Hurtigruten
Norway - Extensions - Ålesund
Ålesund
Price £210pp
The highlight of any stay in the Art Nouveau town of Ålesund is journeying inland, passing spectacular waterfalls, isolated mountain farms and stunning views to reach the UNESCO site of Geirangerfjord.
Disembark your vessel southbound, to enjoy a refreshing break in the charming and picturesque town of Ålesund, recently voted the most beautiful in Norway. Its unique location, set across several islands stretching out to sea and at the entrance to the UNESCO World Heritage listed Geirangerfjord, offers the chance to experience Norway’s most famous fjord. Ålesund is internationally renowned for its distinctive Art Nouveau architecture having been rebuilt in this style after a devastating fire in 1904.
A stroll through the town centre reveals a myriad of turrets, spires and beautiful ornamentation. The town’s Mount Aksla affords some breathtaking views over the town, up at down the Atlantic coast and across to the fjords, winding their way through the snow capped Sunnmøre Alps. Take a trip to the southernmost bird cliff in Norway and visit the bird haven of Runde. This tiny island is invaded every year by more than half a million nesting birds. Some 230 plus species have been identified but the most famous is the Puffin, making this a wonderful evening experience.
The town is also home to one of Northern Europe’s largest aquariums, the Atlantic Sea Park is built into the coastal landscape, giving visitors a special insight into life in the surrounding waters. An open air museum features numerous houses and boats which have been reassembled from around the region, telling the story of days gone by set in tranquil natural parkland.
Single supplement applies. Prices are per person in £s and based on two people travelling together sharing a twin room. Price includes: 3 nights at a centrally located hotel including breakfast, transfer to the airport. Not included: Travel insurance, luggage handling, optional excursions.
Ålesund Excursions
Fjord Magic
A full day tour starting from Ålesund, taking in dramatic Hjørunfjord, Noransdaalend with is underwater ruins, Hellysylt and Geiranger. This tour also takes you along Trollstigen (the Trolls Path Road) and its 11 hairpin bends.
Duration: Full day
Price: 1190 NOKpp excluding lunch, 1350 NOKpp
(two course lunch at Trollstigen Fjellstue)
Operating: Daily 27 June – 17 August
Bookable locally
Sunnmøre Open Air Museum
This open air folk museum comprises a large collection of old houses, as well as an extensive boat collection, with a handsome Viking Ship, the Borgundknarren. The beautiful Borgund Church also lies within the museum area and you can also walk the nature trail though varied woodland landscape.
Price: 65 NOKpp
Open: all year, usually 11.00-17.00 weekdays, please check locally
Bookable locally
Runde Bird Island
The catamaran MS Fjord Ålesund takes you to Runde, the nesting area for numerous species of sea bird. From the spacious aft deck, you will be able to observe the fascinating life of these birds.
Duration: 2 hours 30 mins,
Price: 490 NOKpp
Operating: Wed, Fri, Sun at 19.00;
27 June – 17 August
Bookable locally
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