Frei: Mountain Views, Lake and Cultural History

Frei offers a variety of ideas for spending time outdoors: sweeping views from Freikollen, experiences around Bolgvatnet and the family-friendly beach at Freistranda. The area also has hiking routes, cultural history and nature. When choosing a holiday apartment on Frei, your preferred holiday activities can help guide your decision—whether you prefer summit hikes, lake activities, time at the beach or cultural discoveries.

Freikollen: Summit and sweeping panoramic views

At 629 metres, Freikollen is the highest peak in Kristiansund Municipality. On clear days, the panoramic view stretches from the islands and sea in the north to the mountains far to the south. This makes the summit a distinctive destination for anyone looking to add a view to their stay. When snow conditions are good, cross-country skiing or downhill skiing is possible at Freikollen; snow conditions should therefore be taken into account when choosing the right day.

The route to Freikollen from Prestmyra is listed as 1.56 kilometres each way, with a duration of 2 hours and 10 minutes. Another option is the 4-Fjell Frei circular route: it takes in four peaks on Frei, is accessible almost all year round and is about 14 kilometres long. It is estimated to take approximately 5 to 6 hours. When planning your days, these details can help you choose between a single summit route and a longer circular hike.

Bolgvatnet: Lake, trail and activities on the water

Bolgvatnet lies in the middle of Freiøya, 64 metres above sea level, and is the largest lake in Kristiansund Municipality. The publicly secured outdoor recreation area offers several ways to spend time by the lake. A surfaced path follows the former main road and continues to the residential area of Storbakken. The entire length of the path offers good cycling opportunities.

Water activities are also an option: Bolgvatnet offers good opportunities for launching a kayak. When planning your holiday, you can choose whether you would rather explore the surfaced path or spend time on the lake.

More hikes and swimming spots on Frei

Utsikten is a family-friendly, easy-to-walk route in the middle of Freiøya. It follows an improved forest road and can be enjoyed in both summer and winter. It is a separate option for families looking for an easy walk. For a longer outing, there is the 4-Fjell circular route, which can be hiked almost all year round and takes in four peaks; the two routes differ in character and length.

On the south side of Frei, the route to Kjerringvatnet passes through natural surroundings. In summer, the lake offers opportunities to relax and swim. Freistranda, meanwhile, is a publicly secured, family-friendly beach on Frei, near Frei Church and the historic site of Rastarkalv. You can reach Freistranda on foot, by bicycle or by car. If you are planning time for swimming, you can choose between the beach and the summer activities at Kjerringvatnet.

Freimarka is a recreational and outdoor area on Freiøya, developed to include hiking trails and paths. These trails complement the more specific route options, such as Utsikten or the summit hikes. The variety of activities makes Frei appealing to people with different holiday interests, without requiring every activity to fit into the same day’s plans.

Knudtzonlunden and the history of the area

Knudtzonlunden, formally known as Birkelund, was built in 1874 by Nicolay H. Knudtzon III. The site is of great cultural and historical value and is subject to strict preservation regulations. Today, Knudtzonlunden serves as a meeting place for business, culture and events, as well as for the bank’s own activities. The “Frei - Fra Knudtzonlunden til Rastarkalv” hike starts in the car park between Frei Church and Kirkeveien.

Your search for a holiday apartment can therefore be guided by the experiences that interest you most about your trip.

More local pages: Bruhagen, Aukra, Midsund, Kristiansund, Tingvoll.

For the main travel overview: More Og Romsdal.