Top 20 Lakes in Møre og Romsdal

The largest lake in the region is Eikesdalsvatnet, stretching approximately 18 kilometers and surrounded by towering mountains. It's known for its crystal-clear waters and the dramatic Mardalsfossen waterfall. Another notable lake is Djupvatnet, a high-alpine glacial lake at 1,016 meters above sea level, famous for its deep blue waters and mountain reflections.

Yes, Lygnstøylvatnet in the narrow Norangsdalen valley is a unique hidden gem. It's famous for its submerged village, Lygnstøylen, which was flooded over a hundred years ago. You can still see the perfectly preserved stone foundations and even trees beneath the clear, icy waters, making it an excellent spot for kayaking and diving.

Møre og Romsdal offers diverse hiking opportunities around its lakes. You can find trails ranging from easy lakeside walks to more challenging mountain hikes. For instance, the area around Eikesdalsvatnet provides trails with breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding peaks. The Sunnmøre Alps and Romsdal Mountains are also dotted with numerous alpine lakes, perfect for wilderness experiences and often teeming with trout. You can explore various hiking routes, including easy hikes and waterfall hikes.

Many areas around the lakes in Møre og Romsdal offer family-friendly experiences. For example, the easy lakeside walks around Djupvatnet are suitable for families. The region's natural beauty, including viewpoints like View of Geirangerfjord from Dalsnibba, often includes facilities and accessible paths that cater to families. The Geiranger Village area also offers family-friendly options.

While the clear waters of many lakes, especially the high-alpine ones, can be inviting, they are often very cold, even in summer. Lygnstøylvatnet, for instance, has clear but icy waters. Wild swimming is generally possible, but visitors should be prepared for cold temperatures and exercise caution, especially in mountain lakes.

The best time to visit the lakes in Møre og Romsdal is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is milder, hiking trails are more accessible, and activities like fishing are popular. High-alpine lakes like Djupvatnet may still have snow on their rims even in summer, offering stunning contrasts.

Yes, Lygnstøylvatnet is notable for its historical significance. It covers the submerged ruins of the old village of Lygnstøylen, which was flooded over a century ago. The well-preserved stone foundations and structures beneath the water offer a unique glimpse into the past. Additionally, the Romsdal Open-Air Museum is located near areas with lakes and offers insights into the region's history.

For an easy and rewarding walk, the path to Bispevatnet near Trollstigen is well-marked and approximately 4 kilometers round trip, offering tranquil views. Lakeside walks around Djupvatnet are also considered easy and provide crisp mountain views. You can find more options for easy hikes in the region.

Accommodation options vary, from hotels in towns like Molde to mountain huts. For a unique experience, Renndølsetra is a mountain pasture farm offering accommodation and local produce with views of a lake and striking mountains. Many cabins in the Sunnmøre Alps and Romsdal Mountains are also situated near good fishing lakes and are open to the public.

Besides hiking, the lakes offer various outdoor activities. Fishing for trout and char is popular in lakes like Eikesdalsvatnet, especially from late spring to early autumn. Kayaking is a unique activity on Lygnstøylvatnet, allowing you to explore the submerged village. The region also has excellent road cycling routes that pass by lakes and offer stunning scenery.

Absolutely. Eikesdalsvatnet is fed by the Mardøla river, which features the impressive Mardalsfossen waterfall, one of Northern Europe's highest. The lake itself is surrounded by mountains soaring to 1,500-1,800 meters. Djupvatnet offers stunning reflections of surrounding mountains, and Bispevatnet provides lovely views of its clear waters and dramatic peaks like Bispen.

Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking natural beauty, the tranquility of the mountain-framed settings, and the diverse opportunities for outdoor activities. The crystal-clear waters reflecting dramatic peaks, the unique historical aspects like Lygnstøylvatnet's submerged village, and the rewarding hiking trails are often highlighted. The region's lakes are appreciated for their awe-inspiring panoramas and serene escapes.