Are you dreaming of waking up every day in a beautiful destination, surrounded by epic views of the fjords and mountains? Do you love adventure, and are you not scared of putting some effort into experiencing the best sights? If you answered yes, this Norway road trip starting and ending in Ålesund will be perfect for you.
Norway road trip the logistics
Before you book your flights to Norway, you should plan a few things first. Those include how you will get around here, what route you will follow, and what time of the year is best for the road trip.
How to get to Ålesund?
Ålesund is the largest town in the Møre og Romsdal county, known as the home of the Sunmøre Alps. They are, in my opinion, the most beautiful mountain range in Norway.
Ålesund is a fantastic place to start and end your Norway road trip because it is very close to many of the top attractions in the country. I also find Ålesund way more interesting and beautiful than Bergen or Oslo.
The town has a small airport and car rental places. You can get here by catching an internal flight between Oslo and Ålesund. Norwegian Air and SAS, both local airlines, operate along this route.
What is the best time of the year to do this road trip?
Since many of the activities I have included in this plan are outdoor, the best time to follow this Norway road trip itinerary is between July and September. This is because most trails are clear of snow and safe to follow.
At any time before or after this timeframe, you may still encounter significant snow when hiking at higher elevations. It’s possible to go earlier, but please note that you may not be able to complete all the activities listed on this itinerary.
Road trip outline and map
Above, you can view the road trip map, on which I marked the driving directions, viewpoints, hikes, and campsites.
How to use the map?
Click on the button in the top left corner to open the layers. To make the map easier to read, you can switch the layers on and off by clicking on the red check box. Click on different hikes, and you will be shown links to my other blog posts with detailed descriptions of each trail.
The best way to travel around Norway
Since this is a road trip, you will need a vehicle to follow it. I brought my campervan into Norway and spent a few months travelling. If you are coming from abroad for a limited time, then the best option is to rent one.
Rent a Campervan with Motorhome Republic
If you want to be independent with your time and the locations you visit, I recommend renting a campervan.
Campsites in Norway are easily accessible. Norwegians love to camp, and I have never seen so many campervans before. The entire infrastructure for motorhome travel in Norway is impressive, from campsites and water filling-up stations to grey and black water dump stations, which are set up everywhere.
For the best price comparison and campervan reservations, visit the Motorhome Republic.
Rent a compact car with Discover Cars
Are you not into the whole van life thing? I get it; it’s certainly not for everyone. I can only do it for a few weeks before I start craving a normal bed and a daily shower.
Another great reason to rent a compact car is its fuel efficiency. While motorhomes are great, they are not fuel-efficient.
I highly recommend looking for your car rental with Discover Cars.
Suggested 10-day Ålesund to Ålesund itinerary: day-by-day breakdown
This is an action-packed itinerary. I realise you might not be able to tick off everything I propose, mainly due to the rainy weather in Norway, but if you are an absolute adventure freak, you will! During the next 10 days, you will visit the following destinations:
- Day 1 & 2: Sunmøre Alps and Hjørundfjord
- Day 3-6: Jostedalsbreen & Jotunheimen National Parks
- Day 7: Geiranger UNESCO Fjord
- Day 8-10: Trollstigen and Åndalsnes
Let’s hit the road!
Day 1: Ålesund to Urke in the heart of the Sunmøre Alps
- Distance from Ålesund to Urke: 64 km / 40 mi
- Travel time: 2 h 15 min (including ferry)
We are kicking this road trip off with a visit to one of my favourite fjords in Norway: Hjørundfjord.
If you are staying in one of the hotels I recommend below, please type ‘Sæbo’ or ‘Øye’ into your GPS when leaving Ålesund. If you are travelling in a campervan, then go directly to Urke and stay at a campsite there.
Sæbo, Urke & Øye are only a few kilometres apart, but the first two lie on opposite sides of the Hjørundfjord. Don’t fret, though. Ferries travel between the two towns every 30 minutes. You will quickly learn how crucial ferries are to Norway’s transportation system. On this road trip, you will take quite a few of them.
Spend the rest of the day checking out the area. If you are staying in Urke or Øye, I recommend driving to the local beach (marked on the map) and taking a swim. You can even jump from the jetty into the refreshing fjord. If you stay in Sæbo, you can take an evening walk along the fjord.
Best accommodation options around Urke: night 1
Best Rated
Hotel Union Øye
A historic hotel located at the entry of the Norangsdal Valley, approximately 1 kilometre from the shore of the Hjørundfjord, and a 6-minute drive from Urke.
Top Location
A beautiful waterfront hotel with a fantastic view over Hjørundfjord and the Sunnmore Alps. Mount Saksa is visible from the deck.
Day 2 (morning): Hike in the Sunmøre Alps
This is an adventure road trip, so prepare to undertake some hikes via ferratas, kayaking & biking on this holiday in Norway.
Option 1: Summit of Mount Saksa
The summit of Mount Saksa was the very first hike I did in Norway. Forty different trails later, Saksa remains one of my favourites.
I quickly learned that trails in Norway tend to be steep, and instead of using zigzags, they often go straight up. This is the case with the hike to Saksa. You start at sea level and gain 1300 meters (over 4000 feet) of elevation in just over 3 kilometres (less than 2 miles). Whilst it’s not too bad when going up, going back down is a real knee-buster.
At least you will be rewarded with extraordinary views from the top. Your effort will not be in vain.
Option 2: The Urkeegga Circuit
If you want an easier trail for your first hike on your Norway road trip, go for the Urkeegga Circuit instead. While the way up is still relatively steep, returning down will be much easier on your knees.
Don’t worry—you won’t miss out on the views; you will see them from a slightly different angle. The Urkeegga Circuit follows a ridgeline with 3 separate peaks, each with awesome vistas over the Hjørundfjord.
TIP! Check out of your accommodation before doing either of the hikes. After completing the hike, you will drive to your next destination.
Day 2 (afternoon): drive the scenic route to Loen
- Distance from Urke to Loen: 80 km / 50 mi
- Driving time: 75 min
After the hike, take a quick and refreshing dip in the fjord before continuing on your journey to Loen, your next destination.
It’s only 80 kilometres (50 miles) to Loen, but be prepared to lift your jaw off the floor for 30 minutes. You will follow road no. 655 along the Norangdal Valley, a narrow green valley surrounded by sheer cliffs.
TIP! Obey the signs in Norangdal. Stopping in certain areas is prohibited due to the danger of rockfall. Numerous designated stops provide ample parking, allowing you to leave your car and take a photo.
Once you reach the end of road number 655, turn right onto road number. 60 towards Grodås. It’s a little town built on the shoreline of Lake Hornindalsvatnet, where you can stop for a quick photo. It’s not only the deepest lake in Norway but also the deepest in Europe and the World’s 12th deepest! Source: Wikipedia
TIP! If you have an extra day in Norway, consider staying at the Horndøla camping en route to Loen. The next day, hike to Lake Blåvatnet or the summit of Hornindalsrokken. It’s a beautiful, off-the-beaten-path hike where you will only meet locals.
Once you arrive in Loen, check into your accommodation and take a moment to relax. Tomorrow, another adventure-filled day is waiting for you.
Day 3: Hike in Jostedalsbreen National Park
Today, I’ve got two exciting hikes for you to choose from. The decision will certainly not be easy, as both trails offer spectacular views.
Option 1: Klovane
The west side of Norway’s famous Jostedalsbreen National Park, where you will spend the next few days, is home to some amazing lakes. The three most notable are Oldenvatnet, Lovatnet, and Oppstrynvatnet.
All three are glacier-fed, which means the tiny particles called rock flour, created by the glacier’s movement grinding down against the rock, travel down the rivers and empty into the lakes. The particles then reflect sunlight, giving the lakes intense colours. Depending on the weather, the colours of the lake change between blue, turquoise, and emerald.
One of the best places to observe this phenomenon is the summit of Klovane, high above Lake Oldenvatnet. I propose you do this hike on day 3.
Option 2: Kattanakken
Jostedalsbreen National Park is the home of Norway’s largest glacier field, and the park is named after it. Jostedalsbreen is the largest glacier on the European mainland and has many arms that reach down to the valleys. One of them is the Briksdalsbreen Glacier Arm.
Briksdalsbreen is no secret. It’s one of the most visited places in Norway, but there is an easy way to escape the crowds and get an even better view of it. I am talking about the hike to Kattanakken.
This challenging hike veers off the official path that leads to the Briksdalsbreen glacier viewpoint. Once on it, you start climbing up. The higher you go, the better the views.
TIP! If you are too tired to hike again, consider renting a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard and cruising on Oldevatnet Lake.
Day 4 (morning): Lovatnet
After an intensive day 3 of your Norway road trip, it’s time to take it a bit easy on day 4. At least in the first half of the day.
You can spend the morning driving around the west side of the Jostedalsbreen National Park and check out some roadside viewpoints, which I have marked on the map.
I recommend driving along Lake Lovatnet to its end, where you can park your car and stroll to see the Kjenndal glacier tongue. It’s not as spectacular as Briksdalbreen, but it’s still a lovely sight.
TIP! A great way to explore Lake Lovatnet and Lodalen (the valley where the lake is located) is by bike. There are bike rental places in Loen.
Day 4 (afternoon): Tackle Via Ferrata Loen (or take a rest)
It’s time for a serious adventure. If you want to walk across a 120-meter-long suspension bridge perched 800 meters above the fjord, you must tackle Norway’s famous Via Ferrata Loen.
The route leads to the summit of Mount Hoven, which is accessible by the Loen Skylift cable car from the town of Loen. The only time to do Via Ferrata Loen unguided is in the afternoon.
TIP: If you prefer to tackle Via Ferrata Loen with a guide, book your tour for the morning and spend the rest of the day either resting or exploring the Jostedalsbreen National Park.
Best accommodation options in Loen: nights 2, 3 & 4
Best Location
Located in the centre of the town, the hotel offers great access to nearby attractions. After hiking in the mountains all day, soak in the indoor or outdoor pool to relax your muscles.
Top Rated
Take advantage of the free kayaks and paddle on the turquoise lake Oldenvatnet, or take a hike to see the beautiful panoramic lake views from above.
Day 5 (morning): Scenic drive to Sogndalsfjøra
- Distance from Loen to Sogndalsfjøra: 127 km (79 mi)
- Driving time: 2 hours
Even though Sogndalsfjøra, your next destination for the night, is only a 2-hour drive away from Loen, prepare to spend at least half a day along this stunning route. Today, you will drive around the Jostedalsbreen National Park from west to east.
There are plenty of beautiful viewpoints along the way. My favourites are the Stardalselva Valley, Jølstravatnet Lake, Bøyabreen Glacier, and the Fjærland village. All of them are roadside viewpoints and won’t require much effort to get to (for once).
I still recommend leaving Loen as early as possible to reach Sogndalsfjøra around lunchtime. After checking into your hotel or campsite, you can head back to the mountains.
Day 5 (afternoon): Hike to Molden
- Distance from Sogndalsfjøra to the trailhead of Molden: 20 km / 12.5 mi
- Driving time: 20 min
If the weather is good, you can take advantage of the long Scandinavian summer days and hike to the summit of Molden. The trailhead is only located a 20-minute drive from Sogndalsfjøra.
The hike takes 3-4 hours and has expansive views of the turquoise Lustrafjord and the surrounding mountains.
Best accommodation options in Sogndalsfjøra: night 5
Best Value
What guests loved about it:
- Cosy rooms with balconies and fjord views
- Lovely hotel grounds and pool
Top Rated & Unique Stay
Sogndal Fjordpanorama – The Atmosphere
What guests loved about it:
- Fjord views from the outdoor hot tub
- Very functionally designed cabins
Day 6 (morning): Explore the glaciers of Jostedalsbreen National Park
Option 1: Hike to Austerdalsbreen
- Distance from Sogndalsfjøra to the trailhead of Austerdalsbreen: 55 km / 34 mi
- Driving time: 1h 15 min
Austerdalsbreen is hands down the most beautiful arm of the Jostedalsbreen glacier field. The hike to its viewpoint is pleasantly straightforward, with most of the route leading through a flat, wide valley before a gentle climb up.
The drive from Sogndalsjøra to the Austerdalsbreen trailhead is an experience in itself. The route follows the shoreline of the Vaitastrondavatnet, another glacier-fed and beautifully coloured lake.
Another highlight of this hike is the possibility of having lunch at the Tungestølen hut, but before I reveal too much, head over to my guide to the Austerdalsbreen hike.
Option 2: Hike to (or on) the Nigardsbreen Glacier
- Distance from Sogndalsfjøra to the trailhead of Nigardsbreen: 66 km / 41 mi
- Driving time: 1 h 15 min
Nigardsbreen is the most famous arm of the Jostedalsbreen glacier field. Guided glacier hikes are a popular activity in this area. You can spend half a day walking on the ice, exploring its crevasses, and listening to the glacier’s history, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide.
For a more budget-friendly option, consider hiking to the glacier viewpoint. My guide to hiking to Nigardsbreen Glacier covers all the details.
Day 6 (afternoon): Sognefjellet Scenic Route & Geiranger Scenic Route
- Distance from Austerdal to Geiranger: 260 km / 22 mi
- Driving time: 5 hours
- Distance from Nigardsbreen to Geiranger: 250 km / 150 mi
- Driving time: 4 h 30 min
No matter what activity you choose on the morning of day 6 of your Norway road trip, you have a bit of a drive to do in the afternoon to get to your next destination. But what an exciting drive it will be.
Once you leave the valleys, you will enter the Sognefjellet Scenic route, which stretches for 108 kilometres (67 miles) between the towns of Gaupne and Lom.
You will first drive along the shoreline of Luster Fjord before climbing up along a twisting road toward the high mountain plateau. The route is the gateway to Jotunheimen National Park, which leads through the highest mountain pass in Northern Europe. There are plenty of beautiful roadside stops along this route.
Sognefjellet Scenic Route opens in late spring (usually at the start of May). It remains open for the summer and early autumn before closing again once the snow falls, making it impassable.
Once you reach Lom, the end of the Sognefjellet route, turn left onto road No. 15. After another hour of driving, you will enter the Geiranger Scenic Road. Once again, you will drive through stunning mountain scenery to Norway’s most famous Fjord, the Geirangerfjord.
Similar to the Sognefjellet route, the Geiranger Scenic Route typically opens at the start of May and closes by November.
TIP! If you have an extra day, consider breaking up the journey and staying an extra night on the Sognefjellet Scenic Route. The next day, you can join a guided hike to Norway’s highest summit, Mount Galdhøpiggen, before you continue to Geiranger.
Day 7: Explore the UNESCO Geiranger Fjord
Option 1: Hike to Skageflå
Day 7 of your Norway road trip is another day filled with beautiful views. Today, I recommend the most popular hike in the Geirangerfjord area: Skageflå.
Skageflå was a small farm built on a cliff high above the Fjord. It operated until the beginning of the last century before being converted into a tourist attraction. You can enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the Seven Sisters waterfall from the farm, situated in the Geiranger Fjord.
This is a one-way hike. After completing it, you must pre-book a boat transfer to get back to the village. I cover all the details in my guide to the Skågefla hike.
Option 2: Activity in the Geiranger Fjord
If you want to take a break from hiking, there are plenty of fantastic outdoor activities in Geiranger that don’t require walking. Below are a few that I recommend.
Guided Kayaking Tour
Embark on an unforgettable kayak expedition in the majestic Geiranger Fjord. Accompanied by an experienced instructor, gracefully paddle through crystal-clear blue waters, leading you to the iconic Seven Sisters Waterfall.
Self-Guided Bike Tour
Embrace the breathtaking beauty of the Geiranger Fjord during a self-guided downhill biking adventure. Meander along winding mountain roads, catching glimpses of cascading waterfalls and enchanting lakes as you ride at your own pace.
Best accommodation options in Geiranger: nights 6 & 7
Best Value
Lovely cottage-type accommodation in a beautiful and quiet setting with great new facilities
Top Rated
Soak in the hot tub while looking directly at the Geiranger Fjord, or enjoy dinner with a view in the restaurant located on the 6th floor.
Day 8 (morning): Geiranger Scenic Drive via Trollstigen
- Distance from Geiranger to Åndalsnes: 87 km / 54 mi
- Driving time: 2 h 10 min
The morning of day 8 of my proposed Norway road trip continues the National Scenic Drive you started on day 6.
The Geiranger-Trollstigen Scenic Route stretches across 104 kilometres (67 miles). There is also a ferry crossing involved. Today’s must-see roadside stops are:
- The Ørnesvingen viewpoint above the Geiranger Fjord
- Eidvatnet lake
- The village of Valldal
- Gudbrandsjuvet
- Trollstigen viewpoint
TIP: Stay an extra night in Valldal and book a rafting adventure, or take another hike to Mefjellet. The Juvet Landscape Hotel in Valldal was the location for Alex Garland’s sci–fi movie Ex Machina.
Day 8 (afternoon): Hike to Litlefjellet
Once you make it to Åndalsnes, have lunch, check into your accommodation and head out on a little hike to the aptly named Litlefjellet.
Litlefjellet is a one-hour round-trip hike that offers jaw-dropping views of the infamous Troll Wall, known as the birthplace of base jumping. However, My favourite view (pictured above) is the triangle-shaped Romsdalshornet reflecting in the ponds on the saddle.
Day 9: Adventure around Åndalsnes
Today is your last full day following this epic Norway road trip. It only makes sense to finish it with an exciting activity. Åndalsnes is a Mekka for adventure lovers, and here are a couple of options to make your day memorable.
Option 1: Via Ferrata Romsdalsstigen
After testing your nerves on the Via Ferrata Romsdalsstigen Vestveggen, you won’t forget Norway quickly. This is a challenging route for absolute adventure freaks.
You can either join a guided tour or, provided you have a previous via ferrata experience, just rent the gear and do it yourself. Whatever you decide, you are guaranteed an exhilarating experience with dramatic views.
Option 2: Romsdalseggen hike
If dangling off a cliff a few hundred meters above a fjord might be too much, consider finishing your Norway road trip with one last hike and crossing the Romsdalseggen ridgeline.
Romsdalseggen connects Åndalsnes with Venjedalen Valley. En route, you can expect some of the most jaw-dropping scenery in Norway. The hike takes ca. 6 hours to complete and requires pre-booking a shuttle bus. You can learn all the details in my guide to the Romsdalseggen hike. This will be an epic ending to your Norway road trip.
Best accommodation options in Åndalsnes: nights 8 & 9
Best Value
Cabin-type accommodation in a beautiful setting with surrounding mountain views.
Top Rated
Directly in the town centre with great access to the gondola terminal. It has a very relaxed atmosphere.
Day 10: Return to Ålesund
- Distance from Åndalsnes to Ålesund airport: 122 km / 76 mi
- Driving time: 1 h 40 min
After countless hours designing this itinerary, I genuinely hope you will have a lifetime holiday. The last thing on the schedule is the return drive to Ålesund, where you started this Norway road trip.
If you leave Åndalsnes early and your return flight isn’t until late evening, you can still spend the day exploring Ålesund. A few hop-on hop-off tour bus options will take you to all the highlight spots in Ålesund.
Best accommodation options in Ålesund (optional)
If you have an early flight to catch, you can leave Åndalsnes on the afternoon of day nine and stay in Ålesund for the night instead. This choice will put you near the airport.
Best Value
Centrally situated in the popular Skansekaia Harbour area. The Airport bus stop is right outside the hotel.
Top Rated
A boutique hotel in the centre of Ålesund with excellent access to the trails of Aksla mountain, where you can see the famous view of the town.
How can this Norway road trip be shortened to 7 or 8 days?
In the article, I provided you with a few ideas on how to extend your Norway road trip. However, what if you don’t have ten full days but would still like to follow my proposed itinerary? Here are a few options that will allow you to shorten this plan to 7 or 8 days.
- Option 1: Skip the east side of Jostedalsbreen National Park and Sognefjellet Scenic Route. On day 5, after leaving Loen, drive straight to the Geiranger Fjord, passing Oppstrynvatnet. This will save you two days.
- Option 2: Skip Åndalsnes. Go back to Ålesund after visiting the Geirangerfjord. You can still drive to Ålesund via Åndalsnes without needing to stay overnight. That way, you won’t miss out on seeing Trollstigen.
- Option 3: Stay for a shorter period in each place. You can still see all the destinations I listed, but speed up your trip. The downside is that you won’t have much time to do all the adventures I enlisted. Your itinerary will look as follows:
- Urke or Sæbo: 1 night
- Loen: 2 nights,
- Sogndalsfjøra: 1 night,
- Geiranger: 1 night,
- Åndalsnes: 1 or 2 nights.
That will amount to 6 or 7 nights and 7 or 8 days on the road.
Other road trip itineraries around Norway
- Bergen to Bergen in 7-10 days for hiking enthusiasts
- 14-day Oslo to Oslo Road Trip for Photographers
- Stavanger to Bergen through the tourist hotspots of Norway
- Lofoten Islands 5-day hiking road trip
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Hi Marta!
We found your blog last year when planning our trip to visit Norway, and specifically to find a small town where we could find our family’s heritage farm. While we only had seven days, we were able to hit many of your highlights on your Alesund to Alesund road-trip (backwards route due to timing). We chose to rent a car, so we could enjoy the comfort of hotels, and have explored Alesund, Geiranger via the Trollstigen, the via ferrata in Loen, and the lovely but challenging hike up Mt. Saksa. Thank you for all of the wonderful tips and inspiring our time in Norway! It’s been fun to read back through your road trip guide and shake our heads in agreement at much of your words- having finally been here ourselves. Thanks for all you that you do!
Hi Rebecca. Thank you for taking the time to leave me with some feedback. I am happy to hear you had some amazing time in Norway and were able to hit some of the spots on the itinerary. It is certainly a very special place.
Thank you Marta! Looks beautiful! I just did a search on Motorhome Republic for a van and it added $2816 usd for picking the van up in Alesund. Would it be more economical to pick it up in another city and pay less overall for the rental? Which city would you recommend? Thank you! Kathy
Hi Kathy! You can rent one in Bergen and join this route at Sogndalsfjora. You can add Naroyfjord NP to the itinerary.
I also have a Bergen to Bergen and Oslo to Oslo itinerary that you might find interesting.
Thanks so much for this outline! May have saved my honeymoon 🙂 We are also active and needed something that wasn’t just driving to every view point. We have a bit more time so added some more onto this itinerary. Any experience/thoughts about going from Loen to Balestrand instead of straight to Sogndalflora?
I am glad to hear that. Balestrand is 1 hour away from Sogndalfjora so if you want to do any of the hikes near Sogndal. It will add 2 hours to your driving each day. I hope you have a wonderful time in Norway!
Marta,
I recently read your Lofoten itinerary and was heartbroken to see that you experienced bad weather over an extended period of time (6 weeks). Did you take that trip in 2023? I was there for 10 days starting June 19, 2023. The weather was almost perfect! A bartender at a hotel I was staying at remarked that the weather was unusually nice during my stay. I guess I was extremely lucky. I hope this doesn’t discourage you from returning one day!
Your guidance has helped me immensely on trips to Canada, the Dolomites and New Zealand and your photos of these places is among the best on the internet! Thank you:)
Hi Bob. I loved the Lofoten despite the awful weather. I did have one beautiful week when I was there, and it so happened a couple of days before I dropped my camera off a cliff and didn’t have anything to take photos with. I was very unlucky on my trip, but I do plan on going back next summer for the whole month of June, mostly to experience the midnight sun too.
I am so glad to hear my guides have helped you. Thank you for your lovely comment about my photos too!
Hi Marta,
Thanks for sharing this great itinerary. Sorry for yet another question (left in one of your other articles). With 14 days in Norway in early July for advanced/strong hikers coming to Norway predominately to hike (and some via ferratas- we loved these in the Dolomites), but also to see as many can’t miss/iconic Norway outdoor lacations, would you suggest your Alesund to Alesund itnerary or the Bergen to Bergen? What woud you add in to fill in the other extra days we have? We also hope/plan to hike to Trolltunga. Thank you very much!
Hi Joe. It really is down to you. Whatever you choose you won’t be dissapointed and you have to make peace with the fact that you can’t see it all on matter what. I conciously skipped Trolltunga because of the crowds. Preikestolen was already borderline for me and I would have skipped it too if it weren’t for my dad who wanted to see it. You see people in flip flops on those trails, completely unprepared. The lines to take photos are riddiculous. To me it is a really off putting experience.
Alesund to Alesund is definitely my favourite, because of the Hjorundfjord area in the Sunmore Alps which is a true hiker’s paradise.
Hi Marta, I’ve just found your website and it is wonderful. Full of lots of information and suggestions, thank you. We’re researching a first time trip to Norway in august 2025, and I’m seriously going from one article back to the last, my head is spinning. Im looking at this itinerary, and wondered if there were easy or moderate hikes you’d recommend in Loen? We love hiking, but i think these hikes are too advanced for me 🙁 maybe this isn’t the right itinerary for me to choose? I look forward to hearing from you! All the best, Kim
Hi Kim. Thanks for visiting and for your great feedback. Yes, there are many hikes around that area. I suggest that you try Rakssetra, Segestad and just the first part of Kattanakken where you hike to the glacier lake. It’s a very easy hike with platforms and bridges built in.
At the end of lake Lovatnet you also have a walk to Kjendalsbreen. You won’t be bored in this area, I promise you that!
I hope that helps!
Im so embarrassed I’ve just typed another post as didnt think my original one posted. Thank you so much for your response. It’s really appreciated!! Ps your dog is absolutely beautiful and is living a wonderful life with you 🙂
Thank you Kim! I am glad you found my answer! 🙂
Hi Marta! Thanks for sharing this! Reading your post as I plan a trip to Norway for the last week of April (2025) and its been vey helpful. We only have 5 days so am thinking of doing an abbreviated version of this trip where we stop in Urke and Geiranger (1-2 nights each) before heading back to Ålesund, but are not yet set on this plan. I understand that along your route there will likely still be plenty of snow at this time, do you have any suggestions of stops on your route that you’d think are most likely to be hikeable/feasible at the end of April/Early May? For context, we are not skiiers but would be happy snowshoeeing a trail or two and are in good physical condition.
Hi Brianne. Thanks for visiting. Just take under consideration that some roads don’t reopen until the end of May, so you might have to take some detours (For example the road to Geiranger). I think Loen and the area around the Lovatnet, Oppstrynvatnet etc are good to visit around that time. You should also be able to do Austerdalsbreen hike around this time. Maybe Molden (although the latter it really depends on conditons).
Hi Marta! I leave in just a few weeks for Norway and I’m following a shortened version of this itinerary, plus some time in Lofoten beforehand, and you’re website has been tremendously helpful. I’m quite excited! I have a question about the difficulty of the hikes, as I can see you’re very knowledgeable in these areas. I’m pretty experienced myself, but I’m going with my friend who has hiked quite a bit, but she sometimes gets anxious with too much exposure/drop-offs or steep terrain that’s covered with slippery scree, for example. I know she’s capable but I don’t want her freezing up or getting too uncomfortable. Our chosen Norway hikes are: Mount Saksa, Klovane, Molden, Austerdalsbreen, and Skageflå, Reinebringen, Ryten, Offersøykammen, and Floya & Djevelporten in Svolvaer. Should we be fine or are there any I should consider swapping out for others?
Hi Beth. I am so glad to hear you found my site helpful and that you chose to follow some of my itineraries. Now to your question. I think the hikes that might be a bit too much for your friend are:
Saksa – right at the very end there is a short traverse along a slope with a steep drop off to the side.
Skagefla – When hiking down to Skagehola the steps are very steep, although there is a protection set up to the side so you friend might feel more secure.
Floya – I didn’t do it, but my boyfriend did and he said before the very top some serious scrambling is involved and he had troubles getting down (he is the kind of guy who isn’t afraid of much). I think Volandstinden is an often overlooked hike and it is a) pretty easy for Norwegian standards and b) has amazing views so if you are looking for an alternative that’s the one I would suggest.
I wish you a fantastic time and let me know how it goes!
I hope you have an amazing time.
Thank you, Marta! That’s exactly the kind of advice I was hoping for. Should we be okay terrain-wise swapping Saksa for the Urkeegga Circuit instead? I’d still love to get some views of the Sunmøre Alps, if possible. If the weather is somewhat good, I might opt for Via Ferrata Loen while my friend heads up Klovane. Volandstinden is exactly what I was considering as an alternate for Floya, so that’s perfect. Thank you for your well-wishes, I’m stoked!
Hi Beth. Yes Urkeegga Circuit is slightly easier, but there are still some sections along the ridgeline that may make your head spin. The good news is you can hike to the shelter first through the forest then decide how are you feeling about the ridgeline. The views won’t change significantly so if you decide in the shelter that you are not comfortable traversing the ridgeline you can come back down the same way. I hope you have an amazing time in Norway. Let me know how it goes!
Hi Marta, I would like to do a tour in Norway this summer where I can do some hiking. I have searched several internet sites and forums and ended up with your Ålesund to Ålesund and Bergen to Bergen tour guides. I then looked at other things you have done and want to tell you that what you are doing is a wonderful and meaningful help:) Thank you for that. And now, what would you recommend for a first solo tour in Norway with a rental car: the Ålesund or Bergen tour (or something else)?
Hi Darius.
Thanks for your amazing feedback. My favourite route is the Alesund to Alesund one, but with the current closure of the Trollstigen road, the last couple of days will have to be modified (it just requires a driving detour and getting to Andalsnes via different route).
To be honest whichever one you choose you won’t be dissapointed. Both are great routes and both have amazing hikes in them. So if you are having a hard time deciding then just toss a coin 🙂
Hey Marta!
Longtime user of your incredible outdoor-centered guides (Italy, Canada, Iceland, New Zealand)!!
I’m seeking some advice for my upcoming Norway trip. I’ve got 2.5 weeks and I’m spending the first chunk of it in Lofoten (largely influenced by your recommendations, of course!), hoping desperately that the weather is somewhat agreeable during my trip.
For the second part I’m doing a shortened version of this Ålesund to Ålesund itinerary, but the recent closure to Trollstigen has thrown a wrench into my plan for the last bit. I’m going to lay out my plans and I’d love and appreciate any input you have, keeping in mind that only my flights are permanent but all of my accommodations are refundable and I’m totally willing to change my itinerary based on your solid experience/advice!
11/9
Arrive in Ålesund @1:30PM
Explore Ålesund
Drive to Sagafjord Hotel, explore beaches
Night: Sæbø hotel
12/9
Hike Saksa
Drive the scenic route to Loen
Night: Loen Airbnb
13/9
Hike Klovane
Lake Lovatnet
Night: Loen Airbnb
14/9
Scenic drive to Sogndalsfjøra
Hike Molden
Night: Hafslo Airbnb
15/9
Hike to Austerdalsbreen
Tungestølen cabin
Drive the Sognefjellet Scenic Route & Geiranger Scenic Route
Night: Geiranger hotel
16/9 (original plans)
Geiranger Fjord kayaking
Geiranger Scenic Drive via Trollstigen & Viewpoints
Åndalsnes airbnb check-in
Hike to Litlefjellet (depending on light & weather)
Night: Åndalsnes
17/9 (original plans)
Romsdalseggen viewpoint hike (possibly longer, time/weather dependant)
Explore Åndalsnes
Drive to Ålesund airport
Flight @5:25PM
The last 2 days I’m not sure of now because of the road closure. 16/9 would no longer be possible as planned since after kayaking in the morning, it would take 4.5 hours to drive from Geiranger to the Trollstigen viewpoint, then retrace and back around to Åndalsnes and Litlefjellet. Even if I cut out Litlefjellet, I’m not sure the remainder of the plans would be worth it, but maybe it would? Maybe there’s a better alternative. Again, all of my accommodations and routes are changeable start to finish. What are your thoughts?
Thanks so much for all that you, especially for us outdoor-addicted travel girls!
Hi Elizabeth. Thanks for following so many of my itineraries. I am sorry to hear about the Trollstigen road closure. I hope it won’t last long. I am happy to help you out figuring out a different route. I started offering one-on-one calls where we talk over the itinerary or any other questions you might have. Here are the details.
Hello Marta,
We would like to visit Norway and Lofoten Islands. However, I am not about to make any plans until your Lofoten guide is published! Seriously, the amount of information you share, guidance you provide, hotels, road trip ideas, etc. is priceless!!! A world of thank you for all that you do to provide this information to us.
Do you have an estimated time on when your Lofoten guide would be published, please? No rush, just enquiring so that we can plan accordingly.
Best,
Debbie
Hey Debbie. Thanks so much for your fantastic feedback. I am so glad you find my Norway guides very useful. Please do consider using the affiliate links when you book something. As for the Lofoten Guide, it will definitely be out by the end of the year which should give you enough time to book everything. In the meantime do let me know if you have any more questions!
Hi Marta,
Thank you very much for the estimated release timeframe for the Lofoten guide. It is much appreciated. And yes, your guide will be out with sufficient time for us to plan our trip since we are planning to visit in 2025 and will look to use the affiliated links, where I can.
Best,
Debbie
Thank you Debbie. Keep your eyes peeled by the end of the year 🙂
Hello Marta
My girlfriend (Kristi) and me are from the U.S. (Tampa, FL). We recently completed the Tour du Mont Blanc 10-day trekking adventure this past July. After discussing, we have decided to make Norway our next destination adventure experience. We plan on visiting sometime in August or early September 2024. I’ve been reading and researching Norway a lot these past several weeks. I have found several travel template itineraries. After much research, we are highly leaning towards your Alesund to Alesund travel plan. We are planning about 8 to 9 days. We are going to modify the itinerary a little as we wish to do an activity day in Valldah and spend a few days in Alesund. However, we love the hikes you mentioned and plan to spend a night in Urke, Loen and Geiranger (two nights here). We are still refining the details of our trip. I just wanted to say your webpage has been EXTREMELY helpful. THANK YOU!!
Hi Alex. Wow thanks so much for your great feedback. The Alesund to Alesund itinerary I designed is my favorite because I am a big hiking enthusiasts. I hope you have lots of fun in Norway and the weather plays along as well (it can be very rainy). If you could support my site by using the links that would be amazing! Happy travels.