If you’re staying in or around Isfjorden, chances are you’ve heard of Rampestreken—a steep, scenic hike just above Åndalsnes that rewards you with one of the best views in Romsdal. Suspended over the valley with mountains, fjords, and rivers stretching out beneath your feet, the metal platform at the top is both a goal and a reward.
This week, Geoffrey made a trip to Isfjorden Chalet to bring a few things and fix up some small details in and around the house and garden—we’re getting ready to welcome our very first guests soon! There’s an extra sense of excitement in the air, not just because of that, but also because our Isfjorden Chalet housewarming party (and Geoffrey’s birthday celebration!) is coming up this weekend with friends.
While all that’s been happening, Rampestreken has become something of a routine for us. It’s just a 5-minute drive from the chalet, and we’ve done the hike many times now that it’s turned into our go-to training session. For fun, we started timing ourselves. Our first “run” up in 2024 took 38 minutes—respectable for a steep trail with 550 meters of elevation gain! But this year, Geoffrey crushed it solo in just 30 minutes and 55 seconds. I’ve heard of someone in the neighborhood has even done it in about 20 minutes… local legend status for sure!
The view at the top never gets old, and there’s something special about combining a good workout with that kind of reward. It’s such a great way to start the day—with fresh air, a challenge, and a view that makes every step worth it.
I can’t wait for our next Rampestreken run together. Let’s see if I can catch up to Geoffrey’s pace!
Hike details:
Rampestreken Viewpoint: A famous steel platform located 537 meters above sea level, offering stunning views over Åndalsnes, Romsdalsfjord, and the surrounding mountains.
Trailhead location: Starts from Åndalsnes town center.
Hike duration: Approximately 1.5 hrs, depending on fitness level.
Trail features: Includes parts of the Romsdalstrappa stone staircase, built by Nepalese Sherpas.
Hike difficulty: Moderately challenging with steep sections, but well-marked and safe.
Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn (May–October) for clear views and safer conditions.
