Andalsnes Shore Excursion: the Troll Road and Troll Wall

Experience Norway’s Most Iconic Landscapes in Just Three Hours

If you’re visiting Åndalsnes and craving a taste of Norway’s rugged beauty, the Andalsnes Shore Excursion: the Troll Road and Troll Wall offers a compact yet unforgettable adventure. For about $115, you’ll spend roughly three hours exploring some of the region’s most jaw-dropping sights, including the Trollstigen (Troll Road), the Troll Wall (Trollveggen), and the towering peaks of Romsdalshorn.

What we love about this tour is the chance to witness spectacular mountain vistas and the thrill of navigating Europe’s most famous hairpin bends. The guided commentary adds depth, as your guide shares legends and stories that breathe life into the landscape. Plus, the opportunity to snap photos at key viewpoints makes for memorable keepsakes.

One thing to keep in mind is that the season’s weather and road conditions can impact the itinerary. As the Trollstigen is currently closed for the 2024 season due to rock fall risks, the tour has been adapted to showcase other incredible sights, which still pack a punch.

This experience suits travelers who want a focused, scenic journey with plenty of opportunities for photography and learning. It’s particularly ideal if you’re on a cruise and want to make the most of your short time in Åndalsnes without sacrificing awe-inspiring views.

Key Points

• Compact and scenic: A 3-hour tour that covers major sights in Åndalsnes area.
• Spectacular views: Includes Trollstigen, Troll Wall, and mountains like Romsdalshorn.
• Expert guidance: Knowledgeable guides share myths, legends, and local insights.
• Flexibility: Adapted itinerary due to seasonal road closures, still offering stunning sights.
• Photo opportunities: Multiple stops for capturing Norway’s rugged landscapes.
• Value for money: Well-priced tour considering the highlights and expert narration.

An In-Depth Look at This Scenic Norway Tour

Starting Point and First Stop: Åndalsnes Railway Station

The adventure begins at the Norsk Tindesenter just outside the town, a convenient departure point for cruise passengers or those staying locally. Here, the bus takes you away from the town center and into Norway’s dramatic mountains. The first highlight is the Troll Wall (Trollveggen) — Europe’s tallest vertical rock face, famous among climbers and adventure seekers.

From the bus, you’ll get your first glimpses of Romsdalshorn, a striking peak that looms behind the Troll Wall. According to reviews, the guide will give you a quick rundown of what makes this area so special, and you might find yourself marveling at the sheer scale of these natural formations.

The Scenic Drive: Up Trollstigen (Troll Road)

The heart of this tour is the drive along Trollstigen, a historic mountain road built in 1936. This winding route features 11 hairpin bends, each with a name and stories behind it. As your driver expertly navigates the switchbacks, you’ll want to keep your camera ready — the views are nothing short of spectacular.

While the road itself is closed in 2024 due to safety concerns, the tour now takes you to other vantage points that still allow for close-up views of the winding path and surrounding mountains. Several reviews highlight the skill of the driver, especially on these tight turns. One guest noted, “Your bus driver did a great job navigating the hairpin turns,” and it’s true — this is no route for the faint of heart or the inexperienced driver.

The Trollstigen Plateau and Photo Stops

At the top of the road, the plateau offers a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Here, you’ll find the Trollstigen Visitor Center, which includes a restaurant, restrooms, and a souvenir shop. Many reviews mention how short the stops are, with only 25 minutes at the viewpoint being a bit tight for those wanting more time to explore or take photos.

Guests have shared that the scenery is truly breathtaking, even in less-than-ideal weather. One traveler mentioned, “Impressive scenery, took many gorgeous pictures,” and another appreciated the opportunity to see the legendary mountains of the King, Queen, and Bishop watching over the landscape.

The Troll Wall and Its Mystique

After the scenic drive, the tour includes a visit to the Troll Wall / Trollveggen, the tallest vertical rock face in Europe. While some reviews note that the wall was closed during their visit, the guide provided insights, and the nearby viewpoints still offered incredible vistas.

It’s worth knowing that the weather can impact visibility, and clouds may obscure the peaks, but even then, the dramatic cliffs create an awe-inspiring backdrop. One guest commented, “Going through the Troll Road was such an experience,” and even with limited visibility, many agreed that the landscape’s scale was enough to leave a lasting impression.

The Nearby Romsdalshorn and Legends

As you approach the tour’s end, you’ll catch sight of Romsdalshorn once again. The guide often shares amusing stories and local legends, adding a layer of cultural enrichment to the natural beauty.

Practical Details and Experience Tips

The tour operates from the Åndalsnes Railway Station, with check-in 15 minutes early. It’s an easy meeting point, especially for cruise passengers. The group size, with a maximum of 45 travelers, keeps things relaxed and manageable.

Since the tour is labeled level 1, easy, it’s suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Just wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, especially as mountain weather can change quickly.

What the Reviews Say

Many visitors rave about their guides, often describing them as knowledgeable and friendly. One guest said, “Denise and the driver provided a great tour,” emphasizing the importance of a good guide in making the experience more meaningful. Others highlight the spectacular scenery and the skillful driving through the challenging switchbacks.

A few reviews mention that the short stops can feel rushed, especially at the viewpoints, but overall, travelers agree that the tour delivers immense value for the price. Some even note that they’ve done this excursion multiple times, which speaks to its lasting appeal.

Considerations and Seasonal Changes

It’s crucial to note that Trollstigen is closed during the 2024 season. This means the traditional winding road experience isn’t available, but the tour has adapted to still showcase the stunning mountains and cliffs through alternative viewpoints. Keep in mind that weather may influence the visibility of the peaks, so it’s worth bringing layers and a camera that can handle changing conditions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for cruise travelers with limited time who want to see the highlights of Åndalsnes without rushing. It’s also excellent for families, seniors, or casual travelers seeking a scenic, educational experience without strenuous activity. The short duration and easy level make it accessible for almost everyone.

If you’re drawn to legendary landscapes, mountain legends, and hairpin bends, this tour offers a concentrated dose of Norway’s rugged charm. However, if you’re seeking more time at each stop or a more active adventure, you might find this tour a bit brief.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s labeled as level 1 easy, so children of all ages who are comfortable on bus rides will enjoy the scenery and stories.

Will I see Trollstigen in 2024?
No, Trollstigen is closed for the season due to safety concerns, but the tour has been adapted to showcase other breathtaking sights.

How long is the drive?
The total tour lasts about three hours, including stops and sightseeing.

Are there any food options during the tour?
Yes, there’s a restaurant at the Trollstigen plateau where you can buy refreshments if desired.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
The tour is rated easy and involves only short walks at viewpoints, making it suitable for most mobility levels.

What should I wear?
Dress in weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes, as mountain weather can change quickly.

Is this a good value compared to other excursions?
Absolutely. Given the spectacular views, knowledgeable guides, and the inclusion of multiple key sights, many reviews suggest it’s a worthwhile expense.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an efficient, scenic taste of Norway’s mountain majesty, this Andalsnes Shore Excursion delivers. You’ll enjoy striking vistas, the thrill of winding mountain roads, and stories that bring the landscape alive. While weather and seasonal closures can impact the experience, the tour’s flexibility and the quality of guides make it a reliable choice for travelers who want a snapshot of Norway’s rugged beauty.

For those who love dramatic vistas, legends, and expert-guided storylines, this trip offers a wonderful way to connect with the landscape — even in a short time. It’s especially suited for cruise passengers or anyone eager to see Norway’s mountains without a long hike or extensive planning. Just remember, even on a short tour, the scenery will linger long after you return home.