The Western Fjords - Norway - page 548

Aksla VIEWPOINT
( MAP GOOGLE MAP )
The 418 steps up Aksla hill lead to the splendid Kniven viewpoint ( MAP GOOGLE MAP )
over Ålesund and the surrounding mountains and islands. Follow Lihauggata from the
pedestrian shopping street Kongensgata, pass the Rollon statue ( MAP GOOGLE MAP ) ,
and begin the 15-minute puff to the top of the hill. There's also a cheat's road to the crest;
take Røysegata east from the centre, then follow the Fjellstua signposts up the hill.
Ålesund Church CHURCH
( GOOGLE MAP ; Aspegata; 10am-4pm Tue-Sun)
Built of solid stone in 1909, Ålesund's parish church has a strikingly wide chancel, every
square inch covered in frescos over the wide sweep of its tunnel arch. Notable too are the
stained glass windows, especially those in the north aisle with their appropriately nautical
theme.
Tours
Guided Town Walk WALKING TOUR
(adult/child Nkr100/free; noon-1.30pm mid-Jun-mid-Aug)
To get to know Ålesund's architecture with a knowledgeable local, sign on for the tourist
office's excellent 1½- to two-hour guided town walk, which runs daily during the summer.
62° Nord TOURS
( MAP GOOGLE MAP ; 70 11 44 30; www.62.no ; Skansekaia)
This highly respected operation offers a number of top-end excursions such as wildlife sa-
faris, including one to Runde, fishing trips and cruises through Hjørundfjord. They can
take you out in a Zodiac or yacht, and create customised itineries. See them also for bike
and kayak hire.
Festivals & Events