Aursjøen, lake in Lesja (Oppland) and Nesset (Møre og Romsdal), Norway
Aursjøen is a large reservoir in the Lesja region of Molde Municipality, Norway, known for its clear, calm waters surrounded by rocky slopes and sparse forest. The lake stretches about 23 kilometers at its longest point, features an irregular shoreline with many small inlets, and drains through the Aura River into the Eikesdalen valley.
The lake was dammed in 1953 to generate electricity for surrounding areas. This construction changed the natural water flow and maintained a consistent water level, providing both clean energy and reliable water supply to local communities and industries.
The name Aursjøen comes from the Norwegian language and reflects its place in this mountain region. Today, locals and visitors use the lake mainly for fishing and quiet outdoor time, which shows the simple, nature-centered way of life here.
The lake is reached by narrow mountain roads that are more accessible during warmer months, making that season better for visits. The terrain is rugged, so basic hiking experience helps when exploring more remote areas around the shoreline.
The lake has an unusually jagged shoreline stretching over 170 kilometers, dotted with small islands and many inlets that make it feel convoluted despite its size. This complex structure creates hidden corners and quiet coves worth exploring on foot or by water.
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