Baltic Sea Exploration
Erwan Simon is more than just a good friend and a MIGRA ambassador, he stands out as one of the world's most dedicated surfer explorers. His passion lies in seeking out and uncovering new breaks in remote and unexpected corners of the globe.
This drive led him, in the heart of winter, to embark on a solo adventure to the Baltic Sea, fueled by his insatiable love for surfing and exploration. As a seasoned traveler, Erwan is constantly on the lookout for unique and lesser-known surf spots worldwide.
This time, the allure of the Baltic Sea, with its promise of a decent swell forecast, proved irresistible: he boarded a plane to Stockholm, eager to discover what this icy region held in store.
Upon arrival, Erwan was met by an unprecedented cold wave that had gripped Sweden. Temperatures had plummeted to record lows, with the northern regions experiencing a bone-chilling -43.6 degrees Celsius. Although his destination lay to the south, the cold remained intense, and the landscape was enveloped in a thick blanket of pristine snow. Undeterred, he rented a car and set off on a nighttime journey, navigating snow-covered roads that seemed to stretch endlessly into the darkness.
After several hours of careful driving, Erwan finally reached the coast. His initial disappointment was palpable as he surveyed the first spot he had marked on the map the day before. The waves were tiny, barely surfable. However, true to form, he didn't give up easily and continued his exploration, driving along the coast in search of more promising conditions.
Eventually, he stumbled upon an interesting spot. The wind wasn't ideal, but the waves were rideable, and he was eager to get into the water. Erwan quickly put on his best wetsuit, complete with gloves, booties, and a hood, determined to brave the icy waters. However, in his excitement, he had forgotten to zip up his wetsuit. As he entered the water, a liter of freezing seawater rushed in, sending a jolt through his system. It was a stark reminder of the unforgiving nature of the Baltic Sea, but also a moment he can now look back on with a laugh.
Over the following days, his perseverance and passion were rewarded with some quality waves. The exploration continued, and Erwan discovered a good beach break where he enjoyed several surf sessions. The waves ranged from 50 cm to 1.5 meters, and the conditions were often glassy, providing a beautiful backdrop. Driving further, he also found a point break, but the wind wasn't always cooperative. Nevertheless, he enjoyed a nice left-hand break, often having the waves entirely to himself. This solitude was both humbling and exhilarating, a reminder of the vast and untamed beauty of nature.
The landscapes were truly breathtaking, with snow-covered coastlines and stunning sunsets that painted the sky in vibrant hues of orange and pink. Although the waves weren't the best he had ever surfed, the experience of discovering new spots and immersing himself in the raw beauty of the Baltic Sea was unforgettable. It was a powerful reminder of his deep love for travel and exploration: the thrill of the unknown and the joy of discovery.
This journey to the Baltic Sea was a rich blend of adventure, natural beauty, and cultural discovery. It underscored the importance of stepping outside one's comfort zone and embracing the unknown. Whether braving the icy waters, exploring snow-covered landscapes, or immersing himself in the local culture, each experience offered valuable lessons in resilience, adaptability, and the pure joy of discovery. As Erwan reflects on this adventure, he is filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore such a unique and beautiful part of the world.
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