At a Glance
Quick OverviewOften called Norway’s most beautiful hike, Romsdalseggen delivers a ridge-walk experience that rivals—and some say surpasses—the more famous Besseggen. From the knife-edge ridge, you’ll gaze down at the dramatic Romsdalen valley and across to Trollveggen, Europe’s tallest vertical rock face. The combination of exposed ridge walking, world-class mountain views, and the dramatic finish descending into Åndalsnes makes this one of Norway’s must-do hikes.
The 10-kilometre trail typically starts from Vengedalen (accessed by shuttle bus) and finishes in Åndalsnes, taking you along the spectacular Romsdalseggen ridge with views that will stay with you forever.
Trail Overview
Key Statistics
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Distance | 10 km (point-to-point) |
| Duration | 6-8 hours |
| Elevation gain | 850 m |
| Highest point | 1,231 m (Nesaksla descent) |
| Difficulty | Challenging |
| Season | Late June - Early October |
Trail Description
Classic Route (Vengedalen to Åndalsnes):
- Shuttle bus to Vengedalen (45 min from Åndalsnes)
- Steep ascent to ridge (2-3 hours)
- Ridge traverse (2-3 hours, exposed sections)
- Descent via Nesaksla (2 hours)
- Finish in Åndalsnes (town centre)
Why This Direction?
Starting from Vengedalen is preferred because:
- Shuttle bus eliminates car logistics
- Ascend in the shade (east-facing slopes)
- Finish with dramatic descent into town
- Views unfold ahead of you
- End at cafés and accommodation
The Views
What You’ll See
Trollveggen (Troll Wall):
- Europe’s tallest vertical rock face (1,100m)
- Visible across the valley throughout the hike
- Climbers’ legendary destination
Romsdalen Valley:
- Dramatic glacial valley 1,000m below
- River Rauma winding through
- Farms and forests creating green contrast
Surrounding Peaks:
- Store Vengetind (1,820m)
- Romsdalshorn (1,550m)
- Trolltindene range
- On clear days: distant coastline
The Shuttle Bus
Schedule
The Romsdalseggen shuttle operates from late June to mid-September.
Peak season (July-August):
- First bus: ~7:00 AM
- Multiple departures until ~11:00 AM
- Duration: 45 minutes to Vengedalen
Shoulder season:
- Reduced schedule
- Check visitandalsnes.com
Booking
| When | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Peak weekends | Book 1-2 days ahead |
| Peak weekdays | Book morning of or day before |
| Shoulder season | Usually walk-up fine |
Cost: NOK 250-350 (£20-28)
Tips
- First bus = quieter trail and more time
- No booking needed for return (you walk down to town)
- Buses depart from Åndalsnes town centre
Trail Sections Detailed
Section 1: Vengedalen to Ridge (3 km)
Terrain: Forest, then rocky ascent Duration: 2-3 hours Elevation: 600m to 1,200m
The trail begins gently through birch forest before steepening significantly. Chains assist in some rocky sections. This is the hardest climb of the day—take your time and conserve energy for the ridge.
Section 2: The Ridge Traverse (4 km)
Terrain: Exposed ridge, rocky Duration: 2-3 hours Elevation: 1,100-1,231m (rolling)
The main event. The ridge offers varying widths—some sections broad and comfortable, others narrow with significant exposure. Views are constant and spectacular. Several minor summits along the way provide photo opportunities.
Ridge characteristics:
- Mix of walking and light scrambling
- Exposure: Significant drops on both sides
- Width: Varies from 1m to 10m+
- Markers: Red T’s and cairns
Section 3: Nesaksla Descent (3 km)
Terrain: Steep, rocky descent Duration: 1.5-2 hours Elevation: 1,231m to 50m
The descent from Nesaksla is steep and relentless. Trekking poles are very helpful here. The views down to Åndalsnes open up beautifully, making the knee-punishment worthwhile.
Best Time to Hike
Monthly Conditions
| Month | Conditions | Crowds |
|---|---|---|
| June (late) | Snow possible, cool | Light-Moderate |
| July | Best conditions | High |
| August | Good weather | Moderate-High |
| September | Cooler, autumn colours | Moderate |
| October (early) | Cold, snow possible | Light |
Weather Considerations
Essential: Check yr.no and only hike in clear conditions. The ridge is exposed to wind and becomes hazardous in rain, fog, or strong winds.
Ideal conditions:
- Clear sky or high clouds
- Wind under 10 m/s
- No precipitation
- Good visibility
Getting There
To Åndalsnes
From Oslo: ~5 hours drive via E6 and E136 From Trondheim: ~4 hours drive From Bergen: ~8 hours drive Train: Scenic Rauma Railway from Dombås
Starting the Hike
- Stay in Åndalsnes the night before
- Take early morning shuttle bus
- Arrive Vengedalen ready to hike
- Hike to Åndalsnes (where you started)
Car Park
Not needed if using shuttle (recommended). If arranging your own transport:
- Limited car park at Vengedalen
- Car parks in Åndalsnes town centre
What to Bring
Essential Gear
- Sturdy hiking boots: Ankle support essential
- Layers: Weather changes at altitude
- Rain jacket: Even if forecast is good
- Warm layer: Wind on ridge is cold
- Gloves: Useful for scrambling sections
- Water: Minimum 2L (no sources on ridge)
- Food: Lunch plus snacks (6-8 hours)
- Trekking poles: Highly recommended for descent
- Map/GPS: Download offline (patchy signal)
- Head torch: Emergency backup
Recommended Additions
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Camera with good zoom
- Windproof layer
- First aid kit
Safety Guidelines
Before You Go
- Check weather obsessively
- Book shuttle bus
- Tell someone your plans
- Start early (first bus)
- Assess your abilities honestly
On the Trail
- Stay on marked path
- Use chains where provided
- Don’t rush the scrambling sections
- Turn back if conditions worsen
- Pace yourself for the descent
Not Recommended For
- Those afraid of heights
- Hikers without ridge experience
- Bad weather days (wait for clear)
- Solo hikers (ideally go with someone)
Comparison: Romsdalseggen vs Besseggen
| Aspect | Romsdalseggen | Besseggen |
|---|---|---|
| Distance | 10 km | 13.5 km |
| Duration | 6-8 hours | 6-8 hours |
| Elevation gain | 850 m | 500 m |
| Technical difficulty | Higher | Lower |
| Exposure | More | Less |
| Views | Mountains, valley | Lakes, plateaus |
| Crowds | Fewer | More |
| Transport | Shuttle bus | Boat |
Verdict: Romsdalseggen is more challenging and dramatic; Besseggen is more accessible and iconic.
Nearby Attractions
Trollstigen
The famous serpentine mountain road with 11 hairpin bends—one of Norway’s National Scenic Routes. Easily combined with Romsdalseggen visit.
Trollveggen (Troll Wall)
View Europe’s tallest vertical rock face from below. Visitor centre explains climbing history.
Rauma Railway
One of Norway’s most scenic train journeys, connecting Åndalsnes to Dombås.
Where to Stay
Åndalsnes
| Accommodation | Type | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Hotel Bellevue | Hotel | Central, mountain views |
| Åndalsnes Youth Hostel | Hostel | Budget-friendly |
| Trollveggen Camping | Camping | Under the Troll Wall |
Tips
- Book ahead in July-August
- Stay night before to catch first bus
- Some hikers stay night after too (tired legs!)
Practical Information
Costs Summary
| Item | Price (GBP) |
|---|---|
| Shuttle bus | £20-28 |
| Hostel/night | £32-48 |
| Hotel/night | £80-145 |
| Guided hike | £95-145 |
Facilities
Vengedalen (start):
- Basic toilet
- No café or shop
- Car park (limited)
Åndalsnes (finish):
- Restaurants and cafés
- Shops
- Accommodation
- Train station
Photography Tips
Best Shots
- Trollveggen from ridge: The iconic shot
- Ridge with hiker: Shows scale and drama
- Romsdalen valley: Green valley below
- Dramatic peaks: Store Vengetind, Romsdalshorn
- Descent views: Åndalsnes and fjord below
Timing
- Morning: Best light on Trollveggen
- Midday: Harsh but clear
- Late afternoon: Golden light, but risky for timing
Multi-Day Ideas
Åndalsnes Adventure
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive, explore Trollstigen |
| 2 | Romsdalseggen hike |
| 3 | Trollveggen visitor centre, Rauma Railway |
Norwegian Ridges Tour
| Day | Hike |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | Romsdalseggen (Åndalsnes) |
| 3 | Travel to Jotunheimen |
| 4-5 | Besseggen Ridge |
| 6 | Travel/rest |
Final Thoughts
Romsdalseggen earns its reputation as Norway’s most beautiful hike. The combination of exposed ridge walking, views of Trollveggen’s vertical might, and the dramatic Romsdalen valley creates an experience that lives up to every superlative. Yes, it’s challenging—the scrambling sections, the elevation gain, and the knee-punishing descent demand respect. But for those ready for the challenge, and blessed with clear weather, Romsdalseggen delivers one of Norway’s ultimate mountain experiences.
For official information, visit Visit Åndalsnes and Visit Norway Romsdalseggen.