Around Ålesund: The Sunnmøre Alps & fjords
Somewhere on Road 655, Sunnmøre Alps, Norway
Ålesund is the perfect base to explore the surrounding fjords and mountains.
However, make sure to check out these Things to see in Ålesund before hitting the road!
The Møre og Romsdal region is home to dozens of beautiful fjords, which have contributed to Norway’s popularity for international travelers over the centuries.
Equipped with a rental car, our snow gear and great tips from Destination Ålesund & Sunnmøre, we decided to venture in the magical realm of winter fjords.
Wanna tag along?
Note: Norwegian fjords can be busy in summer, especially around the main cruise towns. We preferred to explore the region in winter to have them all to ourselves. However, most hikes were not possible without snowshoes or skis, and some attractions, shops and restaurants were obviously closed.
Winter in the fjords
Geiranger
Geiranger is one of Norways’s most popular fjords. It's renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, with steep, snow-capped mountainsides rising dramatically from the deep blue waters. The fjord is approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) long and is surrounded by lush green forests (in summer) and cascading waterfalls.
Geirangerfjord is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding natural significance and cultural heritage.
Norwegian zigzagging roads
The road leading to Geiranger is spectacular, zigzagging all the way down and offering amazing viewpoints.
However, “Trollstigen” (Troll’s path) is the region’s most popular road (usually closed in winter).
On the picture: Penguin Trampoline team on a panoramic road in the heart of the Sunnmøre Alps
The quaint town of Geiranger hosts a Light Art Festival in winter. We didn’t have time to visit, but the pictures look absolutely magical.
If you don’t drive all the way to Geiranger, there’s a beautiful viewpoint from road 60 (Ljøen utsiktspunkt).
Hjørundfjorden
Spoiler alert: It’s an insider tip!
Less popular than the other fjords around — the black sheep of fjords, if you will — Hjørundfjorden is as intimidating as its pronunciation.
Surrounded by steep mountains, this narrow fjord is as peaceful as it gets. And the road that leads to Standal is equally spectacular.
Norangsfjorden
Our personal favorite! This adorable fjord looks like a Norwegian postcard, and has been home to the legendary Hotel Union since 1891. The road leading to the ferry in Leknes is oh-so picturesque!
Keep reading, we’ll come back to the Hotel Union. Spoiler alert: It may or may not be haunted…
Storfjorden
You’ll get the best view of this fjord from Stranda ski resort.
Unfortunately, the weather was not with us when we attempted to take the gondola all the way to the top, but we’re sure it’s gorgeous on a sunny day!
The Sunnmøre Alps
Stranda
And speaking of Stranda… Stranda Ski Resort, also known as Strandafjellet, is a popular ski resort located near the town of the same name.
The resort is known for its high-quality powder snow, extensive off-piste terrain, and excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The resort boasts a vertical drop of around 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) and offers a variety of slopes suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
There are also terrain parks and freeride areas for those looking for more adventurous experiences. You might have seen these extreme skiers and snowboarders racing downhill straight to the fjord!
If you’re not into steep slopes, the resort offers other winter activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.
Penguin Trampoline tip:
In Stranda, we took the (costly) gondola all the way up, but it wasn’t the brightest idea. We got caught in a snow storm and couldn’t see anything, let alone walk to the restaurant.
Even on a sunny day, bear in mind that there are no trails for pedestrians, only ski slopes.
Road 655 between Øye and road 60
If you’re driving to Øye — and you should — from Stranda, Road 655 offers the most beautiful Norwegian landscapes.
Try to drive it when the weather is good, if possible, not only for safety reasons but also for the view.
Allow plenty of time to stop along the way, especially around Stavbergsetra. It’s as picturesque as it gets!
You know what they say, it’s not about the destination, it’s about the journey. Well, it’s especially true in Norway!
Where to stay?
Hotel Union
Helen, from Destination Ålesund & Sunnmøre, mentioned the Hotel Union in Øye to us. When Eli heard the words "old hotel from the 19th century," her enthusiasm peaked. She just can’t resist the charm of vintage hotels!
Inevitably, we decided to treat ourselves and booked one night — couldn’t afford more! — at the Hotel Union.
And Oh. My. God (Janice’s tone, if you watch Friends). We only have praise for this hotel, which seems happily stuck back in time. The decoration is as gorgeous as the natural setting!
Built in the late 19th century, this grand hotel exudes old-world charm and timeless elegance, with its gardens, lounges, piano, reading & games room, wine cellar, conservatory and palm room.
Throughout its long history, the Hotel Union has hosted numerous distinguished guests, including climbers, royalty, artists and celebrities, drawn by its idyllic location and exceptional hospitality.
While the hotel is equipped with modern equipments like comfortable beds and luscious bathrooms, you won’t find any modern appliances like TVs or minibars. And the friendly staff are wearing beautiful period uniforms!
After dinner, everyone gathers downstairs for a bit of storytelling — including a ghost story — with awesome Sandre.
Speaking of dinner, the food is amazing and oh-so fresh, with local & organic products from the fjord farms. The breakfast buffet (included) was simply exceptional.
If your budget allows, we highly recommend you to indulge, at least for one night, in the romance and nostalgia of this place.
And if you’re looking for another type of accommodation, you’ll find some options on Booking and Airbnb.
The grandiose Hotel Union, Øye. Check out the full photo documentary on Instagram.
Here is a little playlist for your stay at the Hotel Union:
The Sunnmøre Alps and Ålesund region are on your bucket list? Fantastic! Continue your adventure with these dedicated articles and videos:
