Ulstein between skerries, beaches and mountain plateaus

Ulstein combines a coastal strandflat with low-lying terraces and long, flat beaches. Steep mountain slopes rise to mountain plateaus 300 to 500 metres above sea level. The result is a landscape where low coastal formations meet striking heights.

Nature between the coast, high ground and rock

Ulstein’s bird list includes 226 species, of which 123 are confirmed breeding species. This makes birdlife one of the area’s defining natural features, alongside its landscape. Eclogite is also widely exposed in Ulstein, including on Borgarøya and Dimna. Those interested in wildlife observation or geology will find two distinct ways to explore the area.

Skerries and beaches

Borgarøya is a special place to explore Ulstein’s history: the island is a historic trading site in the skerries near Ulsteinvik and a popular excursion destination. It is accessible only by boat and has a municipal landing stage. Access is therefore part of planning your visit. In some years, a café operates in the old trading house during the summer. If you are planning to visit, check in advance whether the café will be open during your stay.

Roppesanden offers a place to swim at a white beach beside turquoise water. Flø lies on a stretch of coast exposed to the open sea, with white sandy beaches and spectacular sunsets. Roppesanden is a particular highlight for swimming, while Flø stands out for its open coast and evening light.

Activities on the water

You can kayak in a variety of landscapes in Ulstein: in green fjords with the Sunnmøre Alps as a backdrop, among the skerries in front of Ulsteinvik town centre, and on the open sea near Flø. The fjord, skerries and open sea offer different settings for the activity. Fishing is possible in both the sea and freshwater.

Culture and places to visit

Ulstein Church is an octagonal wooden church built in 1849, with 400 seats. In Flø, the Studio Hugo Opdal art gallery has exhibited works by artists from Norway and abroad. The church and gallery offer distinct cultural experiences: one is notable for its octagonal architecture, the other for exhibitions featuring works from Norway and beyond.

The Go With the Flø festival brings together art, music and fashion in a festival format. At Andreasgarden Gjestetun in Flø, visitors can experience local food and culture on a farm. Together, the two offerings complement the architecture and art gallery with music, fashion and local food culture.

A practical aspect of your visit

Ulsteinbadet is designed to be accessible and includes a dedicated therapy pool with a wheelchair ramp. The ramp is for the therapy pool; the swimming facility is also designed to be accessible. If these facilities are important for your visit, check in advance for the latest information.

Discover more destinations: Haddal, Ulsteinvik, Skodje, Herøy, Molde, Averøy, Norddal, Stordal.

For the main travel overview: More Og Romsdal.