Sightseeing Tour in Trollstigen – Land of Trolls

Discovering Trollstigen: A Practical Guide to Norway’s Land of Trolls

If you’re considering a trip to Norway and want to experience some of the country’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, a Sightseeing Tour in Trollstigen might catch your eye. This six-hour adventure from Ålesund promises a mix of jaw-dropping scenery, scenic stops, and expert guidance. While it’s not an all-inclusive, it’s a solid way to tick off a major highlight of Norway with minimal fuss.

What we really like about this tour is the chance to see Trollstigen, Norway’s famous mountain road, without having to drive yourself. It’s especially appealing if you’re on a cruise or short on time but want a taste of Norway’s wild beauty. Plus, the early start means you’ll often beat the crowds, giving you more space to enjoy the views. On the downside, the tour can be affected by weather or seasonal road closures, which might mean some planned sights are missed. Still, for most travelers looking for a manageable day trip, this tour hits the right notes.

This experience works best for those who enjoy scenic drives, nature photography, and learning about Norwegian culture from guides. It’s not a tour for people who want a very leisurely or private experience, as it can get a bit busy—up to 48 travelers at once. But if you’re comfortable with group travel and want a knowledgeable guide to point out landmarks, you’ll find this trip worthwhile.

Key Points

• Efficiently covers major sights in one day, ideal for cruise passengers or short stays.
• Early departure helps avoid crowds and enjoy the views in peace.
• Multiple scenic stops offer great photo opportunities and insights into Norwegian nature.
• Weather can impact the experience, especially in winter or during bad conditions.
• Tour size is moderate, maxing out at 48 travelers, which balances group atmosphere and personal space.
• Includes transportation and specific stops, with optional food at Trollstigen Café (own expense).

What You Can Expect From the Trollstigen Sightseeing Tour

This tour from Ålesund is designed to give a snapshot of Norway’s dramatic landscapes, topped with the thrill of mountain roads and waterfalls. For most travelers, this trip offers a combination of natural beauty, interesting stops, and cultural tidbits—all within a reasonably priced package.

Starting Point and Transportation

Your adventure begins at the Prestebrygga Cruise Pier in Ålesund. The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, which is a welcome feature given Norway’s sometimes unpredictable weather. The group size is capped at 48, so you won’t be lost in a crowd, but it’s not a private tour, which keeps the atmosphere lively and social.

The Itinerary: A Deep Dive

Kokarsteinen Photo Stop

Your first stop is along the Storfjord, at Kokarsteinen, a quick 5-minute photo break. It’s a brief stop but perfect for snapping a scenic shot of the fjord. Many reviews highlight how this stop kicks off the day with a taste of Norway’s stunning landscapes, setting the tone for the rest of the trip.

Gudbrandsjuvet

Next, you’ll head through Stordal and Valldal—famous for their strawberries—and arrive at Gudbrandsjuvet. This spot features a striking gorge with rushing water and a waterfall, perfect for photos. Reviewers mention how this stop is a highlight, offering a “spectacular” view and a chance to stretch the legs.

Trollstigen Plateau and Foothill Viewpoint

The main event is the Trollstigen Plateau, where you’ll spend about 45 minutes. Here, you’ll get unmatched views from the foothill viewpoint and can soak in the scenery of the famous hairpin bends. Many travelers comment on how breathtaking the views are, with one noting, “pictures don’t do it justice—you really need to see it to believe it.” There’s a cafeteria on site, so you can grab a snack or drink (own expense) while taking in the panorama.

Stigefossen Waterfall

On the descent, there’s a quick stop at Stigefossen, a tall, powerful waterfall. This stop is often praised for the dramatic scenery and the chance to get a closer look at one of Norway’s iconic waterfalls.

Troll Wall (Trollveggen)

Finally, you’ll visit Trollveggen or Troll Wall, Europe’s tallest vertical rock face. Known for mountain climbers and base jumpers, it’s a dramatic, awe-inspiring sight. While only a brief stop, many reviews mention how impressive this feature is and how it adds a sense of adventure to the trip.

Overall Experience: Pros and Cons

The positive reviews emphasize the guide’s knowledge, the quality of the scenery, and how well the trip is organized—especially if you’re coming from a cruise and need to be back on time. Many are thrilled with the views, describing them as “breathtaking” and “incredible,” even in less-than-ideal weather. The stops at Gudbrandsjuvet and the waterfall often get special mentions. For those wanting a quick, comprehensive taste of Trollstigen, this tour delivers.

However, weather is a common concern. Several reviews point out that rain, snow, or fog can obscure the scenery, and sometimes the upper section of the Trollstigen Road is closed due to maintenance or seasonal issues. If you’re traveling outside the summer months or during bad weather, don’t expect spectacular views everywhere. One traveler shared that because of a rock slide, they couldn’t drive the full route, though they still enjoyed the scenery from other viewpoints.

Price and Value

At around $181.48 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option, but it’s quite reasonable considering transportation, guided commentary, and multiple stops. Many reviews highlight the value for money, especially given how much ground is covered and the quality of the guides. If you’re tight on time or prefer not to rent a car and navigate tricky mountain roads yourself, this tour offers a hassle-free alternative.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for cruise passengers, families, or travelers with limited time who want a curated experience of Norway’s spectacular Trollstigen. It suits those who appreciate guided commentary and the convenience of transportation. It isn’t ideal for travelers seeking deep hikes or private, leisurely explorations, but it hits the high points well for most sightseers.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

In the end, this tour offers a manageable way to see some of Norway’s most famous sights in a single day. You’ll get a good overview of the landscape, learn from knowledgeable guides, and avoid the stress of driving mountain roads yourself. The stops at Gudbrandsjuvet, Stigefossen, and Trollveggen all add to the experience, giving you plenty of photo ops and memorable moments.

While weather and seasonal road closures can impact the experience, most travelers find it well worth the price—especially if you’re on a cruise and need a reliable, timely excursion. The scenic drives, combined with insightful commentary, turn a day trip into a satisfying snapshot of Norway’s natural beauty.

If you’re someone who loves being in the open air, appreciates dramatic landscapes, and wants a guided overview without much hassle, this tour will likely meet your expectations. Just keep in mind that weather can be unpredictable, and some sights may be obscured if Mother Nature isn’t cooperating.

FAQs

How long does the tour take?
It lasts approximately 6 hours, including stops and transportation, making it a good half-day trip from Ålesund.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts and ends at the Prestebrygga Cruise Pier in Ålesund, making it convenient for cruise visitors with tight schedules.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks at the Trollstigen cafeteria are at your own expense, but there’s ample time to purchase snacks during the stops.

What about the weather?
The tour operates in most weather conditions, but heavy rain, snow, or fog can affect visibility. If roads are closed due to snow, alternative routes are used.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the scenery and stops are accessible to most travelers. Consider your children’s comfort with bus rides and outdoor walking.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 80 days in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your spot.

What happens if the road is closed?
If the Trollstigen Road is inaccessible due to maintenance or weather, the tour will operate on an alternative route, still offering scenic views but missing some specific sights like Troll Wall.

Are there any hidden costs?
The tour price covers transportation and guided commentary. Any additional expenses, such as food or souvenirs, are at your discretion.

All in all, this tour strikes a good balance between accessibility, scenery, and cultural insight. It’s a solid pick for anyone wanting an efficient, guided taste of Norway’s Trollstigen without fuss.