Alesund, Norway
Alesund, Norway
Description
View cruises with Alesund, NorwayThe island of Giske is the reputed birthplace of the great Viking Rollo, who laid siege to Paris and founded the Duchy of Normandy. William the Conqueror was his grandson.
In 1904, a massive fire destroyed 800 buildings in this fishing port. Germany's Kaiser Wilhelm II responded with immediate aid, and Ålesund was reborn. Not surprisingly, the town was rebuilt in the then-popular Art Nouveau style known as Jugendstil. The result is one of the prettiest ports in Norway. Buildings with elegant turrets and spires can be seen lining the streets of the city center. Today, the city is one of Norway's most important fishing harbors and the world's largest supplier of stockfish (Klippfisk) - dried cod. Alesund's major attractions are the surrounding fjords and the stunning Sunnmøre Alps.
Points of Interest
- Mt Aksla
- Valldal
- Sunnmøre Museum
- Atlantic Ocean Marine Park
- Trollveggen
- Giske Island
- Godøy Island
- Jugendstil Museum
More about Alesund, Norway Points of Interest
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Mt Aksla -
Climb the 418 steps or drive to the perfect viewpoint within this city mountain for some of the most spectacular vistas of the archipelago, the beautiful town center, and the amazing Sunnmøre Alps.
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Valldal -
Nestled among the alpine mountains and steep, green hills, this lush valley is famous for its natural wonders and fertile ground perfect for growing cherries, apples, raspberries, and strawberries.
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Sunnmøre Museum -
Step back in time at this unique open-air museum made up of 55 old and distinct houses. Enjoy fascinating exhibits that show you the life of the people who have settled here for centuries.
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Atlantic Ocean Marine Park -
Experience the largest saltwater aquarium in Scandinavia. There are touch pools and activity pools, as well as huge aquariums featuring sea life from the Norwegian coast and northern Atlantic Ocean.
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Trollveggen -
The "Troll Wall" has long been a prestigious goal for climbers and BASE jumpers alike. It's the highest vertical mountain wall in Europe, rising 3,600 feet from the valley to the top of the wall.
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Giske Island -
This island has been inhabited since the Bronze Age and was the birthplace of the Viking Rollo, who founded the Duchy of Normandy in France. Tour the island and visit its 12th-century marble church.
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Godøy Island -
Most of the island's residents live on the southern coast, but the island's northern coast boasts a lovely lighthouse. Climb the 88 steps to the top for stunning views of the sea, fjords and Ålesund.
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Jugendstil Museum -
Discover the fascinating and exciting history of Art Nouveau. This museum takes you through a "time machine" and multi-media show, as you see the history of Ålesund after the great fire of 1904.
