Rauma, Norway

Last Updated on 28 January 2026 by Johan

Rauma is a municipality in Møre og Romsdal county in Western Norway, celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, deep valleys, towering peaks, and rich outdoor culture. With a population of around 7,300 residents as of 2024, Rauma stretches across approximately 1,449 square kilometers of fjords, mountains, rivers, and rural communities. Åndalsnes serves as the administrative and commercial center and is one of Norway’s most scenic small towns, framed by the Romsdal Alps and the Romsdalsfjord.

Rauma is a year‑round destination for hikers, climbers, skiers, anglers, and travelers seeking authentic Norwegian nature. Its combination of accessible outdoor activities, historic sites, and dramatic viewpoints makes it one of the most memorable regions in Western Norway.

Åndalsnes: Gateway to the Romsdal Alps

Åndalsnes is the heart of Rauma and a natural base for exploring the region. The town sits at the mouth of the Rauma River and is surrounded by steep mountains rising directly from the fjord. It is also the terminus of the Rauma Railway, one of Norway’s most scenic train routes.

Åndalsnes offers a wide range of services including shops, restaurants, accommodations, a medical center, and cultural venues. The town has become increasingly popular with hikers thanks to the Romsdalseggen Ridge and the Rampestreken viewpoint, both of which offer panoramic views over the fjord and surrounding peaks.

The Rauma Railway (Raumabanen)

The Rauma Railway connects Åndalsnes with Dombås and is widely regarded as one of Norway’s most beautiful rail journeys. The 114‑kilometer route passes waterfalls, steep cliffs, and historic engineering landmarks such as the Kylling Bridge. The line features dramatic horseshoe curves and a total elevation change of 655 meters.

The railway is fully operational and remains a highlight for visitors, offering year‑round departures and seasonal sightseeing commentary.

Trollstigen: Norway’s Iconic Mountain Road

Trollstigen, part of the Norwegian Scenic Route Geiranger–Trollstigen, is one of Norway’s most famous attractions. The road climbs steeply through eleven hairpin bends, passing the powerful Stigfossen waterfall and offering dramatic views of peaks such as Store Trolltind, Bispen, Kongen, and Dronningen.

Trollstigen is typically open from late May or early June until the first snowfall in autumn. At the top, a modern visitor center provides viewpoints, walking paths, and facilities. The road is not suitable for vehicles longer than 13 meters.

Trollveggen: Europe’s Tallest Vertical Rock Face

Trollveggen, the Troll Wall, is Europe’s highest vertical rock face and a legendary site in the climbing world. The wall rises more than 1,000 meters almost straight up and has been the scene of historic climbing achievements. BASE jumping was once popular here but is now prohibited for safety reasons.

Visitors can admire Trollveggen from the Trollveggen Visitor Centre in Romsdalen, which offers exhibitions, a café, and panoramic views of the mountain.

Romsdalseggen and Rampestreken

The Romsdalseggen Ridge is considered one of Norway’s most spectacular hikes. The route takes 6–8 hours and offers sweeping views of Trollveggen, Romsdalshorn, the Rauma River, and Åndalsnes. It is recommended for experienced hikers due to steep sections and exposure.

Rampestreken, a steel viewing platform suspended 537 meters above Åndalsnes, is accessible via a shorter but steep hike. It has become one of the most photographed viewpoints in Norway.

Vengedalen and Litlefjellet

Vengedalen is a peaceful valley near Isfjorden and a starting point for several classic hikes. Litlefjellet is a short, family‑friendly walk that rewards visitors with one of the best views in the region, overlooking Romsdalen, Trollveggen, and Romsdalshorn.

The valley is also a gateway to more demanding climbs such as Vengetind and Romsdalshorn, both iconic peaks in Norwegian mountaineering.

Isfjorden: Outdoor Village Near Åndalsnes

Isfjorden lies just 7 kilometers from Åndalsnes and is known for its easy access to mountains, ski touring routes, and climbing areas. Popular peaks include Kirketaket, Juratind, and Torshammaren. The area offers opportunities for telemark skiing, sea kayaking, wildlife watching, and fishing.

The rivers Isa and Glutra flow into the fjord and are known for trout and salmon fishing. A state fishing license is required for freshwater fishing, while fjord fishing is free.

Rødven Stave Church

Rødven Stave Church, located by the Rødvenfjord, dates back to around the year 1100 and is the only stave church in the Romsdal region. The church features medieval wooden architecture, Viking‑influenced carvings, and a 13th‑century crucifix. Guided tours are available during the summer season.

The Rauma River

The Rauma River flows 68 kilometers from Lesjaskogsvatnet to Åndalsnes and is known for its clear turquoise water and salmon population. The river is protected as a National Salmon River and offers regulated fishing zones managed by local associations.

The river valley is also a scenic corridor for hiking, photography, and wildlife observation.

Winter Activities: Skiing and Ice Climbing in Rauma

Rauma offers excellent winter activities, including ski touring in Isfjorden and alpine skiing at Rauma Skisenter in Skorgedalen. The area is also known for ice climbing, particularly around Flatmark and Døntefossen, where conditions vary depending on winter temperatures.

Fishing and Fjord Activities Rauma

The Romsdalsfjord and surrounding rivers offer a variety of fishing opportunities. Sea kayaking, boat trips, and fjord safaris are popular ways to experience the coastline and marine wildlife. Several local operators offer guided fishing tours and equipment rental.

Practical Travel Information Rauma

Getting There

Best Time to Visit

  • Summer (June–September): Ideal for hiking, scenic drives, and fjord activities.
  • Autumn (September–October): Beautiful colors and fewer crowds.
  • Winter (December–March): Ski touring, ice climbing, and winter landscapes.
  • Spring (April–May): Waterfalls at their strongest and early-season hiking at lower elevations.

Accommodation in Rauma

Rauma offers hotels, cabins, campsites, and mountain lodges. Åndalsnes has the widest selection, while Isfjorden and Vengedalen offer quieter, nature‑focused stays.

Top Tourist Tips

  • Book Romsdalseggen shuttle buses in advance during peak season.
  • Check Trollstigen road status before visiting, especially in early summer.
  • Wear proper footwear; many trails are steep and rocky.
  • Weather changes quickly in the mountains; pack layers and waterproof gear.
  • Respect local regulations regarding fishing, camping, and protected areas.

Sources

These sources were used to verify and update the information:

  1. Rauma Municipality Official Website https://www.rauma.kommune.no
  2. Visit Norway – Official Tourism Board https://www.visitnorway.com
  3. Norwegian Scenic Routes (Statens vegvesen) https://www.nasjonaleturistveger.no
  4. Bane NOR – Rauma Railway Information https://www.banenor.no
  5. Norwegian Directorate for Cultural Heritage – Stave Churches https://www.riksantikvaren.no
  6. Norwegian Environment Agency – National Salmon Rivers https://www.miljodirektoratet.no
  7. Official Hiking Information (DNT – Norwegian Trekking Association) https://www.ut.no