Ski touring in Sunnmøre and Hjørundfjord

Combine unique skiing adventures with beautiful alpine mountains and idyllic fjordscapes in Sunnmøre.

Stay safe

Norway is an incredible place to explore, with untamed mythical landscapes, mountains, valleys, and fjords. Before you enter the outdoors, familiarise yourself with the nine simple rules of the Norwegian mountain code to help you stay safe.

Plan your trip and inform others about the route you have selected.
Adapt the planned routes according to your ability and the conditions.
Pay attention to the weather forecast and avalanche warnings.
Be prepared for bad weather and frost, even on short trips.
Bring the necessary equipment so you can help yourself and others.
Choose safe routes. Recognise avalanche terrain and unsafe ice.
Use a map and a compass. Always know where you are.
Don’t be ashamed to turn around and go back.
Conserve your energy and seek shelter if necessary.

The Sunnmøre Alps offer jagged peaks rising as high as 1,700 metres above the Atlantic Sea, making the potential for summit-to-sea skiing immense, with the opportunity to ski down to the Hjørundfjord in one smooth descent.

The mountains are located just an hour’s drive from the beautiful Art Nouveau town of Ålesund, allowing visitors to enjoy the comfort of a vibrant town base. Ålesund Airport is well served with plenty of both international and domestic arrivals.

Best time to go ski touring?

The main ski touring season runs from February to early May, with routes available for both beginners and more experienced ski tourers.

For the best descents and snow conditions, join one of the sail-to-ski expeditions that depart regularly from the dock in the city centre. On-board, passengers can enjoy freshly prepared local cuisine whilst admiring the grand views. All expeditions are adjusted depending on the weather and local conditions.

Kolåstinden (1,432 metres) is the most frequented summit of the Sunnmøre Alps. Return either by the same route you ascended, or try the alternative via the glacier to Kvanndalen for an exceptional descent.

Alternatively, there is a great selection of accommodation options on land, whether you prefer traditional and charming hotels or would like something more modern. Two examples are the ornate 19th century Union Øye Hotel, which overlooks a rural valley, and the Juvet Landscape Hotel, which blends in with the surrounding nature.

Finally, if you are unlucky with the weather, the Stranda ski resort is a great alternative to ski touring. With 17 downhill runs, 15 kilometres of groomed tracks, a children’s area, a terrain park and outstanding off-piste opportunities, Stranda has challenges for skiers of every level.

Always find out about the avalanche risk before you set out. Read more about safety in the mountains here and about local conditions on varsom.no.