I’ve not walked with many professional mountain guides, Ann Foulkes is one who I have been away with a couple of times to the Dolomites, John Llyle in Scotland (recommend by Ann) practising for this trip to Greenland and now Leifur and Bjorgvin. I have to say that without any of these guides I would not been able to climb or walk with such confidence that I now can.
Leifur and Bjorgvin are both involved with Icelandic Mountain Guides and there very different characters brought a very rounded feel to the mini expedition. Leifur was unfortunate enough to land the two oldies, Mike and myself. Leifur is pragmatic and knows the mountains and their dangers like the back of his hand with experience that I could only ever dream of.. Everest, North and South Poles and the Seven Summits just to name a few. While Bjorgvin naturally migrated towards the two youngsters, James and Dave. A professional photographer and a very hard rock and ice climber. His résumé is not yet as varied as Leifur’s, but then his expertise is in Hard Rock and Hard Ice, where the public recognition is not as high but the rewards for the individual are.
Both guides have been a mind of information. Our safety and enjoyment has all along been their priority. They have been willing to change any part of the itinerary to accommodate us, as Ann has when we’ve trekked with her. Although this has been one of the most challenging trips I’ve been on, with adrenaline pumping highs, it’s been one of the most enjoyable.
Firstly I’d like to thank Ann of TrekMountains for organising this custom trip and to the two guides who have really made this trip, I believe for all four of us.