Ålesund to Trondheim

After Trollstigen, we had too little time in Åndalsnes and the weather was against us doing any of the spectacular walks they have.  There's one where, after a climb, you walk out on an exposed ramp (like at Eureka Tower).

So we rested and next day, drove to Ålesund.  It was refreshing to get to the coast, especially to find blue sky and the temperature at a 'warm' 15˚ - enough to get us to dump our bags in the hotel and set out on foot to explore.   Ålesund was rebuilt in Art Nouveau style after a fire in 1904 – like the Napier in NZ of Norway.

Canal in Ålesund

They still have phone boxes!!

That meant walking the cobble-stoned streets and climbing up to the lookout for a good view.

An easy 418 steps up

There was a cruise-ship in town and though it looked huge, we met a couple of passengers from Williamstown who said it only had 450 passengers and extolled the virtues of cruising but we’re not ready for that yet.

It was lucky that we did the walking that afternoon because the next day was cold and wet – time for a slower pace and indoor activities – the aquarium (though we had to venture outside to see the seals.

I caught one this big...

Who wants a 2kg lobster for lunch?

They start them yabbying at a young age

We also took in the Art Nouveau centre, housed in what originally was a pharmacy.  It had wonderful displays and AV presentations.  We were flabbergasted to hear that they rebuilt the town in 3 years and in a modern style.

Lovely wooden spiral staircase

Apothekary's chests

Not much to do at night for us so we played rummy in the hotel lounge.  A Dutch fellow approached Ruth, asking if he could ask an embarrassing question - "Can we entice you into a game of bridge?"  As Anne A has commented, such solicitations can be dangerous, so we politely declined, talked a little about Amsterdam and resumed our game - so far, the score is about even.  The hotel (the yellow building in one of the previous photos) was  from about 1907 and was quite quirky with exposed beams and sloping floors - but was comfortable and they provide afternoon waffles for the weary travellers.

The drive to Trondheim took most of the next day as we had numerous stops along the Atlantic Tourist road.  It’s billed by Lonely Planet as one of the best scenic drives, on par with the Great Ocean Road.  It was very scenic but as a loyal Aussie, my vote is for the GOR.

Islands are connected by these bridges

Trondheim looked interesting as it’s got a big university population and the old part reminded us of Carlton, with lots of eateries.  We had a wonderful baked casserole there.  Sadly, the baristas in Norway (and in Paris) are no match for home but with all the wonderful things to see, we can forgo the cappuccinos for the time being.

We’re now in the Lofoten Islands but more of that in the next installment.