Ålesund s unique setting gives FOUR FRIENDS the possibility of reaching both the Fjords and the coast, within short and sheltered cruising distances. The Geirangerfjord is an arm of a greater fjord system that starts south of Ålesund, narrowing as it winds its way inland between mountains rising ever higher. Along the way, you pass waterfalls such as the Seven Sisters and abandoned farms perched on mountain ledges. Each of the three towns in the area are special, for very different reasons. After large parts of Ålesund were destroyed by fire in 1904, the town was rebuilt with characteristic spires, towers and ornamentation. Today, Ålesund is the world s Art Nouveau town par excellence. The town is also known for its panorama which counts 222 peaks. Following you will find a suggested 7 day itinerary.
Day 1: Ålesund Arrive at Vigra airport which is a short drive from the yacht s base. After settling on board, take a short cruise to the town of Ålesund. Visit the pretty town and have dinner on board or dine ashore in one of the many fish restaurants.
Day 2: The Fjords await you. Cruise around Sula Island and into Hjørundfjord towards Øye where the famous Union hotel is located. The Union hotel is a little piece of Paradise where the cream of Europe s aristocracy spent their holidays in the early 1900 s. In the 1890 s, Europe s aristocracy and upper classes were seeking new and exciting destinations with spectacular scenery. The Union Hotel opened it s doors to an exclusive clientele. The guest list is impressive: Queen Willemina of the Netherlands, Emperor Wilhelm II of Germany, King Oscar II of Sweden and Norway, Queen Maud and King Haakon VII of Norway are only some of the Royalty who enjoyed staying here. The hotel was restored to its original style in 1989 and is again as she was in her heyday. Drop the anchor and settle for the rest of day and night. We would suggest dinner at the Union Hotel. For the fit and sporty, Øye is an excellent starting point for a hike to the top of Slogen (1564 metres above sea). From the top you have a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks, emerald green valleys and the magnificent fjords.
Day 3: A day on the glacier Wake up in the spectacular surroundings of Øye. Take a Helicopter trip to the Jostedalsbren glacier or go Summer skiing in Stryn. In the meantime, the yacht will cruise to Hellesylt in the famous Geirangerfjord. The guests on the Helicopter trip will fly back to Four Friends in Hellesylt, perhaps fish for salmon and spend a relaxing evening on board.
Day 4 Geiranger Cruising through the Geirangerfjord takes you past incredible mountain farms and the majestic Seven Sisters waterfall. Stop at the well known mountain farm Skageflå for some hiking and hear some exciting local stories from your guide. UNESCO placed Geirangerfjord on its World Heritage list in 2005. Arrive in Geiranger in the afternoon. Perhaps take a drive in the surrounding countryside or choose from a wide range of other activities which are also available. The pioneering mountaineers Patchell and Slingsby found their paradise in Norangsdal, after this tour, you will understand why. Stay at the dock in Geiranger for the night and take advantage of the tranquil and beautiful surroundings.
Day 5: Hiking in Valldal Visit more of the Fjord and have lunch on board. Cruise from Geiranger to Valldal. Go hiking, rafting or fish for salmon. Visit the spectacular eco friendly Juvet hotel which is located in lush woods.
Day 6: Sail Storfjorden Cruise from Valldal to Vigrafhjorden. If you should wish, be picked up by a superfast 36 foot rib which will take you for a Wild Sea Safari to Ona Lighthouse and the Island of Runde which hosts Southern Norway s largest bird sanctuary mountain. The island has only around 150 inhabitants, but half a million seabirds of over 200 species live here.
Day 7: Cruise back to Ålesund and disembark for the the short transfer to the Airport Alesund