Molde

Romsdal Museum is one of the largest provincial museums in Norway and comprises over 40 buildings illustrating developments from the Viking era right up to the end of the 19th century. A group of young people will perform a local folkdance in colourful national costume during the visit.

The white Molde Church with its 164-foot-high bell tower is surrounded by a garden of roses. The simple, white interior of the church is decorated by some of Norway's leading artists.

Situated some 1,200 feet above the town is Varden, with panoramic views of the fjord and the Romsdal Mountains. Nestling at the foot of the mountain is Molde with its white painted wooden houses and lovingly tended gardens.

The fantastic Atlantic Ocean Road is unique. Connecting the municipalities of Averøy and Eide, it took 6 years to complete. The road is 27,138 feet long and has a total of 8 bridges to connect each islet, the longest of which is 390 feet.

This scenically rewarding excursion takes you to the village of Eide and follows the Kornstadfjord out to the spectacular Atlantic Ocean Road. Continue along Hustadvika, an ill-reputed stretch of sea dotted with underwater skerries and islets before reaching Bud, a charming fishing village facing the open ocean.

A photo stop will be made near the World War II fortifications, today a restored war-memorial museum. Look across to the Bjørnsund Islands where the buildings are now used as summer houses. Follow the Malmefjord via Elnes and over the hills back to Molde.

Embark on a journey by coach through the modern streets of Molde and up the hill side passing residential wooden houses with their lovely gardens to Varden.

Exiting the coach at the Varden Viewpoint, located 1335 feet above sea level, you’ll be able to see the town of Molde, the fjord and islands and the famous Molde panorama with its 222 partially snow-clad peaks. On clear days you can see as far as the fishing village of Ona and the dreaded waters of Hustadvika.

From Varden, you’ll head off on foot past dramatic scenery along the nature trail known as the ‘green corridor’ to Romsdal Open-Air Museum. The Museum contains a collection of more than 40 buildings (barns, farm houses, stables, workshops, etc.) dating from the 16th - 20th centuries sourced from the Romsdal region. You’ll be given a short introduction and the opportunity to visit 2 of the old, typical farmhouses, before passing Bygata Street, a recreated street which illustrates what the city looked like prior to the 1916 fire.

A short distance behind Bygata Street is Reknes Hill and the Rekneshaugen Viewpoint. Enjoy panoramic views over the town and surrounding area from a different perspective before strolling through Molde town back to the quayside.