By Aline Maillard, Switzerland
This year’s CYE summer camp took place in Norway from July 21 to July 27. From Monday to Sunday, around 50 coeliacs from all over Europe, aged between 18 and 30, got together and spent a week enjoying a carefree gluten-free time together. Like last year, I won’t forget this camp anytime soon; I got to meet so many new people, learn about the lives and travels of other celiacs, just “be” and explore beautiful parts of Norway at the same time.
Monday: It all started with a shuttle bus that took us from the airport in Oslo to the camp in Elverum. There we were greeted by countless Norwegians since our first day at camp happened to be also the last day of the NCFU’s Norwegian Youth Summer Camp. After dinner, we played icebreaker games and “capture the flag” in the small forest on the grounds. At around 11 p.m., we were able to marvel at the sunset while swimming in the evening.
Tuesday: On the second day, it was time to pack up, as we set off for our second accommodation on the Sjoa in Nedre Heidal. Why? Because we had an incredible rafting experience ahead of us! In groups of six with a guide, we were able to tackle the currents of the river Sjoa for a good hour (which, of course, felt far too short). After a barbecue evening at the campsite in Nedre Heidal, we spent the night in either cozy cabins or traditional lavvos.
Wednesday: Well rested, with sandwiches and plenty of water in our backpacks, we went on to Juvasshytta on the third day. From there, we ventured together on the ascent to Galdhøpiggen, the highest peak in Scandinavia at 2,469 meters above sea level. The steep path to the summit led across a glacier, among other things, and required teamwork, endurance, and willpower. But what an achievement and what a view once we reached the top!
Thursday: With more than enough sore muscles and general exhaustion from the eventful last two days, Thursday was a leisurely day with a visit to the Norwegian Forest Museum, back in Elverum. There, we were able to see and learn a little more about the Norwegian culture. We were even able to barbecue on the museum grounds, relax, and enjoy pleasant conversation. In the afternoon, there were more camp activities, including a blind taste test of Norwegian specialties. We ended the evening with a concert in the auditorium of the campgrounds; to quote the band members: “That went surprisingly well!” Normally, they play one concert a year with three songs, but for us, they performed classics such as “Purple Rain” for a good hour.
Friday: Once again, it was time to pack, because on Friday we were heading to Oslo, where we enjoyed pizza in the park. We ended the day at the rooftop bar in the hostel, playing board games in the foyer, or discovering Oslo’s nightlife.
Saturday: Sightseeing was planned for Saturday – alone, in groups, or with the NCFU organizers. Our first stop was, of course, the gluten-free bakery, Glutenfrihuset, where we stocked up on treats for the day and explored the city on foot. In the evening, we were able to end the week together with music in the park or continue to the bars.
Sunday: Sunday was all about breakfast and lots of hugs. Because every summer camp has to come to an end, and it was time to say goodbye to all our new friends – until the next CYE camp (or maybe sooner?)!
Thank you NCFU for making this week so memorable!
