Beginning among the Art-Nouveau architecture and pretty harbour of Ålesund, traverse deep into Norway's western fjords on this spectacular itinerary through some of the country's most scenic regions. You'll spend two days exploring each of Norangsfjorden and Storfjord, marveling at its beautiful shores, enjoying everything from mountain hikes to cruises past rippling cliffs as well as delicious dinners offering the very best of Norwegian fare.
Norway: Best of the West
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At a glance…
Pair historic Ålesund with the spectacular fjords of western Norway
» 7 day tailor-made self-drive
» Accommodation: Superior A higher standard of accommodation with a better range and quality of facilities, often in a good location (typically 4 stars)
» Price from: £1,860 pp incl. flights
Day by day itinerary
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Day 1 » UK to Ålesund
Board your flight to Ålesund, transfer and check in to the Hotel Brosundet. Here, antique beams and timber floors are the frame for Ålesund’s pretty streetscape and waterfront. Perhaps spend the afternoon strolling among the city's pastel-hued Art-Noveau architecture and venture the 418 steps up Mt. Aksla to be greeted with awe-inspiring views of the snow-topped surrounds. End it all with a drink at the swish hotel bar – we also recommend treating yourself to the five or seven course degustation menu where you’ll be taken on a culinary journey through some of Norway’s finest dishes, paired with sommelier-chosen wines.
Stay: Hotel Brosundet, Alesund
Meals: Breakfast
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Day 2 » Ålesund
You have a full day to explore Ålesund today, and your waterfront hotel is perfectly placed for venturing out on foot. The town is home to several unique museums, including the Ålesunds Museum, Fisheries Museum, and Art Museum KUBE. Sunnmøre Museum & Borgundkaupangen offers a chance to look around a collection of old houses and historic boats out in the fresh air, while the Atlantic Sea Park houses penguins, otters and other marine animals. As this is is Norway's most famous fishing harbour, be sure to sample the local cuisine, perhaps with fish and chips on the harbour, or at your hotel, which offers the likes of haddock dumplings and delicious, pan-fried catch of the day.
Stay: Hotel Brosundet, Alesund
Meals: Breakfast
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Days 3-4 » Ålesund to Norangsfjorden
After collecting your hire car, your journey towards one of Norway's most beautiful fjords begins. Between coastal drives and a short ferry ride, you'll wind through epic mountain passes, hairpin bends and past roaring waterfalls, arriving at the delightfully secluded and tranquil Hotel Union Øye, nestled on the beautiful shores of Norangsfjorden. Check in to the recently refurbished 19th-century property which has hosted the likes of King Oscar, Princess Victoria and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. The evening is yours to enjoy the hotel and its surroundings before an included 3-course dinner, composed from some of the best local produce from the region.
The next day is yours to enjoy the unique surroundings of the hotel. We recommend trying out some of the many activities on offer, including hiking, biking, kayaking, wine tasting and of course a fjord cruise if time permits.
Stay: Hotel Union Øye
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 5 » Norangsfjorden to Storfjord
After an early breakfast, set off on a short drive to Hellesylt in time for the ferry to Geiranger. Once on board, relax on the deck or enjoy some refreshments as you sail past a variety of impressive waterfalls and mighty mountains. Over the next hour or so, you'll pass small mountain farms, picturesque settlements and The Seven Sisters waterfall – a trip highlight. The waterfall got its name due to the seven streams of water cascading down the mountainside resembling the hair of seven women. Be sure to have your camera ready as there are plenty of picture-perfect panoramic views on your way to Geiranger. On arrival, we suggest taking the time to visit Flydalsjuvet viewpoint, perhaps with a spot of lunch in Geiranger before heading along the switchback 'Eagles Road' towards Eidsdal for more stunning viewpoints.
The iconic 'Eagles Road' comprises the steepest stretch of road up the mountainside from Geiranger towards Eidsdal. Swinging through 11 hairpin bends, up from from Geirangerfjord, you'll reach its highest point at 620 metres above sea level in Korsmyra. Make sure you schedule in stops to enjoy the magnificent panorama over Geirangerfjord, the Seven Sisters Falls and the alpine farm Knivsflå, or gaze down on the many cruise ships that traffic the fjord far below. Upon arrival in Eidsdal, take the frequently departing ferry to Linge, before another scenic drive to your next fjordside hotel – Storfjord Hotel. Check in to your the secluded boutique hotel in Glomset on a hillside overlooking the Storfjord and the Sunnmøre Alps. Enjoy an included dinner at the hotel this evening.
Stay: Storfjord Hotel, Skodje
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 6 » Storfjord
The next day you can choose to relax after yesterday's epic drive, or take a further drive to Andalsnes to experience the Rauma Railway. Alternatively, take the Romsdal gondola for more spectacular walks and views. If you prefer to stay close, why not take a wildlife sea safari for a chance to see puffins, seals and whales. Speak to our specialists for a full list of possible excursions.
Stay: Storfjord Hotel, Skodje
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
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Day 7 » Depart for UK
Today begins with rolling green valleys as you drive back towards Ålesund after breakfast. Return your hire car to the airport and take your flight home to the UK.
Meals: Breakfast
To book call us on:
At a glance…
Pair historic Ålesund with the spectacular fjords of western Norway
» 7 day tailor-made self-drive
» Accommodation: Superior A higher standard of accommodation with a better range and quality of facilities, often in a good location (typically 4 stars)
» Price from: £1,860 pp incl. flights