Ålesund: Kingdom of the Trolls-Scenic Drive to Trollstigen

Traveling to Norway’s northwest coast offers some truly jaw-dropping landscapes, and this tour promises a full day of majestic mountains, rushing waterfalls, and picturesque valleys. While not a trip for those seeking hidden secrets—it’s a popular route packed with iconic sights—what makes this experience stand out are the knowledgeable guides, the incredible viewpoints, and the sheer variety of scenery packed into just seven hours.

You’ll get a taste of everything from the thunderous Stigfossen waterfall to the charming strawberry fields of Valldal. The route along Storfjord is especially breathtaking, and standing on the Trollstigen plateau with its serpentine roads feels like being on a mountain adventure straight out of a fairytale. That said, with a set schedule and a fair amount of bus travel, it’s best suited for those comfortable with group tours and moving at a brisk pace.

Three things we really appreciate about this tour: the expertly narrated stops, the stunning vistas from multiple viewpoints, and the chance to see the legendary Trollstigen road. On the flip side, a note of caution—if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer a more relaxed pace, this isn’t the quiet, contemplative experience for you. Overall, it’s perfect for travelers eager to tick off some of Norway’s most dramatic sights in one day.

Good To Know

• Stunning Views: The tour offers spectacular vistas, especially at the Trollstigen plateau and Kokarsteinen Viewpoint.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights into the landscape and history.
• Variety of Stops: From waterfalls to valleys, each stop introduces a different aspect of Norway’s natural beauty.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicles ensure a comfortable ride through sometimes chilly mountain air.
• Flexible Itinerary: The schedule is subject to change depending on weather and road conditions, ensuring safety and the best experience.
• Valuable Experience: At $185, the tour provides a rundown at a reasonable price, considering the sights included.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction: A Scenic Snapshot of Western Norway

This full-day tour from Ålesund offers a well-rounded glimpse into Norway’s rugged landscape, combining mountain majesty, rushing waterfalls, and charming valleys. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews suggest it’s a favorite for those wanting to experience the iconic scenery without the hassle of planning multiple stops.

We love that this tour pulls together some of Norway’s most celebrated sights—like the Trollstigen serpentine road and the Valldal strawberry fields—into a manageable day. The guides are often praised for their local expertise and friendly demeanor, which can make all the difference when navigating Norway’s sometimes tricky mountain roads.

One thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary can shift based on weather and road closures. That flexibility is a plus, but it might mean missing out on a particular stop if conditions aren’t ideal. Still, the scenic drive itself, especially along Storfjord and through Gudbrand Gorge, promises plenty of wow moments.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love a packed schedule, breathtaking views, and interesting commentary from guides. It’s not ideal for those seeking quiet, solitary moments or traveling with mobility challenges, as the terrain and bus layout favor active guests.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You Can Expect

Starting in Ålesund’s Cruise Pier

Your adventure kicks off right at the cruise terminal, making it a convenient option for cruise passengers. The meeting point is easy to find—look for the guide with a “WestNorwayTravel” sign after leaving the security area. From here, you’ll board a comfortable, air-conditioned coach that will be your chariot for the day’s scenery.

Scenic Drive Along Storfjord

The first leg takes you through some of the most captivating fjord landscapes. As you pass by Sjøholt, you’ll get a sense of the wild, untouched beauty of Norway’s coast. The highlight here is the Kokarsteinen Viewpoint, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the fjord. Many visitors mention that this is a perfect spot for photos and to soak in the vastness of the landscape.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Stordal and the Rose Church

Next, the route takes you to Stordal, a charming village known for its 200-year-old medieval “Rose Church”. This stop is typically brief but memorable, with travelers noting the church’s historic charm and picturesque setting. It offers a glimpse into Norway’s architectural heritage, contrasting with the natural grandeur around.

Valldal & Gudbrandsjuvet

Traveling along Norddalsfjorden, you’ll arrive at Valldal, famous for its juicy strawberries—a sweet treat after a busy morning—and stunning mountain vistas. This is also where you’ll see Gudbrandsjuvet, a dramatic gorge where the river plunges 25 meters below, carving a narrow, powerful channel. Visitors often describe this as a “must-see,” with the dramatic roar of the water adding to the thrill.

The Mountain World of Trollstigen

The highlight of the trip is reaching the high plateau of Trollstigen, renowned for its serpentine road that twists and turns through the mountains. Here, you’ll step out onto two viewing platforms, offering sweeping views of the famous road and the surrounding peaks. Many reviews mention the spectacular scenery and photo opportunities—not to mention the feeling of standing on a mountain top that’s become a symbol of Norway’s wild beauty.

Return to Ålesund

After soaking in the views, the journey winds down, returning you to the cruise pier. The entire day is designed to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed, though the schedule is tight enough that you’ll need to embrace the pace.

Transportation, Timing, and Practical Tips

The tour’s seven-hour duration makes it a full day, but it’s paced to balance travel with sightseeing. Expect a comfortable ride in an air-conditioned vehicle, with plenty of stops for photos and short walks. The tour does start early and finishes back at the cruise pier, making it ideal for cruise travelers looking to fit in a memorable Norwegian adventure.

Because the itinerary depends on weather and road conditions, the guides emphasize flexibility. This means your experience will be safe and optimized, even if some stops are adjusted or skipped.

What to Bring

Pack weather-appropriate clothing—layers are smart since mountain weather can change quickly. Don’t forget your camera, a hat, sunglasses, and perhaps a snack, especially since some stops don’t offer food options.

Special Considerations

This tour isn’t suited for wheelchair users or those with motion sickness, as the mountain roads can be curvy and steep. Child safety seats are available if booked in advance, which is reassuring for families.

The Value of the Experience

At $185 per person, this tour offers an accessible way to see some of Norway’s most iconic sights without the hassle of self-driving. The inclusion of a guide, transportation, and multiple scenic stops provides excellent value, especially for cruise passengers with limited time ashore.

Participants consistently laud the knowledgeability of guides and the stunning vistas as the main reasons for enjoying the tour. Many find that the stops at Gudbrandsjuvet and Trollstigen are breathtaking highlights, making it more than just a drive but a series of memorable photo moments.

While you might find other tours that go to Trollstigen or explore the fjords, this experience’s combination of mountain roads, waterfalls, and valleys offers a well-rounded Norwegian landscape snapshot. The flexible schedule and professional guidance mean your day will be smooth, even if weather causes last-minute changes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Norway’s rugged beauty in a manageable day. It’s ideal for those who enjoy guided tours with storytelling, scenic viewpoints, and a packed itinerary. If you’re an active traveler willing to embrace the bus ride and multiple stops, you’ll find plenty to love.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility challenges, this might not be the ideal choice. It’s a busy, scenic day designed to pack in the highlights, so patience and flexibility will help you make the most of it.

The Sum Up

The Ålesund: Kingdom of the Trolls-Scenic Drive to Trollstigen tour offers an engaging, visually stunning journey through Norway’s legendary landscape. Its carefully curated stops and knowledgeable guides make it a solid choice for travelers eager to see the best of what the region has to offer in one day.

The combination of dramatic waterfalls, mountain vistas, and historic sites provides a well-rounded experience that’s worth the price. While it’s best suited for those comfortable with group tours and a brisk schedule, the opportunity to stand on the Trollstigen plateau and gaze over winding roads and towering peaks is unforgettable.

For anyone visiting Ålesund and craving a taste of Norway’s wild side, this tour delivers memorable views and stories that will stay with you long after you return home.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for cruise passengers? Yes, the tour starts and ends at the cruise pier in Ålesund, making it a convenient shore excursion option.

What is included in the price? The tour fee covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and a local guide. Entry to sites is included in stops like Gudbrandsjuvet and the viewpoints, but private attractions’ entry fees are not specified.

How long does the tour last? The full experience takes about 7 hours, including drive time, stops, and sightseeing.

What should I bring? Weather-appropriate clothing, camera, sunglasses, and possibly snacks. Child safety seats are available if booked.

Are there any mobility restrictions? The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with motion sickness.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the itinerary flexible? Yes, it depends on weather and road conditions. The guides may adjust stops to ensure safety and the best experience.

What language are guides available in? Tours are conducted in English and German.

Can I book and pay later? Yes, booking is flexible; you can reserve now and pay later.

Is the tour family-friendly? Yes, but keep in mind the bus ride and walking involved. Child safety seats are available for families traveling with children.

To sum it up, this scenic drive from Ålesund to Trollstigen offers a great balance of natural beauty, historical charm, and expert guidance. It’s especially suited for those wanting an efficient, visually stunning overview of Norway’s rugged landscapes—perfect for a memorable day ashore or a snapshot of Norway’s breathtaking scenery.

You can check if your dates are available here: