A while back, Anne went on a press trip with VisitNorway to Norway and I also had the chance to chase the Northern Lights before. Since then the country had officially stolen a little piece of my heart. But because travels to Norway are usually associated with a sporty wilderness holiday, I wanted to explore other options for my travelwish. So I arrived at the town of Ålesund, which is known for its Art Nouveau architecture.
Ålesund
In 1904 almost everything was burned to the ground in Ålesund, and during the reconstruction, which took only three years, the city’s famous buildings were build back in the Art Nouveau style. Nowadays, whether you see the town shine in the evening light, or from afar in the reflection of the raindrops, it is a breathtaking sight. Add the fresh air, the beautiful nature and its surroundings, and you will understand why Ålesund is a great holiday destination. The classical architecture of the town does not mean that Ålesund is not hip. You can get great food at nice restaurants and there are several nice shops that are filled with must-have clothing and other stuff . With her forty thousand inhabitants Ålesund is not very big , but due to relatively a large amount of tourist coming in, the town is well equipped in terms of hotels and restaurants. For example, there is the Brosundet, from first sight my favorite, a small boutique hotel with one very special room …The Molja Lighthouse.
The lighthouse is 150 years old and the small hotel room on top is only 3 meters wide, despite its size the experience of sleeping there will be memorable. The bed is custom made and in the room you have a small window with a beautiful view of the sea. Because the hotel room is a bit further away from the hotel lobby than most rooms, you would probably not want to stroll through the village in your bathrobe, therefor breakfast is served in bed (including fine wines and fresh fruit). Wow!
Geirangerfjord
From Ålesund you are also in no time at Geiranger Fjord, a piece of the Norwegian Fjords that is part of the UNESCO World Heritage. You can take the ferry and, for a few hours, sail along the beautiful waterfalls and imposing rocks but you can also enjoy the view with a day road trip by car, taking in the breathtaking scenery at particular viewpoints. It is a great little town that can provide you with the necessary luxury and overwhelming natuur. This is of course the perfect combination for on my travel wish-list.
What do you think of Norway as a holiday destination? And where would you like to go?