The Golden Train on Rauma Railway in Romsdalen

Mountain scenery starts almost at the station. The Golden Train carries you from Åndalsnes into the Rauma Valley, with sharp peaks, fresh mountain air, railway stories, and a short pause at Bjorli. I like the spectacular views and the relaxed way the guide explains the route as you go. I also like that the trip takes only about two and a half to three hours, making it easy to fit into a day in Romsdalen.

The main drawback is that you see most of the route through the train window. The stop at Bjorli is brief, and boarding can feel confusing if you do not reach Åndalsnes station early. Seating is not assigned, so arrive with time to claim a good spot, especially on the right side of the train.

Key points to know before you go

• The route runs from Åndalsnes to Bjorli and back, covering one of Norway’s most scenic railway corridors in roughly 2 hours 25 minutes to 2 hours 55 minutes.
• The right side usually offers the better views, particularly on the outward journey, so arrive early if seat choice matters to you.
• Bjorli is a short stop, useful for fresh air and a look at the railway, but not long enough for a full visit to the village.
• The commentary is a major part of the experience, with stories about the route, its scenery, and the engineering behind the railway.
• Board at Åndalsnes Train Station, Platform 1, but check your exact departure time and platform instructions carefully.
• The $74.14 price can be good value, especially compared with a cruise excursion, but you are paying mainly for scenery and commentary rather than a full-day outing.

Why the Rauma Railway makes a good short excursion

The Golden Train is a scenic rail ride rather than a stop-heavy tour. That distinction matters. You are not being delivered to a string of attractions with long guided walks. Instead, the railway itself is the attraction.

From Åndalsnes, the train follows the Rauma Railway toward Bjorli. The route gives you a changing view of the Romsdalen area, with mountain scenery framed by the carriage windows. The trip also lets you appreciate the practical achievement of laying a railway through such difficult country.

I like this format for a port day or a busy Norway itinerary. You get a strong sense of the valley without committing an entire day to transport. The round trip lasts about 2.5 to 3 hours, and the train returns to the station where you started.

The ride also has more substance than a silent sightseeing loop. Train hosts provide commentary in English, pointing out major sights and explaining parts of the railway’s story. The commentary has been praised for being interesting and pleasant to listen to, though one important warning is worth noting: sound quality may vary by seat or carriage. If hearing every detail matters to you, sit near the guide or speaker when possible.

Åndalsnes station: arrive early and get oriented

The meeting point is Åndalsnes Train Station, at Jernbanegata 1. The listed meeting area is the station parking area, while boarding takes place at Platform 1.

This is the part of the trip that deserves the most practical attention. Reach the station at least 20 minutes before departure. That gives you time to locate the train, check the platform, show your mobile ticket, and find a seat before the carriage fills.

The station can be confusing because other trains and larger groups may be boarding at the same time. One departure was listed at 12:50 while the train most clearly associated with the excursion was already attracting a line on Platform 1. The safest move is to ask station staff or the train host before waiting in the car park.

Your mobile booking confirmation is important, but you may also need the specific Golden Train boarding confirmation or ticket to get on. Keep all documents open on your phone. A few minutes spent sorting this out at the station is far better than trying to solve it as the train doors are closing.

The train can fill completely, especially when cruise ship passengers are joining the same departure. Early arrival does not guarantee a particular seat, but it gives you a much better chance of sitting with your party and choosing a useful viewing position.

Åndalsnes to Bjorli: the scenic heart of the trip

The outward journey takes about an hour. This is when you settle into the ride, listen to the first set of stories, and watch the valley change outside the window.

The scenery is the strongest part of the experience. You will see mountain views along the Rauma Valley, with the railway providing a steady route through the area. The changing views are best enjoyed without trying to photograph every second. Keep your phone ready, but also give yourself time to simply watch.

The commentary adds context to the scenery. Without it, the ride would still be attractive, but you might miss why particular sections of the route matter. The railway’s engineering is one of the memorable themes of the trip, and the guide helps connect the visible track and bridges with the work required to build and operate them.

For the best chance at clear views, consider the right side of the train on the way to Bjorli. This advice comes up repeatedly for a reason. Still, the opposite side is not a bad seat. The train is moving through a broad valley, and the view changes constantly. If you cannot sit on the right, you have not lost the whole experience.

Since seats are not delegated, you may need to make a quick choice when you board. If you are traveling with someone, arrive early enough to find seats together. If you are alone, you have more flexibility and can perhaps switch sides during the stop at Bjorli, though there is no stated system for rotating seats.

Bjorli station: a short pause, not a full-town visit

At Bjorli, the train stops for roughly 24 to 35 minutes, depending on the departure schedule. This is your chance to step out, breathe the mountain air, stretch your legs, and see a small piece of the Rauma Railway’s history up close.

Keep your expectations sensible. Bjorli is a pause in the rail journey, not a separate guided destination. The stop is long enough to get off the train and enjoy a break, but not long enough for an extended walk or an independent exploration of the area.

The stop also gives you a chance to reset your viewing position. If you sat on the right side going up, you may want to choose the opposite side for the return. There is no promise that you can do this, and seating remains unassigned, but it is worth trying if the carriage allows it.

Pay attention to the departure time. The return train will not wait for anyone who wanders too far. Since the schedule can vary by date, use the time printed at checkout or confirmed with your booking rather than relying only on a general timetable.

Bjorli to Åndalsnes: a second look at the valley

The return journey takes about 48 minutes to 1 hour 4 minutes, depending on the departure. The guide provides a new set of stories, so the ride back is not simply a repeat of the first commentary.

This is where seat choice becomes a small issue. The views you saw from one side on the way to Bjorli may appear from the other side on the way down. If you can change seats, do so. If not, the return trip still has value because the scenery looks different when viewed in reverse, and the narration continues.

I would treat the ride back as a quieter second act. You already know how the train works, so you can focus more on details outside. It is also a good time to review photographs, listen closely to the final stories, or simply enjoy the rhythm of the train.

One weakness is that the journey does not include a long outdoor viewpoint stop. If you want to hike, walk beside waterfalls, or spend time at several scenic points, this is not the right excursion. The Golden Train gives you access to the valley from a comfortable seat, not an active mountain day.

What the $74.14 price buys you

At $74.14 per person, the Golden Train is not a bargain rail ticket. You are paying for a packaged scenic experience with an English-speaking train host, organized boarding, and commentary throughout the round trip.

The value depends on what you want from your time in Åndalsnes. If your priority is an easy way to see the Rauma Valley without arranging transport yourself, the price is reasonable. The train returns to the same station, the ride is short enough for a half-day plan, and the scenery is the main event.

The price also compares favorably with at least one cruise-based excursion. The Golden Train has been described as costing about half as much as the cruise ship option, though the exact comparison depends on the sailing and package involved. If you are coming from a cruise ship, the station’s location makes this especially convenient, since it is close to the port area.

Do not expect refreshments to be part of the deal. A suggestion for onboard drinks has been made, but refreshments are not listed as an included feature. Bring what you need, following any station or train rules, and eat before or after the ride if you want more than a light break.

Group size, comfort, and the boarding experience

The maximum group size is 65 people. That is large enough for a full carriage but still much smaller than a major coach tour. The train itself creates the practical limit, and popular departures can feel crowded.

Comfort is one of the trip’s strengths. You remain seated for most of the journey, with the train doing the work while the guide supplies the context. Most people can participate, and service animals are allowed.

The less comfortable part is uncertainty at boarding. The experience has no assigned seating, and busy departures may fill quickly. If you arrive late, you could find that your party is split up or that the best window positions are already taken.

The answer is simple: arrive early, check the platform, and have your ticket ready. Do not assume that standing in the parking area means you are in the correct place. Go toward the platform and confirm the train with staff.

Who will enjoy the Golden Train most?

I would recommend this ride to you if you want dramatic Norwegian scenery with little physical effort. It suits cruise passengers, couples, families, older visitors, and anyone with only a few hours in Åndalsnes.

It is also a good choice if you enjoy railways, engineering, and local stories. The guide’s commentary gives the ride more purpose than a basic point-to-point train journey.

You may want another plan if you need lots of time outdoors. The Bjorli stop is brief, and most of the experience takes place inside the carriage. Photographers should also understand that train windows, seat position, and a moving carriage can limit the perfect shot.

I would be cautious about booking if you dislike fixed departure times or crowded boarding. The tour requires you to be at the station on time, and late arrival can create real stress. Check the exact date and departure listed at checkout, because some days use different times.

Booking, cancellation, and useful final details

You receive confirmation when booking, and the ticket is mobile. The activity is offered in English, and it ends back at Åndalsnes Train Station.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time. If you cancel or request changes inside that 24-hour window, you will not receive a refund. The cut-off is based on local time.

The experience depends on good weather. If poor weather forces cancellation, you can choose another date or receive a full refund. That policy matters in a mountain region, where conditions can affect the views that make this trip worthwhile.

Should you book the Golden Train?

Book it if you want a comfortable, well-explained look at the Rauma Valley and have about three hours to spare. The scenery and railway commentary earn the ticket its value, and the short Bjorli stop adds just enough fresh air to break up the ride.

Book early for popular dates, then arrive at least 20 minutes before departure. Aim for the right side of the train, confirm Platform 1, and keep your boarding details ready on your phone.

Skip it if you want a full outdoor adventure, a long stop in Bjorli, or guaranteed assigned seats. For a compact excursion from Åndalsnes, though, this is a practical and memorable way to see one of Norway’s great mountain rail routes.

FAQ

Where does the Golden Train journey start?

The journey starts at Åndalsnes Train Station, Jernbanegata 1, 6300 Åndalsnes, Norway. The meeting information lists the station parking area, with boarding at Platform 1.

Where does the train go?

The Golden Train runs from Åndalsnes to Bjorli and then returns to Åndalsnes.

How long does the experience last?

The full round trip takes approximately 2 hours 25 minutes to 2 hours 55 minutes, or about 2.5 to 3 hours.

How long does the train stop at Bjorli?

The stop is usually about 24 to 35 minutes, depending on the departure schedule.

Which side of the train has the best views?

The right side is generally recommended for the best access to views, particularly on the journey from Åndalsnes to Bjorli. Seating is not assigned.

Is the tour offered in English?

Yes. Train hosts provide commentary in English.

Can I cancel the booking?

Yes. You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the experience starts. Cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before departure are not accepted for a refund.