Definition:
Romsdalsfjord is a fjord located in Møre og Romsdal county, Western Norway.
Overview:
The Romsdalsfjord is a prominent geographical feature in Western Norway, extending from the village of Åndalsnes at its innermost point to the open Norwegian Sea near the town of Molde. It lies within the Romsdal region, a traditional district in Møre og Romsdal. The fjord is approximately 32 kilometers (20 miles) long and is surrounded by steep mountains, including the Trollveggen (Troll Wall) and Romsdalseggen ridge, which are notable for rock climbing and hiking.
Etymology/Origin:
The name "Romsdalsfjord" is derived from the Old Norse "Rǫmdar-fjǫrðr," where "Rǫmdar" refers to the Romsdal valley (Romsdalen), and "fjǫrðr" means "fjord." The name Romsdal itself likely originates from the river Rauma, which flows through the valley, with the element "dal" meaning "valley" in Norwegian.
Characteristics:
The Romsdalsfjord is characterized by deep, narrow waters typical of glacially formed fjords. It serves as a major transportation and scenic route in the region. The European route E136 highway runs along parts of the fjord, connecting Åndalsnes to Molde. The area is known for its dramatic natural landscapes and is popular for tourism, mountaineering, and fishing. The fjord empties into the Vanylvsfjorden, which connects to the Norwegian Sea.
Related Topics:
- Fjords of Norway
- Møre og Romsdal county
- Romsdalen valley
- Åndalsnes
- Trollveggen
- Norwegian fjord geography
- Scandinavian coastal landscapes