Åndalsnes
Åndalsnes is often referred to as an “alp village by the fjord”, located by the Romadalsfjord beneath towering mountains in one of Norway’s most scenic areas at the mouth of the Rauma river.
This privileged location has given Åndalsnes a legitimate claim to being «Norway’s mountaineering capital». The town is a transport hub with the final stop on the Rauma Railway and a harbor for cruise ships that brings in a significant volume of visitors annually.
With impressive mountains like Romsdalshornet, Trolltindan and Vengetindan vying for attention, Åndalsnes is a perfect «base camp» for anything from light mountain hiking to summit hikes to spectacular vantage points. You can also enjoy long treks with truly memorable views of the Romsdalsfjella mountain ridge.
Mountain Sports and Nature Exploration
Åndalsnes has the ambition to be Norway’s #1 destination for mountain sports and there are significant investments in having a wide range of activities to offer those visiting to get active in nature, year-round. The proximity to the fjord is «an added bonus» allowing visitors to combine activities at sea level and in the mountains according to their interests and fitness level. Both experienced mountaineers and mountain rookies can have a great time here!
Naturally, mountain climbing is in focus, and before joining in on a Via Ferrata or other climbing challenges you can test yourself in the wall at the Norwegian Mountaineering Centre. You can also get to experience a close encounter with nature at sea level when taking a stand-up paddle (SUP) on the river of Istra.
Since the opening of the Rauma Railway in 1924, Åndalsnes has been the center of the inner Romsdal region and since the 1880s the place has been a tourist destination as ships with tourists started docking here. Despite being admired by tourists for almost 150 years, «Norway’s mountaineering capital» is still somewhat off the beaten path. If your goal is to explore spectacular nature with plenty of space to roam, Åndalsnes continues to be a stellar alternative!
Experience Åndalsnes on the UNESCO Geirangerfjord & Trollstigen tour!
