The true Norway feeling really set in on our Norway trip when, in June 2025, we sailed into a fjord for the first time. Of course, we’d already seen many beautiful and idyllic spots before that — but they could easily have been somewhere in north-western Sweden. For me, Norway is almost synonymous with fjords and mountains.
🧭 Where exactly?
- Near Ålesund
- Sæbø, Norway
⚓ Why we love this place
The Hjørundfjord is surrounded by the peaks of the Sunnmøre Alps (Sunnmørsalpane), which rise up to around 1,500 metres and are truly impressive — especially when you approach them by boat from sea level. We couldn’t stop marvelling or taking photos. We had never seen snow-capped mountain peaks from our boat before. On either side, there were breathtaking waterfalls to admire. And although it isn’t as large or as long as the Geirangerfjord, it’s even more beautiful in our eyes — simply because you won’t find cruise ships in it every day.
And the tiny village of Sæbø is simply lovely and wonderfully peaceful. The well-kept little hotel offers guests a nice harbour and cute cabins to stay in. There’s even a campsite. You can take the ferry to visit other villages along the fjord, including Trandal, which is famous for its music festivals.
⛵ For those arriving with their own boat
Sæbø harbour (062° 12.429′ N 006° 28.732′ E)
- Well sheltered
- Excellent sanitary facilities
- Busy in summer, so best to arrive early.
Anchorage Øye (062° 11.660′ / N 006° 39.113′ E)
- Bay in a side arm (Norangsfjord)
- There may occasionally be some swell
🏝️ Things to do ashore
- Hiking
- Music festivals in Trandal (directly opposite, accessible by ferry) — something for everyone: Rock in June, Blues in July, and Country in August
💡 Our extra tip
At 370 metres altitude, Gunnarråsa offers not only a lovely cabin to rest in but also hammocks and swings.
Sailing in Norway
Discover the best sailing tips for Norway: cruising areas, anchorages and practical advice for your next sailing adventure along the Norwegian coast