Sula: Island Trails and Cultural Heritage

Sula is an island south of Ålesund. Vardane, the island’s highest point, and the settlement remains at Kjellingset offer two specific perspectives on the trip: landscape and cultural history. Other options include the signposted Kalvestad Trail and further destinations within the wider Sula destination.

Island Trails and a High Point

Vardane is the highest point on the island of Sula. Within the wider Sula destination, the trail to Vardane is accessible year-round. The Kalvestad Trail is signposted and starts at the outer end of Sula. These offer two distinct points of reference for planning outings: a named high point and a specific trailhead.

Cultural Landscape at Kjellingset

Kjellingset has settlement remains dating from the Migration Period to around 1780. Kalvestad is an abandoned farm and also a stop on the Kjellingset-Flesje-Kalvestad cultural heritage trail. Within the wider Sula destination, the circular walk at Kjellingset is considered relatively short and easy; it follows a well-maintained path and a gravel road. The site’s history and the trail’s described character can therefore be considered as distinct aspects when planning an outing.

More Things to Do in the Wider Sula Destination

The D/S Thorolf and Devoldbanen are part of the wider Sula destination. Built in 1910–1911, the ship is considered Scandinavia’s oldest surviving wooden steamship; its home port is in Langevåg, by the Devoldfabrikken. Devoldbanen is open every Saturday from 12:00 to 16:00 and is considered Norway’s largest model railway. Check the opening hours before your trip.

The Kraftverket Aktivitetspark is also in the wider Sula destination. Children, young people and adults can use obstacle courses, slides, a bouldering wall and climbing frames across more than 800 m².

At Mausavatnet, a paved walking and cycling path runs along one side, and a gravel path along the other. The recreation area at Vassetvatnet has swimming spots, shelters, a jungle playground, disc golf, a Tufte Park and picnic areas. Bakkevika has a small sandy beach, a toilet, tables and barbecue facilities. The wider Sula destination therefore offers different kinds of leisure spots: trails with two types of surface, as well as areas for swimming, play and picnics.

In winter, groomed cross-country ski trails lead to the mountain huts Taustua and Rollonhytta; one of the trails leads to Taustua. Kaab Bryggeri offers beer tastings that companies, groups of friends and bachelor or bachelorette parties can book. As tasting arrangements may change, confirm them in advance.

Planning Your Trip and Finding a Holiday Apartment

Within the wider Sula destination, a passenger boat connects Langevåg with Ålesund; the journey takes about seven minutes. Check the approximate travel time before setting off. When looking for a holiday apartment, it helps to first decide what you would most like to focus on: the high point and island trails, the cultural history at Kjellingset, or other offerings within the wider Sula destination. These interests give your trip planning direction and help you choose accommodation based on the experiences that matter most to you.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Mauseidvåg, Langevåg, Fiskarstranda, Eidsnes.

Back to the main destination overview: Sula.