ålesund excursions & sightseeing

Transcription

1 ålesund excursions & sightseeing

2 the sunnmøre region - coast and fjord experience Fjords, fishing villages, island gems and majestic mountains are here just waiting for you to explore. Enjoy a boat trip into the fjords, go hiking in the mountains, test out your fishing luck, experience deep sea rafting, go bird spotting at Runde bird sanctuary or, just relax and breath in the fresh air by the sea. Sunnmøre, with its many natural attractions like mountains and fjords, islands and skerries, refreshing sea and air, is surrounding the town of Ålesund. Here you will find Runde bird sanctuary, Geirangerfjord and the more remote Hjørundfjord to name but a few. The vicinity to these attractions, combined with culture, people and the wide selection of activities in and around Ålesund, makes it an area well worth a visit! The Sunnmøre coast is an extraordinary experience, with fascinating stories to tell and a string of small islands and fishing communities facing the Atlantic Ocean. At the end of the island Godøy, you will find the picturesque Alnes fishing village. Alnes Lighthouse is open for guided tours during the summer, and in the former living quarters you can buy arts and crafts and try some delicious home made cakes. Or take a trip to the southernmost bird cliff in Norway and visit the bird paradise of Runde, a tiny island that is invaded every year by more than half a million nesting birds. More than 230 species have been identified, and Runde is most famous for its puffins. Enjoy this myriad of winged life from the marked paths around the reservation area or by boat. Here you will also find some of the most famous fjords in Norway, with the beautiful unesco World Heritage listed Geirangerfjord heading the field. Along the fjords there are several mountain farms situated high up on the mountainsides, in places you wouldn t believe people and livestock could survive. The area is also home to a thriving furniture industry, and the Norwegian language and rural culture flourish in the many lively small communities here. Ålesund & Sunnmøre Photo service The online photo service includes numerous pictures of Ålesund & Sunnmøre. Here tour operators and other travel planners, newspapers and magazines can download pictures for promotional use FREE of charge. Most pictures are available in high resolution for use in brochures and other printed materials, as well as in low resolution suitable for Power- Point and web presentations. Ålesund recently voted the most beautiful town in Norway has a beautiful setting across several islands stretching out into the sea, and is situated at the very entrance to the unesco World Heritage listed Geirangerfjord. The town is also The Adventure Capital of the Fjords an excellent starting point for round trips to some of Norway s most popular tourist attractions. Above all, Ålesund is internationally renowned for its unique architecture in the Art Nouveau style. The town was devastated by fire a winter s night in 1904, laying 850 houses in ashes and leaving people homeless. During a remarkably short period of time, the new Ålesund was rebuilt in the unique architectural style, especially significant from , with a myriad of turrets, spires and medieval ornaments. A stroll through the town centre reveals a town of colourful and charming architecture. The Art Nouveau Centre (museum), located in a beautiful Art Nouveau building, portrays the town s unique position in Norwegian architectural history. The Atlantic Sea Park, one of the largest aquariums in Northern Europe, is built into the coastal landscape, providing an insight into the multitude of life beneath the waves. The open air Sunnmøre Museum features various houses and boats which have been reassembled from the region and displayed in attractive surroundings. Aalesunds Museum gives a vivid insight into the history of Ålesund, with permanent exhibitions devoted to the great town fire in 1904, as well as the development of the town as a fishery and shipping port. Important features of Ålesund s maritime traditions are also presented at the Fisheries Museum, located in a restored warehouse right at the entrance of the old picturesque harbour. Ålesund can offer a wide range of new and exciting excursions for fishing trips, sea kayaking, island bicycle tours, wildlife sea safari ad well as helicopter rides, home visits and new fjord tours., ranging from fishing trips, sea kayaking, island bicycle tours, wildlife sea safari ad well as helicopter rides, home visits and new fjord tours. 2 welcome to ålesund coast and fjord 3

3 The Cruise Terminal is located in the very centre of the picturesque town of Ålesund. The passengers from the cruise ships can go for a stroll in the Art Nouveau town or participate The port of Ålesund on one of the numerous excursions to some of the most famous and popular attractions in Norway. 1. NEW CRUISE PIER Lenght: 200m Depth: Water: 60 m3 2. Stornespiren Length: 153 m Depth: Water: 60 m3 3. Cruise Terminal Length: 573 m Depth: Water: 60 m3 4. Prestebrygga Length: 220 m Depth: Water: 60 m3 5. Skansekaia Length: 195 m Depth: Water: 40 m3 The cruise terminal will be extended with 200 meters in Fully operative from The pier will then be measuring a total of 573 meters. (see map page 22-23) WELCOME TO THE PORT OF ÅLESUND! Ålesund is one of the most important ports on the west coast of Norway, and happily welcomes cruise ships from all over the world. The access to the port is excellent due to a wide and deep trench, Breisundet, leading all the way from the open sea into the port. Development of new port facilities enables cruise ships of any size to be docked at the Cruise Terminal in the very centre of the town. A new 200 meter extension of the pier will be operative from This will enable the port to accommodate two large sized cruiseships alongside at the same time. Ålesund has long traditions and a good reputation as a cruise port. Its location makes the port an ideal destination for cruise ships sailing Fjord- and North Cape cruises. Every year about 100 cruise ships choose this popular port with its famous attractions. The port can provide a wide variety of services for visiting liners, their passengers and crews. Birger Flem Harbour Master Harbour facilities Ålesund Pilot: N 62o 27 E 005o 59, South of Godøya Tugboat: Book 1 hr. Towing capacity 80 tons Customs: 24 hr. service Tides: Tidal difference between 1,5 2 m Supplies: 24 hr. service for all supplies Bunkers: Shell, Larsgården and 3 harbour bunker barges Refuse: Port Authority/Ships agent Grey Water: Yes Anchoring: Good anchoring ground Pontoons: In North and South harbour. For tender service Sailing Lane: Recommended lanes only Security Patrol: On request. Port Authority or Police The Port of Ålesund is certified complient with the ISPS regulations. International access code Pilot channel: VHF ch. 13/16 Port of Ålesund: VHF ch. 12/16 post@alesund.havn.no Internet: Harbour Contact Address: Ålesund Port Authority Skansekaia, N-6002 Ålesund Tel: Fax: CRUISE DESTINATION ÅLESUND Address: Skateflukaia N-6002 Ålesund Tel: Fax: cruise@visitalesund.com Harbour facilities Sunnmøre Volda: Length: 75 m Depth: 5-9 m Sykkylven: Length: 39 m Depth: 10,6-12,6 m Fosnavåg: Length: m Depth: m Hareid: Length: 120 m Depth: 7-7,5 m Ulsteinvik: Length: 54 m Depth: 6,1-9,2 m Ørstaterminalen: Length: 95 m Depth: 9,5-11m 4 the port of ålesund the port of ålesund 5

4 explore ålesund on foot......and by boat Tour 1: Ålesund Guided walk & AALESUNDS MUSEUM Tour 2: Ålesund Guided walk & The Art Nouveau Centre TOUR 3: HIKING SUKKERTOPPEN MOUNTAIN TOUR 4: ÅLESUND SIGHTSEEING by boat A stroll through Ålesund reveals a town full of colourful and beautiful architecture as well as strong maritime traditions. Enjoy the charming pedestrian zone and the picturesque fishing harbour Brosundet where the fishermen sell their catch directly from their boats. See the panoramic view of the town from the lower part of Mount Aksla. Experience the distinctive Art Nouveau architecture; the town was devastated by a fire a winter s night in 1904, leaving people homeless. During a period of three years, the entire town centre was rebuilt in this unique style with a myriad of turrets, spires and medieval ornaments. Guided walk through the town centre and the inner harbour. Please note that the tour does not take the group all the way up to the vantage point at Mount Aksla. Optional for this tour is to include a visit to the town museum, Aalesunds Museum, that gives a vivid insight into the history of Ålesund. The permanent exhibitions are devoted to the great town fire in 1904, World War II, as well as the development of the town as one of Norway s most prominent fishing- and shipping ports. Duration 1,5 2 hours Capacity 20 pax per. guide Season All year Note Walking tour visit to AALESUNDS MUSEUM (optional) In the great fire of 23 January 1904 the whole town of Ålesund was destroyed, and between a new town rose like Bird Phoenix from the ashes. More than 400 houses were designed by 50 Norwegian architects, strongly inspired by an international influence of Art Nouveau and National Romanticism. The town has a unique place in Norwegian architectural history. Its international significance is confirmed through participation in a European network of Art Nouveau cities including Glasgow, Vienna, Barcelona, Brussels and Riga. Visit the National Art Nouveau Centre located in a beautiful building from this period. Enjoy The Time Machine that takes you back to the great fire in Through a multi media show it gives you a direct insight into the dramatic happening that stormy winter night. Informative and entertaining! Guided walk through the town centre, the inner harbour and the town park. The tour includes a visit to the Art Nouveau Centre. Coffee & cakes are available at the Art Nouveau Centre. Duration: 2,5 hours, 3 hours including coffee & cakes Capacity: 15 pax per. guide Note: Walking tour visit to the ART NOUVEAU CENTRE included Admire the spectacular views from the peak of Sukkertoppen (Sugarloaf Mountain). The impressive sight of the town with a never ending range of majestic snowcapped peaks in the background is just unforgetable! Opposite you can enjoy the magnificent view of the islands stretcing out into the Atlantic Ocean. Quite a contrast and well worth the climb! The tour starts with a short coach ride from the town centre to the starting point of the hike, Hessa, approx. 4 km from the town. The hike goes on a small and narrow pathway along a ridge of the mountain, Sukkertoppen. The hike to the peak of the mountain takes approx. 1 hour. Coffee and snacks at the vantage point before descending down from the mountain. The guide will carry a thermos flask of coffee the participants will carry their own snack. The guide will bring along a firstaid kit. Return to the pier by coach. Capacity: 20 pax per. guide Season: Summer Note: Walking will incl. uneven and sometimes steep terrain and can at times be wet in certain areas windbreaker recommended good shoes required Enjoy a tour aboard a comfortable sightseeing boat. Relax and enjoy the close up views of the old picturesque fishing harbour as well as the seaside views of the town. Discover the multitude of the skerries and islands in the beautiful Borgundfjord and Langevåg area. Tour departure from the inner harbour of Ålesund. Cruising in the fjord, you will travel through some of the most beautiful areas surrounding the town, with a wonderful view of the fjords, mountains, skerries and seaside life and nature. Optional for this tour is to include a visit to the Devold Knitwear Factory Outlet and museum in Langevåg. Refreshments can be served by arrangement aboard the boat, at the Devold café, or bought individually in the kiosk on the boat. Duration: 1-2 hours Capacity: High Note: Can also be arranged in a combination with a guided walk (2-3 hours) operated by catamaran 6 explore explore 7

5 and Viking sagas Ålesund attractions TOUR 5: ÅLESUND PANORAMIC & SUNNMØRE OPEN AIR MUSEUM TOUR 6: ÅLESUND PANORAMIC & THE ATLANTIC SEA PARK TOUR 7: THE SAGA ISLANDS GISKE AND GODØY TOUR 8: THE SAGA ISLANDS GISKE and GODØY & THE ATLANTIC SEA PARK Experience the Art Nouveau town and the best views of this spectacular scenery, including a breathtaking panoramic view from Mount Aksla. Enjoy a drive along the Borgundfjord, through the modern suburbs to the bustling old trading centre of Borgund, site of Sunnmøre Museum. Viking ships, old farmhouses in a beautiful natural setting and various exhibitions give you a taste of Norwegian life centuries ago. The open air museum features various types of farmhouses and boathouses, which have been reassembled here from the region and displayed in attractive surroundings. The excursion by coach includes a tour of the town centre, the vantage point Fjellstua/Mount Aksla, where a photo stop is made, and a visit to Sunnmøre Open Air Museum. Optional for this tour is a visit at Borgund Church by the museum or Ålesund Church in the town centre. Folklore programme at the open air museum can be arranged on request. Capacity: High capacity Note: Some walking involved at Sunnmøre Open Air Museum Can include a visit to the Atlantic Sea Park (4 hours). Can also be operated as a 2 hour Ålesund Panoramic (no walking) without Sunnmøre Musem Ålesund is the largest fishing port on the North-Western coast of Norway and has a beautiful setting, built on several islands stretching out into the ocean. The town was destroyed by fire one winter s night in 1904 and rebuilt in the distinctive Art Nouveau style with numerous turrets, spires and ornaments. Enjoy a tour through the town centre amongst the Art Nouveau buildings and a drive up to the vantage point at Fjellstua/Mount Aksla. Don t miss the breathtaking view of the town and the scenic islands and snow capped mountains. Visit the Atlantic Sea Park, one of the largest aquariums in Northern Europe. Built into the coastal landscape, facing the mighty ocean, it provides a fascinating insight into the multitude of life beneath the waves. Some of Europe s finest collection of marine life can be found here. The latest newcomers are the popular penguins. The excursion goes by coach through the town centre and includes stops at the vantage point Fjellstua/Mount Aksla and at the Atlantic Sea Park (aquarium). At (daily) or on request there is a diving show in the large Atlantic Ocean tank. Capacity: High capacity Note: Well suited for wheelchairs Explore the saga island of Giske, the birthplace of the Viking chieftain Rollo, who invaded and founded Normandy in 911 and thus became the ancestor of William the Conqueror, sire to the English Royal Family. The island had a unique position during the Viking Era and was the seat of one of Norway s most powerful noble families. Visit the marble Giske Church, dating back to the 1150 it was once the influent Giske family chapel. Experience the island of Godøy with the picturesque fishing village of Alnes facing the Atlantic Ocean. Take a short break at the lighthouse at Alnes and enjoy an art exhibition in the old lighthouse by the local and nationally renown artist Ørnulf Opdahl, before returning to Ålesund with a stop en route at the vantage point Fjellstua/Mount Aksla to enjoy the breathtaking views. The excursion goes by coach from the town centre through subsea tunnels and across bridges to the islands of Giske and Godøy. The excursion includes a visit to the Giske Church, Alnes Lighthouse and Fjellstua/ Mount Aksla viewpoint. Coffee & cakes are optional at the lighthouse or at Fjellstua., 4 hours incl. coffee & cakes Capacity: 6 coaches during a 3 hour excursion, 4 coaches during a 4 hour excursion (incl. coffee stop) Note: Some walking involved. Considerable number of steps in the lighthouse (optional) Visit the saga island of Giske, the birthplace of the Viking chieftain Rollo, who invaded and founded Normandy in 911 and thus became the ancestor of William the Conqueror, sire to the English Royal Family. Visit the marble Giske Church, dating back to around 1150 it was once the influent Giske family chapel. Experience the island of Godøy with the picturesque fishing village of Alnes facing the Atlantic Ocean. Relax with a break at the old lighthouse at Alnes before returning to Ålesund with a short stop en route at Fjellstua/Mount Aksla to enjoy the breathtaking view before you visit The Atlantic Sea Park, one of the largest aquariums in Northern Europe. The excursion goes by coach from the town centre through sub sea tunnels and across bridges to the islands of Giske and Godøy. The excursion includes a visit at Giske Church, Alnes Lighthouse, Fjellstua/Mount Aksla viewpoint (photostop) and to the Atlantic Sea Park (aquarium). Coffee & cakes are optional at the lighthouse, Fjellstua or at the aquarium. At (daily) or on request there is a diving show in the large Atlantic Ocean tank. Duration: 4,5 hours or 5 hours incl. coffee & cakes Capacity: 6 coaches during a 4,5 hour excursion, 3 coaches during a 5 hour excursion incl. coffee break Note: Some walking involved. Consider able number of steps in the lighthouse (optional) 8 attractions attractions 9

6 scenic attractions TOUR 9: HJØRUNDFJORD CRUISE TOUR 10: HJØRUNDFJORD OFF THE BEATEN TRACK TOUR 11: GEIRANGERFJORD UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE site TOUR 12: TROLLSTIGEN TROLLS PATH ROAD Enjoy the beautiful and dramatic Hjørundfjord on this combination of a fjord and overland tour (boat and bus). In geological terms the fjords of Norway are young merely a few million years old. Each was carved by the massive icecap that covered northern Europe during a series of forty Ice Ages, gnawing down the bedrock at the humble rate of half a meter or so every thousand years. Here in this dramatic scenery you will find large goat farms up in the mountainsides and fish farming plants along the seaside. The Hjørundfjord cuts its way through some of the wildest mountain ranges in Norway, the Sunnmøre Alps, and was frequently visited by the European Royalties, among them, the German Emperor Keiser Wilhelm, around the turn of the 19th Century. In this beautiful fjord the water around you is as deep as the mountains are high. The tour departs from Ålesund by boat and/or bus. Larger parties split into two or more groups. One part of the group will be boarding a bus, the other half a boat (catamaran). The group in the bus will take a short city tour before driving up to the spectacular view point at Mount Aksla/ Fjellstua for a short photo stop. Thereafter the tour continues to Vegsund/Kvasnes quai by the Storfjord. The other half of the group starts the tour on a catamaran heading for a magnificent fjord cruise on the Hjørundfjord one of Norway s hidden treasures. Cruise through the fjord, with an overview of how the Norwegians live in this area on the small fjord farms and in the villages. At Vegsund/Kvasnes quai both groups meet up and change places. The tour continues vice versa for both groups. Coffee/tea and waffles can be served onboard on request. Duration: 4 hours (in total by bus and boat) Capacity: High Season: Spring, summer and autumn new Experience one of Norway s hidden treasures on this roundtrip to the wild and dramatic Hjørundfjord. The fjord is just off the beaten track, but still situated on the very doorstep to Ålesund! See how the locals people and goats live, and experience the striking scenery that Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany valued so highly more than 100 years ago. The fjord cuts its way through some of the wildest mountain ranges in Norway, the Sunnmøre Alps, and the view of the fjord, surrounded by steep and jagged mountains, is just unbelievable! A drive through this remote and unspoiled natural environment is an enjoyable experience. Departure by coach from Ålesund to Solavågen (30 min.) A short and very scenic ferry crossing (20 min.) to Festøya. Drive alongside the wild and remote Hjørundfjord where the road goes through the yards of the small fjord farms, and shows the authentic way of life in region. Photo stops by the fjord and on the mountain, with possibilities to visit a fishfarm en route. Lunch stop at Rekkedal Guesthouse (located on a farm). Short stop in the little village of Ørsta before driving alongside the Vartdalsfjord to board the ferry at Festøya to Solavågen. Alternative optional return is by catamaran from Sæbø to Ålesund on the magnificent Hjørundfjord. Drive via Mount Aksla/Fjellstua view point on departure or on the return journey (optional). Duration: 6-7 hours Capacity: 90 pax (lunch capacity per group) Season: Spring, summer and autumn Ferries: 2 short ferry crossings (approx 20 min each way) Note: Operative from 2012 Catamaran capacity 296 pax new The UNESCO World Heritage listed Geirangerfjord is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Norway. The fjord is surrounded by steep mountains, majestic waterfalls and old deserted farms clinging on to small mountain ledges half way up the mountain sides. Experience the scenic Eagles Road towering over the small village of Geiranger, populated by 260 inhabitants in wintertime and visited by half a million tourists in the summer season. During the fascinating ferry trip on the Geirangerfjord you will have close up views of the famous waterfalls and farmhouses, enabling you to experience this breathtaking fjord in the best possible way. The tour goes from Ålesund via Sjøholt with a short stop at the old Stordal Rose Church (optional). Ferry between Linge Eidsdal. Lunch stop in Geiranger with an optional visit to Flydalsjuvet view point. Ferry on the Geirangerfjord (1 hour) to Hellesylt. Return towards Ålesund along the fjords via Stranda, crossing the mountains before a short ferry trip between Ørsneset Magerholm. The tour can also be combined with the Trolls Path Road in an overland tour from Ålesund to Geiranger, where the passengers meet up with their ship in Geiranger. Duration: 8-9 hours Capacity: High Season: Summer Ferries: 3 (2 short crossings and one 60 min fjord trip) Note: May also be operated in reverse Explore the district of trolls and fairytales in a beautiful natural setting. Here you can really understand how the myths of trolls originated! Experience wild mountains, roaring waterfalls and peaceful nature. At feet above sea level, surrounded by dramatically shaped mountain peaks, you can enjoy the stunning view before descending the Troll s Path Road (Trollstigen) which winds its way down in 11 narrow hairpin bends, clinging to the mountain side. On the way down you pass the dramatic Stigefossen waterfall, with a drop of 585 feet. The Troll Wall (Trollveggen) is Europe s highest vertical mountain wall, 3000 feet high, with some of the world s most difficult climbing routes. This excursion takes you on a round trip from Ålesund to the Trolls Path Road (no ferries). There will be a short photo stop at the town mountain Aksla. An optional stop can also be made at the old Stordal Rose Church. The tour continues along the Norddalsfjord to the village of Valldal. A stop is made at the Gudbrandsjuvet Gorge, 16 feet wide and 80 feet deep, with a foaming river at the bottom. Photo stop at Trollstigen view point and at the Troll Wall. The tour continues along the Romsdalsfjord back towards Ålesund, passing farms and busy villages along the way as well as shipbuilding yards and furniture works. Duration: 8 hours Capacity: High Season: Summer Note: May also be operated in reverse 10 attractions attractions 11

7 scenic attractions TOUR 13: RUNDE ISLAND THE BIRD SANCTUARY TOUR 14: ONA THE FISHING HAMLET TOUR 15: STRANDAFJELLET MOUNTAIN CABLE CAR TO VANTAGE POINT TOUR 16: BRIKSDAL GLACIER The bird sanctuary Runde has one of the largest nesting cliffs in Norway. More than half a million birds of about 230 different species are to be found at Runde every year. The active bird life starts in March and ebbs out gradually throughout the months of July/August. This myriad of winged life can be observed either from the marked paths around the reservation or from a boat at sea. Due to a rough coastline many ships have wrecked off Runde island during the past centuries. One of them, the Dutch ship Akerendam, sunk in 1725 with a cargo loaded with gold and silver coins. An exhibition of these coins can be seen at the Runde Miljøsenter. Alternative 1: Boat trip: Ålesund Runde Ålesund Alternative 2: The passengers are divided into two groups. One group travels from Ålesund to Runde by coach and ferry. The second group goes directly by boat. Adverse travel on return trip. Lunch/ Coffee & cakes at the new and modern Runde Miljøsenter (Environment & Research Centre) Duration: Alternative 1: Approx. 3 4 hours Alternative 2: Approx. 5 hours Capacity: On request Season: Spring/Summer Ferries: 1 crossing (25 minutes) Note: The reservation area is protected Travel by catamaran and visit the picturesque fishing hamlet of Ona. This tiny little fishing village is situated right out in the open ocean. The island has just 50 permanent inhabitants today, but the quaint houses are well looked after and you can sense the hustle and bustle of years gone by. Breathe in the fresh air and explore the fascinating local pottery shops. Enjoy the spectacular view from the lighthouse towards the snow capped mountain ranges inland. Boat trip (catamaran) from Ålesund to Ona. The tour includes a stop of approx. 1,5 hours for a guided tour at Ona. Optional stop at Finnøy for a taste of the delicious local fish soup. Return by boat to Ålesund. Duration: 4 hours Capacity: High Season: Spring/Summer Note: Walking in steep terrain (optional) to the lighthouse Enjoy a round trip to the popular Strandafjellet mountain ski resort. Now, an all year attraction with its brand new pavilion (1042 m.a.s.l.) at the vantage point on the top of Mount Roalden easily reached by cable cars/chair lifts a unique experience by Norwegian standards! The breathtaking view covers several fjords surrounded by the high and jagged peaks of the Sunnmøre Alps! This is one of the rare places a view like this can be enjoyed without a lot of physical stress (climbing, hiking or skiing). The tour goes by bus from the pier to a short, but very scenic, ferry trip between Magerholm Ørsneset (10 min.). Drive through Sykkylven to Strandafjellet mountain. Take cable cars/chair lifts to the peak view point at Mount Roalden. Refreshments (lunch or coffee/cakes/snacks) available in the brand new Pavillion at the vantage point. Increadible views! Decend from mountain by cable cars. Drive down to the little village of Stranda by the Storfjord (short stop) before returning to Ålesund. The tour can be operated as a roundtrip with return by ferry across the fjord from Stranda to Liabygda, and drive via Sjøholt to Ålesund. Or, for a slightly shorter version, the return can be as on departure, via Ørsneset Magerholm. Duration: 5-6 hours Capacity: High (Pavilion 160 pax) Note: Wear sport shoes and a warm, windproof jacket Experience the powerful Briksdal Glacier - a part of the Jostedal Glacier National Park. The wild glacier swoops down from a height of 1200 metres to the lush, narrow Briksdal Valley - a beautiful sight that attracts visitors from all over the world every year. Drive through the remote and unspoiled natural environment in the Norangsdal valley. Return to Ålesund on a relaxing boat trip on the wild and dramatic Hjørundfjord. This fjord cuts its way through some of the wildest mountain ranges in Norway, the Sunnmøre Alps - and is one of Norway s hidden gems! Departure from Ålesund by coach to Briksdal via Stranda, Hellesylt, Stryn, Loen and Olden. One short ferry crossing from Magerholm to Ørsneset. A walking tour/ or Troll car from Briksdal up to the glacier. Lunch at Briksdalen Fjellstove. Alt. 1: Return to Ålesund through the Nordangsdal valley to Øye (optional coffee stop at the historical Union Hotel). The tour from Øye to Ålesund is by boat/ferry on the spectacular Hjørundfjord. Alt. 2: Return to Ålesund by coach and ferry. Duration: 10-11hours Capacity: 2-6 coaches Season: Summer Ferries: Alt. 1: 1 short crossing + 1 boat/ferry trip Alt. 2: 2 short crossings Note: A considerable amount of walking to the glacier (approx. 1,5 hours) Optional to walking: Troll Cars 12 attractions attractions 13

8 ACTIVE TOURS TOUR 17: WILDLIFE SEA SAFARI TOUR 18: FISHING ADVENTURE TOUR 19: BICYCLE ISLAND TOUR TOUR 20: SEA KAYAKING TOUR Safari along the coastline outside Ålesund in a high-speed open RIB boat. The trip normally includes visiting a seal-colony and Runde s famous bird colonies. For rafting in calmer waters we can offer fjord rafting. Here one can get close up to the mountainsides and waterfalls. The rib-boats have seats as on a motorbike, nicely padded and with good handles to hold on to. Starting point from Brunholmen at Dykkerforum. All participants get dressed up in survival suits, gloves, hats etc. before departure. Safety instructions are given onboard. The trip generally goes to the bird sanctuary at Runde and some seal colonies on the surrounding islands. If the weather conditions are rough, the tour can go into the more shallow waters in the fjords. Duration: 2 hours Capacity: 12 pax Season: Spring, summer and autumn Note: Warm clothing/ survival suits included weather conditions permitting Experience a taste of this exhilarating sport on a small local fishing boat! Our fishing excursion will take you on an enjoyable ride out to the waters around Ålesund, to some of your Captain s favorite spots. The catch can include fish like cod, haddock, pollack and saithe. The coastline containing islands and fjords provides shelter in most weather conditions. Fishing at the edge of the town offers not only good waters, but also beautiful scenery. While fishing, you will have some of Norway s most dramatic landscapes as a backdrop. The fishing trips are operated with the skipper as your local fishing guide. Each fishing vessel takes small groups out to the fishing grounds to the nearby islands and fjords surrounding Ålesund. If it is too rough at the open sea, the boat will take you to a sheltered fjord to fish. Fishing equipment and lifejackets are included. Fishing licenses are not required for salt water fishing. Duration: Approx. 3 hours Capacity: Groups of approx. 12 pax per boat Note: This excursion is operated without a local guide Biking, sightseeing and the beach - this shore excursion has it all! Enjoy an escorted leisurely bike ride as you explore the island of Giske. Ride along the narrow roads and pathways on the island, and learn about the old Viking settlement here. This small and charming island was the birthplace of the famous Viking Chieftain Rollo (Gange-Rolv), the forefather of William the Conquerer. Afterwards, the tough ones can refresh themselves with a dip in the crystal-clear waters on one of the beautiful white sandy beaches on the island, and enjoy a light picnic/snack. The tour starts with an informative minibus transfer from Ålesund to the island of Giske (10 min. drive). The terrain on the island of Giske is flat, and therefore well suited for biking with easy pedaling. The tour goes around the whole island and includes a picnic stop at/or near one of the islands sandy beaches, and a stop at the old Giske Marble Church (optional entrance). This tour is ideal for those seeking mild exercise in the fresh Norwegian air. Capacity: 16 pax max per guide/escort Season: Spring, summer and autumn Note: Tour includes off road bike, guide and helmet wear sport shoes and a windproof jacket Picnic/snack can be arranged Transfer by minibus (or boat) included Alternative routes can be made The tour starts in the calm waters of the picturesque Brosundet canal in the colourful Art Nouveau town of Ålesund - an excellent photo opportunity before paddling along the fjord to explore the natural beauty of the Norwegian coastline. This kayak excursion offers the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation as you enjoy the scenery and the fresh air. A stop will be made, weather depending, either somewhere along the shores of the fjord, or on one of the pretty, small islands scattered around in the fjord. Following a brief instruction on how to paddle and maneuver a kayak the guide will assist you into your kayak and the small group will cruise out into the canal, before going out to the sea. The tour hugs the coastline along the fjord in order to provide calm conditions, and stops for a shore break and a light snack. The tour is limited in numbers of participants due to safety and in order to create an intimate tour. The instructor/guide provides basic instruction prior to tour departure. Capacity: 6 pax max per guide/instructor Season: May September Note: Participants need basic experience of kayaking Single or double kayaks on request 14 ACTIVE TOURS ACTIVE TOURS 15

9 families & children TOUR 21: sunnmøre museum A JOURNEY BACK IN TIMe TOUR 22: CHILDREN S PLAYLAND Games & action TOUR 23: Aqua-World see, feel & touch TOUR 24: DISCOVER THE YOOGON TROLLS OF ÅLESUND Enjoy a journey that gradually takes you back in time! First of all you will experience the life of the fisherman-farmer and his family. See how they lived, in their houses as well as on their boats, and feel the clothes they were wearing. Taste the food they used to eat; fishcakes and fish. Try the toys their children used to play with, and the tasks they had to do. Test out your skills - can you walk on stilts? Here you can touch, feel and do, not just look! The journey finally takes us back to the Viking times, and we all dress up as Vikings. We will board the Viking Ship Borgundknarren, and the Viking Chieftain will take us sailing on a Viking raid at sea! The tour starts with a short coach ride from the town centre to the Sunnmøre Open Air Museum. The group will be met by museum guides dressed up as a fisherman/woman and a Viking. The stay at the museum is interactive. The children will dress up in different costumes, test out tools, toys and food by themselves. This is not a look but not touch museum, but a do, feel and taste happening. Finally the journey goes back to the Viking times, they dress up as Vikings before departure from the museum by Borgundknarren Viking Ship back to the pier (optional). Capacity: 20 pax per. guide Season: Summer Experience new games and have a lot of fun! Children s Playland (Barnas Lekeland) is a unique indoor activity centre. The play area is suitable for children of all ages, and is challenging and exciting. Children will enjoy themselves on one of Norway s largest play constructions, with obstacle courses, slides, climbing walls etc. Try the test your senses area or explore the interesting science exhibitions. Children can look forward to an active, stimulating and challenging adventure! Parents can either join their children in the play area or relax with a cup of coffee in the cafe. The tour starts with a coach ride from the town centre to the Children s Playland at Spjelkavik (10 km). Children s Playland is a large and popular play and activity centre consisting of several departments based on several different themes. A café with a good selection of food and drinks available. There is also a parents lounge with a view of the activity area. WLAN available. Duration: 2-3 hours Capacity: High (400 children, m2) Note: Indoor activities, age group: 0-12 years Explore the aqua-world on this interactive tour to the Atlantic Sea Park, one of the largest aquariums in Northern Europe. Built into the coastal landscape, facing the mighty ocean, it provides a fascinating insight into the multitude of life beneath the waves. Enjoy the show in the large ocean tank and see the diver feeding the fish by hand. Pick up a lobster, a starfish or other sea creatures in the activity room and try out your luck fishing crabs on a line! Feed the catfish, amongst others, with shrimps but please be aware of your fingers! The penguins are in an outdoor pool. They are quite new with us, but happy to have company on the other side of the fence. Join in the aqua-quiz competition and receive a diploma. The excursion goes by coach through the town centre and includes stops at Fjellstua/Mount Aksla viewpoint and at the Atlantic Sea Park (aquarium). Diving show in the large Ocean tank at 13:00 (daily) or on request. Special interactive activities such as fishing crabs, picking up lobsters and other sea creatures, feeding the fish will be arranged. The visit at the aquarium will include an aqua-quiz for the children. Capacity: High capacity Note: Suitable for families & children They are watching you and we don t mean the CCTV cameras. You know the feeling; you turn around and there is someone staring at you In this town it s like that all the time, everywhere you go. They are watching you. The little creatures on the facades of the town s buildings. We call them the Yoogons. It started like this: The town was rebuilt after a great fire in 1904, and these small glowing creatures, the Yoogons, were blamed for the fire. As a punishment they were cemented into the facades of the new houses during the rebuilding of the town. 100 years later they were given the opportunity to come out, just for one night, to prove their innocence. This guided walk, a mixture of facts & fiction, is an excellent way to arouse children s interest in architecture in an entertaining way! The target group for this tour is children from the age of 6 and their parents. The story is fictional and based on a great fire in Ålesund in 1904, and the rebuilding of the town. We will take you on an exciting discovery tour to find the little fable creatures on the facades of the Art Nouveau buildings. The tour includes a small booklet with the Yoogon troll s pictures and names. All the participating children will also receive a diploma after the tour. Duration: 1,5 2 hours Capacity: 20 pax per guide Note: Walking tour for children 6 12 years old (accompanied by parents) Innovative Shorex Award Winner 8 16 families & children families & children 17

10 special interest TOUR 25: HOME VISITS This excursion gives you the unique opportunity to learn about the Norwegian way of life. Ålesund has played a leading role in Norway s fishery and maritime history ever since the Viking era, and the surrounding area is also home to a thriving furniture industry. The town itself has a dramatic story to tell. One stormy night in January 1904 the whole town burned to the ground. A new town rose phoenix-like from the ashes in the distinctive Art Nouveau style. To learn more about its personality, you are invited to visit a private home where, as is customary here, you will be treated with homemade Norwegian waffles and coffee or tea. Your host or hostess will tell you about their everyday life the conversation is meant to flow freely and it is up to you to ask questions about the local cuisine, the seasons, gardening, how Norwegians furnish their homes and more. This excursion is operated as a transfer without a local guide. Departure from Ålesund by coach 3 groups (15 pax per group) in one coach. The bus drives the groups to three separate homes where they will be met by their host. Bus pick-up after a stay of approx. 1,5 hour. Duration: Approx. 2 hours Capacity: 3 groups (max 15 pax per group) 1 coach Note: This excursion is operated as a transfer without a local guide and may involve some walking TOUR 26: HELICOPTER TOURS Enjoy the dramatic fjord, mountain and coastal landscape from above. Fly over the ragged Sunnmøre Alps in a helicopter follow the fjord from the open ocean and see how it cuts its way through the mountain ranges and deep into the narrow fjord arms. By helicopter you will get a spectacular view of the fjords, islands and the town of Ålesund beautifully situated in the midst of it all! Transfer/shuttle from the pier by minibus to the helicopter site (approx. 10 min. each way). The 30 minutes tour will fly in through the Hjørundfjord to Sæbø giving a close encounter with the magnificent Sunnmøre Alps. The return tour will be flying over the Storfjord, Sula Mountain, sandy beached islands and the Art Nouveau town of Ålesund. The 15 minutes tour will make a shorter version of the tour turning around in the Hjørundfjord at Standal. Duration: Alt 1: 30 minutes flight + transfers (10 min x 2) Alt 2: 15 minutes + transfers (10 min x 2) Capacity: Alt 1: 10 pax every 30 minutes Alt 2: 10 pax every 15 minutes Note: 2 x 5 seaters helicopters In addition to regular tours, we can also offer tailor made excursions - just to suit you and your client! We have a numerous selection of different activities to choose from, and will be happy to put the tour together and make the practical Adventure & tailormade tours SCUBA DIVING Ålesund has a lot to offer scuba diving enthusiasts, and our merits include hosting the World Championships in underwater photography. Well established scuba diving scene with operators offering customised diving experiences. All necessary equipment available. GOLF Ålesund Golf Club s home course Solnør Gaard Golfbane lies in stunning surroundings about 30 km from Ålesund, approx. 30 minutes by car/bus from the port/town centre. The course has 18-holes that vary between park and woodland. HISTORICAL VIKING PLAYS Several historical plays staged in different parts of Sunnmøre tell the story of the Vikings and their singular history of raiding and pillaging a thousand years ago. arrangements. Below you will find a selection of activities. Get the feel of the country, the people, the nature and the rough elements. Test out your senses, Have fun and do something different. bring home a new experience from your holiday! NORWEGIAN FOLKLORE SHOW Ålesund Spelemannslag, a group of active folk dancers and musicians, are amongst the best folklore groups in the country. Dressed in national costumes they are also quite a spectacular sight. Special shows can be arranged. Their performance can either be incorporated in a guided tour (Sunnmøre Open Air Museum is a good location) or in a special evening arrangement. A show can also be arranged on board the cruise ship if required. ARTS & CRAFTS TOUR Explore the arts & crafts of the local artists. Visit Ingrid s Glassverksted, an exciting glassworks studio, and see how the products are created. The artist will give you a demonstration on how the colourful glassware takes shape! Make a visit to Gallery Cylindra, and enjoy an exhibition of sculptural furniture designed by the well known Norwegian designer, Peter Opsvik. 18 special interest tailor-made tours 19

11 N TRANSPORT Coaches Ålesund can offer approx. 100 modern buses for transport and sightseeing. Ålesund Taxis 33 taxis and limousine service. Car rental All major car rental companies. BOAT CHARTER Sightseeing boats, catamarans, cabin cruisers and fishing boats for hire. HELICOPTER CHARTER Sightseeing by helicopter. See contrasts of the fjords, mountains, town and coastline from the air. Capacity: 5 pax Cruise speed 225 km/hr. AIRPORT Ålesund Airport Vigra is located 16 km from the town centre and has good flight connections with frequent daily departures to Oslo, Bergen and Trondheim for international con- nections. Several international direct flights. GUIDE SERVICE Ålesund has a well organised guide service, counting about 100 highly qualified and authorised guides. The guides cover more than 18 languages and have a thorough knowledge of the town and the Sunnmøre region. TOURIST INFORMATION The tourist information is centrally located at Skateflukaia. Open all year with extended opening hours in the summer. Exchange, souvenirs and postcards. Tourist information in the port area on all cruise ship calls. special interest 21 Colour references TOUR 10: HJØRUNDFJORD CRUISE. Page 10 TOUR 11: GEIRANGERFJORD UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE. Page 11 TOUR 12: TROLLSTIGEN TROLLS PATH ROAD. Page 11 TOUR 13: RUNDE ISLAND THE BIRD SANCTUARY. Page 12 TOUR 14: ONA THE FISHING HAMLET. Page 12 Statens Kartverk fra Nordeca AS TOUR 9: HJØRUNDFJORD OFF THE BEATEN TRACK. Page 10 TOUR 16: BRIKSDAL GLACIER. Page map map 21

12 port of Ålesund cruiseport expansion plan To increase the capacity of central berthing facilities the cruise terminal in Ålesund will be extended with a 200 meters long pier in The expansion will increase the quay front from 370 to 570 meters. This expansion will enable the port of Ålesund to accommodate two large sized cruiseships alongside at the same time. In addition this will give 200 meters berthing facilities on the shoreside of the pier. The new pier will be fully operative from m 200 m expansion

13 ELLE melle. Front page photo: Staale Wattø. Other photos: Barnas Lekeland, Terje Borud/Innovation Norway, CH/Innovation Norway, Malvin Dalhus, Per Eide, Roger Engvik/Atlanterhavsparken, Jan Standal, Mattias Fredriksson, Hammerø/Møre og Romsdal fylkeskommune, Oddbjørn Monsen, Terje Rakke/Nordic Life, Marius Rua, 62 0 NORD, Valderhaug/Ålesund Havn Destination Ålesund & Sunnmøre Skateflukaia, N-6002 Ålesund info@visitalesund.com