Visiting Norway always fills me with excitement, sometimes so much that I can’t even sleep properly. When we recently went back, I could barely contain myself as I planned out our week. By the time we got to Alesund, our starting point, I was exhausted. Fortunately, a strong cup of coffee and the fresh Norwegian air quickly revived me.
We began our adventure on the island of Godoy, indulging in traditional pancakes called Svele and some much-needed coffee. Afterward, we explored the lighthouse and the scenic seaside surroundings. Leaving Godoy, we headed back to Alesund, where we would be staying for several days.
Due to a slight mix-up, we ended up switching hotels, which turned out to be a wonderful surprise. Our new room was more of a suite, like a mini apartment, with floor-to-ceiling windows perfect for enjoying the seemingly endless Norwegian sun. Although this isn’t technically the “midnight sun,” seeing a sunset at midnight was a delightful experience, especially since we never see this phenomenon in London.
The next morning, we visited Fjellstua, a fantastic spot to get a panoramic view of Alesund. From here, the town looks picturesque, almost like a scene from a fairy tale. We were also thrilled to see the majestic fjords and mountains in the distance, which got us even more excited. We took a ride up to the viewpoint but walked back down, which I think should count for something!
Back in town, we briefly dropped our things at the Clarion Collection Hotel Bryggen, where we were initially supposed to stay. This hotel has a lovely room overlooking the harbor, with the unique feature of being able to fish from your balcony using fishing rods available at reception. Breakfast, afternoon waffles, and dinner were included, making it a cost-effective yet delightful place to stay.
Alesund’s deep-rooted fishing history and character made it feel right to visit the Atlanterhavsparken aquarium. It was a perfect morning activity since our Rib Boat tour to see puffins was rescheduled for later in the day. The aquarium showcases various local fish and marine life, with the highlight being the feeding time. A diver feeds fish that are directly linked to the nearby fjords, creating an exciting spectacle for kids and parents alike.
After a leisurely stroll, we went in search of lunch in the town center, then wandered along the harbor to walk off our meal. We stumbled upon a boat built to commemorate the town’s fishing heritage, constructed in the traditional way.
Even though I’m no expert on boats, I enjoyed exploring it and learning about the history. Eventually, we continued to enjoy the relaxed pace of Alesund, meeting locals and experiencing a slower, more serene side of life in Norway.
