Ålesund, a beautiful Art Noveau town which is the capital of north-west Norway, was our destination at the invitation of the Bailliage of Nordvestlandet.

Friday, August 25th
Aperitifs at the Radisson Hotel were followed by a sightseeing tour on the way to Alnes for the evening’s dinner where Chargé de Missions Steinar Hansi Giske, who acts as Bailli of Nordvestlandet, welcomed everyone to the weekend of celebration. Chef Mindor Klauset ran through the menu and then dish after dish was served with his original and humorous touches. The evident influence of maritime and coastal delicacies was enhanced by the wines selected.

Saturday, August 26th
Ålesund’s well-known guide, Harald Grytten, took us on a guided walk through the local history. A famous, dramatic fire in 1904 devastated the town which rose from the ashes in the Art Nouveau or “Jugend” style. A choice of lunch establishments was either Sjøbua, a well-known seafood restaurant, or the modern sushi restaurant, Zuuma.

The Induction Ceremony held in Aalesunds Klubselskab was presided over by Carl Wachtmeister, Member of the Conseil d’Administration from Sweden. He inducted a large number into the Chaîne and the Ordre Mondial.

Steinar Hansi Giske welcomed everyone to the Gala Dinner. The hotel’s fantastic staff did a wonderful job of serving a comprehensive, demanding seven-course menu to almost 200 guests. New acquaintances were made. Conversation centred on the delights of food and wine. Carl Wachtmeister gave a resume of the food served after which the kitchen and service brigades were enthusiastically thanked.

Sunday, August 27th
After lunch at XL Diner, Ålesund’s famous klipfish restaurant, we said goodbye with great memories of 2017 and the anticipation of the 50th anniversary of the Chaîne in Norway in 2018.

A big thank you was given the Bailliage of Nordvestlandet for creating such a fantastic experience. Looking ahead, best wishes and good luck were sent to the Bailliage of Vestfold which has the honour of hosting the Golden Anniversary event.

Steinar Hansi Giske
Chargé de Missions