ÅNDALSNES

The mountaineering capital

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Rampestreken, Romsdalseggen in Åndalsnes .
Photo: Small World Production / Shutterstock

Ready for an epic nature adventure in the northern part of Fjord Norway?

Start by hiking up to 550 metres above sea level, to the Rampestreken viewing platform.

Rampestreken, Romsdalseggen in Åndalsnes .
Photo: Small World Production / Shutterstock

Actually, you don’t have to go that far to get amazing views. And the sight will put the phrase “the alpine village by the fjord” into a new perspective.

For full panoramic views, follow the Romsdalstrappa stone steps all the way to the top of Mount Nesaksla, 708 metres above the Romsdalsfjord.

Romsdalstrappa in Åndalsnes .
Photo: Matti Bernitz / Visitnorway.com

Romsdalstrappa i Åndalsnes .
Photo: Matti Bernitz / Visitnorway.com

The descent from Nesaksla is actually the last part of the Romsdalseggen trail. This famous hike begins in Vengedalen, a 15-minute bus ride from the city centre.

The view is spectacular – and not just at the top, which is probably why Lonely Planet has named it one of the world’s most scenic hikes.

Romsdalseggen in Åndalsnes .
Photo: Mattias Fredriksson Photography AB / Visitnorway.com

While Romsdalseggen is a strenuous trip for experienced hikers, the light version Litlefjellet (pictured), also offers breathtaking views. And the hike up is suitable for children.

Litlefjellet in Åndalsnes .
Photo: Øyvind Heen / Fjords.com

As you can see, Åndalsnes isn’t called the mountaineering capital for nothing. And you’ll soon realise just how important the history is to the locals.

But first – snack time! Visit the welcoming Sødahlhuset café, a short walk from …

Food at Sødahlhuset in Åndalsnes .
Photo: Sødahlhuset

Sødahlhuset in Åndalsnes .
Photo: Sødahlhuset

… the mountaineering centre Norsk Tindesenter. Here you’ll get an introduction to the town’s proud mountaineering history.

The visitor centre is also home to an interactive museum, as well as to Norway’s tallest indoor climbing wall. Are you up for the challenge?

The Norwegian mountaineering centre in Åndalsnes .
Photo: Oddgeir Visnes / Møre og Romsdal Reiseliv

If you prefer to climb with a view, you can fight the butterflies in your stomach as you make your way up the Romsdalsstigen via ferrata.

Romsdalsstigen via ferrata in Åndalsnes .
Photo: Matti Bernitz

Yet another adrenaline rush awaits when you drive up the 11 world-famous hairpin bends to the Trollstigen plateau.

Trollstigen in Åndalsnes .
Photo: Samuel Taipale / Visitnorway.com

At the top, you can enjoy both beautiful architecture and unforgettable panoramas from the viewing platform.

And don’t be surprised if you see people biking up the steep mountainside.

Trollstigen in Åndalsnes .
Photo: Øyvind Heen

Trollstigen viewpoint .
Photo: Roger Ellingsen / Statens Vegvesen

Because some people actually prefer to face the winding road on two wheels.

Those craving a tough challenge use road bikes, pure will and full human power.

Others choose to enjoy their surroundings and let an electric bike do most of the work.

Cycling in Åndalsnes .
Photo: Hotel Aak

Cycling Trollstigen in Northwest .
Photo: Mattias Fredriksson / Visitnorway.com

If you don’t have a bike, you can rent one, for example at the charming Hotel Aak – which is well worth a visit anyway.

Enjoy one of their rustic homemade dishes based on local and seasonal ingredients. Or join a guided tour to the northernmost vineyard in the world, Vingården Tuen.

Dinner at hotel Aak in Åndalsnes .
Photo: Hotel Aak

Some days you might want to enjoy the scenery without actually working out – and the Rauma Line is perfect for that.

It is considered one of Europe’s most beautiful train rides.

Travel through a fairy-tale landscape on a day trip from Åndalsnes to Dombås or Bjorli.

Highlights include views of the emerald green river Rauma and the Kylling Bridge (pictured).

Kylling bridge in Northwest .
Photo: Johan Berge / Visitnorway.com

The train will also take you past the famous Trollveggen mountain wall.

Europe’s tallest vertical rock face stretches about 1,700 metres from base to summit, and the vertical part is 1,000 staggering metres tall.

The picnic area below Trollveggen is a great pit-stop if you’re driving (or biking) along the main road.

Trollveggen in Åndalsnes .
Photo: Sergey Bogomyako / Shutterstock

When the temperatures drop and the seasons change, Åndalsnes turns into a dreamy winter wonderland and a mecca for ski tourers.

Mount Kirketaket is considered one of the most popular peaks to conquer. For your own safety, we strongly recommend that you use a local guide, though.

At the top, you are rewarded with a breathtaking view of a sugar-coated landscape.

Sun, powder, and a steep descent – can it get any better?

Skiing in Åndalsnes .
Photo: Hotel Aak