Climate

The climate in Norway varies a great deal from one region to another but the four seasons are distinct throughout the whole country.

The coastal climate is one of mild winters and cool summers, while inland winters are cold and summers are hot.

The warm waters of the Gulf Stream bring a mild climate to coastal areas and ensure ice-free harbours even in winter.

The part of the country which lies north of the Arctic Circle has midnight sun in summer and periods without daylight in winter.

Ålesund being situated south of the Arctic Circle has no midnight sun, but has still daylight most of the night in mid-summer and only short periods of daylight in mid-winter. The famous northern lights can also be seen as far south as Ålesund. As far as the Ålesund region is concerned, its coastal climate provides changing weather conditions all year. In this region you will in summer experience both chilly, rainy days and sunny days warm enough for the locals to go swimming in the sea and in winter a variety from rainy days, stormy weather, snow and ice. The temperature often varies from about +10 to +25 degrees Celcius in summer and from –5 to + 15 in winter (colder higher up in the mountains).

There is a reason why the Norwegians are preoccupied with the weather – talking about the weather is a sure topic in almost every conversation here !