Geiranger - Trollstigen

The drive along Trollstigen is undoubtedly more dramatic than most people are used to, but what is special about driving in Norway is that in fact people live just about everywhere. Even on the narrowest mountain ledge or small crag there will be a house. We are bound to the landscape and the natural surroundings through settlements that have offered us a livelihood throughout history. Geiranger-Trollstigen offers numerous highlights, and the eleven hairpin bends of Trollstigen as well as the view from Ørnesvingen down to the Geirangerfjord may set your pulse racing. Lush valleys, sheltered strawberry-growing areas, precipitous mountains and vantage points guaranteed to make you dizzy offer some of Norway’s most scenic views. Allow plenty of time for the trip − stops are welcome whether you want the challenge of a hike to a lofty summit or just to enjoy the view. For those who take the time, there’s such a lot more to be discovered.

History

For several centuries the road was an important transport artery between Valldal and Åndalsnes, first as a path and then as a bridleway, until construction of the Trollstigvegen road started up in 1916. Parts of the original pack horse track are still visible and passable on foot. It’s an exciting alternative for everyone who would like to experience the road as it was in days of old.

Experiences

You will find some of the most sensational installations we have constructed on this stretch. Here, viewing points such as Ørnesvingen, Gudbrandsjuvet gorge and Flydalsjuvet gorge let you explore the natural surroundings in a unique manner. Taking the ferry on the Geirangerfjord will bring you up close to the well-known waterfalls of Dei Sju Systre, Friaren and Brudesløret while at the same time you will experience the most renowned fjord in the world – the Geirangerfjord, which is on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. If the weather is cloudy, the Norwegian Mountaineering Centre (Norsk Tindesenter) at Åndalsnes offers activities for climbers, exhibitions presenting Norwegian mountaineering history, and a movie from the Norwegian mountains.

Cycling

This route is characterised by high mountains and deep fiords. The cycle ride is easiest if you start at Grotli. It is a tough alpine stretch of road, but you will have a nice descent down to Geiranger and the Geiranger fiord. The next stage includes a climb up through Ørnesvingen, but an easy ride from there and down to Norddalsfjorden and to the ferry across to Linge. The final stage includes a rather long climb, but at the top of Trollstigen and during the descent to Åndalsnes you will be greatly rewarded. Traffic is heavy on the route Geiranger-Trollstigen during high season, so you might prefer to make your trip in early June or September.

Hiking

Passing between fjords and mountains, the route presents the opportunity to explore a mixture of alpine terrain and green valleys. Rushing water and mountain farms feature throughout the landscape. Perched over Geiranger, Vesterås Farm is the starting point for several relaxed hikes, including Storseterfossen waterfall. Further around the fjord, the picturesque Skageflå Mountain Farm is best reached by first taking a ferry before a steep hike up the mountainside. If you wish to avoid the boat trip and the steep climb, we recommend the hiking trail from Geiranger via Homlongsetra. The peak of Vardefjellet, near Valldal, was a lookout point in the Viking Age. Around Trollstigen, trails lead up into the mountains and Bispevatnet Lake offers a peaceful moment under the shadow of a mighty mountain.

Find a selection of hiking trails along the route in the Outdooractive app