Journalist and #shadrider Quique Arenas invites us to discover one of the most legendary routes in motorcycle touring—the dream of every enthusiast: the journey to North Cape. The route is more than 2,400 kilometers long and skirts the Norwegian coast. Nordkapp, the journey to the end of the world.
It’s a sensory journey to the end of the world
The roar of the engine, the icy wind on your face, and the asphalt stretching to the horizon: this is how the adventure to North Cape begins. Norway’s Magerøya island, home to the legendary “globe” of Nordkapp at latitude 71°10′21″N, greets us with landscapes that defy imagination. The weather changes with every kilometer: cold temperatures, rain, fog, and even snow in the middle of summer remind us that nature sets the rules here.
During the first days of the journey, we are immersed in deep fjords and rushing rivers, and winding mountain roads reveal that driving here is as challenging as it is spectacular.
In Bergen, the Bryggen wharf and the medieval Urnes church offer a glimpse into centuries of history, and nearby fjords cut through the landscape like blades of water and rock. The Trollstigen road requires our full attention with its zigzag curves, waterfalls cascading next to the road, and seemingly endless cliffs. Every meter is a challenge and every view is a reward.
The Atlantic Road, Atlanterhavsvegen, makes us feel as if we are floating over the sea. Seven bridges connect small fishing communities while the relentless pounding of the ocean against the route’s pillars is ever-present. Storseisundet, with its impossible curve, catches the eye and makes us realize this route is a marvel of engineering and adventure. Every curve seems designed for adrenaline and the perfect photograph.
As we continue toward Trondheim, Bodø, Narvik, and Alta, the landscapes become even more extreme. The Lofoten Islands appear with their sharp peaks, deep fjords, and deserted beaches. Fishing villages such as Å, with its single-letter name, seem suspended in time. Here, the skrei cod still migrates every winter, uniting history and nature. Beyond the Arctic Circle, the tundra stretches out like a green-and-brown ocean. Reindeer calmly cross the road here, reminding us to respect the region’s inhabitants.
In Tromsø and Alta, the light changes constantly. The days are long, the midnight sun bathes everything in surreal colors, and the sensation of being in a different world intensifies. An underwater tunnel transports us as if by magic. Upon emerging, the landscape brings us to the edge of the world with its intense cold, visibility-reducing fog, and wind that seems to push our motorcycle backward. Every curve, every straightaway, and every moment of focus brings us closer to Nordkapp.
Finally, the metal globe of North Cape appears before us. It’s more than just a geographic symbol; it’s the culmination of a journey that tests the body, mind, and spirit. The feeling of being at the “end of the world” is indescribable. The silence, broken only by the wind, and the vastness of the landscape highlight the magnitude of the experience.
For a journey like this, the right equipment is as vital as the motorcycle itself. SHAD TERRA side cases and a top case protect all necessary items, including clothes, tools, food, and photography equipment. The TERRA TR15CL tank bag provides access to essentials at any moment, with organized and adaptable compartments. Having this gear provides confidence and freedom, allowing you to experience the adventure to the fullest.
Traveling to North Cape by motorcycle isn’t just about reaching a destination; it’s about feeling every curve, every landscape, and every challenge. It’s about embracing the road, the fjords, the wind, and the snow as an extension of yourself. This transformative journey leaves an indelible mark on those who seek to explore the far reaches of the earth, knowing that every kilometer traveled becomes an unforgettable experience.
Text and photos: Quique Arenas
