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The Fastnet Race is a legendary offshore race which often is referred to as the toughest race in the world. The race starts in Cowes, Isle of Wight, UK and goes via the Fastnet Rock lighthouse outside the Irish coast and finishes in Cherborug, France. The race course is 695 nautical miles (approximately 1200 km) in total. Many offshore sailors dream about competing in the race.

Two of Tactical Foodpack fans had the opportunity to fulfill their dream and cross the Fastnet Race off their bucket list. Sanna and Julius from Finland are double handed (DH) aka two-person crew sail racing team. So here are their experiences and emotsions from the adventure, straight from the source!

BY SANNA MOLIIS (@iriesailing)

We both have long experience of offshore sailing and sail racing with different keelboats, mainly in the Baltic Sea but also from Atlantic crossings, the Mediterranian and the Caribbean. We have been sail racing together with our boat s/y Irie since 2021 and have participated in long offshore races in the Baltic Sea with great success.

Transfer sail from Helsinki to the race start in Cowes

After a hectic spring filled with preparations on the boat we were finally ready to start our delivery sail in end of June. We had reserved two weeks for our delivery sail to Cherbourg and one week of preparations before the race start. Luckily, we had reserved much time for the delivery sail as we mainly had strong headwinds, or no winds at all. We had to spend one week in Cuxhaven, Germany due to the storm “Poly” which caused gale force headwinds on the North Sea. Despite bad luck with the winds and weather we made it in time to Cherbourg where we spent a busy week with race preparations before crossing the English Channel to the Isle of Wight, where the race started.

This year the race celebrated its 50th anniversary with a record breaking 450 boats on the starting line. As the race start approached there was a special feeling of anticipation and nervosity in the race harbour. Particularly when the weather forecasts started to stabilize and it became clear that the conditions were going to be extremely tough for the race start. We also got a weather briefing during the skippers meeting, and warnings about the incoming cold fronts and strong winds.

On July 22nd the Fastnet race started in heavy rain and strong breeze. Many boats, including us were prepared with storm sails, the conditions became really tough when we came out of the shelter of the Solent. The strong tidal currents made things even more interesting, the current was with us pushing us forward whereas the wind and waves were against us – this combination created steep and high waves. The first night of the race was tough, many boats were struggling, many abandoned the race or went in to harbors to seek shelter to continue the next day. We sailed very conservative and managed to push through the night.

At the mercy of the weather

During the second day the weather conditions calmed down, we sailed along the coast and even got to enjoy some sunshine after the rain, but most importantly we finally got some sleep. Neither of us had slept during the first night. We also got the opportunity to dry our sailing gear and fix some minor damages we had during the night. We were excited to be able to focus on the race, tidal tactics, wind shifts and boatspeed instead of surviving through the stormy conditions. The weather forecast did however not look too good, two new fronts with strong winds were approaching and would meet us on the Irish sea, one on around the Scilly islands and another front would pass us on our way back to Cherbourg, we started to prepare for the upcoming weather conditions.

As forecasted, the wind picked up on our way to the Lands end and the Scilly Islands with very messy sea state, with waves from different directions and strong headwind. We discussed about abandoning the race but decided to continue to the Fastnet Rock and evaluate the situation again there. Luckily, the cold front passed quite quickly and we had a nice crossing of the Irish Sea until the wind dropped the next day. Together with a bunch of boats we were floating around moving nowhere for 3-4 hours, we entertained ourselves by filming dolphins with our gopro camera. We were among the first boats to get the new breeze and gained some positions in the race, and had a nice evening sailing downwind towards the Fastnet rock.

At 02:00 on the 26th of July we rounded the fastnet rock in complete darkness and rain. We celebrated with some champagne and candy!

It was a fast crossing of the Irish sea back to the Scilly islands. As forecasted, the wind picked up all the time when we approached the Scilly islands and big waves from the Atlantic rolled over us. We were eager to reach the Scilly islands and turn our course downwind towards Cherbourg. Just before dark we reached the rounding mark and could ease the sheets. Little did we know how difficult it would be to steer down the steep waves in pitch dark! Luckily, we had some other boats around us and their navigational lights functioned as landmarks. During the night we made the speed record of the race, 16,9 knots surfing down a wave with only storm jib and 3rd reef in the mainsail.

The night felt like forever, but finally the sun rised and the wind dropped during the day. We could finally hoist our biggest downwind sail and focus on tactics and racing instead of surviving! The strong tidal currents, thick fog and busy shipping lanes of the English Channel added some extra challenges.

Might and magic of the sea

We were frequently visited by dolphins playing around our bow and swimming along the boat, we do not have dolphins in the Baltic Sea so we were always excited by their company. Late in the evening we arrived to the Aldernay race, the strait that runs between the island of Aldernay and the French mainland (Cap de la Hague). The area is known for the extremely strong tidal currents, which can be up to 12 knots and can cause chaotic sea conditions, particularly when wind is against the tide. Luckily, we had downwind and the current with us. However, even with mild weather conditions sailing in the Aldernay race was tricky and bumpy! After many gybes we passed the Cap de la Hague in the morning and could change our course towards the finish line in Cherbourg. At 6 am we crossed the finishing line – just in time for the race closing party!

After the race we spent a week in Cherbourg, cleaning the boat, getting the delivery sailing stuff onboard, changing sails and other preparations for the delivery sailing back home to Helsinki. We managed to catch a magical weather window and sailed nonstop downwind from Cherbourg to the Kiel canal. Pleasure crafts are not allowed to use the Kiel canal during night so we stopped in Rendsburg, approximately in the middle of the Kiel canal and spent a few nights there while waiting for better winds in the Baltic Sea. We made it back home to Helsinki in just 8 days!

We would like to thank Tactical Foodpack for supporting our Fastnet Race project with delicious outdoor food and the heater-bag solution . We could focus on the most important: keeping up the boat speed (surviving the storms) and sleeping but still enjoy hot meals three times a day, even in the toughest conditions!

Follow future adventures of Sanna and Julius on Instagram: @iriesailing

Why did we choose a 100km hike in Croatia for a team event?

We had been looking for a team event with our marketing team for a long time. We wanted to combine work and fun and offer something for both the soul and the mind. As Tactical Foodpack had decided to sponsor the HIGHLANDER series of hiking events in 2023, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to go there and see what this event is all about and what the participants think of Tactical Foodpack’s brand and food. On the other hand, it also seemed like the perfect team event to see how the team works and how everyone handles challenging moments. Going to play bowling is not really our style and we were looking for something unique. Therefore, we chose the longest of the Highlander hiking series formats, the 100km Hercules route in the Velebit mountains. We highly recommend such an adventure as a small company team event, but it is definitely suitable for solo or pair hikes as well.

How and what preparations did we make?

  • We registered a month before the event (we recommend doing this well in advance to secure an earlier starting time) and most of us were relatively inexperienced when it came to hiking with a backpack.
  • While everyone had some hiking experience, it was mostly 10-20km on relatively flat forest paths with a light backpack or even none at all. Physically, we were probably in decent shape – two of us were in very good shape (running about 30km per week plus strength training), while the others were at an average level. ➤TIP! Before the hike, take a few ten-kilometer walks with your hiking boots and a 10kg backpack. This way, you can test and fine-tune your equipment and footwear before the hike.
  • We were all very excited about what lay ahead and confident that we would complete the hike, but we all feared the heavy backpack. Oh, how we packed – each of us tried to find lighter equipment and optimize as much as we could. For a five-day hike, five clean shirts are definitely a luxury, not a necessity.
  • On the Highlander website, there was a list of mandatory equipment as well as everything else you could take with you. We probably only took about half of the additional items. We shared some things as a group, for example, we shared gas canisters.
  • All in all, we did a pretty good job because our backpacks, including 3L of water and 2 days’ worth of food, weighed 13-14kg, and we used all the items and clothes we brought. Looking at some other people’s backpacks, we shuddered to think how they would reach the end, and indeed, it was challenging for them.
Highlander Velebit Croatia

Our Equipment Recommendations for a 5-day Hike:

CLOTHING-FOOTWEAR:

  • 3 pairs of socks + 1 pair of merino socks (evening/night)
  • 3 pairs of underwear
  • 2 short-sleeved shirts
  • 1 long-sleeved shirt
  • 1 merino shirt (for rest and sleeping, when the body is clean)
  • 1 pair of shorts
  • 1 pair of long hiking pants
  • 1 pair of long tights (for rest)
  • Rain jacket
  • Light down jacket
  • Hiking hat for sun protection + Warm hat for the evening (morning)
  • Sandals

SLEEPING GEAR:

  • Tent (2-person)
  • Down sleeping bag (-2 comfort) – nights are quite cold, so a warm sleeping bag is essential
  • Inflatable lightweight mattress

FOOD AND DRINK:

OTHER:

  • Power bank
  • Outdoor shower 4x
  • Wet wipes (for cleaning)
  • First aid kit: various-sized band-aids, elastic bandage, iodine, ibuprofen, magnesium (cream and/or powder)
  • Swiss army knife
  • Headlamp
  • Sunscreen
  • Personal hygiene items (toothbrush and paste, etc., as per preferences and needs)

One of the more challenging tasks was to pack the backpack in such a way that it would be super comfortable and not be a hindrance during the hike. ➤TIP! If you haven’t hiked with a large backpack before, seek assistance from a hiking store or from the organizers/participants before the hike. It’s essential that the main weight is on your hips, not just on your shoulders and back. If possible, take a few 10km hikes at home with a heavy backpack to understand the best way to carry the backpack on your back. I think we all got our backpacks adjusted quite well, and, of course, on the first long day, the back got tired, but overall, the backpack was even the least of our concerns.

Important note! Since you can’t take gas on a plane, don’t leave it in Senj. Instead, buy it in Zagreb or another major city where you land, because, for example, in Senj, we ran out of the right gas.

Tactical Foodpack - Highlander Velebit Hercules
Photo: Samir Kurtagic

Day 1 – 34km / 600m ascent / 1155m descent

DIFFICULTY: 8.5/10

Certainly, the most challenging day of the entire hike, as the distance was very long. In hindsight, it seems that it was a good thing to have such a long day right at the beginning, as our legs were still at their freshest. The trail was undeniably picturesque, and we could enjoy many beautiful views.

A strong recommendation is to register as early as possible so that you can start in the early groups. Our start was at 11:30, the last group, and we ended up in the dark for the last 2 hours. However, hiking in the dark was a completely unique and interesting experience. So be sure to bring a headlamp! Tired and blistered feet and many loose rocks on the nighttime trail were not the most enjoyable, though. We were on the trail for 10.5 hours, with 3-4 stops, one of which was 30 minutes, but the others were 10 minutes. The pace was rather fast for the first 15km, but the pace for the last 2 hours was very slow.

The last hour to the campsite felt like the longest hour of our lives, and upon arrival, we were greeted by a cool and damp night, so we quickly crawled into our tents, tired.

Tactical Foodpack Outdoor shower

Day 2 – 14 km / 163m ascent / 211m descent

DIFFICULTY: 4/10

After a challenging start, the second day felt like a nature walk. It was an easy day – the shortest distance – 14km, and the trail was relatively light, with even a few kilometers of asphalt at the end. In this camp, there was also a hostel, a restaurant, toilets, true comfort. PS! You can even order breakfast from the restaurant, and the prices are very reasonable.

Since the second day was 20km shorter, we arrived at the campsite early, set up the tent in daylight, and enjoyed the evening’s atmosphere and getting to know other hikers. Highlander is a unique event, as each campsite offers activities from concerts to yoga, and during the hike, you can make many new acquaintances.

Tactical Foodpack Highlander Velebit Croatia
Photo: Samir Kurtagic

Day 3 – 18.2 km / 1180m ascent / 968m descent

DIFFICULTY: 7.8/10

The day with the most ascents, some of which are very steep, but the views are worth it all. Although there aren’t many kilometers, it can be physically challenging because at times, you have to climb steep mountains almost vertically. At times, our pace was 2 km/h. We slowly began to understand why people wake up quite early in the mornings and hit the hiking trail.

➤TIP! Start early, we recommend around 7 AM, to pass through the valley and primeval forest and have lunch already at the mountaintop. These views are worth it!

Tactical Foodpack Highlander day 1

Day 4 – 17.1 km / 800m ascent / 1093m descent

DIFFICULTY: 6.8/10

A rainy day. On one hand, it was supposed to be an easier day than the previous one, but at the beginning, it felt even more challenging because half of the distance was very tough. In addition, the rain didn’t make the situation any better. However, thanks to the rain, the nature smelled wonderful. There were many ascents and descents, but the second half was relatively easy. The distance was 1.5 km longer than indicated, and if you’ve calculated a specific mileage, every additional 100 meters feels like torture on your legs. On the other hand, the views were once again very beautiful, and the gentle valleys in the second half of the trail provided a change of scenery, along with cows and horses. There were plenty of cows in the campsite, and one of the day’s big challenges was setting up the tent between the piles.

Highlander Velebit - Tactical Foodpack

Day 5 – 18.1 km / 290m ascent / 1133m descent

DIFFICULTY: 4.5/10

The last day – the descent day, which starts with quite a long and steep ascent. But on the last day, you’re already thinking about the finish, and your spirits are high. Halfway through, there’s a cafe, a rest area with restrooms, and from there, the trail is very easy all the way to the end, passing through a rather crowded nature park. The emotions at the finish are supreme, as is the reception. With stamps in hand, a diploma, and some souvenirs, you can head to a bar to enjoy a particularly “sweet” burger after a 100km hike, and let’s not forget – the local Rakija shots were also in their place!

Highlander Velebit Finish
Photo: Samir Kurtagic

In summary, it’s a fantastic event for both beginner hikers and advanced hikers because the trail was actually as challenging as you chose your own pace and start time. In addition to self-overcoming and stunning views, what made the event special were the evening gatherings where you could share immediate emotions with others, do yoga, or even dance to pleasant music if you still had the energy. We had plenty of it.

Tips from our team which are really practical if you are a novice hiker like us:

➤TIP 1! Always start walking between 7-8 in the morning, so you can cover the trail in daylight and enjoy the views. It’s also easier to set up your tent in the daylight.

➤TIP 2! Since the Velebit trail is a terrain full of loose rocks where it’s easy to stub your toes or twist your ankle, it’s highly recommended to wear hiking boots, not sneakers, on the trail. PS! Some people brought separate sneakers, which is a good idea – for a quick change when the terrain is more suitable for sneakers (as there were such places).

➤TIP 3! Your footwear should be at least 1.5 sizes larger, especially if you’re not already an extreme athlete because your feet will swell, and there should be room for your toes.

➤TIP 4! To prevent blisters, a tip is to wear a thin sock under your hiking sock. But do this from the first day, just in case.

➤TIP 5! Always take off your footwear as soon as you rest, even if it’s just for 10 minutes! It’s recommended to take off your socks too.

➤TIP 6! Keep your backpack as light as possible. It’s good to have a maximum of 13-14 kg for women, including 2 days’ worth of food and drinks. We can’t provide advice for men as we completed the hike as a women’s team.

➤TIP 7! Keep your first aid kit, headlamp, pocket knife, and snacks in an easily accessible place in your backpack. This way, you don’t have to rummage through your bag to find these essential items or take off your backpack to access them.

TIP 8! Definitely use a hydration system with a hose. A hands-free drinking system makes life much easier, and you’ll drink more for sure. We reminded everyone in the team to take a few sips of water every kilometer.

TIP 9! Wash yourself as soon as you arrive and set up the tent. We used Outdoor Shower – a favorite product now. It only requires 10ml of water, and it cleans you completely with two sponges. Plus, it contains panthenol, which helps heal minor wounds and scratches, soothes and cools sunburned skin. It doesn’t need to be rinsed. Once you’re clean, put on clean clothes.

TIP 10! Keep everyone’s spirits up all the time, both your team and other participants who may be having a tough time.

➤TIP 11! Keep your phone in airplane mode to save battery, and you probably won’t have much signal anyway in the mountains.

➤TIP 12! Avoid blisters at all costs. Try to choose shoes and socks suitable for the terrain. Let your feet breathe, and take breaks for resting. Be sure to bring slippers with you so that when you reach the camp, you can take off your boots and walk around in slippers.

➤TIP 13! Hiking poles are very helpful in the mountains. You can use upper body strength to go uphill and downhill. You can also use the pole to test the terrain and avoid stepping on loose rocks. Don’t put your poles down during breaks because bending over and squatting is tiring. Support the poles against something to grab them easily, just as with your backpack.

➤TIP 14! In addition to sweet and salty snacks, also bring something sour. It’s a very refreshing taste. Freeze-dried apple chips, which are very light and tasty, are perfect for this. You can reuse the bag for coffee or tea drinking, and you can mix coffee grounds with a straw instead of a spoon. Bring your favorite snacks for tough moments.

➤TIP 15! A thermal blanket under your tent provides warmth. It also keeps the tent floor clean and dry.

➤TIP 16! Magnesium 🙂 Both cream and oral. Start using it before the hike and continue during the hike. If you apply the cream before going to bed, your feet will be fresh in the morning.

➤TIP 17! Don’t hike when you’re sick. We’ve tried it – trust us, it’s bad. Also, carefully consider whether a multi-day, heavy backpack mountain hike is reasonable if you have old injuries or joint problems. Many hikers limped through the hike on painkillers because previous hip and knee problems were amplified by the physical stress.

Tactical Foodpack - Highlander

Every great journey starts by taking one small step. Three friends, united by a shared passion for adventure, brought their idea for a global hiking community to life in 2017 – seeking to share the life-changing benefits of long-distance hiking with people around the world. The trio searched far and wide for the best trail in Croatia, curated an itinerary for the ultimate mountain experience, and with their first hiking event, HIGHLANDER was born.  

In just five years, the non-competitive, multi-day hiking event series has grown to become the largest hiking event series in the world, with events in some of the most breathtaking and iconic mountains across the globe. Designed to unite people through a common journey, HIGHLANDER gives participants the opportunity to test their physical and mental limits while living in perfect harmony with nature.  

Aside from hiking, HIGHLANDER offers so much more. Participants hike a few days in the untouched nature, breathe the fresh air, and with every new step taken, come closer to their ”true” seves. 

But moreover, at each checkpoint, participants get to fully immerse themsleves in the festival vibe of the event by joining educational lectures, yoga classes, book presentations, stargazing, documentary screenings, or simply sitting under the starry night sky listening to live music playing into the night. 

Since sleeping and stargazing is half of the event, it’s also represented through the format names.  The participants fully understand their meaning once they come to the checkpoint, pitch their tent and simply look up at the most stunning dark sky glistening with billions of stars making up some of the most fascinating constellations. 

Highlander Hiking Adventure star gazing

As the largest format available, HIGHLANDER Ursa Major is named after the largest northern constellation and its name in Latin means greater bear. 

HIGHLANDER Hercules got its name after the Roman mythological hero adapted from the Greek hero Heracles. It is also the second-largest northern constellation and is simultaneously the longest HIGHLANDER route that spans over 5 days. 

The second-largest format is named after a constellation in the northern sky, named after the winged horse Pegasus in Greek mythology. It is easily recognizable because it is dominated by a prominent asterism known as the Great Square. HIGHLANDER Pegasus takes participants on a 3-day hiking journey. 

Orion is a prominent constellation located on the celestial equator and visible throughout the world. It is one of the most conspicuous and recognizable constellations in the night sky and is the perfect constellation to represent the shortest format – HIGHLANDER Orion – that takes place during the weekend. 

Wherever the participants are, when they look up at the magical night sky – it will forever remind them of the Adventure of a Lifetime they had while becoming a HIGHLANDER.

HIGHLANDER Hiking Adventure UK

With sustainability at the forefront of all events, HIGHLANDER prioritizes educating all participants on effectively preserving nature to safe keep it for future generations. From advanced seasoned hikers to novice young adventurers, HIGHLANDER appeals to all walks of life, offering different formats ranging from approximately 100–kilometre 5-day journeys to approximately 25–kilometre weekend adventures. 

Dedicated to its long-time philosophy, “take only pictures, leave only footprints,” HIGHLANDER ensures that sustainability is at the forefront of all events by providing education for its participants on how to effectively preserve nature and safekeep it for future generations.  

Take only pictures, leave only footprints.

HIGHLANDER long-time philosophy

Continuing its expansion across the globe, HIGHLANDER has events in the United States of America, the United Kingdom, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Slovenia, Montenegro, the United Arab Emirates, Italy, Spain, North Macedonia, Portugal and Georgia with many new countries soon to be announced.  

Tactical Foodpack supports Highlander events with outdoor food in the United Kingdom, Croatia – on Medvednica and Velebit and Spain

Highlander Tactical Foodpack co-op

Tactical Foodpack isn’t just a brand; it’s a trusted partner in your outdoor journey. As a proud sponsor of Highlander adventures, Tactical Foodpack aligns seamlessly with the spirit of these renowned long-distance hiking series. Highlander events are all about pushing boundaries and embracing self-sustainability during multi-day stays in the great outdoors. This partnership between Tactical Foodpack and Highlander creates a perfect synergy, emphasizing shared values and a commitment to enhancing the outdoor experience. 

Tactical Foodpack marketing team will join the Velebit adventure in Croatia in September, so stay tuned! We will most definetly share this awesome experience as a HIGHLANDER blog sequel as well as try to log our journey in social media – so follow us in Instagram to stay tuned!

If you use the discount code TACTICAL20 you will get 20% off on your individual registration for any of the mentioned events.

Fifteen years ago, Meelis gathered a group of boys from his circle of acquaintances who had a special affinity for the sea and a greater-than-average interest in waves. Most of the guys barely knew each other and had exactly the same level of sailing experience. They embarked on a journey to transport a yacht from Tallinn to Copenhagen for a world championship event, representing one of Estonia’s top teams. From this group, a friendship formed and from that friendship, a team emerged. Thus began our journey from zero to the top.

After a few similar trips in the Mediterranean, we were offered the opportunity to acquire the same yacht that we had sailed on before, which was then called “Bering.” We didn’t let the opportunity slip away, and the idea became a reality. It was the year 2011. Initially, our plan was to enjoy the pleasures of sailing and the company of new friends with this yacht. Perhaps we would even participate in some Wednesday regattas. Compared to similar boats, our sail setup was negligible. We settled for the most basic Dacron sails used on round and overweight pleasure boats. Plans are meant to be exceeded, and our appetite grew as we progressed. In the middle of summer, we acquired a heavily used but suitable foresail from a competitor. It looked worse than a man’s floor rag and resembled a tired witch’s skirt, but it was still clearly better than the patches we had been using. This fact could be considered the beginning of the transformation of this group into a competitive sailing team.

Soon, our burning eyes and enthusiasm began to attract “real” sailors as well. The world’s best skipper, Tiit, joined our team, along with his longtime companion Indrek. A few years later, our great mentor and teacher, Raul, also joined us. It is largely thanks to them that our team’s skills are at the level they are today, and we can only write and speak about them with pride. The first modest victories quietly started coming our way quite soon. We also began optimizing the yacht to some extent. The first significant triumph and a warning sign to our competitors came in 2014, three years after the start of Olympic (the current yacht). It was in that year that we won the BOW, the Estonian and Finnish championships. This can be seen as the great beginning of our rise or, in the language of mountaineers, the high camp near the summit. With the support of the duo Marko from Yacht Service, who are like a whirlwind of ideas, we have taken the yacht optimization to the maximum level, involving Cossutti, one of Europe’s top yacht designers. The yacht has been extensively rebuilt. We have thrown out anything that could even fractionally hinder the boat’s speed at sea, starting with all kinds of unnecessary doors, pieces of furniture, kitchenware, and ending with the music center, the paint covering the mast, and toothpicks. Everything has been discarded. In the world of motor racing, we have managed to turn a street sports car into a top-level WRC rally machine. Since weight is still crucial, we also had to optimise the provisions, or in plain language, the food supplies taken on board for long offshore legs. This is where Tactical Foodpack’s freeze dried meals come in as an essential part. We quickly found common ground and taste with their food packs, and we established a shared language with the manufacturer. There is simply no equivalent alternative, and we can confidently state this as a fact based on our experiences. Tactical Foodpack has been a delightful and tasty cherry on top of our optimisation, perfectly aligned with our vision of staying at the top. These outdoor meals may have originally been planned for military personnel and hikers, but it quickly became clear that they are actually a perfect fit for sailors who appreciate good food.

As a result of all of this, we have now won numerous titles. In high-level ORC competitions in Europe, we are feared and uncompromising predators by our competitors. We have already won several Estonian and Finnish championships and several Moonsund Regattas. We have won European and World Amateur Championships and even clinched coveted podium positions in the same competitions among professionals.

It sounds like an unbelievable fairy tale, and in fact, it almost is. Even the author of this story wouldn’t believe it if they hadn’t gone through this entire journey themselves and dedicated all those years to it. Olympic’s team has gone from zero to the top of sailing solely due to the best of the best team, dedicated companions, and supportive backers who have all put their hearts into it.

Our answer to anyone who asks about our state of mind has always been and will always be: “We feel Olympic!”

Tactical Foodpack Sailing Team
Photo by Janis Spurdzins

Tactical Foodpack has been a stage sponsor of the Moonsund Regatta since 2020 and has won the hearts of sailors with its excellent and diverse selection. Every year, we introduce new flavours as well. Sailors especially appreciate the ease of preparing our meals, the lightweight of the food pack, and the convenience of the packaging – weatherproof, compact, and requiring no additional accessories – you can eat straight from the pack. Thinking about recycling, you can rinse the package afterward, and thanks to its strong grip, you can reuse it for any purpose later on.

Photo by Janis Spurdzins

We also highly recommend exploring our Heater Bag, designed specifically for situations where boiling water is difficult. For example, during stormy seas. It significantly simplifies the food preparation process – just add cold water to the pack, a little bit of water to the heating bag at the bottom, put the food pack in, and the meal will warm up. The packaging keeps the food hot, allowing you to enjoy it precisely when you find the opportunity.

TIP! See how to use a heater bag – https://youtu.be/xkOuoFJQwZU

The Tactical Foodpack Sailing Team is also participating in this year’s Kiel ORC World Championship, and we will be present with our tent in the sailors’ village in Kiel, cheering for everyone. The competitions will take place from August 4th to August 12th, 2023. Come by and let’s have a beer together!

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get swept up in the demands of our daily lives. With work, family, and social commitments pulling us in different directions, it can be hard to find the time and energy to spend outdoors. But research shows that immersing ourselves in nature can have a host of physical and mental health benefits, as well as boost our relationships. Whether it’s a long weekend hike or a short walk, every little bit counts. And for those who want to maximize their time in nature, using freeze-dried meals like those offered by Tactical Foodpack can provide a convenient and healthy option for fueling your outdoor adventures.

So let’s dig in! What are the main benefits of spending time in the outdoors?

1. Reduces stress and anxiety

Spending time in nature can be an effective way to reduce stress and improve overall well-being. The natural environment can create a calming effect on the mind and body, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. Additionally, being outdoors provides an opportunity to disconnect from everyday stresses, leading to a much-needed mental break and a reduction in stress levels. Physical activity, such as hiking, camping, or simply taking a walk, can reduce tension in the body and release endorphins, which are natural mood-boosting chemicals. Mindfulness is also easier to achieve outdoors, as focusing on the present moment and being aware of your surroundings can quiet your mind and reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.

Photo by Hans Raid
Photo by Hans Raid

2. Boosts the immune system and physical health

Spending time in nature doesn’t have to mean a long hike or camping trip. Even a short walk around your local park or sitting outside in your backyard can provide some of the benefits of being in nature. Research shows that exposure to nature can increase the production of natural killer cells, which are responsible for fighting off viruses and cancer cells. Outdoor activities can also help reduce inflammation in the body, which has been linked to chronic health conditions. Studies have shown that just 20-30 minutes of walking outside each day can improve cardiovascular health, lower blood pressure, and increase overall fitness levels. In addition, exposure to sunlight can help our bodies produce vitamin D, which is important for bone health and immune function.

3. Boosts creativity and cognitive function

Spending time outdoors can improve attention span, problem-solving skills, and creativity. Activities such as hiking, walking, or running can increase blood flow and oxygenation to the brain, which can help improve cognitive function and creativity. The sights, sounds, and smells of nature can stimulate your brain and encourage new neural connections, leading to new perspectives and increased creativity.

Photo by Keio Usai

4. Strengthens relationships

Spending time outdoors with your partner can create shared experiences that strengthen your bond. Whether it’s taking a hike, going camping, or simply having a picnic in the park, being in nature can provide a unique and memorable experience that you can share with your partner. Being away from distractions such as technology and the stresses of everyday life can also provide an opportunity to connect and communicate with each other on a deeper level. Nature can set the mood for romance, increasing feelings of intimacy and closeness between partners. Additionally, outdoor activities such as hiking or camping can increase adrenaline and endorphins, which can enhance romantic feelings.

Tip! If you want to surprise your partner, plan a romantic weekend in nature. Go with just the two of you, pack your backpack full of tasty hiking food from Tactical Foodpack, and bring along two plastic wine glasses with a bottle of wine. It may seem a bit heavy to carry, but Tactical Foodpack meals are light, so you’ll manage, and it will be totally worth it. Imagine a night under the stars, just the two of you, and the beautiful sounds of nature.

Photo by Dimitrij Proskorin
Photo by Dimitrij Proskorin

5. You will sleep better

Sunlight is an important factor in regulating our body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm. Exposure to natural light during the day can help to regulate our sleep-wake cycle and promote better quality sleep at night. Physical activity is another benefit of spending time in nature, which can help to improve sleep. Activities such as hiking, camping, or swimming can increase physical exertion, leading to greater feelings of tiredness and a more restful sleep. Furthermore, spending time in nature can help to reduce exposure to artificial light and technology, which can interfere with sleep. Blue light emitted by electronic devices can suppress melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep. By spending time in nature, you can reduce your exposure to these types of artificial light and promote better sleep.

6. It Will Get You Moving & burns calories

It’s no surprise that being outdoors naturally leads to more physical activity, as shown by a study on sunlight and sleep. Workers who got more sun were found to be more active overall. Plus, studies have shown that running or biking outside burns more calories than using a treadmill or stationary bike. And the best part? People enjoy exercising outdoors more, so they’re more likely to do it for longer and burn even more calories. But if you want to make sure you’re getting the right balance of nutrition and calories, we highly recommend trying Tactical Foodpack freeze dried food: meals, snacks and drinks. With each product’s calorie count and ingredients listed, you can have a healthy and tasty meal that will motivate you to conquer any outdoor challenge.

Photo by Yana Strese
Photo by Yana Strese

Conclusion

Spending time in the great outdoors is more than just a fun pastime – it’s essential for our physical and mental well-being. From improving our mood and reducing stress to promoting better sleep and boosting our immune system, the benefits of spending time in nature are undeniable. Additionally, outdoor activities provide a great opportunity for bonding with loved ones, and the chance to disconnect from technology and focus on the present moment. And with the convenience of freeze dried meals, snacks, and drinks, it’s easier than ever to enjoy outdoor adventures without sacrificing nutrition or taste. So, the next time you have the chance to get outside, take it! Your body and mind will thank you.

The banging of the tent tears me out of my dreams. The wind hauls outside and I open my eyes. Something is different. It takes me a moment to realize. The tent roof, which should hang far above my head, is threateningly close to my face. From the outside the snow presses heavily on the tent. I must think for a moment, but then everything happens quickly. Wake up Moritz, get out of the sleeping bag, into the shell clothes. Put on Shoes, gloves, and the facemask. Then I am ready to go outside. Not on my side, because there is no way through the snow. Outside it is pitch dark. In the light cone of my headlamp the snow fly’s past, while the wind hits my face. I quickly grab the shovel and start digging the tent out of the deep snow.  I just have to throw the snow into the air and the wind carries it away, away from our camp, into the darkness. The 1.5-meter-high wall we built to protect ourselves from the storm has almost disappeared and the wind constantly drives more snow towards us. Eventually I manage to uncover everything from the snow and the tent stands upright again. Completely exhausted I crawl back into my sleeping bag. It is 1 o’clock in the morning, we are in the middle of the Sarek National Park and the only thing that is certain is that I need to repeat the same procedure in 2 hours. But I feel no fear. Only tiredness and despite the adverse circumstances, a deep inner happiness to be in this place. Why? This is probably difficult to explain to an outsider. In the following I will try anyway.

But let’s start from the beginning. It all started with the idea of Moritz and me to spend a vacation together as brothers. How exactly we came to the Sarek is not clear to both of us. Maybe because it is considered “Europe’s last wilderness”. Maybe because I was allowed to get a little glimpse of it 4 years ago and the mountains burned themselves deep into my memory. But for sure we were attracted by the beautiful faces, which we found on photos during our internet research. It was striking that we found some information on the Internet about cross-country skiing, but almost no information about ski touring in the national park. So, the trip promised to be an adventure into the unknown. And this in Europe, accessible by public transport! Our plan was simple. Take food and equipment for 25 days and cross the Sarek National Park, from Ritsem in the north to Kvikkjokk in the south. If possible, we would ski the beautiful mountains and faces we encounter along the way.

The adventure already began with the journey to Ritsem. Each loaded with a 40 kg pulka and skis, we were told three times that it was not possible to travel on the train like that. Somehow it worked out every time and thanks to two night-trains we traveled comfortably and with enough sleep. The first train went from Hamburg to Stockholm, then we took another one from Stockholm to Gällivare. The last hours in the train the tension increased. On the one hand, we were getting closer and closer to our starting point and on the other hand, because we were two hours late and would therefore miss the connecting bus, which only leaves once a day. This worry disappeared when we arrived at the train station in Gällivare, where we were met by a very cheerful bus driver who waited for the arrival of our train. After all the luggage was loaded, we continued our journey in heavy snowfall on a snow-covered road through the endless forests. Both the snowfall and the forests cleared, and the first mountains appeared in the clouds. The bus driver did his best to get us to Ritsem but soon we were stuck in big snowdrifts. Now we had to wait for Jens, the driver of the local snow-blower, who had not felt like getting up in the morning. He made up for this by flying past us half an hour later and hitting the snowdrifts at full speed. This was his rather blunt but extremely effective tactic for clearing the road of snow. For the next two hours we followed Jens to our starting point, the Fjellstation in Ritsem.

Due to the delays, it was now already 4pm and to get to our Fjällstugga we still had to walk 12km over a lake. So, we wasted no time and started walking. The clouds pushed in over the mountains and with the onset of darkness we were surrounded by a gloomy mood. But after 2 days of travel and long preparation we were happy to finally start walking. Shortly after the first stars appeared in the sky, we reached the hut and were warmly welcomed for the second time that day. Here we could warm ourselves at the stove and spend a comfortable night in a bed. A luxury, we would not have for the next 3 weeks.

The next morning, we were greeted by sunshine when we left the Fjällstugga. For the first time we could really see our surroundings. Across the valley, we saw the wind blowing over the peaks of the Akkha mountain range. A sign for worse weather, which was supposed to move in around afternoon. So, we packed up our pulkas and moved on. Until noon, we followed a well-marked snowmobile track, before we finally left the marked trails, left the noisy sleds, left civilization and entered into the Sarek. 

We spent the next 3 days of changing weather walking deeper and deeper into the mountains. The clouds hung low, and we could only guess what kind of area we were walking into. Now and then the sun’s rays broke through and provided a golden contrast in the otherwise deep blue atmosphere. Again and again, we made breaks to soak in this natural spectacle and of course to take pictures, because we could hardly believe our eyes witnessing this beauty.

The way into the Sarek
Der Weg in den Sarek
Der Weg in den Sarek
Der Weg in den Sarek
Der Weg in den Sarek
Der Weg in den Sarek

It was surprising for both of us that the pulkas could be pulled quite comfortably despite food for 25 days, mountaineering and camping equipment. Here our big advantage was that we had the freeze-dried food from Tactical Foodpack with us. We each had 30 dinners in our packs, which together weighed only 3 kg per person and gave us a delicious and, most importantly, hot meal every night. As soon as the water was about to boil, we poured it into the foodpacks, closed the zipper and put the warm foodpack into the sleeping bag. This helped the sleeping bag to warm up for the night, and after ten minutes of waiting we were treated by a delicious meal like “Moroccan Lentils Pot” to warm our bodies from the inside as well. Our diet was supplemented by a large muesli in the morning. Then during the day, we each ate 200 grams of mixed nuts, two homemade granola bars and a handful of dried fruit. For lunch, we each had a Core Shake from Tactical Foodpack in combination with a piece of cheese and a slice of homemade fruit bread from grandma’s recipe, which is also called “stone” in our family due to its consistency. But trust me, it tastes great. If we wanted to reward ourselves in the evening after an exhausting day, we had a Kama Bar from TF for both of us. Rather inglorious and yet delicious were also the 20 bars of chocolate, which we had taken with us.

With walking, eating, and relocating the tent, the days went by fast. After 4 days of walking, we found ourselves in the middle of the Sarek Naional Park, while a snowstorm raged around us. Out of the white that surrounded us, an abandoned reindeer keeper’s hut unexpectedly appeared in front of us, to our surprise it was unlocked, and we fled from the storm to the inside. In the shelter we made ourselves as comfortable as possible between rotten mattresses and blown in snow. Checking the weather report, our hearts leapt for joy. A high-pressure system was approaching, and the next week promised bright blue skies. The weather forecast also prognosed temperatures of up to -25 degrees. We skillfully ignored this information. The important thing was that we would get good weather to go into the mountains. Later in the day, a Finnish couple came to the cabin, happy to escape the still very cruel weather outside. After a nice afternoon, they thankfully left us a detailed map of the region, which we could not obtain in Germany. Thanks to this generosity and the good weather forecast, we stuck our heads together over the map and drew up a rough plan for the next few days. The plan was to use the weather window for ski tours in the mountains. First, we planned a tour in the upper Ruohtesvagge. Then we wanted to follow this valley, to set up our camp below the Sarektjhakka for a few days and explore the mountains and glaciers there.

The wind already calmed down in the evening and the sky cleared up. The next morning, we pulled our pulkas to the start of the tour, where we deposited them. Without the extra weight that had accompanied us the days before, we literally flew up the valley until we reached the glacier Ruoghtesjiegna. In the sun, on the glacier we got warm for the first time that day. Since we did not have a good feeling for the avalanche situation we decided for a flat, nevertheless very beautiful ascent to our first summit, the Sjielmatjhakka. Arriving on the summit ridge, we were speechless. In front of us, the mountains of the Sarek spread out. What we saw exceeded all our expectations. Peaks, as far as the eye could see. The mountains were freshly snowed in and presented us steep faces, one prettier than the other. The rest of the ridge became a panoramic walk to the summit.

Ski tour in the upper Ruohtesvagge
Skitour im oberen Ruhtesvagge
Skitour im oberen Ruhtesvagge
Skitour im oberen Ruhtesvagge
Skitour im oberen Ruhtesvagge

Once at the summit, it was windless and relatively warm, so we sat down for a summit lunch. The Core Shake and our nuts tasted fantastic, as we soaked up the energy of our surroundings. The silence was only interrupted when one of us pointed to a face, admiring how beautiful it was. At some point, the wind picked up again and we set off our descent. Always staying in the flat terrain, we headed down to the glacier in a seemingly never-ending powder run. The powdery snow combined with the monotonous turns gave a feeling of floating. Once down in the valley, we set up our tent and briefly enjoyed the sun before crawling into our sleeping bags and preparing for a cold night. Cold it was indeed. On top of that, the wind shifted twice during the night, so we had to get out each time to replenish our wall. The next morning, we woke up a bit rumpled, only to find that all our stuff was covered in a fine layer of snow, even our inner shoes.

What helped for now was a warm breakfast with the lovely sounds of Hildegard Knef. Then it was time to get into the cold inner shoes and out into the wind to pack up the tent. With loaded Pulkas and covered in our thick clothes it was already starting to get better. While we followed the Ruohtesvagge the views compensated for everything. For everything except the cold toes, they were just annoying! Around noon, the wind fortunately died down again and it got a little warmer. Soon we had reached the entrance to the Mihkajiegna valley. In front of it we set up our camp for the next days. Already looking at the faces for the coming days, not knowing that we will ski them. Throughout the afternoon we dug ourselves an igloo to protect us from the cold. Even though it was freezing cold outside, it was worthwhile to go to the toilet outside during the night. While emptying the bladder we could look at the wild and peaceful mountains of the Sarek illuminated by a sky full of northern lights.

The goal for the next days was to explore the mountains of the Sarektjhakka. We set off the next morning with the first rays of sunshine, following the Mihkajiegna valley and then up to the glacier. To get a better feel for the terrain and the avalanche situation, we decided to take a mellow route, as we had done on the last ski tour, and laid our tracks past crevasses up to Vargtoppen. Even though it was windy and cold at the summit this time, we had a good overview over the terrain and were rewarded with a really nice powder run down the glacier. From the top we also got a glimpse of the ridge leading to the summit of Stortoppen, the highest mountain in the national park. This looked like fun, but not too difficult, climbing. In addition, we saw the South Face, with two wide gullies towards the glacier. We had already seen this face from afar, from up close we saw that it was in perfect conditions with powder snow and no wind drifts. A snow pit in similar exposure gave a promising result, boosting our confidence. We joyfully headed back to camp, where we spent a cold afternoon in the sun gazing at the beautiful panorama, being at the apex of the three main valleys of Sarek. Nothing but mountains and silence surrounded us. As soon as we stopped our rustling of the thick down jackets, which was mainly caused by eating nuts, we could fully enjoy the silence.

Ski touring at Sarektjhakka
Skitouren am Sarektjhakka
Skitouren am Sarektjhakka
Skitouren am Sarektjhakka
Skitouren am Sarektjhakka
Skitouren am Sarektjhakka
Skitouren am Sarektjhakka
Skitouren am Sarektjhakka

Even before the sun disappeared, it became too cold to sit outside and we packed up our stuff. When bringing the first load into the igloo, Moritz was in for a nasty surprise. The roof of the igloo had caved in during the day. The igloo was still standing, but we didn’t trust it anymore and so we put up our tent in a hurry. Shortly before sunset the tent was finished, and we were able to crawl into our sleeping bags. At least we got warm again in the afternoon.

The night was clear and again the sky was full of northern lights. Impressive! But a clear night also means a cold night and accordingly our feet were frozen in the morning. We forgot this at the latest on the glacier, at the very latest on the ridge to the Stortoppen of the Sarektjhakka. This could be easily walked with crampons and offered views of the entire Sarek and north to Kebnekaisa and the vast plains of Sweden. To the left there was a steep cliff, falling here would not be good, but the view to the right side increased the anticipation of the descent. Filled with powder snow, the Southface laid in the sun as if it was waiting to be ridden. Not believing how lucky we were with the conditions we took a rest at the summit before we started our descent. We put on our skis and off we went. Before we reached the right gully, we had to pass through the summit area covered with Rime ice. This required all our focus. A quick look into the snow cover confirmed our good feeling and moments later I could already watch Moritz skiing in bigger and bigger turns towards the glacier, getting smaller and smaller. When he was just a dot in the otherwise untouched landscape, I did my best to complement his track and it just felt amazing. Day 8 in the Sarek and we were able to make big powdery turns down a seemingly endless slope in the sun. Full of happiness, we made our way back to camp.

Almost becoming a routine, the next morning we walked with cold feet in the direction of Mihkajiegna again. Because of the good snow from the day before, we decided to do the Southface of Sydtoppen. The snow pit gave us a good feeling again. We started with big kickturns and later found ourselves bootpacking through a beautiful couloir guarded by Rime Ice until we reached the ridge which we followed to the summit. Following the summit break, we enjoyed some big and fast turns down to the glacier and back to camp. What a feeling…

After four days in the Sarektjakka area, we decided to use the next two days to move over the Ahkajiegna further into the Sarvesvagge. At least that was the plan. But after only two hours of walking, we saw a couloir that we just couldn’t walk past, it looked too good. We spontaneously changed our plans and instead of torturing us with the Pulkas 400 vertical meters up to the glacier, we soon found ourselves lying in the sun in our sleeping bags. It could have gone worse. The New plan was to ride the couloir the next day and then follow the Algga- and Niejdariehpvagge to reach the Sarvesvagge before the weather turns bad.

At that time, we did not know that we were in for the coldest night of our vacation. After a night somewhere deep in the minus 20 range, we were freezing the next morning in the shade. This time the cold bit into my toes, and my skins would not glue to my skis because of the low temperatures. However, the mood changed abruptly when we reached the sun. And so, an hour later, we bootpacked up the sunny couloir without jackets. Thanks to the excellent 30 cm of powder that lay in it, it was a fantastic bootpack which got steeper the higher we got. Soon we found a good exit past the summit cornice. At the top we were full of anticipation for the descent. In the German vernacular, anticipation is considered the most beautiful joy, but what we were allowed to experience in the following descent, exceeded this anticipation by far. After some Jumpturns on harder snow, we were soon able to point it. We took turns watching each other’s snow fly into the air. Fully charged with endorphins, we flew out onto the open slope and towards our tent. Quite sure that we were the first skiers to ever ski this couloir, we decided to name it “cold-feet physics” because while looking from the distance, Moritz asked me whether this couloir is physically skiable. And “cold-feet”? Well, that is quite self-explanatory…

Cold-Footed Physics (Guohperskaijde)
Kaltfüßiges Physikum (Guohperskaijde)
Kaltfüßiges Physikum (Guohperskaijde)
Kaltfüßigen Physikum (Guohperskaijde)
uus pilt
Kaltfüßiges Physikum (Guohperskaijde)

After arriving at the tent, we had a short lunch, packed our pulkas and moved on, always following the Algavagge to the west. The sunset in the evening marked not only the end of an exciting and long day, but also the end of the high-pressure system.

We were getting one more day of usable weather before a bad weather front was announced. We used the day to get through the Niejhdariehpvagge into the Sarvesvagge. The “Vagge” in English: “Valley” turned out to be a beautiful pass crossing. At the top, the mountains on the other side were just coming out of the clouds and we got an impressive taste of what would await us in our next and last mountain region.

Arriving in the Sarvesvagge, we first had to build a snow-wall, and a high one, since storm and heavy snowfall were forecasted for the next three days. The building demanded our energy and completely exhausted we crawled into our sleeping bags after 12 days of continuous effort. We were glad that we now had a break of three days. Besides the physical recovery, another positive aspect of the snowfall was that it was associated with higher temperatures. “-10 degrees?” That sounded like vacation mode. Completely satisfied with what we had experienced in the central part of the Sarek, we now waited patiently for the storm to pass over us and better weather to arrive for our next chapter. We passed the time with eating, playing backgammon, reading and of course a lot of snow shoveling.

Allgavagge and transition to Sarvesvagge
Allgavagge und Übergang ins Sarvesvagge
Allgavagge und Übergang ins Sarvesvagge
Allgavagge und Übergang ins Sarvesvagge
Allgavagge und Übergang ins Sarvesvagge

And just because of the past experiences and the beautiful prospect that we had ahead of us, it was not bad to have to go out at night to free the tent from the snow like described in the introduction, it was almost pleasant to spend three days in the tent because outside the weather was raging and it did not matter at all that we had not showered for over two weeks now.

After three days of waiting the weather became good again. After we dug out and packed all our equipment, we found ourselves already one hour later in the middle of the slope to the plateau called Luohttlahko. Everyone who has carried a pulka up a big hill, knows how exhausting this can be, but fortunately we were able to walk up to the top with kickturns and needed “only” 2 hours for the 400 hm to the plateau. With incredible views, wherever we turned our head, we approached the Bardde chain. We wanted to cross this mountain range in the coming days, but it still made an almost unbreachable impression and so we were allowed to feel very small in a large and vast landscape. An intense feeling, which I have learned to appreciate especially in the wild mountains of this world.

At the edge of the plateau, at the foot of Lullihatjhakka, we set up camp and witnessed a sunset that made the light golden and was later replaced by the tender colors of the Scandinavian blue hour. Full of anticipation, we looked towards tomorrow’s destination the Lullihatjhakka, which was bathed in a soft pink while the moon stood above it.

On the plateau
On the plateau
On the plateau
Auf der Hochebene
Auf der Hochebene
Auf der Hochebene
Auf der Hochebene

During our ascent the next day, it showed us a completely different face. Shortly after our departure, dense clouds moved over the plateau and dipped everything in an impenetrable white. Always following a gully, the orientation was quite simple and so we could reach the summit despite limited visibility. On the descent, we could just see our track from the way up and the 10 meters in front of it. Nevertheless, it was fun and in the middle part both the visibility and the snow got better, so we could enjoy a few really good turns. Even though the weather was objectively worse than on the previous tours, we both found it a pleasure to be out and to feel the adverse elements. Around noon, we were glad to be able to get back into our dry and warm sleeping bags.

The coming night started quietly, but soon the wind increased and blew snow into our tents. Our sleeping bags got coated in a thick layer of snow. This problem could only be solved by going outside and adding our protection-wall. Without snow in the tent, but in wet sleeping bags, the rest of the night went accordingly.

In the morning it was still windy, but after digging out all the gear, we were ready to go. It was day 18 and our last big hurdle was coming up. We bundled our forces again and pulled our pulkas over a pass for the last time. As a reward we got wind and bad visibility at the top. Without a break and in a whiteout, we slowly descended to the Barddejiegna. On the glacier we eventually got under the cloud cover and now we were really rewarded. In ideal inclination we could descend with the pulkas through the landscape, while on the left and on the right new peaks and rock faces kept poking out of the clouds. Even the sun came out and gave the mystical atmosphere something friendly.

A completely new world awaited us in the following valley. The wind had blown stronger here than in the regions before and exposed a Martian landscape. Between blown off and eroded hills with black rock we wandered around in search of a suitable place to sleep. After some searching, we fund one behind a large stone. With the tent set up, the sun shining, the view of the mountains and the birds playing around us, the world seemed friendly again. In the evening we checked the weather forecast and made a plan for the next days. We wanted to use the announced good and warm weather for two final ski tours and then make our way back towards civilization. After all, it was still two days of walking to Kvikkjokk.

Now the end of our trip was in sight, which made us a bit pensive, but it had one big advantage: we could ration our food so that it only had to last four, maximum five, instead of 8 days. This meant a lot of oatmeal in the morning and especially a double ration of Tactical Foodpack in the evening. Even though we were very happy with our diet during the crossing, we still built up a food deficit during three weeks of daily effort. In this state, two foodpacks are a miracle.

The remaining days we feasted like kings. We used the warmer temperatures for an urgently needed wash and for sitting in the sun. After all, this is the real reason why you go camping in nature: to sit in the sun with enough snacks and soak up the silence of your wild surrounding. Since laying in the sun is even more beautiful after a ski tour, we made sure to do one in the morning. On the first day we followed a gully on the east side of Gaskastjhakka. Since the summit slope was too rocky, we felt happy without it and rather had a long break in the saddle. On our last day in the mountains, we climbed Skajddetjhakka through the southeast face in good conditions. From the summit we had another view of the entire Sarek National Park and all the valleys we crossed. Even today, the conditions we had, and what aesthetically beautiful mountains we were able to ski seem like a dream to me. With this certainty, deeply grateful to the Sarek, we skied down the powdery summit face one last time in big turns.

The next morning the weather had closed in. Nevertheless, we took down our tent, packed up the pulkas and set off across the plateau. The view was white all around and so we were grateful for the assistance of the GPS device in navigating. We were also thankful when we saw the first tree after three weeks. But soon the forest became so dense that it became adventurous to find a way through it with the pulkas. Luckily, we learned to ski in the Rhön!

That reaching the Kungsleden does not mean end of the adventure became strikingly clear, while we had to break trail through deep wet snow through in a thick forest. It turned out that we were on a summer section of the Kungsleden and the last 3 km to the valley were quite exhausting. In the valley we spent one last night in a forest clearing before following a snowmobile highway to Kvikjokk in sunshine the next day.

Last mountain hikes and the way out
Letzte Bergtouren und der Weg nach draußen
Letzte Bergtouren und der Weg nach draußen
Letzte Bergtouren und der Weg nach draußen
Letzte Bergtouren und der Weg nach draußen

And then it was suddenly over. There we were, standing in front of the fjellstation in Kvikkjokk. After 22 days in the mountains, we didn’t really know what to do with ourselves now. Be happy that we had made it to the end? Be sad that it is over now? Well, in any case, first take a shower!

Written by Till Fladung

Too many outdoor meals on the market?

Are you an outdoor enthusiast or a hiking fan looking for the perfect meal to fuel your adventures? With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right fit for you. Don’t fret; we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll discuss the two main technologies used in outdoor meal production: freeze-drying and dehydration. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a newbie, our guide will help you make an informed choice.

Different outdoor meals in a market – freeze-dried, dehydrated and combined technologies.

What sets dehydrated and freeze-dried meals apart? Both are lightweight, easy to store, and quick to prepare. However, there are some significant differences you need to know:

Preservation method: Freeze-dried meals are preserved by lyophilization, a process that involves freezing the food and then removing the water by exposing it to a vacuum. Dehydrated meals, on the other hand, are preserved by heat in a dehydrator or an oven.

Texture and appearance: Freeze-drying removes water more efficiently than dehydration, so freeze-dried foods retain more of their original shape, size, and texture. Dehydrated meals might look smaller and less distinct, and they might be more brittle and crumbly.

Nutritional content: Both dehydrated and freeze-dried foods can be healthy, but freeze-dried food is generally healthier because it maintains a higher nutritional value (around 97%) than dehydrated food (around 60%). The freeze-drying process freezes foods, creates a vacuum around them, and then slowly warms them up, causing the water to turn into a gas. The dehydration process uses higher heat to dry the food, which can damage more of the nutrients.

Shelf life: Freeze-drying removes 98-99% of the moisture in foods, while dehydration removes about 80-90%. Because both processes remove so much moisture, they’re great for long-term food storage. However, freeze-drying removes more moisture, giving it a longer shelf life than dehydration.

Preparation and rehydration: Freeze-dried foods can be rehydrated in 5 minutes or less using cold or warm water, while dehydrated foods take 10-20 minutes to rehydrate using boiling water. Both types of food can be eaten without rehydrating, but freeze-dried foods are the better option in an emergency situation because they take less time and energy to rehydrate.

Food flavour: Freeze-dried foods tend to retain most of their flavour, while dehydrated foods can lose some of their flavour due to the heating process. Freeze-drying immediately freezes the food, locking in the flavour before removing the moisture. Dehydration uses a constant flow of low heat to remove moisture, which can cause the food to lose some of its flavour.

Most popular outdoor meals on the market

When it comes to outdoor meals, both freeze-dried and dehydrated options are fantastic choices. However, freeze drying has some distinct advantages, which is why it tends to come with a slightly higher price tag than dehydrated meals. But wait, there’s more! Some brands even use a combination of these two technologies – for example, freeze-drying the meat since it takes in water the longest, while dehydrating the rest of the ingredients. This option is also great because you won’t have to suffer from hunger pangs during your hike, and you’ll still get a delicious meal. However, it’s important to note that the mixed meals have lower amounts of nutrients and vitamins than those where all ingredients are freeze-dried. Speaking of taste, the difference in flavour can also be influenced by whether the food is mixed together from different dehydrated or freeze-dried components, or if it’s first fully prepared to have the best flavours and then freeze-dried or dehydrated.

Freeze dried outdoor meal before freeze drying, after freeze drying and after rehydration.
Tactical Foodpack / Pasta and Vegetables

And finally, it’s important to pay attention to the ingredients list as well. Some brands may use artificial flavours, colors, and preservatives, while others opt for natural ingredients. Additionally, some ingredients may not be as healthy or sustainable as others, such as those containing palm oil or too much sugar. If you’re looking for a healthier and more sustainable option, consider choosing meals with natural ingredients and minimal additives, so you can enjoy your outdoor meal with peace of mind knowing that you’re making a conscious choice.

In conclusion, whether you choose freeze-dried or dehydrated outdoor meals, it’s important to consider all aspects of the meal, including the preservation method, nutritional content, shelf life, preparation, and flavour. Don’t forget to also pay attention to the ingredients list and choose meals with natural and sustainable ingredients for a healthier and more satisfying outdoor experience.

Tactical Foodpack Beef Spaghetti Bolognese – freeze dried and rehydrated outdoor meal

All Tactical Foodpack meals are made from carefully selected ingredients. Each meal is prepared with the same attention to detail as a home-cooked meal, allowing the meat to stew for several hours and the spices and sauces to develop their flavours. This ensures that each dish is perfectly balanced and mouth-watering. No flavour enhancers or preservatives are used in the preparation of our meals.

After the meals are prepared, they are freeze-dried and packaged in an airtight, unique container that can even be heated over a fire if necessary. The easiest way to prepare the meal is by adding hot water, mixing it in, and waiting just 8-10 minutes. This means you can enjoy a full-fledged gourmet meal whether you’re on a hiking trail, at sea, on a road trip, or just at home.

Choose your favourite meal from our selection and experience the convenience and delicious taste of Tactical Foodpack.

After one and a half days of traveling, we finally made it to Cerro Castillo. Upon our arrival midday, we took a short walk to check out the tiny village. After around 10 minutes, we had seen pretty much all of it and while passing the minimarket, we suddenly heard someone knocking on the window from inside the minimarket. It was Raimundo! The steep skiing maestro who had helped us with beta in Cajon del Maipo in the Central Andes and who had suggested us to come down to Cerro Castillo in the first place.

This was such a nice surprise! During this happy reunion, Raimundo and his mountain guide mates gave us some beta on the conditions and suggested warming up in the Valle Neozelandés. The same valley that we had laid our eyes upon on FATMAP before arriving. Perfect fit. It is located behind the famous mountain Cerro Castillo which overlooks the village. The end of the valley is home to beautiful and steep couloirs guarded by high rock spires and peaks. Spending the next week skiing couloirs sounded like a perfect plan; thus, we packed our bags and after getting a ride from Gonzalo to the national park the next morning, we started our first Patagonian adventure.

The weather here also lived up to its name. Within the 6 kilometers of carrying our skis we had a mix of blue skies, snow showers and strong winds. In skitouring mode, we walked further into the valley before setting up camp right below the tree line in the hopes that the trees will protect us from the strong winds the next days. Even though our camp was 2000 meters lower than the one in the Central Andes, we were surrounded by a cathedral of steep rock towers piercing into the sky. From camp we could see many skiable lines, but also a lot of wind-drifted snow accumulating in the couloirs which is not the best sign regarding avalanche danger. Nevertheless, we crawled happily into our sleeping bags, ate some delicious Sweet Potato Curry for dinner and went to sleep after a round of backgammon.

After digging snow pits in two couloirs the next day, we decided to turn around in both cases, because the wind-drifted snow had not bonded well enough with the layers beneath. We were still rewarded with a bit of powder snow, which felt really good as powder runs had been scarce on our South American adventure so far. Back at camp, the sun came out which brought up hope that the snowpack would stabilize. While watching the clouds fly by in the sky, we enjoyed sitting around camp and just being in nature.

The next morning, we peeked out our tent and were greeted by clear skies and the onset of sunrise. Soon after, we put on our skins, strapped into our skis and splitboard, and started walking towards Punta Nudo. Not to see naked people (nudo = naked) but to ski a glaciated ice flank between two rock towers which had a frozen lake at its base. Even though the weather turned to the worse and the clouds quickly rolled in, the conditions in the face seemed pretty good with compressed, powdery, perfect steep-skiing snow.

So, we decided to start traversing along the lake’s shore and start climbing it. This kind of snow also made for some great boot packing. As we were not sure about the crevasses, we roped up halfway in, passed some ice patches that were sticking out, and then, after the last bit got steeper and harder, we found ourselves topping out not long after. Standing on a small peak and seeing deep into the Patagonian backcountry we felt relieved, but the wind forced us to start descending rather quickly.

In the beginning of the flank, it was hard-pack and steep before the snow got softer and we could begin to make bigger turns. Those were a lot of fun. At the bottom of the run and on the other side of the lake, we looked back at our tracks. This line felt super solid and we knew that we were ready for the steeper, spicier ones. Still in flat light we rode back to camp where the sun came out again one hour later. We had a relaxed afternoon only interrupted by a drone rescue mission rewarded with some more turns in corn snow.

Early the next morning, we walked towards the cathedral of rock towers in the first light and after some kickturns we found ourselves bootpacking on a narrow snow ramp going up to one of the towers. The ramp got steeper and steeper as we ascended but the snow was fantastic for climbing so we kept going. We were in a great headspace. The steepness and technicality did not make us uncomfortable, and everything felt super solid with an ice axe in each hand and crampons on the feet.

Even though the snow was a delight for climbing up it was really firm for the ride down, thus, we gave up our original plan to ride down in big turns on the lookers right site and descended through the narrow gully that we had climbed up, barely wide enough for my skis.

After a mix of jumpturns and side slipping through the choke, we could finally open up a bit and enjoy some turns in steep, open terrain. Our plan of riding fast was not fulfilled but looking back at this aesthetic line, we were really happy that we climbed and rode it safely.

With a feeling of accomplishment, we were back at camp sitting in the sun while checking the weather report sent to our satellite phone by my dad. We wanted to stay two more days, however, the weather was not forecasted in our favor. The forecast called for very strong winds and snowfall. This, even if the sun came out after, would mean a bad development concerning avalanche danger and more waiting around camp until everything has settled. Therefore, with a heavy heart, we decided to pack up camp and head back to Cerro Castillo before the storm hits.

We were satisfied with our first dip into the Patagonian wilderness, but we wanted more. Especially more glaciers. Luckily, there was a good but short weather window coming up. Therefore, on the day we came back from Valle Neozelandés, we began planning an expedition to the Northern Patagonian Icecap for which we would leave only 1,5 days later. Since information about the Icecap ranges from scarce to non-existent, we did not know how the current conditions were, but thankfully, we got some inside knowledge and help organizing the boat transport from our friend Gonzalo who is also a local mountain guide. We had barely finished organizing as we packed our bags with food and our expedition equipment and hitchhiked down to Rio Leones.

After another night in the tent there, we got a ride as far as one can drive into the valley the next morning. From that point, it was a 10 km hike with the skis on our 25kg backpacks to Lago Leones. Upon arriving at the lake in low hanging clouds, slight rain and wind blowing against us, we were happy that we did not have to swim through but get a boat ride from a local mountain guide over the lake.

Far in the distance, underneath the clouds we could see the outskirts of the glaciers calving into the lake. Still far away from the glaciers, though, we got dropped off on a steep, rocky shoreline. We watched the boat drive away knowing that it will come back in about week. All of the sudden, we felt alone and very small in a big and unknown surrounding. 

It was still a long way to the ice field and as we did not see a point in staying down here by the lake in the rain for the first night, we started walking through the thick, jungle-like forest. The rest of the day may qualify to be one of the worst hikes we have ever done. Soaking wet because of the rain-snow-mix, we had to fight our way through the woods with our skis on the back. Behind me, Celina was getting mad: “This f**** forest, why can’t we just walk a single meter without getting stuck somewhere, somehow”- summarizing the situation pretty well. We both knew that we needed to make it above the treeline, as there was not really a camping option around. However, things were not getting better when we reached the snowline that was still in the trees. Suddenly we found ourselves bootpacking through hip deep, completely wet snow with a breakable crust in the middle, seemingly impossible to get further up. After 5 hours of suffering, frustration and pushing through, we finally reached the treeline and set up our tent. Literally wet to our underwear we changed to dry clothes and ate a nice, hot meal. This already made everything a lot better. Completely exhausted, we fell asleep immediately after that.

We woke up to the first rays of sun hitting our tent the next morning and immediately hung up all of our wet stuff on surrounding trees. By now, everything around us looked way friendlier in the sun, than the day before being soaking wet in snow/rain. After a good breakfast and our clothes being mostly dry, we packed up camp and started touring further up towards Punta Camello. We still had 1300 vertical meters to go that day until reaching the Icecap and it was already around 10:30 am, so we were not sure, if we would make it.

However, when we reached Punta Camello, suddenly, a whole new world opened in front of our eyes. Steep glaciers, massive mountains and big crevasses between us and the icecap. Through a short descent we reached the glacier.

Then we were amongst this massive landscape and found a good way up to the col. Starting late in the day, we reached Paso Cristal and the first terrace right before sunset. Infront of our eyes opened up a surreal view, glaciers as far as one can see with a countless amount of peaks arising from the ocean of ice, many never climbed, even more never skied.

Already late in the day, we were in a really windy spot and still had one major zone of crevasses to pass ahead of us until we would reach our planned camping spot. Therefore, we quickly transitioned and began our roped descent one plateau further down. Here, we found a safe and slightly wind protected spot and while it was getting dark, we set up tent, built our snow wall around the tent, melted snow, and fell asleep after a delicious and warm dinner.

The next morning, I looked out the tent and saw nothing but white. Minutes later, we heard rain beginning to fall on our tent, so there wasn’t much to do but to take a rest day. This was welcome after two very long and exhausting days. Being in the rain all day also abandoned our hopes of skiing good snow the next day, but we decided to test it anyway.

Waking up the next morning it was completely silent, the sky was glowing and surprisingly everything was coated in a fine layer of fresh snow. Full of excitement we had breakfast and started skinning in the first rays of sun hitting the Icecap. We camped underneath a summit with a sharp ridge in the top part. Getting to the ridge felt truly like a walk in the park and after switching to crampons, we climbed up the ridge.

To the right of us Cerro Tobler, Cerro Fiero and Monte San Valentin with their crowns of Ice. To our left the whole icecap as far as the eye can see with peaks rising everywhere, crevasses big enough to fit multiple houses inside and the vastness of the flat glaciers. Even though it wasn’t a technical climb from camp we felt an intensive feeling of accomplishment and happiness reaching the summit. Sun, no wind, and this unbelievable view. We just sat there overwhelmed, soaking up the view, occasionally pointing at a distant peak and thinking about the endless possibilities with a longer weather window, more food, and more time.

Since the sun was heating up the snow, eventually we had to start descending and damn, it was fun, after two hard days of walking and a bad weather day, we were surfing down the ridge and then making big turns on an open field right to camp.

Even though the snow was already warm it was still only 11 am so we decided to do a little scouting tour for the way out. Back up at Paso Cristal, still in good weather, we decided to climb another peak with a not so steep but inviting slope to the summit. After another summit break, we skied some powder between huge crevasses and this magnificent surrounding. The feeling of accomplishment and content grew stronger.

Back at camp we sat in the sun, silence surrounding us and soaked it all in. Never have I felt such a strong connection to a place, unity with nature and unclouded happiness! It was special to share these moments with Celina.

That same afternoon, we felt ready for another full day of Icecap adventures and tried to arrange the boat ride through our satellite phone. The bad news was that the boat can only give us a ride Tuesday morning. Afterwards the weather will be too bad, and we would be stuck for an unpredictable amount of time on this side of the lake. Even this news could not dampen our mood. Everything was as it was supposed to be and after watching a peaceful and enlightening sunset, we happily crawled into our sleeping bags.

The next morning, we packed up camp and started walking up to Paso Cristal. The weather was fantastic again, even though the wind picked up. Since we had a good timing, we decided to climb up our third summit right next to Cristal providing us a last view over the whole Icecap and our way down to Lago Leones. Riding over the open slope back to Paso Cristal we could say goodbye to the world of ice before dropping into a long and surprisingly good corn run. In the top part we followed a wide, open ridge before dropping into another ice wall we scoped on the way up. Through the warm temperatures and the rain, the Bergschrund opened up more than expected leading to a jump with our heavy backpacks. Turning around I saw Celina flying down the face and then jumping with full confidence, which put a huge smile on my face. After a big high five we roped up again, crossed the last crevassed area, and walked away from the glacier up to Punta Camello.

Here we found a nice Camp spot next to a big flat boulder with a magnificent view back to the summits guarding the Icecap. Feeling content, we stretched ourselves, soaked in the wilderness one more time and after our last ration of Tactical Foodpacks, went to bed and slept like in heaven.

The next day we spent skiing corn snow on top, fighting through the woods again, getting a ride over the lake and then walking the 10k back to the road. Here we were welcomed with a cold beer and the certainty not having to walk more.

For the foreseeable future the weather in Patagonia was forecasted to be really bad with the summer winds coming in, so we decided not to fly down to El Chalten but to head north to Uruguay for our last two weeks in South America. Why Uruguay? To relax mind and body, feel the warmth and go surfing. All this so we can start into a new winter season in the Northern Hemisphere with high motivation. Feeling relaxed we flew back to Germany. Thankful for the mountains we have seen and skied, the people we met along the way and great times we had.

A Thank You Note

After all, a big thank you to Contour for their climbing skins and financial support enabling us to afford the boat ride over the lake and moving from A to B.

We also want too deeply thank Tactical Foodpack for their supply of freeze-dried food which was not only practical since we didn’t need to cook in the tent but also extremely delicious. Favorites of ours are Sweet Potato Curry, Moroccan Lentils Pot, Rice and Veggies and of course the Shakshuka for breakfast.

Thank you to all the helpful people we met providing us with shelter, information and welcoming us into their mountains. To name a few: Raimundo, Gonzalo and Paula, Andrew and Camila, Gille, Matt, Nathan and many more!

Furthermore, Celina wants to thank Delayon Eyewear, Nitro Snowboards, L1 Premium Goods and SIGG Switzerland for providing the essential gear for our missions.

Back in Europe we can’t wait to apply what we have learned down in South America to the Alps and who knows what other mountain ranges in the world. So, stay tuned….

Cheers,

Till & Celina

If you would like to know what other adventures we had in Chile, check out the two preceding parts of this blog series: Central Andes and Araucanía

Find our partners on Instagram:

Contour Skins | Instagram: @contour_skins
Tactical Foodpack | Instagram: @tacticalfoodpack

Nitro Snowboards | Instagram: @nitrousa @nitrosnowboards.austria
Delayon Eyewear | Instagram: @delayoneyewear
L1 Premium Goods | Instagram: @l1_premium_goods
SIGG Switzerland | Instagram: @siggswitzerl

Go and follow Celina’s adventures in the mountains around the world on Instagram! IG: @_celinaweber

It is the month of June 2022 in Innsbruck, Austria, where Celina and I had just finished our studies. The big question was: what now? Sure, we want to do some more studying but definitely not starting directly in the fall of the same year. Rather, we wanted to take a year off and immerse ourselves in this other profound passion of ours: Being in the mountains, skiing, splitboarding, exploring. We wanted to see new places, use the skills that we had learned so far, and expand our horizon. While not knowing how exactly this year will play out, we figured why not trust the unknown and travel to a country that is completely new to us and see what we find? That’s exactly what we did. Thus, in the first week of September we packed our bags and our gear, hopped on a flight, and together with our skis, tent, glacier equipment, and freeze-dried food by Tactical Foodpack for over 20 days of adventure, we landed early in the morning at Santiago Airport, Chile.

From there we got a ride into Cajon del Maipo and got to do a little self-assessment of our Spanish skills. As very few people speak good English, speaking Spanish is kind of a must-have if you travel in Chile. The car ride, therefore, turned into a little Spanish lesson and Celina quickly got back into it. Vocabulary searching with hand descriptions included. Cajon del Maipo is a part of the Central Andes that local legend Raimundo de Andraca claims to be „El paraíso“, because of its endless potential for steep skiing in big mountains. On the drive up we began to see the dimensions of the mountains surrounding us with countless ridges and deep valleys. Way up the mountains we could even see the snow line coming closer.

Still far away from it, we landed in a tiny village called Baños Morales. We settled into one of the 50 houses built from wood, stone and whatever material was available for the locals during the build. The next two days were spent getting a first glimpse of the place we had landed in including hopping over fences, crossing rivers, a snowstorm, and making our first turns in fresh snow. What was planned to be a little scouting tour in the Arenas Valley turned out to be a 10 hour mission with us coming back exhausted but super happy in the dark.

This gave us a real feel for the mountains and after talking to Raimundo we decided to fill up our backpacks with a lot of foodpacks and our mountaineering equipment. The plan was to set up basecamp in front of Marmolejo, the southernmost 6000 meter peak of the Andes. Our plan was not to summit, but rather to ski the beautiful lines surrounding this mountain. After „only“ a day of walking we reached our camp spot surrounded by glaciers and massive peaks. One mountain that caught our eyes immediately was the so-called Punta Pakistani. A hanging glacier crowning a 700 meter cliff, the peak caught the clouds in the sky way above us as we approached our camp spot.

Before trying to ski this mountain, we first needed to acclimatize which is why we spent the next two days skiing corn snow, perfecting the snow wall around our tent, and looking for a safe route up to Punta Pakistani. After a really cold night in our tents and rice pudding with berries for breakfast we started touring before sunrise on day four. While walking to the mountain, we watched it catch the first rays of sun and I got a strong feeling, that this is the right day, and that we are meant to be here. The crevasses on the glacier were filled with snow since the Andes mountains had a good winter. This made the way up easier than expected, even though the lack of oxygen in the air slowed us down.

Half way up the mountain we had three options, go to the right summit, continue to the left in direction to Cerro Cortadores or go straight to the col in front of us. Because the snow looked really good going straight and hard for the two other options, we decided on option three and soon found ourselves boot packing in hip deep snow next to a wall of seracs. Topping out on the ridge felt like a relief. Now we were there. Exactly where we wanted to be. Surrounded by big glaciers, steep rockfaces and powdery snow. Speechless by the beauty of our surroundings we took a lunch break soaking up the energy of these big mountains. It was the first real bliss moment as we had to work quite hard to get there.

Then it was time to strap into our skis and snowboard and enjoy the descent. The first slope was filled with powder and I felt so happy while watching Celina ride down with big turns. Hearing her screams of joy from below in the silence of the mountains. Then the drone was up in the air, it was my turn to ride and damn it felt good. After walking and looking up the line for days, now, feeling the soft snow and wind while flying down between ice and cliffs. More than happy we shared the remaining slopes down to our basecamp. There, we cooked some food, dried our boots and enjoyed the afternoon sun looking back at Punta Pakistani.

The next day was the last day of our weather window and we still had a far way back to civilization in front of us. However we did not want to leave this Valley without skiing one more line. So we woke up early, had some Mediterranean Shakshukka and skinned into the sunrise, right to a beautiful ramp that we saw from basecamp. We called it la Rampa as we could not figure out the name of the mountain. At the bottom of la Rampa, we switched to crampons and had an easy bootpack to the top. Yet again, the dimensions here tricked us and the bootpack turned out to be longer than expected. But after being acclimatized by now and way more fit than the previous days we made good progress. The snow was much harder than the day before due to some wind, but the descent was still good.

Long and sustained we drew our lines in the untouched snow before packing up our camp and skiing out of the valley. Thanks to a long traverse that Celina managed in ski mode (for anyone that is not familiar with splitboarding: it sucks!) we could avoid skinning up again. On top of that, we then had a perfect corn snow descent which was followed by a walk over a long flat part towards the end of the valley, then carrying our skis for an hour, walking to the main road, and hitchhiking back to Banos Morales

Endlessly tired and happy, we treated ourselves to some Empanadas and Papas Fritas before falling into our bed and a deep, heavenly sleep until the next day.

Then it was time to plan our next adventure and next destination…

To find out what happened next, check out our blog posts about our adventures in Araucanía and Patagonia

BIG Thank you to all of our partners:

Ski & Splitboard Climbing Skins:         Contour Skins | Instagram: @contour_skins

The best freeze-dried food ever: Tactical Foodpack | Instagram: @tacticalfoodpack

Celina would also like to thank her partners for the essential gear for our missions:

Nitro Snowboards | Instagram: @nitrousa @nitrosnowboards.austria
Delayon Eyewear | Instagram: @delayoneyewear
L1 Premium Goods | Instagram: @l1_premium_goods
SIGG Switzerland | Instagram: @siggswitzerland

Written by Till Fladung

Go and follow Celina’s adventures in the mountains around the world on Instagram! IG: @_celinaweber

Today we gave the floor to the YuMuuv team, who has created a health promotion app that is especially suited for organizing all kinds of active team challenges. YuMuuv wrote down his thoughts and experiences so that other companies can also find good ideas for team events.

A company retreat is a good opportunity to call the whole team together and spend time with each other. It brings employees closer and offers the opportunity to get away from the office and work duties for a while. Especially now, when many people work from home offices, coming together and bonding with each other is essential. And nothing brings people together like great food that vendors like Tactical Foodpack offer – as we learned first hand in our retreat.

A company retreat can be as unique as you want and can be based on the character of your company and the interests of your employees. Do you enjoy an active hike in the forest or instead relaxation in the spa? The possibilities are limitless. But one thing is certain, the employees are happy and satisfied at the end of the retreat. 

It can often seem difficult to organize a retreat because there is a lot of thinking and planning, starting, for example, with choosing a place and ending with catering. If you think everything through and do a little research on interesting solutions that make the organization and the whole event more pleasant and memorable, it’s actually easier than it might seem. 

How Tactical Foodpack Makes Everything Easy

An essential part of a company retreat is ensuring that everyone gets fed, as we all know happy bellies make happy people. Then the Tactical Foodpack comes to the rescue, offering delicious meals for your adventures.

We- the YuMuuv team, decided on Tactical Foodpack because we wanted to try something new and interesting, and instead of wasting time preparing food during the retreat, we could enjoy nice, healthy meals quickly and in a place of our choice. This left more time for fun and cool activities with the team. 

The whole process from ordering to receiving the goods was simple, fast, and convenient. We were not disappointed, because thanks to Tactical Foodpack we could fully enjoy our interesting hikes, wellness challenges, and spending time together.

“Every YuMuuv team retreat is a conquest of a few hills, both indirectly (business plans) and directly (adventure trips). Tactical Foodpack was a great partner in creating this achievement-oriented feel. After the effort, enjoying high-quality food together in the open nature is a unifying and exciting experience. This flexibility, which arises from choosing a suitable place, time, and food package for eating, helps to achieve the feeling that food is for the body and not the opposite.”

– Jakob Remmel, YuMuuv CEO

Ideas For Different Team-Building Retreats

Ideas for Remote team retreats

According to Buffer and company’s 2022 State of Remote Work report, 21% of remote workers say that loneliness is their #1 struggle with working remotely. This is one important reason why team retreats should be held and why they are important. Retreats help to reduce feelings of isolation for a remote team, increase work performance and productivity, improve team morale towards work, improve employee engagement, and so on. 

A well-thought-out retreat will breathe new life into your company and provide a change for employees. There are many service providers who make organizing easy and fast. For example, choose a company that conducts interesting activities and organizes a nice adventure for you. The Tactical Foodpack helps with meals, which keeps the workers’ bellies full for the entire trip. We chose two nice meal rations for our retreat, which we could enjoy on a bike ride, while enjoying nature in the swamp, or comfortably discussing the company’s plans in front of the fireplace.

In the Tactical Foodpack, you will find the right foods for your retreat, which you can quickly and easily enjoy to have energy for the adventure. Sweet Potato Curry would go well with a hike in the Arizona desert in the US or how would tuna pasta sound while camping in Norway? The selection is wide and everyone will find something to their taste. 

If there is a lack of ideas for fun things to do during the retreat, why not to do a great wellness challenge that has many positive effects. Find out who is the most active employee in your company, or who is the biggest sleepyhead. Interesting and engaging challenges, add vibrancy and excitement to your days.  

Ideas For Executive Team Retreats

For the executive team retreat, the CEO takes the company’s executive leaders away from the office for a day or two of debate and strategic contemplation. As a result, you can establish a solid plan, discuss things before making important decisions, get a clear idea of what the company does and strengthen the team and create a sense of togetherness. It is a good way to bring corporate leaders together outside work settings to realize the retreat’s goal in a fun, stress-free manner. The aim is to motivate corporate leaders to clarify work issues while having fun. According to TravelPerk survey, 34% of employees experienced elevated creativity on corporate trips.

How about two-day fun camping in some beautiful nature place to gather good thoughts and draw inspiration from nature? Or hiking in some National Park? No need to worry about food, Tactical Sixpack Combos, save the day. For example, Tactical Sixpack Alpha is ideal for a 2-day hike because it contains 6 different TF food packages.

If you’ve already tested your strength in a brainstorm, why not check out who is physically stronger for a change? Make it a goal to do some strength exercise every hour or set some other nice active challenge to stimulate your body and mind. It offers a change and a bit of a break from work-related conversations.

Ideas For Large Corporate Retreats

At large corporate retreats, an entire organization or a larger department is called together, and usually, the management presents the established strategy for the future period, the brightest employees of the previous period are rewarded and ideas are put together on how to implement the management’s strategy. Some fun activities will also be conducted. 

In the past, retreats could often be boring and monotonous and did not bring the emotion to the employees that they should have. Now there are so many options that help make the event memorable and enjoyable. These are simple things, such as an interesting activity with the team between brainstorming or a memorable taste experience that takes less than 10 minutes to make but is oh-so-delicious. A lot of people mean a lot of food. It doesn’t matter whether you are on a pleasant beach picnic, high in the snowy mountains, or at a gathering in a forest cabin. Have Tactical Foodpack at reach! Eat a nice warming meat soup or instead a very tasty and slightly spicy Mexican Hot Pot and Beef. The choice is yours. 

Conclusion

Although organizing retreats may seem like a complicated process, it is much easier and more enjoyable if you do it consciously. Most importantly, it adds a lot of value to your company and your employees are happier and more productive. 

We, the YuMuuv team, organize such retreats often because we see its positive results. This trip was more special than the others because our active activities and productive brainstorming sessions were accompanied by delicious meals from Tactical Foodpack. We were very satisfied. If you also want to organize a nice retreat in your company, contact Tactical Foodpack, who will help keep your employees’ stomachs full and their minds happy.