins in 1942 when the Norwegian advance team of Norwegian Independent Company 1 commandos parachuted onto the plateau during Operation Grouse, tasked with preparing the ground for a planned British assault known as Operation Freshman. When Freshman tragically failed, the Grouse team survived the brutal winter on the plateau, waiting months in isolation before linking up with the Gunnerside saboteurs.
Together they carried out Operation Gunnerside, the daring mission that destroyed the Nazi heavy water production facility at Vemork and is widely regarded as the most successful sabotage operation of the Second World War.
Upon your arrival at the airport, our dedicated team will be there to warmly welcome you, followed by a brief introduction to set the stage for the incredible journey ahead.
After the introductions, we'll proceed to gather our ski equipment and essential survival stores. The day will culminate with a delightful evening meal at our hotel, setting the tone for the camaraderie that will define our expedition.
Several days of ski training and familiarisation with survival skills will ensure everyone is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
Over the course of the 7 days and nights, we will:
• Develop advanced cross-country ski touring skills
• Learn Arctic travel techniques using pulks
• Experience overnight winter living in remote arctic terrain.
• Gain confidence operating in cold weather environments.
• Understood the incredible story behind the build-up to Operation Gunnerside.
Includes 7 days full board, all transfers in country, expedition ski equipment hire, guide fees and winter survival training.
Does not include flights to Norway and alcohol.
£2495 can be paid in instalments.
Joachim Rønneberg - Operation Gunnerside
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