Rødven Stave Church and Trollveggen

by coach & on foot

This experience combines a visit to one of the oldest stave churches in Norway with the spectacular scenery of the Romsdalsfjord.

Set off on a scenic drive from Åndalsnes alongside the picturesque Romsdalsfjord, as you make your way to Rødven Stave Church. Beautifully situated on the western side of Rødvenfjorden, with the Romsdal mountains on the horizon, Rødven Stave Church is one of the oldest of it’s kind. It is built in the Møre style, characterised by external diagonal supports known as ‘skordene’.

From the outside, the stave construction is hidden by horizontal boarding, and the interior decoration of the ceiling and canopy have faded over centuries, giving a calm, atmospheric feel. The church’s history dates from the 13th century, and a crucifix from that time is amongst the oldest furnishings. A new chancel and sacristy were added in the 17th century, and restored in the early 18th century to their present appearance.

After your visit, rejoin your coach and drive south past the harbour towards the renowned Trollveggen (Troll Wall). At 1,000m (3,280ft) above sea level, Trollveggen is Europe’s tallest vertical, overhanging rock face. Stop here to marvel at the rugged scenery of the Romsdalen Valley, which is long, narrow and flanked by majestic mountain peaks on either side. On the opposite side of the valley, you may glimpse the Romsdalshorn Peak towering to a height of 1,550m (5,085 feet).

Finally, board your coach for the scenic drive back along the valley to Åndalsnes.