There are many good reasons to start in either of the directions. Contrary to most of the NPL enthusiasts, I’m starting in the north. The main reasons are:
- I want to free myself from inner or outer constraints as soon as possible. Since there are only very few shelters or cabins and stock-up possibilities in the far north, I am forced to find my rhythm quickly. I will benefit form the midnight-sun and can pitch my tent wherever and whenever I like. There is simply no specific location you have to reach by end of the day (which has no end anyway).
- I want to explore the fascinating nature of Eastern Finnmark with its prominent Gáisás. At the beginning I won’t be in a hurry.
- Towards the end I expect everything to become easier and I assume the more boring road sections will be mentally easier with the big target ahead.
Sure, I won’t see the polar lights and there might be still a lot of snow at the beginning of June and high water levels hampering river crossings – but, well, I do it my way.