Attractions and Places To See around Aure - Top 20

Aure is an excellent destination for hikers, offering a wide selection of walks and challenging mountain hikes. The Fjordruta trail, one of Norway's best-prepared marked walking routes, passes through the mountains in Aure, providing multi-day hiking experiences and overnight stays at cabins like Rovangen DNT Cabin. Popular mountain hikes include Jørgenvågsalen and Jurtinden on Tustna. You can find more detailed routes and guides for hiking around Aure here.

Yes, Aure is home to the Foldfjordstraumen Maelstrom, considered one of Northern Europe's wildest saltwater maelstroms. It offers a spectacular sight, especially during peak high and low tides, and is also known for good shore fishing spots. Additionally, you can explore the Jutulholet Rock Cave, a large rock cave accessible via a marked path from Finnset.

Aure boasts several significant historical sites. You can visit Aure Church, an impressive wooden church from 1924 with a triptych from 1460, standing on a site where a church has existed since approximately 900 AD. The Dromnes area features rich finds from 10,000-year-old settlements and large burial mounds from the Bronze and Viking Ages. Solskjel is famous as the location of two battles fought by Harald Fairhair, crucial for Norway's unification. You can also explore Melland Fort on Skardsøya, established by the Germans during World War II, with numerous war relics.

To delve into Aure's maritime history, visit the Kråksundet Fishing and Maritime Museum. Located in an authentic boathouse, it showcases the rich fishing history and coastal culture of Northern Møre, featuring collections of fishing gear and highlighting the traditional 'Geitbåt' (goat boat). Kråksundet is also historically significant as the birthplace of *klippfisk* (salted and dried cod) production in Norway. You can also see the Klippfiskkjerringa Statue, a monument in Kristiansund symbolizing the region's codfish history.

Aure offers several attractions suitable for families. The Varden Watchtower Kristiansund provides a 360° view and is easily accessible. Exploring the coastal landscape with its many small islands, or visiting the Kråksundet Fishing and Maritime Museum can also be engaging for families. Many of the easier hiking trails also offer a great way for families to enjoy the outdoors together.

Yes, some attractions in Aure are wheelchair-accessible. The Kirkelandet Church Kristiansund is noted for its accessibility. The Klippfiskkjerringa Statue, a monument in Kristiansund, is also wheelchair-friendly. While many natural areas might have varied terrain, these specific sites offer easier access.

Aure is home to a diverse fauna. It boasts one of Norway's largest deer herds, so you might spot deer during your visit. Along the coast, visitors can frequently spot majestic sea eagles gliding overhead, adding to the natural beauty of the region.

Aure offers several stunning viewpoints. The Varden Watchtower Kristiansund provides a 360° view of Kristiansund, the sea, and surrounding fells. The Dromnes area also offers a viewpoint with expansive views across six municipalities. For panoramic views of Årvagsfjorden and the surrounding fjords and mountains, visit Viewpoint Brekka, located between the counties of Trøndelag and Møre og Romsdal. Additionally, the Kvernberget Summit offers a wonderful view of Kristiansund and its airport.

Absolutely! Aure's varied terrain and coastal landscape make it a great destination for cycling. You can find numerous routes for touring bicycles, including loops like 'Smøla loop from Edøya' or 'Hegerskjettå – Kalvvikhammaren loop'. For road cycling enthusiasts, there are routes such as 'Fløtjønnin – Litlnesvatnet loop'. Explore more cycling options and detailed guides for Aure here and road cycling routes here.

The best time to visit Aure for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, the weather is milder, and the days are longer, making it ideal for exploring the coastal landscape, islands, and mountain trails. The Fjordruta trail and other hiking opportunities are most accessible during these months.

Yes, beyond the church and museum, Kjørsvikbugen is a historically important site. It was once a significant port for timber exports and now serves as a stop for coastal express boats, offering beautiful views of the Årvågsfjord. While not a traditional cultural site, Tjeldbergodden, one of the largest industrial plants in Møre og Romsdal, offers a viewpoint near the plant, showcasing a modern aspect of the region's development.