
Gratis gids 10 verborgen natuurplekken in Europa
Gratis gids 10 verborgen natuurplekken in Europa. Meld je aan voor onze nieuwsbrief en ontvang inspirerende reistips en routes voor je volgende groene reis.
Ålesund is perhaps one of Norway’s most charming towns. Located on the west coast, it was completely rebuilt in a stunning Art Nouveau style within a few years after a devastating fire in 1904. To this day, this laid-back town exudes history, creativity, and a touch of romance. It’s perfect for a sustainable city getaway filled with nature, architecture, and Slow travel.



Ålesund is compact, charming, and surprisingly versatile. Its Art Nouveau style from the early 20th century remains completely intact. The city is spread across seven islands and is surrounded by fjords, mountains, and the sea. It’s easy to get around here without a car. Everything in the city center is within walking distance, and for day trips, you can use public transportation, a bike, or a boat.
So a city trip to Ålesund isn’t just beautiful—it’s also eco-friendly.



The Jugendstil Center is located in a beautiful old pharmacy building. Here, you’ll learn all about the reconstruction following the 1904 fire and the distinctive architectural style that defines the cityscape today. Combine your visit with a stop at the adjacent KUBE art museum to see modern Norwegian art.
TIP: Before you go into the museum, feel free to sit down on a bench for a bit—they’re heated.

From the top of Aksla, you’ll enjoy the most beautiful view of the city, the surrounding islands, and the sea. You can reach the Fjellstua viewpoint via 418 steps or a hiking trail. By bike (e-bike), you can make your way up via a gentle climb. Along the way, you’ll pass, among other things, the only wooden house that survived the fire, which is now a museum. The view is stunning in the early morning or in the evening.
Explore Ålesund from the water in a kayak. Paddle through the narrow Brosundet Channel and past colorful houses. There are several sustainable tour operators offering guided tours. Slow travel at its best!



Need a break? Head to a local coffee shop like Lyst Café, known for its homemade cinnamon rolls and commitment to sustainability. Many cafés use organic, fair-trade products and local ingredients.
This island is an ideal day trip from Ålesund. Visit the Alnes lighthouse and art gallery, and take a walk along the rocky coastline. The combination of culture and nature makes it a peaceful retreat during your city trip.
Tip: Lunch and an art gallery at Alnes Fyr Café. You can find the current exhibitions on their website.
If you have a full day, you can hike from the lighthouse to the summit of Mount Storkhornet during the summer months. This is a beautiful hike of about 8 kilometers with an elevation gain of 650 meters. Once at the top, you’ll enjoy a fantastic view of Ålesund, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Sunmøre Alps. Click here for more information about this trip led by a local guide.
On the island of Hessa lies the Sukkertoppen (Sugar Peak): a small mountain with a spectacular view. The hike takes about an hour and takes you through the woods, over rocks, and past ocean views. It’s perfect for an active afternoon just outside the city center.
If you’re visiting Ålesund in the winter, spend a day at the Stranda ski resort, which is about 1.5 hours away. You can get there by bus or on an organized shuttle. The resort is known for its powder snow and views of the fjords.
A sustainably built aquarium just outside the city, with a focus on local marine ecosystems. You’ll learn about fish and other marine life, and you can take a dip in the fjord at the snorkeling platform.



Ålesund has charming little boutiques and shops offering sustainable fashion, design, and handicrafts. Visit the local market for Norwegian delicacies and souvenirs with a story behind them. Enjoy a cup of coffee or lunch at one of the beautiful hotels in the city center:



Ålesund is located about 230 kilometers northeast of Bergen. The town is accessible by train and ferry via Oslo or Bergen. You can also take a domestic flight (which can be offset through a CO2 project). A great sustainable option is:



Choose an eco-hotel or B&B with a sustainability certification:
Want to explore Norway in a truly sustainable way? Then combine Ålesund with the Norrangfjord, travel by train or boat, and stay in eco-friendly accommodations. That way, you can turn your city trip into a green experience. Click here to see the itinerary we followed through Western Norway, combined with a visit to Ålesund.
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Get inspired
Are you looking for the most beautiful hiking and biking routes? Or do you want information about traveling by train or advice for the most beautiful road trips through nature. Get inspired for your next trip in green; ideas for planning your own trip or opting for an organized trip.