Eikesdal
A day trip from Molde takes you past roaring waterfalls, narrow hairpin bends and open mountain plateau – all in one loop. Here is everything you need to plan the trip.
The day trip from Molde over Aursjøvegen is approximately 255 km in total and takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes of pure driving time. Set aside a full day, there is plenty to stop for along the way.
Molde–Eikesdal: Fjord, waterfall and cultural history
Approx. 95 km – approx. 1 hour 30 min
Start from Molde and follow RV64 to Sølsnes, then continue via Horsgård and Ranvik to Eidsvåg. Here you will find Nesset Prestegard, the childhood home of Norwegian author Bjørnstjerne Bjørnson. Follow RV660 towards Eresfjord. Down by the fjord at Bogge you can see rock carvings dating back 6,000 years.
A stop in Eresfjord gives you the chance to browse local handicrafts, watch salmon in the river via a monitor and visit an exhibition about Dovrefjell national park. The road continues along Eikesdalsvatnet, through the country's largest hazel forest. Eikesdalsvatnet lies just 26 metres above sea level, while the surrounding mountains rise 1,800 metres straight up from the water.
Take the toll road into Mardalen and walk up to Mardalsfossen, approx. 45 minutes each way. The waterfall plunges 297 metres and is the world's 4th highest free-falling waterfall. Please note that the waterfall is regulated for hydropower and flows freely between 20 June and 20 August. We recommend planning your visit during this period for the best experience.
Eikesdal–Aursjøen–Sunndal: Hairpin bends and mountain plateau
Approx. 70 km – approx. 1 hour 40 min – 1 toll road
Aursjøvegen winds up through Finnsetlia with several 180-degree hairpin bends, through dramatic scenery that leaves many visitors breathless. This is a route of contrasts, from the lush Eikesdalen with steep mountains on either side, to open and majestic mountain plateau.
About 100 metres from the road in Finnsetlia you will find impressive potholes where you can take a refreshing dip. Near the highest point of the road, you can walk out to the viewpoint Aurstaupet – just 400 metres from the road. The road then continues inwards towards the dam at Aursjøen (862 masl) and down through Torbudalen and Litldalen to Sunndalsøra.
The road is a toll road with automatic payment via passpay.no. It opens around 1 June and remains open until the snow arrives in October. Not recommended for caravans or larger motorhomes.
Be a considerate guest in wild reindeer territory
Aursjøvegen passes through one of the most important habitats for wild reindeer in Europe. Stay on the road and at designated stopping points, keep your distance if you spot wild reindeer, and use binoculars rather than approaching. Read more about visitor guidelines on the Aursjøvegen page and at dovrefjell-sunndalsfjella.no.
Sunndal–Molde: Return journey along the fjord
Approx. 90 km – approx. 1 hour 20 min
From Sunndalsøra, follow RV62 via Eidsvåg back to Molde. The road runs along the fjord and makes for a beautiful end to an eventful day.
Want to make the most of your visit? In Nordmøre and Romsdal you will find great options for accommodation, food and drink and guided activities. Check out Contrast Adventure, DID Adventure, Urpu Ski & Mountain Guiding and Guide Romsdal for tailor-made activities in the Nordmøre and Romsdal region.
Source: Visit Northwest