The most popular spots to visit in More og Romsdal include the dramatic Atlantic Road, the UNESCO site Gierangerfjord and the winding Trollstigen, but anywhere you dock in this region is sure to have phenomenal opportunities to see the landscape in all its glory. In this post, we have the definitive list of ports visited in More og Romsdal by the main cruise companies to help you choose the best itinerary for your next fjord adventure.
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Ålesund
A popular cruise destination after visiting the famous Geirangerfjord, Ålesund offers a great day of exploring in its own right. Sitting on a narrow peninsula, surrounded by islands and mountains, the town is filled with art nouveau buildings after fire destroyed the area in the twentieth-century. To see the stunning surroundings, many choose to walk up the 418 steps to Fjellstua viewpoint on Mount Aksla. There's no need to rush the climb as there's so much to see on the way. There's the serenity of Byparken, where a statue commemorates the Viking king Rollo, and several other viewpoints which hint at the spectacle to come. From the top, it's possible to see the wide archipelago, North sea and Sunnmøre Alps - a truly unique Norwegian view. If the climb isn't for you, there's plenty to do back at sea level. The Fisheries Museum charts the town's history with this lucrative industry, the Atlantic Ocean Park aquarium is a great call for families (possibly the best aquarium in Norway) and the Jugendstilsenteret displays the town's historic connections with Art Nouveau. Venturing out of the town, a journey up the Trollstigen road, filled with gorges and waterfalls, grants amazing insights into the natural curiosities of Norway.
Åndalsnes
Åndalsnes is a hiking mecca. Its surroundings are so stunning, inspiring everyone to get out into nature and explore its beauty. From professional climbers to those looking for a gentle stroll, there's a path in this area to suit all abilities. Trollveggen, Europe's tallest vertical rock face, is a sight to behold, whether you're taking on the climb or staring from below, while Romsdalseggen Ridge offers some of the world's best views. For an easier challenge, Rampestreken lookout is an accessible climb, or gondola ride, and rewards visitors with an amazing view of Åndalsnes 550m above sea level. There's plenty of opportunities for SUP boarding and cycling too and these are great ways to explore even more of the area, as is the Golden Train route, which travels over the Kylling Bridge and passes by Trollveggen, whilst retelling historic tales, such as when the track was used to smuggle Norway's gold out of the country during World War II. If the weather's not ideal for an outside adventure, the Norsk Tindesenter mountaineering centre tells the history of the sport in the area and has Norway's tallest indoor climbing wall. Fuelling for these adventures is also a great treat - there's plenty of welcoming cafes within the town serving local delicacies from cheeses to fish, plus wine from the world's most northerly vineyard.
Geiranger
If you are visiting the fjords in search of some of the world's finest waterfalls, Geiranger is the perfect cruise destination. Here, great plumes of water cascade from the snow-capped mountains, with the most famous examples being The Seven Sisters, The Suitor and The Bridal Veil. Adrenaline seekers will wish to enjoy the views from the steep inclines of the Skywalk trail or take a bus up the eleven hairpin bends of the steep Eagle Road. For those wishing to relax, the views from the village are just as wonderful, made all the better when combined with hand-crafted chocolates or a local krumkake.
Hellesylt
Hellesylt lies on one of the most popular fjords in Norway - Geirangerfjord. It's an idyllic place, with a mountainous backdrop, traditional wooden houses and a waterfall to greet you as you depart the ship. It's just a short walk to get close to Hellesylt Waterfall and it's highly recommended as watching the stream fall from the mountain across the rocks connects you instantly with the beauty of Nordic nature. Another short excursion is the short walk to Sunnylven Church, which has fantastic views of the whole area. There's also a chance to kayak or canoe in the fjord and, only for the brave and prepared, the opportunity to swim with locals by jumping into the cold waters from the Bathing House. If your ship isn't taking a stop in nearby Geiranger, passengers can get onto the village's car ferry and head past the Seven Sisters Waterfall to get to this town, which has plenty of shops, restaurants and sightseeing opportunities. If you stay in Hellesylt, there are a few options for lunch, with the best being the local Hellesylt Boutique & Bar, which serves local produce, a selection of ice creams and great cocktails.
Molde
View one of the fjord's most magnificent man-made sights from the port of Molde. The Atlantic Highway, spanning over five miles, crosses bridges and viaducts as it weaves across Norway's coastline. Described as one of the most beautiful roads in the world, whether you visit during a storm or with the sun gleaming down, this is definitely an experience to savour! The town of Molde itself offers quiet charm with fantastic hikes to the top of the surrounding mountains. Visit in July to watch the city come alive during one of the world's longest-running jazz festivals, Moldejazz. It's also a great time to see why Molde is known as the ‘town of roses' or to wander around the grounds of the Chateauet, a former stately home with a fascinating exhibition about its former residents. Other historical sites include the Romsdal Museum, showing how the town looked in the pre-war era, and the gothic cathedral with its 50m bell tower adorned with a copper pyramid. The food options in Molde are excellent, with the option to pick up fresh local bread from the bakery, try local delicacies or even sample some of the area's best sushi.
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