Tomrefjord

It’s a village full of life, yet it’s easy to enjoy the peacefulness of Tomrefjord - or simply “Tomra,” as the locals call it. This small community along the fjord offers exciting career opportunities, top-notch services for children and youth, and so much stunning nature that it can take your breath away.

-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.

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At the heart of Tomrefjord is Vard Langsten, part of the global VARD group and one of the largest employers in the region. Here, some of the world’s most advanced specialty vessels are built, especially for defense and offshore industries. The shipyard brings together high-tech expertise and offers exciting jobs for skilled workers, engineers, economists,

apprentices, and more. They do not only offer interesting jobs. Here, employees have access to exclusive facilities like a gym and a bowling alley; well-being and belonging are important parts of the workday.

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.

-We do a lot of volunteer work, and companies like VARD and others are always willing to help or sponsor, for example, sports events for the kids. That means so much to the villagers, she adds.

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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.

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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.

-One of the things I love most about Tomrefjord is that I can spend part of the day on the beach swimming or fishing in the fjord, and then a few hours later go on a beautiful hike in the mountains with the kids, Hege says.

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

-It’s simply a safe and wonderful childhood close to nature, says the mother of two.

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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.

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You might think that a small village can’t offer much in terms of leisure activities. Think again. Tomrefjord offers an impressive range of recreational activities for children, youth, and adults alike. Here you’ll find modern sports facilities, including an artificial turf field, swimming pool, indoor multipurpose hall, and a beautiful outdoor sports amphitheater that brings the village together for training and events. The community centre, Idahall, serves as the village’s own living room. Here the locals enjoy concerts, cultural evenings, performances, and private celebrations throughout the year.

The cultural life is also strong, with a long-standing musical tradition. Founded in 1978, Tomra Brass Band has grown from a group of friends into one of Norway’s most respected brass bands. Supported by local businesses and village pride, they’ve achieved impressive results nationally and internationally. That’s pretty cool for being a brass band in a small village! Today, the band focuses on recruiting new members and works closely with the Tomrefjord school band, welcoming anyone interested in experiencing the joy of music and community.

And that’s not all. Tomrefjord Songlag is a choir for adults, and the school kids get to have fun and thrive at cultural school, which is integrated into after-school programs.

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The Øverås Disc Golf Course is located in Tomrefjord and is known as one of Scandinavia’s best courses. It’s a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The disc golf course has become a major attraction in the Vestnes area. While the course is used mainly by local players, it also draws visitors from abroad; it has even hosted the world cup!

In other words, there’s plenty for both young and old to get involved in in Tomrefjord!

The village also has its own elementary and youth school, kindergarten, and grocery store. And, not surprisingly, a small boat harbor.

Tomrefjord offers affordable housing with plenty of space. You’ll find a mix of exciting renovation projects and charming homes at prices well below what you’d pay in the cities.

Whether you’re looking for a new job, a safe place to raise your family, a spot to grow your business, or simply seeking a life with more space and less stress… Tomrefjord is definitely a place worth discovering.

-People here are engaged, outgoing, and friendly, so Tomrefjord is a great place for children to grow up and for adults to live a life close to nature with good neighbors, Hege concludes with a smile.

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Sources:

Heim • iVestnes

Tomrefjord – Wikipedia