EXPERIENCES
Sunnmøre: The Pure Magic of Spring and Fall
Interviewed: Martin Vollen,
CEO Mivo Group
27.02.2025
For years, I believed I knew the best times to experience Norway; summer and winter. It’s easy to think that way, as summer vacations and winter holidays shape our idea of travel. Don’t get me wrong, these seasons are magnificent in our region. But then I began speaking to other locals, meeting travelers who ventured beyond the usual months, and exploring for myself. That’s when I discovered something: spring and fall in Sunnmøre aren’t just alternatives to summer’s rush - they’re a revelation, a quiet magic few ever experience.
Why Spring and Fall in Sunnmøre Will Change the Way You See Norway
Photo: Christian Remøy
In spring, everything feels reborn. It’s as if nature itself is stretching after a long, peaceful rest. The still calm fjords seem to hold the light differently—softer, more intimate—as if the land is sharing its secrets with those who listen closely.
Exploring the landscapes in spring feels like uncovering a hidden world. Hike up some of the most popular mountains, and you may even find yourself alone on the trail. The stillness is profound, letting you hear the rush of distant waterfalls, their force intensifying by the thaw. Standing at the base of one, feeling the mist on your face, is like witnessing nature’s purest power.
Then there are the orchards of Hjørundfjord, where the valley becomes a living canvas, with trees heavy with delicate white and pink blossoms. It’s fleeting beauty, a secret moment only those who visit in spring get to see.
What’s better than curling up on the couch with a warm coffee and a crackling fireplace after a crisp walk?
Autumn in Sunnmøre, however, is nothing short of mesmerizing. The mountainsides transform into a painter’s palette—reds, oranges, and yellows creating a living work of art. The air sharpens, carrying the scent of woodsmoke, damp moss, and the first whispers of winter. The fjords, now quiet after summer’s bustle, reflect these autumn hues perfectly, turning the landscape into a mirrored dream. Kayaking through them at this time feels like gliding through liquid gold—serene, almost surreal.
Autumn also brings wildlife closer to the valley floor. Deer appear in the meadows, and if you're lucky, a sea eagle might be perched on a cliff, surveying the world below. The mountains are abundant with blueberries, lingonberries, mushrooms, and cloudberries—free for the taking. There’s something special about wandering the hills, picking mushrooms and berries to take home, making a blueberry pie or stew, lighting the fire, and simply soaking it all in at night.
Bask in the stunning colors outside—where the Alps glow golden under an endless sky.
One of the most magical experiences in these quieter seasons is a boat trip through the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord. In spring and fall, you can often count on having the boat almost to yourself—no crowds, no queues. The fjord, framed by towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls, feels like a private sanctuary, and as you glide silently through its waters, it’s as if the landscape is yours alone.
Spring and fall in Sunnmøre aren’t merely seasons—they’re revelations. The landscape shares its ancient stories with those who listen, whether it's the Northern Lights on a crisp September night or a wildflower pushing through April’s snow. Once discovered, it’s a secret that stays with you.