Runde

www.visitalesund.com

Facing the ocean, north in Fjord Norway, lies the island of Runde. The small island has no more than 150 inhabitants, but from February to August every year the nesting season takes place and more than 500.000 birds gather on the island. It is the southernmost bird cliff in Norway. It is connected to the mainland with a bridge and is the home of some 500.000 to 700.000 seabirds. More than 220 species have been identified, but Runde is most famous for its puffins. Other species includes (bort) black-legged kittiwake, common guillemot, northern gannet, great skua and not least the white-tailed eagle. All in all it has more species represented than any other place in Scandinavia and ranges among the top bird watching spots in the world. The many shipwrecks in the ocean make Runde a feast for everyone interested in combining hiking with storytelling or diving. The hiking on the island is suitable for anyone. The easy walks and not least birdwatching will be a spectacular event for children and grown-ups alike. The paths across the top of the island are well marked, leading to the cliffs and the spectacular views of the birds and the ocean. Hiking and watching birds can be combined with a visit to the famous Runde lighthouse. There are several alternative routes, but expect the trip to last 2-3 hours from start to finish if you choose the shortest. The well marked paths leave no need for maps. Still, description of routes and birds are found in maps and books which can be bought in the accommodation facilities on the island, at the Tourist Information Office or by simply searching the web. Guides are available on request, and in summer season, boat trips are arranged frequently around the island to marvel at the cliffs, the birds and other marine life from the ocean.

Category:

Travel & Events

Tags:

• Runde
• Ålesund
• Fjord Norway
• puffin
• eagle
• birdwatcing
• ornithology
• ornithologist
• birdspotting
• bird migration