Vigra: Coastal Paths and Nature

Vigra between coastal paths and island nature

On Vigra, paths, coastal scenery, and individual natural and cultural sites shape travel planning. The main route, Vigra rundt, follows a walking and cycling path around large parts of the island. There are also paths that focus specifically on the coast or a particular excursion destination.

The Brimneset path leads from southern Vigra to the rugged coast and onward toward the open sea. It starts at the Viking community hall, where a large parking lot is available. At Brimneset, there is a navigation marker in the form of a large, round pile of stones, painted black and white in signal colors. The main route, Vigra rundt, and the path to Brimneset have different focuses: one is a walking and cycling path around large parts of Vigra, while the other runs from the south of the island to the open coast.

Path conditions and suitability of individual routes

The Rota–behind Molnesfjellet path runs through open coastal scenery in a nature reserve. A gravel road or well-trodden path follows the coast to a shelter in Sandvika. The section from Rota to the Ågnegjerdet shelter is well suited to children, strollers, and seniors. This route makes it possible to take both the coastal setting and the suitability of a particular section into account when planning your day.

The Roald Marina–Vigra Airport loop also starts at a clearly identified point: the marina at Roald on Vigra. The route is easy and suitable for strollers. Wheelchair users can easily use the section from the school to the airport. These accessibility details apply to the loop mentioned or to the explicitly identified section. For a different experience, the Blindheim walking trail runs along the coast and through woodland; there are several rest areas with benches along the way. At Majaskogen, the trail passes a play area for families.

Nature reserves and notable sites

The area behind Molnesfjellet is a nature reserve with many rare plant species. Rørvikvatnet Nature Reserve also offers a distinctive natural setting: it was established in 1988 and became part of an internationally important wetland and Ramsar site in 1996. In the past, the area was an important breeding and migratory site for wetland birds; around 20 breeding species were recorded there. This historical significance adds another perspective to the coastal paths, highlighting the wetland’s former role for birds.

Another notable destination is Blimshaugen on Vigra. The hill was originally 36 meters in diameter and 6 meters high. Blimssanden offers something different: the sandy beach on Vigra has a restroom. The island therefore offers a variety of destinations—from a path through open coastal scenery to a wetland, a beach, and a cultural site.

Getting there and planning your stay

Airport buses run from Ålesund Airport on Vigra to Ålesund city center and Moa. If you plan to use this connection, check the timetable before departure. This lets you include your journey in your plans for excursions on Vigra.

Consider which places and activities are key to your stay, and tailor your search accordingly.

Discover more destinations: Valderhaugstranda, Valderøya, Alnes, Giske, Godøy.

Go to the main travel overview: Giske.