I spent a month traveling around what may be the world’s most beautiful country: Norway. I did not do all the drives I’m about to list below, but I did a lot of them. If you’re interested in renting a car, and all the ins-and-outs of traveling to Norway, check out my Norway: Stuff You Should Know video.
In terms of these scenic drives, these aren’t your average roads. They’re a front row seat to Norway’s natural wonders. Along these roads, you’ll find some seriously swanky rest stops and viewpoints. We’re talking about loos with views that could charge admission and platforms hanging off cliffs that dare you to snap a selfie with a waterfall without dropping your phone. It’s like Norway decided even the pit stops should be bucket-list worthy.
Where do these roads go, you ask? Everywhere from the famous fjords to the Arctic Circle, covering every type of terrain you can imagine. Fancy crossing a snowy landscape that sparkles like a vampire from “Twilight”? The Snow Road’s got you. Or maybe you’re into cycling alongside sparkling inlets with a chance of seeing a ferry glide by? Helgelandskysten is your route.
A full list of Norway’s scenic routes:
- Varanger
- Havøysund
- Senja
- Andøya
- Lofoten
- Helgelandskysten
- Atlanterhavsvegen
- Geiranger-Trollstigen
- Gamle Strynefjellsvegen
- Rondane
- Sognefjellet
- Valdresflye
- Gaularfjellet
- Aurlandsfjellet
- Hardanger
- Hardangervidda
- Ryfylke
- Jaeren
But here’s the kicker: some of these scenic beauties take a winter nap. That’s right, parts of these routes are like bears, hibernating during the cold months because of steep mountain passes and high altitudes. So, if you’re planning a winter road trip, check which routes are open unless you fancy a bit of unexpected cross-country skiing.
So, packing your bags for Norway yet? Just remember, while you’re out there driving on the scenic side of life, take a moment to appreciate the little things — like a well-designed rest stop in the middle of nowhere. It’s all part of the charm. Norway’s scenic routes are not just about the destination; they’re about making every stop, accidental or not, part of your story.