Giske & Godoy (Tour B)
Northern Europe Excursions
- £40-50
- 4 hours
- Medium/Hard
The community of Giske consists of four islands that are connected to the mainland by bridges and a long sub-sea tunnel. We shall explore two of the islands today – the ‘Saga Island’ of Giske, and picturesque Godøy.
The community of Giske consists of four islands that are connected to the mainland by bridges and a long sub-sea tunnel. We shall explore two of the islands today – the ‘Saga Island’ of Giske, and picturesque Godøy. Giske was the birthplace of the Viking chieftain Rollo, who invaded and founded Normandy. There have been settlements here on this fertile island since the early Bronze Age, and several burial mounds containing precious objects have been excavated. We shall visit the little stone Giske Church, dating back to 1150 and once the Giske family chapel. Tora, one of the daughters, married King Hårfagre (Fairhair), who in the 9th century gathered Norway into one kingdom. From Giske we drive to the island of Godøy, with the pretty fishing village of Alnes facing the Atlantic Ocean. We take a short break at the Alnes Lighthouse and refreshments will be served in the nearby café. Reluctantly we leave peaceful Godøy – uniquely divided in half by a mountain ridge – rejoining our coach for the return journey to the mainland, and our awaiting ship. En route a stop will be made at an attractive viewpoint on Aksla Mountain, offering breathtaking views across the town of Ålesund and the scenic surroundings.
There is a 200 metre (650 feet) uphill walk from where the coach stops to the Alnes Lighthouse and the nearby café – this is difficult for wheelchairs. There are also a couple of steps to negotiate at Giske Church. It is possible to climb the lighthouse in Alnes, which has 80 steps. There may be a chance to purchase souvenirs.
DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2008 NORWAY CRUISES
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Snack or meal provided
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Refreshments available
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Free time
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Shopping opportunity
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Wheelchair access
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Swimming opportunity
All prices are based on operating costs, tariffs and rates of exchange and are subject to change without notice.
