Ålesund

Unique architecture

Following a devastating fire in 1904, the entire town centre of Ålesund burned down to ashes, leaving 10,000 people homeless. The rebuilding of the town created one of Europe’s most distinctive concentrations of Art Nouveau buildings. A stroll through the town centre reveals colourful buildings with a myriad of turrets, spires and original medieval ornaments punctuating the skyline.

Urban life

Ålesund is a charming, pulsating town with a varied cultural scene, exciting restaurants and a variety of shops. There are quite a few events in the area, representing a variety from skiing to music:

• High Camp in March (skiing and mountaineering festival)
• InnoTown in May (business and innovation conference)
• Ålesund Live in June (music festival)
• Sommerfesten in July (free summer festival)
• Trandal Blues in July (blues festival)
• Jugendfest in August (music festival)
• Fjord Cadenza in August (classical music festival)

Take a stroll by the picturesque Brosundet and buy fresh fish and shrimps from local fishermen selling the day's catch. The beauty of the town can best be appreciated from Aksla, the mountain with the vantage point Fjellstua overlooking the town, which provides a stunning view of the entire scenic coast and fjord region.

Nature

Ålesund is situated by the entrance to the Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The surrounding region is home to some of the most breathtaking sights and has many well-known natural and cultural gems. The profusion of fjords, waterfalls, fjord farms, small fishing communities, tiny islands and majestic mountains never fails to impress visitors.