The Golden Train on Rauma Railway in Romsdalen

The Golden Train follows the Rauma Railway from Åndalsnes into the Romsdalen valley, with mountain views, dramatic engineering, and stories from the line’s past. The train reaches Bjorli in about an hour, pauses there briefly, then returns by the same route.

I like the easy setup: you board at Åndalsnes station, and the train brings you back to the same place. I also like the mix of scenery and commentary, which gives the ride more purpose than simply looking out a window. The main catch is open seating and a busy platform, so arrive early and be ready to sort out where to board.

Key points to know before you go

• Bjorli is the turnaround point: You get a short break there, usually about 25 to 35 minutes depending on the departure.
• The right side offers stronger views: Sit there if you can, though you may want to change sides for the return trip.
• Commentary is part of the experience: Train hosts explain the route, railway history, and sights along the way.
• Arrive at least 20 minutes early: The train can fill quickly, particularly when cruise passengers are joining the ride.
• Seats are not assigned: Getting aboard early improves your chance of sitting together or choosing a preferred side.
• The trip costs $74.14 per person: That is reasonable for a guided scenic rail outing, but less attractive if you want long stops outside the train.

Why the Rauma Railway makes a good half-day outing

The appeal here is simple: you get a scenic mountain rail journey without arranging a car, changing trains, or committing an entire day. Åndalsnes is the starting point, and the line carries you inland toward Bjorli before returning you to town.

I like this kind of trip because the train does the work. You can watch the valley pass by, listen to the host, and avoid the distraction of driving on unfamiliar roads. The railway also gives you a sense of how difficult it was to connect these communities through the mountains. One passenger called the engineering marvelous, and that is a useful way to think about the ride: the scenery is the star, but the railway itself is part of the attraction.

The route is not designed as a hop-on, hop-off excursion. You are mainly viewing the Romsdalen valley from your seat. That makes the experience comfortable and weather-friendly, but it also limits your time outside. If you want a hiking day or long photo stops, this is not the right format.

Starting at Åndalsnes station

The meeting point is Åndalsnes Train Station, at Jernbanegata 1. The stated meeting location is the station parking area, while boarding takes place at Platform 1. That distinction matters. The train may be easy to spot, but the station can become confusing when another service or a large group is preparing to board.

Bring your mobile ticket and keep an eye on the platform information. You may need to show your booking to a guard or train staff member before boarding. The ride uses open seating, so you are not simply walking to a reserved place marked with your name.

I would arrive at least 20 minutes before departure. That gives you time to find Platform 1, ask where the Golden Train is loading, and choose seats before the carriage fills. One departure had passengers waiting in long lines, and the train became full enough that some people could not find seats. That is an avoidable problem if you arrive early.

The regular departure patterns are:

• Åndalsnes 9:55 or 11:00, depending on the stated schedule, with a return around 12:23
• Åndalsnes 12:53, with a return around 15:35

The published times can change on some dates. Check the exact departure at checkout and again before you leave for the station.

The ride to Bjorli: about an hour of views and stories

Once the train leaves Åndalsnes, the first hour is the heart of the experience. You follow the Rauma Railway through the Romsdalen valley, with mountain scenery outside and commentary inside.

The views are the reason to book. You will want to keep your camera ready, but do not spend the whole ride staring at a screen. The best moments may pass quickly, and the train’s movement gives you a changing view rather than a single fixed lookout.

The commentary adds useful context. Hosts explain the major sights and share stories connected with the railway. The tone is meant to be informative rather than formal, and past feedback about the guide has been especially positive regarding the pleasant voice and clear presentation.

Sound quality can vary by seat and by carriage. One passenger found the guide difficult to hear, even though the main sights were pointed out. If commentary matters to you, sit where the host’s announcements are easiest to follow and avoid relying entirely on hearing every word from the back of the train.

The route also has a practical advantage for photographers: you can watch the same scenery again on the return. That gives you a second chance if a mountain view is blocked, the light changes, or you simply chose the less favorable side on the way up.

Choosing your side of the train

The right side is generally the better choice for views on the outward journey. This tip comes up often enough to take seriously. If you arrive early, try for that side first.

The trouble is that everyone cannot have the best window for both directions. Since the train returns along the same line, you may prefer to sit on the right going to Bjorli and then switch sides for the trip back. There is no stated system for rotating seats, so any change depends on passengers cooperating and on seats being available.

That is one reason not to treat your first seat as permanent. At Bjorli, you can ask the host or nearby passengers if a seat change makes sense. Be polite and practical, especially if the train is full. If you are traveling with someone and want to sit together, boarding early matters more than chasing the perfect view.

You may also find that a seat with a slightly less direct view is better for hearing the commentary. The best choice depends on your priorities: scenery, sound, or sitting together.

Bjorli: a short stop, not a full visit

Bjorli is the turnaround point. The train stops there for roughly 25 to 35 minutes, depending on the departure schedule. This gives you a chance to step onto the platform, breathe the mountain air, and see part of the Rauma Railway’s history up close.

Keep your expectations sensible. This is a short railway stop, not a full town tour. The supplied schedule does not include a longer guided visit or a separate sightseeing program in Bjorli. You have enough time for a brief stretch and a few photographs, but you should stay alert for the boarding time.

The stop is valuable because the full experience would feel more confined without it. After sitting on the train for about an hour, even a short break makes the return ride more pleasant. It also gives you a closer look at the railway setting instead of seeing everything through glass.

Do not wander far from the station. The train leaves at the stated time, and the activity ends back in Åndalsnes. If you miss the return, the simple round-trip arrangement becomes a much bigger problem.

The return to Åndalsnes

The ride back takes roughly the same amount of time, though the exact schedule varies. The commentary continues, with new stories and details rather than simply repeating the first half of the trip.

This leg is where the open seating can work in your favor. You have already seen the route once, so you can focus on views you missed or try to sit on the opposite side. The light may also have changed, giving familiar peaks and valley views a different look.

The return also helps you judge whether the ticket offers good value. If you enjoy scenic rail journeys, two hours or more on the train feels substantial. If you wanted a short ride with several stops, the return along the same line may seem repetitive.

I would use the outward ride for listening and the return for relaxed viewing, photography, and conversation. That keeps the experience from feeling like two identical trips.

Commentary, comfort, and the pace of the trip

The Golden Train is at its best when you want scenery with a little explanation. The hosts share stories in English, pointing out major sights and adding context about the railway. You do not need specialist knowledge to enjoy it.

The train ride itself is designed to be comfortable, but the information provided does not promise refreshments or assigned seats. Bring anything you need for a two-and-a-half to three-hour outing. A past suggestion was to add refreshments, so do not assume food or drinks are part of the ticket.

The same applies to seating. If sitting beside your companion is important, arrive early. The train may fill quickly, and staff cannot guarantee that everyone will get the arrangement they want.

This is a social, shared train experience rather than a private excursion. The maximum group size is 65 people, though the train may feel especially busy on dates when cruise passengers join. That number is still manageable, but it is large enough for boarding, seat selection, and noise levels to matter.

Is $74.14 good value?

At $74.14 per person, the Golden Train sits in the mid-range for a scenic excursion. I think the price is fair if you value three things: a round trip, live English commentary, and the ease of boarding at Åndalsnes.

The ticket also makes sense for cruise passengers. The station is close to the cruise area, and you can reach it without arranging a separate transfer. That convenience matters when your time in port is limited. Some cruise-based outings cost much more, so this can be a practical alternative for seeing the valley by rail.

The value is weaker if your main goal is time outside. You spend most of the tour seated, with only a short pause at Bjorli. You are paying for the route and the guided interpretation, not for a series of long stops.

I would compare the price with your day’s other plans. If you have only a few hours in Åndalsnes, the train gives you a structured way to see more of the valley. If you have several days and can arrange a longer road or hiking outing, you may prefer the freedom of a less fixed schedule.

Who will enjoy the Golden Train most?

I would recommend this ride to you if you want a low-effort way to see the Romsdalen valley. It suits families, older passengers, cruise passengers, and anyone who prefers a seated outing over a demanding walk.

It is also a good choice if railway engineering interests you. The host’s stories and the route itself give the trip more depth than a basic scenic transfer. You get a sense of the line’s role in connecting the valley, while still having plenty of time to look outside.

Photographers should arrive early and aim for the right side on the way to Bjorli. You will need to accept that the best seat may not be available, especially on a full departure.

I would think twice if you dislike crowds, need guaranteed seating, or expect frequent stops. The train can fill, the platform information may not always feel obvious, and the Bjorli break is short.

Practical details that can save you trouble

Your confirmation arrives at booking, and the ticket is available on your mobile device. Keep the booking easy to open at the station. You may also need the specific Golden Train ticket or boarding confirmation before getting on.

Service animals are allowed. The activity is near public transportation, and most people can participate. No special physical requirement is stated, but the experience does involve getting to the station, boarding a train, and stepping off briefly at Bjorli.

The activity ends where it starts, at Åndalsnes station. That makes it easy to plan a meal, a cruise return, or another activity afterward, but leave yourself a buffer if you have a strict departure time.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Changes or cancellations made within 24 hours are not accepted for a refund. Since the ride requires good weather, a weather cancellation brings the choice of another date or a full refund.

Should you book the Golden Train?

Book it if you want a scenic, guided rail ride with simple logistics and a real taste of the Rauma Railway. The spectacular views, railway stories, and return trip make it a strong half-day choice from Åndalsnes.

Go in prepared for open seating, a crowded boarding process, and limited time outside. Arrive early, ask clearly where the train is loading, try for the right side, and keep your expectations focused on the ride itself.

For most people who want an easy introduction to the Romsdalen valley, I think the $74.14 price is justified. For hikers or independent sightseers who want freedom and long stops, spend your money elsewhere.

FAQ

Where does the Golden Train tour start?

It starts at Åndalsnes Train Station, Jernbanegata 1, 6300 Åndalsnes, Norway. The stated meeting point is the station parking area, with boarding at Platform 1.

Where does the train go?

The train travels from Åndalsnes to Bjorli on the Rauma Railway, then returns to Åndalsnes.

How long does the full trip take?

The complete round trip takes approximately 2 hours 25 minutes to 2 hours 55 minutes.

How long does the train stop at Bjorli?

The stop is usually about 25 to 35 minutes, depending on the departure schedule.

Is seating assigned?

No assigned seating is stated. Arrive early if you want a better chance of sitting together or choosing the right side for views.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes. Train hosts provide the commentary in English.

Can I cancel for a full refund?

Yes, if you cancel at least 24 hours before the experience starts. Cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before the start time are not refunded. If poor weather cancels the activity, you can receive a different date or a full refund.