Drive the Atlantic Road

With much packed into only a few days, this itinerary starts in the fascinating town Alesund. A beguiling ferry and fishing port, its streets are flanked by handsome buildings, whose pastel-painted facades are lavishly decorated with turrets, towers, floral patterns, dragons, faces and even the odd Pharoah, dating from 1904 when the town centre was destroyed by fire and rebuilt in this idiosyncratic Art Nouveau style.

Today, the town is an attractive destination for all visitors alike. Its unique location at the edge of the ocean surrounded by breathtaking fjords, countless islands and towering mountains, creates an almost unbeatable combination of culture and nature. With attractions, activities, arts and entertainment as well as shopping, restaurants and nightlife we're sure you'll become fascinated too!

After time in Alesund you collect the rental car and begin your road trip to the coastal town of Molde. There are several different routes you can take, from the most direct taking just 2 hours or the longer scenic route heading inland towards the fjords and on the national tourist route Trollstigen, the most visited tourist road in Norway with its 11 hairpin bends as it climbs up the mountain with spectacular views and plenty of photo opportunities. On route, you may decide to take a detour and visit the picturesque fjord village of Geiranger with its imposing mountains and waterfalls a special feature. It is also possible to book an overnight stay here if you wish to spend more time in the fjord area. You then continue the drive heading to the town of Andalsnes , where for the keen walker there is the Romsdalseggen hike, a 10km trek through beautiful nature and commanding panoramic views of mountains and valleys all along the route.

Then continue northbound taking the car ferry and on to the town Molde, known as the town of roses, based on the many lush rose gardens. There are several attractions here to keep you busy, perhaps venture to Varden viewpoint, offering a lovely view over the town and the famous Molde panorama with its 222 snow-clad peaks; the Romsdal Museum, a comprehensive folk museum; the Green Corridor, a nature trail with a baroque chateau; Molde Cathedral and not forgetting the Rose Gardens. From Molde there are several lovely round trips by car to take, so you may wish to spend longer here and enjoy the surrounding area.

The next part of the journey takes you further north to the small fishing village of Bud, where you can experience World War II history at Ergan Coastal Fort, before continuing on the national tourist route and The Atlantic Road, known as one of the most beautiful drives in the world. If you fancy a hike to stretch the legs there is the Nordneset coastal path, an easy family friendly trail starting at Farstad. Once over the iconic Atlantic road stop at Geitoya quay where you park your car and take the boat service to Haholmen village, an 18th century fishing village with traditional fisherman's cabins and a lovely peaceful location to unwind and enjoy the restaurant's fine seafood. Please note, getting on and off the boat at Haholmen may be tricky for those with walking difficulties. Plus there are some wooden walkways and steps on the island between the different buildings and the rooms.

At Haholmen you really do feel part of nature as you breath in the clean sea air, sit back and enjoy the view, perhaps lucky enough to see a sea-eagle or two and relax with a book in between meals. It may be difficult to leave once you've settled in to the tranquil routine as the journey finally ends and you make your way to Kristiansund for the flight home.