Ålesund: Kingdom of the Trolls-Scenic Drive to Trollstigen

Ålesund: Kingdom of the Trolls – Scenic Drive to Trollstigen

If you’re looking for a day that combines jaw-dropping scenery, a little adventure, and insightful guides, this tour from Ålesund is worth considering. It whisks you past waterfalls, through lush valleys, and up to the iconic Trollstigen serpentine road, all in a comfortable 7-hour package. What makes this experience stand out is the chance to see some of Norway’s most photogenic spots without the hassle of driving yourself — a real boon if you prefer a relaxed, guided itinerary.

Two things I really appreciate about this tour: first, the knowledgeable guides who make the scenery come alive with stories and helpful tips. Second, the variety of stops, from waterfalls to mountain plateaus, means you get a well-rounded taste of the region’s natural beauty. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary can shift due to weather or road conditions, which might slightly alter your plans — always good to be flexible.

This trip offers excellent value for those eager to see Norway’s highlights in a day, especially if you’re limited on time but want authentic landscapes and local insights. It’s a busy day, but packed with memorable sights that will leave you with plenty of photos and stories to tell.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Stunning Scenic Drive: Travel along Storfjord and Norddalsfjorden, offering some of the most picturesque fjord views Norway has to offer.
• Famous Waterfalls: Experience the awe of Stigfossen, with its 320-meter cascade, perfect for photos and awe-inspiring moments.
• Charming Villages: Visit Valldal, known for strawberries, and admire the medieval “Rose Church” — a 200-year-old gem.
• Spectacular Gorges: Stop at Gudbrandsjuvet gorge, where a foaming river plunges into a narrow, deep canyon — a true nature spectacle.
• Iconic Trollstigen Road: Walk to viewing platforms overlooking the serpentine road’s dramatic curves, a highlight for landscape lovers.
• Flexible & Guided: Enjoy the comfort of air-conditioned transport and the expertise of guides who bring the scenery to life.

Entering Ålesund: A Fairytale Coastal Town

Ålesund itself is a visual treat, especially if you arrive by cruise ship. The town’s Art Nouveau architecture reflects the rebuild after the 1904 fire, giving it a distinctive charm. Starting at the cruise pier, the tour begins with a quick meeting point near a white toilet container marked “WestNorwayTravel” — easy to spot, especially if you’re arriving by boat.

The tour’s guide, often fluent in English and German, sets the tone with a friendly, informative vibe. As you leave the town behind, the first few minutes are dedicated to absorbing the beauty of the fjords and mountains that surround Ålesund. It’s a great way to set the scene for the day ahead.

The Journey Along Storfjord and Sjøholt

Your bus meanders along Storfjord, offering panoramic views that instantly make you realize why Norway is called the land of fjords. The drive is comfortable and scenic, making it easy to relax as your guide shares stories about the area’s history and geology.

A notable stop here is the Kokarsteinen Viewpoint, where you’ll step out for photos of sweeping landscapes. I appreciated how the guide pointed out notable features while giving enough time for each stop, avoiding the rush some tours can feel.

Continuing to Sjøholt and the charming Stordal, you get a taste of local life, capped with a stop at the Rose Church. This 200-year-old church, with its medieval architecture, is a quiet reminder of the area’s history — a lovely pause before heading into the mountains.

Valldal: Strawberries and Scenic Gorge

Next on the agenda is Valldal, famed for its strawberries. If you’re visiting during the season, I’d suggest trying some fresh, local berries — they’re sweet and taste like the real deal. Walking through this peaceful village, you get a sense of rural Norway’s charm.

A highlight here is Gudbrandsjuvet, a narrow gorge where the river’s roar echoes against the steep walls. The gorge is only 5 meters wide but drops 25 meters, making it one of Norway’s more dramatic natural attractions. Many reviews mention it’s a photo-perfect spot, and I agree — the contrast of white water and dark rocks makes for stunning images.

Reaching Trollstigen: Mountain Majesty and Serpentine Roads

The true star of the tour is the Trollstigen plateau. Here, you get spectacular views of the infamous serpentine road, twisting and climbing through rugged terrain. Standing on the viewing platforms, you realize why this road is iconic — the hairpin bends and towering cliffs seem to defy gravity.

The guide points out details about the construction and history of Trollstigen, making the visit both visually stunning and educational. You get ample time here to soak in the scenery, take photos, and even walk along the designated viewpoints — a perfect break from the bus.

The Return Journey: Scenic Fjord Drive & Reflection

On the way back, the drive along Storfjord continues to be a highlight. The views of the fjord, dotted with small villages and lush forests, make for a peaceful ending to a busy day. Many reviews praise the smooth, air-conditioned transport and the guide’s ability to keep the group engaged with local stories and helpful tips.

While the itinerary may shift slightly due to weather or road closures, the core experience remains remarkable. The flexibility ensures that even if some stops are shortened or altered, you’ll still see the essential highlights.

Price and Value

At $185 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusions: comfortable transportation, a local guide, and all the stops. The cost covers a full day of sightseeing and insider insights, making it a practical choice for travelers who want to maximize their time rather than rent a car or organize multiple independent trips.

However, it is a full 7-hour day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with long bus rides and eager to see a lot without the hassle of driving. The tour caters well to cruise ship passengers, as it’s timed to fit typical cruise schedules and is designed to be flexible.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to see Norway’s iconic natural features without the stress of navigation. If you enjoy guided trips with knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and a variety of stops, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for those with limited time in Ålesund but who still crave authentic landscapes and local flavor.

It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues or those sensitive to motion sickness, as the roads can be winding, and the day is quite active. Also, if you’re traveling solo or with small children, check whether the group size and pace match your comfort level.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For roughly a half-day of impressive scenery and cultural stops, this tour delivers a rich experience at a fair price. The stops at waterfalls, gorges, and mountain viewpoints feel authentic and memorable, thanks largely to the guides’ storytelling and local knowledge. It’s a great way to see Norway’s wild side without needing to rent a car or plan complex logistics.

Travelers who love landscapes, photo opportunities, and learning a little about local history will find this trip rewarding. Just keep in mind the need for flexible planning due to possible weather disruptions, and pack weather-appropriate clothing for all conditions.

In the end, if you want an efficient, scenic, and well-guided exploration of Norway’s Trollstigen region, this tour from Ålesund is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes, it’s designed with cruise schedules in mind, and the pickup and drop-off are at the cruise pier, making it very convenient for travelers arriving by boat.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a knowledgeable local guide, and all the scheduled stops and sightseeing points.

How long does the tour last?
It is approximately 7 hours, giving ample time for sightseeing, photos, and breaks.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or people with motion sickness. It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with bus travel and walking at viewpoints.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing is essential since mountain weather can change quickly. If traveling with children, a child safety seat is recommended.

Can the itinerary change?
Yes, the tour operator reserves the right to alter the route or timing in case of road closures or weather issues, but key highlights will be included.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included, so consider bringing snacks or a packed lunch.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak both English and German, accommodating diverse travelers.

How do I meet the tour guide?
Look for the guide at the designated meeting point near the cruise pier, marked with a sign “WestNorwayTravel.”

This tour offers a balanced mix of Norway’s most dramatic landscapes and charming villages, all led by passionate guides who bring the scenery to life. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, or just someone wanting a memorable day out, it’s a journey worth considering during your stay in Ålesund.