Alesund Shore Excursion: From Fjords to Trolls

Norway’s stunning fjords and mythical landscapes come alive on the Alesund Shore Excursion. Travelers will explore charming towns, marvel at dramatic gorges, and ascend the famous Troll Road. From the majestic Stigfossen waterfall to the awe-inspiring Trollveggen, this full-day adventure promises to immerse visitors in Norway’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. It’s an unforgettable journey you won’t want to miss.

Key Points

• Explore stunning fjords and troll country on a full-day shore excursion from Alesund, Norway, with stops at Valldal, Gudbrandsjuvet gorge, and Trollstigen.
• Discover the "Strawberry Capital of Norway" in Valldal, known for its bountiful strawberry farms and local delicacies.
• Marvel at the mesmerizing turquoise waters and towering rock walls of the Gudbrandsjuvet Gorge.
• Ascend the dramatic Troll Road (Trollstigen) with its 11 hairpin turns and sweeping views of mountains and valleys.
• Admire the powerful cascades of Stigfossen Waterfall and the towering Trollveggen, Europe’s highest vertical rock face.

Overview of the Excursion

The full-day shore excursion from Alesund, Norway, allows travelers to explore the region’s stunning fjords and troll country.

The tour stops at the picturesque strawberry-growing town of Valldal, the dramatic Gudbrandsjuvet gorge, and the iconic Stigfossen waterfall.

Visitors will marvel at the Trollstigen, or Troll Road, and witness the impressive Trollveggen, Europe’s highest vertical rock face.

Recommended by 93% of travelers, this excursion offers a comprehensive introduction to the natural wonders and mythical creatures of Norway’s western fjords.

Exploring the Strawberry Town of Valldal

What makes the charming town of Valldal a must-visit destination on this shore excursion? Known as the "Strawberry Capital of Norway," Valldal is famous for its bountiful strawberry farms and delectable berry products. Visitors can indulge in the town’s sweet offerings at the Kokarsteinen bakery, where they can sample freshly-picked strawberries and other local delicacies.

This quaint stop on the tour provides a delightful taste of Norway’s agricultural heritage and the chance to savor the region’s renowned strawberry abundance.

Marveling at the Gudbrandsjuvet Gorge

After savoring the sweet treats of Valldal, the tour moves on to one of Norway’s natural wonders – the Gudbrandsjuvet gorge.

This dramatic geological feature boasts:

1. Mesmerizing turquoise waters that carve through the steep, rugged cliffs.
2. Towering rock walls that plunge nearly 200 feet down.
3. A wooden walkway that allows visitors to experience the gorge’s raw power up close.
4. Breathtaking vistas that showcase the raw beauty of Norway’s landscape.

Guests are given 15 minutes to explore this natural marvel, leaving them awed by the sheer scale and grandeur of Gudbrandsjuvet.

Ascending the Troll Road (Trollstigen)

Next, the tour ascends the famed Trollstigen, or Troll Road, a dramatic mountain pass that winds its way up the steep hillside.

This engineering marvel features 11 hairpin turns as it climbs 855 meters. At the Trollstigen Plateau, travelers have 30 minutes to marvel at the sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and valleys below.

The road’s name derives from the troll-like rock formations that line the route.

While Trollstigen is closed for the 2024 season due to safety concerns, the tour provides alternative viewpoints to appreciate the region’s stunning natural scenery.

Admiring the Stigfossen Waterfall

From the Trollstigen Plateau, the tour ventures to the Stigfossen Waterfall, where travelers spend 5 minutes admiring its powerful cascades.

This majestic natural wonder plunges over 300 feet down a steep cliff, creating a breathtaking display of water and mist.

The experience evokes a range of emotions:

1. Awe at the sheer scale and power of the waterfall.
2. Wonder at the beauty of nature’s handiwork.
3. Tranquility in the soothing sound of the rushing water.
4. Appreciation for the opportunity to witness this natural marvel.

Visitors are left with a lasting impression of Stigfossen’s grandeur and the region’s natural splendor.

Encountering the Trollveggen (Troll Wall)

The tour now sets its sights on the awe-inspiring Trollveggen, or Troll Wall – Europe’s highest vertical rock face towering over 3,500 feet.

Travelers get a closer look at this geological marvel at the Trollveggen Besoksenter viewpoint. The guide shares insights about the formation and scale of the Troll Wall, which is a popular destination for experienced climbers.

Though the group can’t access the base, the panoramic views from the center offer a humbling perspective on the sheer size and grandeur of this natural wonder.

This stop provides a unique opportunity to appreciate the immense power of Norway’s dramatic landscapes.

Visiting the Stordal Gamle Kyrkje (Rose Church)

After exploring the Troll Wall, the tour proceeds to the charming Stordal Gamle Kyrkje, also known as the Rose Church.

Visitors are captivated by the church’s unique architecture and intricate details. The Rose Church is a true gem, offering:

1. Vibrant rose-colored exterior that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding landscape.
2. Intricately carved wooden interior, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.
3. Serene atmosphere, inviting visitors to pause and appreciate the tranquility.
4. Stunning views of the nearby fjords, adding to the overall enchanting experience.

The stop at the Rose Church provides a delightful respite before continuing the journey through the troll-infested countryside.

Transportation and Accessibility

An air-conditioned vehicle is provided for the shore excursion.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but foldable wheelchairs can navigate the terrain. Child and infant seats are recommended. Service animals aren’t allowed due to potential allergies.

The tour departs 30 minutes after the cruise ship’s arrival, so confirmation is required at the time of booking. Guests have the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours before the experience with no penalty.

The maximum group size is 45 travelers, ensuring a personalized and comfortable journey.

Since You Asked

Is There a Discount for Senior Citizens or Children?

The tour doesn’t mention any discounts for senior citizens or children. Prices are the same for all travelers. Child/infant seats are recommended, but there’s no indication of reduced rates for younger passengers.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Excursion?

Passengers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the excursion. However, there are no discounts for seniors or children. The tour provides transportation and guided stops, but doesn’t include lunch.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Optional Activities?

The tour includes the transportation and guided stops, but there may be additional optional fees for activities or meals not included. Guests can bring their own snacks and drinks if desired.

Can I Leave the Group at Any Point During the Tour?

While the tour is designed to be experienced as a group, participants are generally free to leave at any point during the excursion. However, it’s important to coordinate with the guide to avoid being left behind.

Are There Any Language Options Available Besides English?

The tour is offered in English only. Multilingual guides aren’t mentioned, so English is likely the sole language option. However, the tour company may be able to accommodate other languages if requested in advance, though this isn’t guaranteed.

The Sum Up

The Alesund Shore Excursion offers an unforgettable journey through Norway’s stunning landscapes. Travelers will explore charming towns, marvel at dramatic gorges, and ascend the Troll Road with its hairpin turns. Highlights include the majestic Stigfossen waterfall and the awe-inspiring Trollveggen, Europe’s highest vertical rock face. This full-day adventure promises to immerse visitors in Norway’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, making it a must-do experience.