Trollstigen & the Romsdal Alps

This scenic day trip begins with a beautiful coach journey from Ålesund to Åndalsnes. The drive takes a little over 1.5 hours and includes a short stop along the way to stretch your legs and enjoy the view. The route follows fjords, winds through valleys, and climbs into dramatic mountain terrain, on the way to one of Norway’s most iconic regions.

We arrive in the fjord town of Åndalsnes, surrounded by some of Norway’s most dramatic peaks. From here, we board the modern and comfortable Romsdalen Gondola, which carries us quietly and smoothly up to the summit of Nesaksla, 708 metres above sea level.

At the top, we are met with breathtaking views of the Romsdalsfjord, the wild Romsdal Valley, the Rauma River, and the surrounding peaks including Trolltindene and Romsdalshorn.

After the gondola ride, you’ll have free time in the town centre, stroll along the river, browse the shops and cafés, or visit the striking Norwegian Mountaineering Centre (optional)

We continue by coach further into the valley to the awe-inspiring Trollveggen, Europe’s tallest vertical rock face. Towering nearly 1,000 metres straight up from the valley floor, this dramatic wall of granite has become legendary among climbers. We make a short stop to admire and photograph the scene, while hearing stories of daring climbs and myths tied to the mountain.

Our next leg takes us up the world-famous and spectacular Trollstigen, an impressive feat of engineering with eleven sharp hairpin bends clinging to the mountainside through wild and dramatic terrain. The road itself is a memorable experience, with each turn revealing new, breathtaking views of valleys and peaks.

At the top, we stop at the award-winning Trollstigen Viewpoint, where striking modern architecture blends seamlessly with the surrounding nature. Here you’ll have plenty of time to take photos, explore the viewing platforms, and visit the visitor centre, which includes a café and gift shop.

From the platforms, we enjoy a spectacular panorama over the winding road we just ascended, the jagged mountain peaks such as the Trolltindane and the picturesque waterfalls that plunge down the steep mountainsides. The most striking is Stigfossen, which drops 180 metres in a dramatic cascade right beside the road. 

Leaving Trollstigen, we descend toward the fjord through more dramatic terrain, stopping at Gudbrandsjuvet, a narrow, deep gorge carved out by the rushing Valldøla River. Over time, the river has sculpted swirling pools, deep chasms and potholes through the rock.

A series of walkways and platforms allow you to experience the force of nature up close, while you also learn the legend of Gudbrand, who is said to have leapt into the gorge for love. A highlight that combines natural wonder and local folklore.