Alesund Shore Excursion: From Fjords to Trolls offers a well-rounded taste of Norway’s natural beauty, cultural charm, and mythical legends. For about $193, you get roughly 6.5 to 7.5 hours of exploring spectacular landscapes, from the deep fjords to the towering Troll Wall, with stops in Valldal, Gudbrandsjuvet, and Trollstigen. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour promises a balanced mix of sightseeing, storytelling, and fresh air.
Two things we love: First, the stunning viewpoints like Gudbrandsjuvet gorge and Trollveggen offer unforgettable scenery that you’ll want to capture and remember. Second, the expert guides tend to keep the journey lively and informative—many reviews praise their engaging narration and local insights.
A possible consideration is Trollstigen’s seasonal closure in 2024, which means the famous steep mountain road might be skipped or altered. That can impact the full experience, but the tour still offers plenty of impressive sights.
This trip suits travelers craving an authentic Norwegian landscape, especially those interested in nature, legends, and scenic drives. If you appreciate guided storytelling and breathtaking vistas, you’ll find this excursion worth every penny.
Key Points
- Stunning scenery: Expect breathtaking views of waterfalls, fjords, and towering cliffs.
- Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with stories and local tips.
- Flexible options: Lunch can be added for a seamless experience or skipped for a shorter day.
- Well-paced stops: Multiple photo and sightseeing stops allow ample time to enjoy each highlight.
- Seasonal considerations: Trollstigen might be closed, but the tour adapts with alternative viewpoints.
- Ideal for nature lovers: The tour is perfect for those wanting a full day of Norway’s natural beauty.
Introduction: A Day of Norwegian Wonders
If you’re visiting Alesund and want to see what makes this part of Norway so special, this full-day shore excursion is a fine choice. For about $193, you’ll spend roughly 7 hours exploring fjords, waterfalls, and the legendary Troll Mountain. The journey begins near the port, with a friendly guide leading you on a scenic drive through some of Norway’s most iconic landscapes.
What truly makes this trip appealing are two key aspects: the chance to see some of Norway’s most arresting natural sights and the insightful, friendly guides who bring stories of trolls, legends, and the land’s history to life. The stops at Gudbrandsjuvet gorge and Trollveggen are particularly memorable, offering photo opportunities and moments of awe.
However, be aware that Trollstigen’s closure in 2024 could mean missing out on the famous steep road. That’s a shame if you’re eager to experience the stomach-churning drive, but the tour compensates with other stunning viewpoints and engaging narratives.
This tour suits adventurous travelers who want a compact, comprehensive taste of Norway’s landscapes without the hassle of planning, and those who enjoy stories behind the scenery. It’s also a good pick for cruise ship passengers, with the tour designed to fit within a port day.
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How the Itinerary Breaks Down
Starting Point: Norway Excursions Office near the Port
Your adventure kicks off right in Ålesund at the Norway Excursions office, just a short walk from the cruise ships. The small group size (max 45 travelers) ensures a comfortable and personal experience, avoiding the feeling of being just another face on a coach.
First Stop: Kokarsteinen Bakery & Storfjord
The drive begins with a quick photo stop at Kokarsteinen bakery, where you’ll snap some shots of the Storfjord, one of Norway’s iconic fjords. This is a perfect first glance at the stunning landscape that defines this region. A review mentions that the views here are “worth every penny,” providing a gentle introduction to the grandeur ahead.
Gudbrandsjuvet Gorge
Next, you’ll venture to Gudbrandsjuvet, an impressive canyon carved by water over centuries. This stop is often highlighted for its dramatic beauty. Visitors note the gorge’s “magnificent waterfalls” and “breathtaking views” that make it a favorite. It’s a great chance to stretch your legs and take some memorable photos.
Trollstigen Plateau & Viewpoints
Then comes the highlight of many trips—the Trollstigen Plateau. Here, you get a half-hour stop to enjoy the expansive view over the mountain road, which is renowned for its hairpin turns and steep ascent. Many reviews mention the spectacular vistas, with words like “incredible” and “unbelievable.” However, due to safety concerns, Trollstigen Road might be closed in 2024. In this case, the guide will take you to alternative viewpoints, which still offer impressive scenery.
A reviewer sums it up: “The overlook of the Troll road is a must-see,” and even when the actual road isn’t accessible, the views from the plateau still impress.
Stigfossen Waterfall
Next, a quick stop at Stigfossen Waterfall allows you to see this rushing cascade from the bottom, often praised for its powerful flow and proximity for great photos. It’s a short, sweet stop that adds to the overall sense of Norway’s raw natural energy.
Trollveggen (Troll Wall) & Visitor Center
The Trollveggen is one of Europe’s tallest vertical rock faces. Many visitors describe visiting the Besoksenter as a highlight, where stories of the trolls and legend are brought to life. The sheer scale of the wall, combined with the myths, makes this stop both a visual and cultural treat. Reviewers often mention guides’ storytelling skills, making the visit engaging.
Scenic Drive Along the Rauma River & Rose Church
The route back to Ålesund takes you along the Rauma River, a scenic drive that’s appreciated for its peaceful, lush views. The last stop is the Stordal Gamle Kyrkje, also known as the Rose Church, which adds a charming, cultural touch before heading back to the port.
What’s Included and What’s Not
Included in the price are a local guide, all the major stops, and the convenience of a well-organized sightseeing tour. You’ll visit several fjords, the strawberry-producing town of Valldal, Gudbrandsjuvet, Trollstigen (if open), and get to see waterfalls, cliffs, and more.
Optional lunch provides a seamless experience, allowing time to relax and enjoy local cuisine, which many reviewers found to be delicious—”a very nice lunch” and “filling.” If you prefer a quicker day, you can opt to skip lunch and still enjoy most of the highlights.
Note: The tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll meet at the starting point near the port. Small group size ensures a comfortable ride, and guides often operate in multiple languages, mostly English.
The Experience and Value
Many travelers speak highly of their guides, citing Roman and others as personable, knowledgeable, and eager to share stories about Norway’s myths and landscapes. This storytelling adds depth to the scenery, turning a simple sightseeing trip into a more memorable experience.
The value lies not just in the sights but in the quality of the narration, the personalized stops, and the chance to see multiple landmarks in one day. For around $193, you get a full day of sightseeing that covers famous viewpoints, waterfalls, and the legend of the trolls—a mix that appeals to many types of travelers, especially those seeking photo opportunities and engaging local stories.
Some reviews point out the rougher days—like the tour being altered due to road closures or weather—but overall, most find the experience well worth the price. The inclusion of lunch, when chosen, elevates the value further, making this a convenient, all-in-one option.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This excursion is ideal for travelers who value scenic beauty and storytelling over sheer adrenaline. If you enjoy picture-perfect landscapes, fascinating local legends, and a comfortable, guided experience, you’ll likely love it. It’s suitable for families, older travelers, and those on a cruise who want to maximize their time ashore without the hassle of planning.
It’s also great if you’re curious about Norwegian culture and myths, as many stops are paired with intriguing stories. However, if you’re hoping to drive Trollstigen yourself or want a more active hiking experience, you’ll want to look elsewhere.
FAQs
What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts about 6.5 hours if you skip lunch, or 7.5 hours if you include it.
Does the tour operate if Trollstigen is closed?
Yes, the route adapts, and you’ll visit alternative viewpoints or the Troll Wall instead.
Are hotel pickups available?
No, you need to meet at the Norway Excursions office near the port of Ålesund.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and reviews mention it’s great even for small kids. The stops are short, and scenery is captivating.
What is the group size?
The maximum is 45 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.
Can I include lunch?
Yes, you have the option to include a local restaurant meal, which many reviews praise as tasty and filling.
What should I bring?
Dress in layers, bring a camera, and prepare for changing weather—Norway’s clouds and rain are part of the package.
Is this a good value for the price?
Most reviews indicate yes—viewing multiple stunning sights and having an engaging guide makes it worth the cost.
Final Thoughts
This Alesund shore excursion provides a sightseeing experience that combines breathtaking landscapes, engaging storytelling, and cultural highlights. It’s a well-organized way to see Norway’s famous fjords, waterfalls, and mythical cliffs, all in one manageable day.
If you’re a lover of natural beauty and stories, this tour will leave you with vivid memories and plenty of photos. Even with the potential for some route changes, the overall experience remains meaningful thanks to the guides’ expertise and the stops along the way.
For those wanting a full immersion in Norway’s scenic grandeur without the stress of planning each detail, this trip hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for cruise passengers who need a reliable, engaging tour that makes the most of their port day.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this excursion offers a fantastic snapshot of Norway’s famous fjords, waterfalls, and legends—a true highlight of any trip to Ålesund.