13 DANGLE ABOVE A FJORD ON THE TROLLTUNGA VIA FERRATA

Trolltunga (‘troll’s tongue’) is a diving board and a half (not that you’d ever want to jump). The 3,870fthigh precipice and its backdrop are geologically astounding, with the blue shock of Ringedalsvatnet lake far below and the snow-streaked mountains of Hardangervidda all around. The 10- to 12-hour hike to the top is tough, involving a 2,625ft ascent, but it’s tougher still if you brave the via ferrata. Guided trips run from April to October and include all gear. It’s a full-on day of cycling, hiking and clambering up a razor-edge cliff on metal rungs, trying desperately not to lose your nerve. Best to get a sunrise start. trolltunga-active.com

Hikers reach the top of Trolltunga, Norway Below: A walrus in Svalbard; micro-cruising through ice with Secret Atlas in Svalbard