Living in London, I adore the energy of the city – but every so often, I need a reset. A dose of nature, sea air, and silence. A weekend is all it takes to recharge, and I found the perfect place to do just that: Ålesund, a charming coastal town on Norway’s west coast.
My flight left Gatwick at 21:15 – ideal timing after a day at work. With just a carry-on and a craving for fresh air, I boarded the plane and two hours later, landed at Ålesund’s Vigra Airport. A shuttle bus was waiting right outside, and in just 17 scenic minutes, I arrived in the heart of the city. Friendly English-speaking drivers and hassle-free travel.
I stayed at the Quality Hotel Waterfront, which turned out to be the perfect base. Its location is excellent – right by the water and just a short walk from the town centre. What I especially loved was the inviting outdoor space: cosy hanging chairs perfect for relaxing with a coffee and a view, and even a designated outdoor swimming spot for those brave enough to take a dip. It set the tone for a weekend of comfort and nature combined.
Exploring Ålesund’s Charm
Ålesund is postcard-perfect. Built in Art Nouveau style, it’s easy to explore on foot. Cafés and restaurants line the Brosundet canal, and there’s always something happening on the water – kayaking, SUP, sailing, and RIB safaris.
To start the day, I recommend taking the 418 steps to the Aksla Viewpoint. The view from the top is worth every step – panoramic vistas over the town, fjords, and outlying islands. After descending, stop by Jugendstilsenteret, the Art Nouveau Centre housed in a beautifully preserved pharmacy – perfect for design and history lovers.
If time permits, join the Alesund Food Walk which takes place around noon and is a great 3 hours introduction to the flavours of the city.
Wildlife Safari by RIB: A Must-Do Experience
That evening, I joined a Wildlife RIB Safari – and it was unforgettable. For two exhilarating hours, we zipped across the water to Bird Island, surrounded by sea spray, sun, and seabirds. We spotted seals, puffins, kittiwakes, gannets, and even razorbills – all set against Norway’s dramatic coastal scenery. The combination of nature, speed, and fresh air was exactly what I’d come for. This tour is an absolute must.
A Day Trip to Geiranger: Fjords, Waterfalls & Bends
The next day, I set off on the Geirangerfjord in a Nutshell tour – a full-day self-guided journey that showcases some of Norway’s most iconic landscapes.
It begins with a scenic bus ride to Åndalsnes, followed by a dramatic ascent of Trollstigen – a mountain pass famous for its 11 hairpin bends. We paused for photos and souvenirs at the Trollstigen viewpoint, and again at the Gudbrandsjuvet Gorge, where a charming café overlooks rushing waterfalls.
From Eidsdal, we crossed the fjord by ferry to Linge, and drove the final stretch to Geiranger, one of Norway’s most picturesque villages. I had a few hours here to wander, soak in the views, and enjoy lunch at Berserk Bar & Grill – excellent burgers, local beer, and a terrace overlooking the fjord.
The highlight? A fjord cruise through Geirangerfjord itself – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We sailed past towering cliffs, abandoned farms, and the spectacular Seven Sisters Waterfall, which plunges 250 metres straight into the fjord. Magical.
Catch of the Day: Fishing the Fjords
Before heading home, I couldn’t resist a morning fishing trip aboard the MS Gamle Havstein, a classic wooden boat that departs right from the canal in central Ålesund.
With just 6 guests on board, the atmosphere was relaxed and personal. We sailed past Alnes Lighthouse and the island of Godøya, known for its photogenic cliffs and excellent fishing spots. Our captain – a retired geologist – and our young, enthusiastic guide made a great team. They taught us how to use the gear, clean the fish (if you dared!), and understand the coastal culture.
I caught my first fish ever – and what a feeling! In total, we reeled in six fish, more than enough to share, and spent the rest of the time cruising the islands, soaking up the sun, and enjoying the views.
Sweet Farewell
Before catching my flight home, I made one last stop: Lamella. This little gem serves homemade ice cream in fresh waffle cones, with local flavours like cloudberry and caramel. It’s just a short walk from the shuttle stop – the perfect end to a perfect weekend.
Plan Your Own Nature Escape
If this sounds like your kind of getaway, check out our Fjords & Flavours of Ålesund itinerary. Whether you’re into kayaking, hiking, wildlife watching, or fishing, we can tailor the trip to suit your style.
