Aure

Aure is a small coastal municipality in Møre og Romsdal county, Western Norway, characterised by a stunning archipelago of islands, deep fjords, and dramatic coastal mountains rising steeply from the sea. With a population of roughly 3,600 spread across scattered coastal settlements, it is a place defined more by landscape than urbanity — nearly 300 km of coastline, quiet fishing villages, and the soaring peaks of Tustna island, which merged with Aure in 2006. The municipality has deep historical roots: battles were fought here during Harald Fairhair's unification of Norway in the 9th century, and a church has stood at Aure since around 900 AD.

The appeal of Aure lies in its remoteness and natural beauty rather than bustling attractions. This is a destination for anglers, hikers, and anyone seeking Norway's coastal culture without the tourist infrastructure of the fjord towns further south. The Foldfjordstraumen maelstrom — one of Northern Europe's most powerful saltwater tidal currents — draws visitors when tides are at their strongest, while the Tustna mountains (several exceeding 900 m) offer demanding ridge walks with panoramic ocean and fjord views. The municipality also carries industrial significance: the Tjeldbergodden gas processing facility is one of the largest industrial plants in the county, and the hamlet of Kjørsvikbugen was once a major 17th-century timber-export port.

Climate is maritime — cool summers, mild winters, and frequent rain year-round. Winters are dark but rarely bitterly cold along the coast, while summers bring long daylight hours and temperatures typically between 12–18°C. The weather is highly changeable; clear skies can shift to driving rain within an hour, so layered clothing and waterproofs are essential in any season.

By Plane

Kristiansund Airport, Kvernberget (IATA: KSU), is the nearest airport, approximately 70 km northwest of Aure. It has regular flights from Oslo Gardermoen (OSL) and Bergen (BGO) operated by SAS and Norwegian, with a flight time of around 1 hour from Oslo. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi; there is no direct public bus from KSU to Aure, so a car rental is strongly recommended. Trondheim Airport Værnes (IATA: TRD), about 150 km to the northeast, is a larger alternative with a wider range of domestic and international connections.

By Train

There is no railway station in Aure. The nearest stations are in Trondheim (Trondheim S, on the Dovre Line and Nordland Line) and in Kristiansund, which is not on the main rail network either. Travellers arriving by train should alight at Trondheim S and continue by bus or car via the E39. The train from Oslo to Trondheim takes approximately 6.5–7 hours on the Dovre Line, with departures several times daily. Book through Vy (vy.no) or the Entur app for the best fares.

By Car / Road

Aure lies along the E39, approximately 150 km west of Trondheim and 60 km south of Kristiansund. The drive from Trondheim takes roughly 2–2.5 hours, passing through Orkanger and continuing west along the E39. From Kristiansund, the drive is about 1 hour south. At the Hennset ferry dock on the E39, a short ferry crossing takes you to Arasvika on Ertvågøya island; from there, signposted roads lead to Aure and Mjosundet, circling the island. The ferry runs frequently (check fvj.no for current timetables and fares). Roads are paved and well-maintained but can be narrow and winding in places; winter tyres are compulsory from November to April.

Bus services connect Aure to both Kristiansund and Trondheim along the E39 corridor, operated by Nor-Way Bussekspress and regional providers. Frequency is limited — typically a handful of departures daily — so check the Entur journey planner (entur.no) for current schedules.

Aure municipality is spread over a wide area with no urban centre in the conventional sense. A personal car is by far the most practical way to get around; distances between coastal settlements, mountain trailheads, and the former Tustna area are significant, and local bus services are minimal — often only one or two departures per day on each route. Hitchhiking is generally safe and locals are known to be helpful, though wait times can be long given low traffic volumes.

Cycling is a rewarding way to explore the varied terrain, but be prepared for steep hills, especially on Tustna where the coastal mountains rise sharply. There are no dedicated cycle lanes; roads are shared with occasional car traffic. Walking is practical within individual villages but not between them.

There are no taxis based permanently in Aure; pre-arrange transport through Kristiansund-based taxi companies if needed. There are no ride-hailing apps operating in this area.

• Aure Church — Built in 1924, this is one of the largest wooden churches in Møre og Romsdal. The interior features a remarkable triptych dated to 1460, and a church has stood on this site since approximately 900 AD, linked to the reign of Håkon the Good. The adjacent parsonage, dating from 1826, is a fine example of the period's timber architecture. Free to visit; check locally for service times.

• Dromnes Archaeological Site — Rich finds from settlements dating back roughly 10,000 years, belonging to the Fosna culture, one of Norway's earliest post-glacial hunter-gatherer traditions. A toll road leads to Litlfonna, from where a marked path continues to the Fonna viewpoint, offering views across six municipalities. A modest toll applies.

• Foldfjordstraumen Maelstrom — One of Northern Europe's wildest saltwater tidal currents. At peak tidal flow, the maelstrom is a dramatic spectacle of churning water. Best viewed around spring tides. The surrounding shoreline is also a productive fishing spot. Accessible by road; no entrance fee.

• Jutulholet — A large rock cave accessible via a marked path from Finnset. The route also passes remains of a German World War II battery, a reminder of the occupation-era coastal defences. Allow 1–2 hours for the round trip.

• Kjørsvikbugen — A coastal hamlet at the Sør-Trøndelag/Møre og Romsdal county border with a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Årvågsfjord; on clear days, views extend to Kristiansund. Historically an important 17th-century timber-export port to the Netherlands and Germany. The coastal express boat (Hurtigruten-adjacent services between Trondheim and Kristiansund) stops here. Large picnic area with tables.

• Kråksundet Fishing and Maritime Museum — Collections of traditional fishing gear and artefacts illustrating coastal culture, with a special focus on the geitbåt (goat boat) — the traditional rowing and sailing boat that is the pride of the Nordmøre coast. Open by arrangement or during summer months; check locally for hours.

• Solskjel — The site of two battles fought by Harald Fairhair before he defeated the minor kings of Møre and incorporated the region into a united Norway. A historically significant location with interpretive signage. Accessible by road.

• Tjeldbergodden Industrial Plant — One of the largest industrial facilities in Møre og Romsdal, processing natural gas from the Norwegian Sea into methanol, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and bioprotein products. A signposted road leads to a viewpoint near the plant; the facility itself is not open for tours.

Sea fishing is the primary activity draw. Aure's 300-km coastline offers excellent angling from shore, bridges, and the many tidal sounds between islands. Species include cod, saithe (pollock), mackerel, herring, and coalfish. Boat fishing trips can be arranged through local farms and guesthouses; some provide boats and gear for guests. Sea trout fishing in the fjord inlets is productive from late spring through autumn.

Freshwater fishing for trout is available in lakes and rivers throughout the municipality; a fishing licence is required and can be purchased locally or via inatur.no. Red deer hunting season opens in September (typically 10 September) and draws hunters to Aure's extensive forest and mountain areas; permits are managed through the municipality.

Mountain hiking on Tustna is the standout outdoor experience. The Tustna coastal mountains — a chain of peaks rising over 900 m directly from the shore — offer several marked trails to summits with panoramic views of the ocean, fjords, and neighbouring municipalities. The climbs are steep and demand good fitness and proper gear (waterproofs, sturdy boots). Popular routes include ascents to Breitinden and other summits in the ridge chain. Allow a full day for the more demanding routes.

Birdwatching along the coastline and on offshore islets, particularly during spring and autumn migration. Kayaking in the sheltered sounds between islands is possible for experienced paddlers; no commercial kayak rental exists in Aure, so bring your own or arrange through outfitters in Kristiansund.

Day trips to the viewpoint at Kjørsvikbugen, the Dromnes archaeological area, and the Foldfjordstraumen maelstrom make for rewarding half-day excursions by car.

Dining options in Aure are limited to a handful of guesthouse restaurants, a pub, and a pizzeria. There is no fine dining. The food culture revolves around fresh seafood — particularly cod, saith, and mackerel — and locally farmed lamb. Many accommodations include breakfast, and some offer dinner featuring local catches and seasonal produce.

• Aure Gjestegård — The main guesthouse in Aure, offering meals (typically dinner) alongside accommodation. Expect simple Norwegian home cooking with an emphasis on fish and meat dishes. Main courses around kr 200–350.

• Lurvika Pub — Casual dining and drinks in a relaxed setting. Standard pub fare.

• Meieriet Pub og Pizza — A pizzeria and pub, one of the more informal eating options. Pizzas from around kr 150.

• Mjosundet Feriesenter — A holiday centre near Mjosundet that serves meals to guests and, in summer, to visitors. Accommodation-plus-dining packages are common.

• Th. Lindaas — A local establishment offering meals; details vary seasonally.

Vegetarian and gluten-free options are limited; inform your host in advance if you have dietary restrictions. Norway's tap water is safe to drink everywhere, including in Aure.

Aure has a modest social scene centred on the pub and guesthouse bars listed above. Norwegian beer (Ringnes, Hansa, local craft varieties from the region) and aquavit are the standard offerings. Coffee culture is strong — Norwegians drink among the most coffee per capita in the world, and even small settlements like Aure will have decent filter coffee at cafés or guesthouses. There are no dedicated nightclubs; evening entertainment is quiet and revolves around the pubs.

Alcohol is expensive in Norway (a pint of beer typically kr 90–120 at a pub). Wine and spirits are only sold at Vinmonopolet, the state alcohol monopoly — the nearest branch is in Kristiansund. Beer can be purchased at grocery stores until 20:00 on weekdays and 18:00 on Saturdays (no alcohol sales on Sundays).

Aure's accommodation is concentrated in guesthouses, farm stays, and holiday cabins rather than conventional hotels. Book ahead in summer, especially for the July peak.

• Budget: Farm stays and camping are the most affordable options. Several farms across the municipality rent rooms or simple flats (hybler), typically kr 500–900 per night. Mjosundet Feriesenter offers cabin and room accommodation from around kr 600–1,000 depending on size and season. Camping is possible at designated sites; wild camping is permitted under allemannsretten (the right to roam), but respect private land and leave no trace.

• Mid-range: Aure Gjestegård is the primary mid-range option, offering hotel-style rooms in a guesthouse setting, typically kr 900–1,500 per night including breakfast. Th. Lindaas provides similar accommodation with meals available.

• Upscale: There is no upscale or luxury accommodation in Aure itself. For higher-end options, Kristiansund (60 km) has several hotels including the Scandic and Quality Hotel lines. The nearest heritage-style property is in the wider Nordmøre region.

Aure is not a shopping destination. There is a small grocery store (Coop or Joker) in the main settlement for daily essentials. Local farms may sell smoked fish, lamb, and seasonal produce directly — ask at your accommodation. Handmade woollen goods and traditional craft items occasionally appear at local markets or farm shops, but there is no regular craft market. For anything beyond basics, Kristiansund (60 km) or Trondheim (150 km) are the nearest towns with significant retail.

• Kristiansund (~60 km north, 1 hour by car) — A colourful coastal town spread across several islands, famous for its clipfish (dried cod) industry, the Atlantic Road (Atlanterhavsvegen), and a vibrant harbour. Well worth a day trip or as a base for exploring the coast.

• Trondheim (~150 km east, 2–2.5 hours by car) — Norway's third-largest city, home to the Nidaros Cathedral (Scandinavia's largest medieval building), a lively student culture, excellent restaurants, and the main rail hub for central Norway.

• The Atlantic Road (Atlanterhavsvegen) (~80 km from Aure) — One of Norway's most scenic drives, an engineering marvel linking a chain of islands across open ocean between Kristiansund and Molde. Designated a National Tourist Route.

• Molde (~130 km south, 2 hours by car) — Known as the "City of Roses," Molde hosts the annual Moldejazz festival (mid-July) and offers views across the Romsdalsfjord to the Romsdal Alps.

• Trollstigen and the Romsdal Alps (~150 km southeast, 2.5 hours) — The famous serpentine mountain road and the dramatic peaks of the Romsdal valley, one of Norway's most iconic mountain landscapes. Open late May to October (snow closure in winter).