Why you need to explore the Sunnmøre Alps

If you’re a mountain lover then you don’t need much convincing to hike the Sunnmøre Alps. You can hardly wait to experience in person the jagged mountain peaks bursting out of the fjord more than 1,500 m (4,921 ft) straight up into the sky.

Even if you’re not a diehard fan of heights, there are still compelling reasons to visit the beautiful area surrounding Sunnmøre fjords. There are stunning glaciers to view, along with many popular tourist venues including Molladalen, Slogen, Råna, Jønshorn and Kolåstinden, all with a variety of activities to help make the most of your visit to northern Norway.

6 reasons to explore the Sunnmøre Alps

Over many years, active glaciers in the remote north have dug awe-inspiring fjords and valleys leaving spectacular peaks and summits in their wake. Between the famous Hjørundfjord glacier and many more flank glaciers, the Sunnmøre Alps formed out of bedrock, creating a natural playground that thrill seekers have enjoyed for years.

Here are six reasons to explore the Sunnmøre Alps:

1. There are both short and long hikes in the Alps suitable for anyone who is moderately fit. These hiking trails are considered some of Norway’s best mountain walks.
   
2. In the summer, daylight lasts until midnight so you have extra time to explore the striking mountains and experience some of the most beautiful hikes in Norway.
   
3. Mt. Slogen is known to have one of the most breathtaking summits in all of Norway. The 1,564 m (5,131 ft) view into the fjord below is unmatched!
   
4. The coastal town of Ålesund is perfectly situated near the fjords and the Sunnmøre Alps, giving visitors the best of both worlds.
   
5. Between February and June, the Sunnmøre Alps are popular with skiers who snowshoe to the top and ski down.
   
6. Nearby the Alps in Ørsta, there’s an annual Naturfestivalen (Nature Festival), which features many organized activities including northern Europe’s steepest mountain race, Saudehornet rett opp (straight up the Saude Horn).

Whether you’re staying in the same place or moving around during your visit, you’ll find endless options for exploring the Sunnmøre Alps. 

There are many types of accommodation available to suit your budget and your location. There are hotels in close proximity to the fjords as well as tourist cabins spread throughout the mountain valleys so you can enjoy both day hikes and multi-day adventure treks between summits.