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Open-air museum · Ålesund, Møre e Romsdal
Sunnmøre Museum
Open-air museum east of Ålesund centre, with old houses and boats from the Sunnmøre coast, replicas of Viking-age ships and the ruins of the medieval trading town of Borgund.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Sunnmøre Museum
The Sunnmøre Museum is in Borgund, about 5 km east of Ålesund centre, in a fjord inlet. It is an open-air museum with dozens of old houses brought from the Sunnmøre region: log houses, storehouses on stilts, boat sheds and a school, spread among meadows and paths that lead down to the water.
The most interesting part for those who like seafaring is the boat collection. The sheds hold traditional coastal vessels used for fishing and transport, and replicas of Viking-age ships, such as the Kvalsund boat found in a peat bog in the region. Some boats often sail in summer for demonstrations.
Next to the museum is the site of the medieval town of Borgund, one of the main trading ports on the west coast in the Middle Ages, and the Museu Medieval, with objects found in the excavations. The stone church of Borgund, nearby, has parts dating from the 12th century.
The museum is quiet and less visited compared with the centre, and pairs well with a walk along the waterfront.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1½ to 2 hours.
Best time
From June to August, when the houses are usually open and there are activities. At other times of the year opening hours are shorter; check before you go.
How to get there
It is in Borgund, about 5 km east of the centre. Local buses stop nearby; by car follow the road to Moa and the museum signs.
Tip
Go first to the boat sheds and then to the houses. Combine it with Borgund church, just a few minutes away.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Sunnmøre Museum
What does the Sunnmøre Museum exhibit?
Old houses and boats from the Sunnmøre coast, replicas of Viking-age ships and the site of the medieval town of Borgund.
Is it far from the center?
About 5 km east, with local buses stopping nearby.
Is the museum open in winter?
It usually has reduced hours outside the summer. Check before you go.
Do the boats sail?
Some traditional boats usually go out on demonstration trips in the summer.