North of Kristiansund, on Skardsøya in Aure, the Germans established Melland Fort during the war years 1943-45. Visitors can explore dozens of war memorials.

World War II Fort

The fort, situated right by Trondheimsleia, was intended to guard the approach to Trondheim by sea and air. Melland Fort's Friends, in close cooperation with the landowner, have made the site accessible to the public. Visitors can park in the designated area at Finset farm, from where there is a developed road and paths, also suitable for cyclists and wheelchair users.

To see

Among the war memorials at Melland Fort, you can find cannon positions, machine gun placements, bunkers, command centers, and remains of a medical station, a soldiers' assembly hall, railway, bathing facilities for soldiers, kitchen and dining barrack, and soldier barracks. Along the paths, many information boards are set up in Norwegian, English, and German, and the site of the prisoner camp is also marked.

Cultural Trail, barbecue and Guiding

A new cultural trail has been marked out on the site, leading past many of the eastern war memorials. The West Battery also features a small museum bunker, which is opened on special occasions. In addition to being a place for learning, Melland Forts Venner has also provided facilities such as a barbecue area, fire pit, picnic spots, and a playground with a zipline. Melland Fort's Friends also offer guided tours for school classes and other visitors.

Source: Visit Northwest