Tomrefjord

“We have it really good here,” laughs Hege Lie, a mother of two and a teacher. She was born here and moved back after living in Copenhagen and several other places. Hege had always imagined that she would return to her hometown when the time came to settle down with a family.

“It’s a small village, but there are so many opportunities and so much happening anyway. Especially for the kids!” Hege adds.

It’s true. Tomrefjord isn’t a big place. The village has just over 1 000 residents and sits by the fjord with the same name. But don’t be fooled by the snow-capped mountains, the fresh air, and the sound of the waves from the ocean. It’s actually right in the sweet spot. Tomrefjord is less than an hour away from the city of Ålesund and Åndalsnes – and a little over an hour from Kristiansund. Also, Tomrefjord is only a short ferry ride from the city of Molde. This opens up a world of possibilities: shopping, hotels, museums, restaurants, Aker Stadium, and a wide range of cultural events. Not least, the world-famous Molde Jazz Festival is just a short trip away, attracting international artists and audiences every year. Additionally, Molde Airport, Årø, and Vigra Airport, Ålesund, are just a short drive from Tomrefjord, providing easy access to both domestic and international flights. In other words, everything you need is within reach.

“And it’s less than a fifteen-minute drive to the municipal center, Vestnes, where you can find just about everything you might need,” Hege adds.

Other key players in the local economy include companies like Bauta and Solstrand Shipyard, and more. Together, they create jobs and career opportunities, drive innovation, and –last but not least– support the local community.

“The industry here in Tomrefjord contribute so much to supporting the village,” says Hege.

Tomrefjord and the wider Vestnes municipality benefit from a strong and forward-looking business environment. Vestnes Business Forum plays a key role as a bridge between businesses, the municipality, and residents. The forum drives development and collaboration, helping to create security, growth, and good jobs in the region.

One popular and inclusive initiative is the monthly Business Pub. This is a low-threshold meeting place where established companies and curious newcomers come together. Experiences, ideas, and contacts are shared in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. These initiatives strengthen community bonds, build networks, and make it easier to settle in—both socially and professionally—in the village.

For those who can’t decide whether to spend the day on the fjord or in the mountains, Tomrefjord is the place. Here, you don’t have to choose. You can have it all.

There are so many very family-friendly hikes here. For me, both the fjord and the mountains are places where I just think, ‘I’m so happy to live here,’ she smiles.

Family-friendly activities extend to the extensive cross-country ski trail network maintained by the local sports club every winter. Here, you can ski as long as you like, with a snack packed in your bag. On Tomrefjellet, you can even stop by the warming hut for a cozy break.

“Overall, the outdoor opportunities here are incredibly diverse,” Hege concludes. Her family enjoys time at sea, in the forest, and up in the mountains.

For the adventurous, Åndalsnes and Rauma municipality are just around the corner, offering a wide variety of outdoor experiences. Explore scenic hikes like Rampestreken, take a breathtaking road trip along Trollstigen, or embark on challenging expeditions in the Romsdal Alps. There’s something for everyone. From hiking loving families, to climbers to base jumpers – and everything in between.