Norangsdalen – Dramatic Valley in the Sunnmøre Alps
Norangsdalen is a valley in Sunnmøre, Norway. A 1908 rockfall created Lygnstøylvatnet, where traces of the flooded road and farm landscape remain visible through clear water.
- Christine Baglo/Visitnorway.com
- Adrian Leversby/Visit Norway
About Norangsdalen
Norangsdalen is a narrow valley between Øye and Hellesylt in the Sunnmøre Alps. Steep mountains, avalanche paths, old summer farms and a lightly developed road create a landscape that preserves traces of earlier travel through the region. The valley is often called one of Norway’s narrowest and most dramatic road landscapes.
Its best-known feature is Lygnstøylvatnet. A rockfall in 1908 dammed the river and formed the lake, flooding sections of the old road and farm landscape. In clear water, remains such as stone walls and the former route can still be seen below the surface. The lake is a historical site as well as a scenic stop, and water clarity varies with weather. Winter snow, avalanche danger and seasonal road conditions can limit access through the valley.
Visiting Norangsdalen
Use established pull-offs and view Lygnstøylvatnet from the shore without entering fields or disturbing submerged remains. Check road and avalanche information before driving through Norangsdalen, especially outside summer, and allow room for local traffic on narrow sections.
Best way to experience Norangsdalen
The best way to experience Norangsdalen is to start from the Hellesylt side and drive north through the valley towards Urke and Hjørundfjord.
