Kristiansund - the Atlantic Road & Kvernes Stave Church (round trip)

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FRAM

THIS ROUTE IS ONLY ACTIVE DURING THE SUMMER This trip takes you from Kristiansund to what is often described as the world’s most beautiful road! With its location at the edge of the mighty ocean, the Atlantic Road is as beautiful in sunshine and calm weather as in full storm and rain. https://fram.trekksoft.com/en_GB/activity/237118/rundtur-til-atlanterhavsvegen-og-kvernes-stavkirke The Atlantic Road connects Averøy with the mainland via a series of small islands and islets spanned by a total of eight bridges over 8274 meters. The road is a national tourist route. By the Atlantic road, the bus stops at Eldhusøya, where you can take a walk on the suspended walkway around the islet. The walkway consists of latticework (“grids”) “floating” above the terrain, and is suitable for or anyone. The service building at Eldhusøya, with its distinct architecture that falls into the terrain, has a café and toilets. (Open Saturdays and Sundays in the spring and every day 1st June – 31st August.) After the stop at the Atlantic Road you go back to Kårvåg and then on to Kvernes stave church. You have some time at Kårvåg before the bus to Kvernes departs, and we recommend that you visit Bjartmars Favorittkro for lunch. This is local restaurant situated just a few minutes walk from the bus stop (back along the road towards the Atlantic road). You have the possibility to buy a lunch coupon as an add-on to this trip. Kvernes stave church is a beautiful and special stave church. Dating from approx. 1300 AD., is one of the youngest of the Norwegian stave churches. Inside the church you can see a choir screen with crucifix and royal monogram, a baroque pulpit, and painted acuantus decorations. The altarpiece is from 1475. Located with a magnificent view over the Kvernes fjord and the Frei fjord, the church bears witness of a strong ritual and religious of this place, also in pre-Christian times. Next to the church you also find Gamle Kvernes bygdemuseum, a museum with old buildings, an archealogical exhibition and various activities.

Audio guides available in:

Norsk bokmål, English (British)

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Points of interest

#1

Atlanterhavstunnel

Photo: tk.no You are now most likely on your way either up or down the Atlantic Ocean Tunnel which is an undersea tunnel in the region of Nordmøre. The tunnel first opened in December 2009 and connects Kristiansund to Averøy, along County Road 64. Before the tunnel opened, there was a ferry connection between the island and Kristiansund. The tunnel is 5,780 meters long and 250 meters deep, with a 10% gradient at its steepest.

Audio guides available in:

Norsk bokmål, English (British)

#2

Staveneset Lighthouse

Photo: sulafyr.no The Staveneset Lighthouse first became a working lighthouse in 1842. The only employees were the lighthouse keeper and his worker. Between 1847 and 1854, Hustadvika was struck by several unusually strong and devastating storms. Reports mention extreme weather and gigantic waves crashing onto houses, and shipwreck survivors who managed to climb ashore close to the lighthouse. One of the reports describes seawater entering chimneys and flowing into houses, and windows broken by strong winds and hail. In 1894, the lighthouse was rebuilt with more cuts and colour sectors. Additional improvements were made in 1907 when the old light was replaced with a new fourth-order lens. The Staveneset Lighthouse was modernised in 1953 with the construction of a new keeper's house and the installation of a generator to ensure the supply of electricity. In 1976, the lighthouse was automated.

Audio guides available in:

Norsk bokmål, English (British)

#3

Bremsneshatten

Photo: peakbook.org The Bremsneshatten ("the Bemsnes hat") mountain is a special landmark with a magnificent 360-degree view from its summit. A marked pathway leads up to the summit of "the hat" from County Road 64, from the car park in Djupbukta on the northern side of the mountain. When you turn right, the directions will be indicated with small green arrows. The pathway runs along a ridge directly towards the Bremsneshatten mountain. The Bremsneshatten mountain also has several caves, including the Bremsnes Cave on the southern side of the mountain, marked as a separate point of interest. The cave is Norway's largest and extends 80 meters inside the mountain. Traces of the Fosna culture have been found in this cave dating back nearly 10,000 years.

Audio guides available in:

Norsk bokmål, English (British)

#4

Bremsneshola

On the southern side of Bremsneshatten mountain, you will find the Bremsnes Cave. Traces of the Fosna culture have been found in this cave dating back nearly 10,000 years. The cave is Norway's largest and extends 80 meters inside the mountain. In the old days, it is thought that the cave was most likely used as a hideout. This meant that the artefacts found there were those of outlaws and castaways. As is the case of many caves, the Bremsnes Cave is also a place of dramatic tales and legends. One of them tells the story of a dog that went farther and farther into the cave, and then re-emerged on the other side with most of his fur ripped off.

Audio guides available in:

Norsk bokmål, English (British)

#5

Averøy Municipality

Photo: Kjetil Schjølberg, Roger Ellingsen / Statens vegvesen Averøy is a municipality in Nordmøre, Møre og Romsdal. The municipality consists of several island chains, among which Averøya is the largest. The municipality's administrative centre is in Bruhagen on this main island. Kristiansund is to the east, Gjemnes to the southeast and Eide to the southwest. The nearest towns are Kristiansund and Molde. The population is between 5,500 and 6,000, most of whom live by the sea, spread out over a large area. This means less than 20% of the population lives in the urban centres. The island is a place of rich historical and cultural heritage, and the locals are often referred to as Pekailla. This was probably because many of the island's inhabitants had names starting with the letters P and e, such as Per, Peder, Peter, etc.

Audio guides available in:

Norsk bokmål, English (British)

#6

Kvernes Stave church

Photo: Jarle Wæhler / Statens vegvesen Kvernes stave church made stave church history when new research revealed that the curch was built in the period 1631-33 and not at the end of the 1300s as was presumed earlier. This makes Kverns very special as it is Norway's only stave church built after the Middle Ages. The church seats around 200 people. A stave church is a wooden church built with a load-bearing construction of staves or posts held up by horizontal sills or crossbeams. The staves are what gave this type of church its name. In the Middle Ages, there were probably more than 1,000 stave churches in Norway. It is thought that there could have been as many as 2,000, but most of them disappeared between 1350 and 1650 A.D. — probably due to societal transformations in the aftermath of the Black Death and the Reformation. In 1650, about 270 stave churches had reappeared, but in the subsequent century, 136 of these disappeared. Today there are only 28 preserved stave churches dating back to the Middle Ages in Norway.

Audio guides available in:

English (British), Norsk bokmål

#7

Rock carvings in Søbstad

Photo: averoy.kommune.no In Søbstad images are carved into the rock, and it is easy to recognise what many of them represent: whales, boats and birds. However, we can only speculate as to the actual meaning of the artwork and what rituals took place here, as we will never be able to know that with absolute certainty. An unknown people lived in this area, and are reaching out to the present from thousands of years ago through their art. The rock carvings were discovered about 30 years ago. Rock carvings are like life nerves carved into the rock and in Søbstad it is possible to witness 17 such signs and symbols. Søbstad is where the glacial stream formed potholes at the end of the Ice Age, about 10,000 years ago. When the ice caps melted and the ground rose, these ondulating rocks emerged from the sea. People must have noticed the smoothly polished rock formations. Some of these monuments, created by nature itself, became sacred places. The carvings were made here for this very reason — the rock was considered sacred. Along the coast from Romsdal to Troms, whales are a common sight. If the carvings were made when the tide was low, then the whales—wet and reflecting the sunshine—would have been playing between the waves carved into the rock and the real ocean waves. The images carved into the rock represent hunting scenes and depict the large mammals found on land: moose, deer and reindeer. The animals depicted were probably hunted. The people behind the rock carvings were hunter-gatherers and fishermen. However, the animals were equivocal symbols and an expression of far more complex representations. In addition to hunting and food, they also represent society and religious faith. The rock carvings in Søbstad are located 12 to 16 metres above today's sea level. According to archaeologists, this means there are two possible time periods for their creation: the rocks were dry land for a short period in the Late Stone Age, i.e. from 8,500 to 9,000 years ago. After that, the melting ice caps lead to a higher sea level, flooding the area, and leaving the rocks under water once more. Then the rocks re-emerged in the Early Stone Age, about 5,000 years ago. Many have focused on the Early Iron Age since in some places, the whales appear with other figures that we can place with more certainty in that time period. However, according to recent research, some elements in other parts of the rock carvings imply that we can't exclude the earlier period. In terms of cultural history, the transition from the Early to the Late Stone Age does not seem to be significant in this area, but between the earliest and the latest dates there is a 4,000-year span. Around this time, there was a profound evolution in the use of tools, ways of living and beliefs. Most likely, there were distinct peoples here with their own languages and cultures. In the same way, there are important transitions within the Early Stone Age. The rock carvings in Søbstad were obviously created before agriculture became more established towards the end of the Early Stone Age. Not far from the rock carvings in Søbstad, there is also a burial mound and a stone circle. These are far younger than the rock carvings. The tradition of marking graves with stones dates back to the Late Bronze Age, about 1800 - 1000 B.C. The shape of the burial mound indicates that it might date back to the last part of the Late Iron Age, i.e. 200 - 550 A.D, but the dating method is considered uncertain.

Audio guides available in:

Norsk bokmål, English (British)

#8

Håkkårøysa

Photo: sogeland.blogspot.com Håkkårøysa in Rånes on Averøy is the largest burial mound in Nordmøre with a diameter of 35 meters. The original dimensions of the mound are difficult to determine with certainty since some of the rocks have been displaced, but it's safe to assume that its initial height was 3 meters. With these dimensions, the construction is estimated to have required 500 man-days of work, which indicated the huge investment and importance linked to these burial sites. Judging by its location relative to sea level, the burial mound most likely dates back to the early Iron Age, i.e. the Merovinger Age or the Viking Age. It is believed that one of the chieftains from the battle of Rastarkalv in 995 A.D. is buried here. Up until the 20th century, the sea was the number one means of communication and a teeming thoroughfare along the coast. The burial mound has a central position along the inner shipping lane, clearly visible from the sea. Some speculate as to whether the mound hides a ship grave. In ship burials practised by the Vikings, the dead would either be placed inside the boat or the boat would be part of the grave goods. Although many of the rocks have been disturbed, the grave itself could still be intact. Also, it is not unusual to find multiple graves that were later added to major burial mounds such as this one. The large size of the burial mound bears witness to the ability of the population to honour the memory of a significant figure in their society, thus leaving a mark for posterity. Burial mounds are important demonstrations of a family's claim on land or property, or a territorial marker for a larger joint ownership. Local history tells of treasure coins once hidden inside the mound, and about an attempt of plunder by local farmers. While the farmers were robbing the grave, they saw flames coming from their own farm and immediately ran home to put out the fire. However, when they reached the farm, they were surprised to see there was no fire. Ever since, the grave has been left in peace. The tradition of building large burial mounds dates back over 3,000 years, from the Late Bronze Age and Iron Age. In Norway, there seems to be more male graves than female ones. However, the wealthiest ship grave known to date from the Viking Age, the Oseberg Mound, was for a woman. Ancient written sources stress the importance of building a large and visible mound.

Audio guides available in:

Norsk bokmål, English (British)

#9

Pilespisser/Arrowheads

Photo: Kristen Vorpvik @ flickr.com After crossing the bridge you’ll arrive at Langøya island, you will notice the Pilespisser (arrowheads) monument to the right of the car park. The monument was erected to honour the memory of the Langøysund Agreement of 1040 A.D. Thanks to which Norway got its first Magna Carta. King Magnus called for an agreement to be reached with the farmers along the coast. Following tough, but peaceful negotiations, the King and his men reduced their demands and renounced certain rights they had previously enforced, but which were not granted by law. At the same time, legal changes were voted in, this was a breakthrough for democracy. The beacon-shaped sculpture by the artist Kristian Blystad represents a common weapon from that era — an arrowhead. In the sculpture, the arrowhead has been removed, leaving only a contour for the light to shine through. This is a reference to the victory of values such as negotiation and democracy. Arrowheads can also be found in the coat of arms of Averøy municipality. From the Pilspisser monument, there is a pathway heading northwest towards Tjyvlohaugen (Arctic skua's mound) and Ørnhågen (eagle's mound). The names of the mounds date back a long time, but both Arctic skuas and eagles can be observed in the area.

Audio guides available in:

English (British), Norsk bokmål

#10

Kårvåg

Photo: Jarle Wæhler / Statens vegvesen Kårvåg is a village of about 300 inhabitants on Averøy island, near the Atlantic Road. It has a primary school, a kindergarten, a petrol station, retail outlets, shops and restaurants.

Audio guides available in:

Norsk bokmål, English (British)

#11

Håholmen

(Photo: Grete Kongshaug / Statens vegvesen) Håholmen has been a fishing village focused on klippfisk (dried and salted cod) since the early 1700s and was initially a dynamic community based on trade, fishing and maritime transport. Håholmen Sea Cottages today include a hotel, a conference centre, a café and a restaurant where guests move freely between the buildings — just like people did traditionally in vibrant fishermen's communities. Håholmen has a heritage worth preserving — this used to be a central meeting place for fishermen, sailors, salesmen and travellers. Its history and location on one of the most unsheltered parts of the Norwegian coastline adds to the unique character of the island. To a great extent, the 25 buildings have remained largely unchanged since the 18th and 19th centuries. This island of merely 50,000 m2 creates a natural separation between the open sea and the shipping lane on the outside. The landside of the island provides a beautiful natural harbour, protected from all kinds of weather. It was the adventurer Ragnar Thorseth and his wife Kari, who first came up with the idea of turning Håholmen into a hotel and conference centre. Together, they ran Håholmen until 1998. The Hall of Saga Siglar houses the Viking ship Saga Siglar, which Thorset used to circumnavigate the globe, and numerous souvenirs from this and other adventures. Exhibitions about old and recent history of Håholmen are also gathered here. The visit ends with a viewing of a film about Ragnar Thorseth's many adventures. The island is only accessible by boat. Check out the link if you want to book a hotel room, a table or just a ride across to visit the island.

Audio guides available in:

Norsk bokmål, English (British)

#12

Eldhusøya

Photo: Harald Christian Eiken, Jiri Havran / Statens vegvesen The walking path around Eldhusøya island offers a splendid view. The path is suitable for everyone and is open every day, all year round. Don't let bad weather stop you since experiences in bad weather can be at least as intense as in good weather. The café is normally open during the summer season, but to be sure please check the link in the app.

Audio guides available in:

Norsk bokmål, English (British)

#13

Storseisundbrua

Photo: Harald Christian Eiken, Magne Flemsæter, Jiri Havran \ Statens vegvesen The Storseisund Bridge is the longest and perhaps most well-known of the 8 bridges of the Atlantic Road. The bridge is a cantilever bridge with a length of 260 metres and largest span of 130 metres. It is among the most iconic tourist attractions in Norway, and is frequently used in commercials, films, etc. The BBC's popular series Top Gear has also filmed an episode on this bridge and the Atlantic Road.

Audio guides available in:

Norsk bokmål, English (British)

#14

Atlantic road

Photo: Jarle Wæhler / Statens vegvesen The Atlantic Road runs along a stretch of sea at the very edge of the Atlantic Ocean, offering a scenic drive across the many bridges and islands. Often described as the world's most beautiful road trip, this section of County Road 64 is part of the National Tourist Route stretching from Vevang in Eide to Kårvåg on Averøy. The construction of the Atlantic Road began in 1983 and was completed in the summer of 1989. In 2005 it was voted Construction of the 20th Century. The road replaced the ferry route between Ørjavik and Tøvik which until then had connected the two municipalities. The entire installation, more than 8 km long and consisting of eight bridges with a combined length of 891 metres, runs across multiple islets and reefs. The Atlantic Road ranks number 8 of the most visited nature-based tourist attractions in the country, with several hundred thousand visitors each year. The road has also been the setting for numerous commercials, and several car producers — among which Lamborghini — have filmed commercials here to promote their latest models. The entire National Tourist Route called the Atlantic Road is 36 km long and connects Kårvåg to Bud. The road offers a unique experience with its breathtaking coastline and original design, both of the road itself, the bridges and multiple installations along the way. This place is equally spectacular to visit in inclement and windy weather, as it is on a bright and sunny day. Look west, towards the vast open sea and Hustadvika, a stretch of the Norwegian Sea known for its many reefs and dramatic climate. In calmer weather, it is possible to spot both seals and whales in the area. Between Vevang and Bud, southeast of the Atlantic Road, experience the lush coastal landscape with heaths and bare rocks along the unsheltered and open coastline of Hustadvika. The experience is intense and provides an insight into a region exposed to many different types of weather: here you risk facing strong winds, or – when the weather is good – a sunset that will leave a lasting impression on your mind.

Audio guides available in:

Norsk bokmål, English (British)

#15

Myrbærholmbrua

Photo: Jarle Wæhler / Statens vegvesen The Myrbærholm Bridge connects Skarvøya to Eldhusøya via Flatskjæret. In 2010, bridges specially dedicated to fishing opened on Myrbærholmen. From these you could try to catch some fish from the famous Atlantic Road. Unfortunately, there is no option to rent fishing gear here at the moment, so you would need to bring your own. Or you could watch other people fish here. In the strong tidal currents, there is a good chance of catching cod, pollock, mackerel and saithe from the clear waters.

Audio guides available in:

Norsk bokmål, English (British)

#16

Skarvøya

(Drawing: Ragnhild Folland) You are now on Skarvøya island. Together with Strømsholmen islet, this is the most southwesterly island on the Atlantic Road. Here you will find Gallery Skarvøya with a small café — a perfect pit stop to stretch your legs and admire the view.

Audio guides available in:

Norsk bokmål, English (British)

#17

Strømsholmen Seasport Center

Photo: stromsholmen.no Strømsholmen Sjøsportsenter (Strømsholmen Sea Sports Centre), is a place for adventures above and below the water. Since 1981, the professional dive center Strømsholmen offered a unique blend of thrilling adventures to visitors from around the world. The Sea Sports Centre is situated on the Atlantic Road and offers accommodation, fishing, diving, seal safaris, sightseeing tours etc.

Audio guides available in:

Norsk bokmål, English (British)

Kristiansund - the Atlantic Road & Kvernes Stave Church (round trip)

Points of interest