Alesund Shore Excursion: From Fjords to Trolls

Travelers visiting Alesund often look for an experience that combines rugged natural beauty with a touch of Norwegian myth and legend. This full-day shore excursion promises just that — a journey through Norway’s famous fjords, waterfalls, and mountain roads, topped off with stories about trolls and stunning vistas. Offered at a reasonable price (around $193.48 per person) and booked on average 110 days in advance, this trip suits those eager to see iconic landscapes beyond the city’s colorful architecture.

One thing we love about this tour is its diverse stops — from strawberry fields in Valldal to the breathtaking Troll Wall. The highlight, undoubtedly, is zigzagging down the Trollstigen mountain road, which offers some of the most dramatic mountain views in Europe. However, a potential consideration is the route change for 2024, as Trollstigen will be closed for safety reasons. This means the tour won’t include the Trollveggen (Troll Wall) visit, but the tour has been adjusted to still deliver plenty of awe-inspiring scenery. This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive taste of Norway’s wild landscapes and legendary tales in a comfortable, guided setting.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenic Stops: From waterfalls and gorges to mountain viewpoints, the tour offers many photo-worthy moments.
• Expert Guides: Many reviews praise guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling ability.
• Good Value: The price includes multiple stops, a knowledgeable guide, and optional lunch, making it a well-rounded experience.
• Flexible Options: You can choose to include or skip lunch, tailoring the day to your preferences and schedule.
• Route Adjustments: The 2024 season’s closure of Trollstigen means some stops are replaced or shortened, but the core experience remains impressive.
• Authentic Local Flavor: Stops like Valldal for strawberries and the Rose Church provide a glimpse into typical Norwegian towns.

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

Your day begins at the Norway Excursions office near the port of Ålesund—an easy walk or short taxi ride from cruise terminals. Arriving about 15 minutes early ensures you’re ready to hop onto the air-conditioned vehicle, which keeps everyone comfortable through the day’s many scenic drives.

First Stops: Spectacular Fjords and Photogenic Scenery

The initial moments are dedicated to photo stops — the first at Kokarsteinen Bakery, where you can snap pictures of the Storfjord. The scenery here hints at what’s to come: fjords carved by glaciers, waters shimmering under the sometimes cloudy Norwegian sky. Reviewers, like Christina, note that the views of lush mountains and waterfalls are “absolutely beautiful,” and the landscape constantly shifts from lush green fields to towering cliffs.

Next, the tour takes you to Gudbrandsjuvet, a gorge that impresses with its imposing rocks and rushing waters. It’s a quick stop but a memorable one, especially since the gorge’s natural beauty is so vivid that many guests comment on its “magnificent waterfalls” and “amazing views,” even when the weather isn’t perfect.

The Mountain Pass: Trollstigen and Its Surprising Absence

One of the most anticipated parts of this tour is the drive along the Trollstigen mountain road. Famous for its hairpin bends and steep inclines, the route promises spectacular viewpoints and a sense of adventure. Many reviews describe it as a “stomach-churningly steep” but absolutely worth the experience.

However, for the 2024 season, Trollstigen is closed for safety due to falling rocks, and the tour has been adapted accordingly. Instead of the Troll Road, travelers will enjoy the Trollstigen Plateau and nearby viewpoints. Many reviewers, like Mary, mentioned that while the road closure was disappointing, the viewpoints and alternative stops still provided “incredible views”. The drive along the Rauma River back to Ålesund offers tranquil, picturesque scenery, and the stop at Stordal Gamle Kyrkje (the Rose Church) adds a charming, traditional touch to the day.

Waterfalls, Cliffs, and the Troll Wall

Next, the group visits Stigfossen waterfall, which is often a favorite photo stop. Many comment on how powerful and awe-inspiring the waterfall is, even in rainy weather. The visit to Trollveggen (Troll Wall), Europe’s tallest vertical rock face, is another highlight. Despite the route change, reviewers like Greg find that the views of the rock face and surrounding mountains still make for a memorable experience.

Optional Lunch and Its Value

A key perk of this tour is the option to include lunch, which many reviewers say is delicious and filling. The included meal, often described as a “nice buffet,” allows you to relax and refuel without worrying about finding a local restaurant during the busy sightseeing day. For those who opt out, the 6.5-hour tour still provides ample time for sightseeing, making it suitable for various schedules, especially cruise ship timings.

The Overall Pace and Comfort

What stands out in reviews is the comfort of the bus and the knowledgeability of guides. Many travelers, including Scott and Denise, praise their guides — the latter named specifically for her friendly demeanor and informative commentary. The bus’s comfort and the well-planned stops allow for a relaxed day, even for those who are not used to long bus rides.

Real Experiences and Honest Feedback

While many reviews rave about the breathtaking scenery and friendly guides, a few note issues, such as delays or skipped stops due to unforeseen road conditions. Candice, for example, mentions that the tour was “late departing and making unscheduled stops,” which could be frustrating if you’re on a tight schedule. However, most reviewers agree that the alternative viewpoints and stunning landscapes more than compensate for any hiccups.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This excursion is best suited for travelers who appreciate natural beauty with a story. If you love dramatic mountain vistas, waterfalls, and stories about trolls and legends, you’ll find this trip enchanting. It’s also a good choice for those who want a comprehensive taste of Western Norway’s landscapes without worrying about transportation or logistics. The tour’s length and group size (max 45 travelers) strike a good balance between social interaction and personal space.

It’s worth noting that if Trollstigen’s closure bothers you, this tour still offers spectacular viewpoints and scenic drives that keep the experience worthwhile. The inclusion of local guides enhances the trip, as they share stories and insights that bring the landscapes to life.

Final Words: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. This tour packs in stunning scenery, local culture, and expert guiding at a fair price. You’ll see some of Norway’s most iconic sights, from waterfalls and fjords to mountain peaks and cliffs, all while enjoying the comfort of a well-organized, guided day. The optional lunch makes it easier to relax and soak in the views without hunger pangs or restaurant-hunting stress.

While the route change due to Trollstigen’s closure might be a slight disappointment, the overall experience remains impactful and memorable. The tour’s blend of natural beauty and storytelling makes it ideal for first-timers wanting to tick Norway’s must-see sights off their list, or seasoned travelers seeking a scenic day with knowledgeable guides.

If you’re craving a full immersion into Norway’s legendary landscapes yet prefer a guided, comfortable experience, this trip from Ålesund could be just what you need.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? No, this tour begins at the Norway Excursions office near the port of Ålesund, and hotel pickup is not included.

Can I join this tour if I have limited time? Yes, the tour lasts about 6.5 hours without lunch, making it suitable for travelers with tight schedules, especially if you need to return to your cruise ship.

What if Trollstigen is closed when I visit? The tour has been adjusted for 2024, so instead of Trollstigen, you’ll visit the Trollstigen Plateau and other scenic viewpoints. Most of the highlights are still included.

Is lunch included? You can choose to include a buffet lunch, which many reviews praise as tasty and convenient. If you skip lunch, the tour is slightly shorter.

How many people are in the group? The maximum group size is 45 travelers, which maintains a good balance between socializing and comfort.

What should I wear? Dress in layers and be prepared for changeable weather, especially rain, as many of the stops are outdoors and nature can be unpredictable.

To sum it up, this Alesund shore excursion offers a well-rounded, scenic, and story-rich day in Norway. It’s perfect for those who want to see the country’s legendary landscapes with the guidance of friendly, knowledgeable locals. Whether it’s your first Norwegian adventure or a repeat visit, this trip will likely leave you with plenty of stunning photos and stories to take home.