Varden is a small hilltop park above Molde that offers what is claimed to be one of the finest panoramic views in Norway. On a clear day the view takes in the broad Romsdalsfjorden, the surrounding fjords, the town below, and 222 named mountain peaks on all sides. It is the view the town is famous for — the one that earned Molde its reputation as an exceptionally scenic stop on the Hurtigruten route.
The viewpoint is reached by a short, steep walk from the town centre (about 20-30 minutes on foot), or by car on a road that winds up through residential streets. There is a small café at the top in summer. The best light is in the morning before haze builds up, and the best season is late spring through early autumn, when snow still covers the high peaks but the fjord is ice-free and the light is long. On overcast days the view disappears entirely — Molde's rainfall is considerable and clear days are worth seizing.