National Tourist Routes of Norway

Discover Norway's 18 officially designated scenic routes, each offering unique landscapes, cultural experiences, and opportunities for luxury travel throughout the kingdom's most spectacular regions.

The Atlantic Road represents one of Norway's most dramatic coastal tourist routes

The Atlantic Road stands among Norway's crown jewels as one of 18 routes designated by the Statens vegvesen (Government Road Authority) as National Tourist Routes. These carefully selected drives represent the pinnacle of Norwegian scenic beauty, each offering distinct experiences that showcase the country's diverse landscapes from arctic wilderness to dramatic fjords.

Understanding Norway's National Tourist Routes Program

Launched in 1994, the National Tourist Routes program represents a comprehensive initiative to highlight Norway's most spectacular driving experiences while developing infrastructure that supports sustainable tourism. Each route undergoes extensive evaluation for scenic value, cultural significance, and potential for enhanced visitor experiences through architectural viewpoints, service facilities, and interpretive elements.

The program operates on a philosophy that exceptional natural beauty deserves exceptional presentation. Rather than simply marking scenic roads, the initiative involves collaboration with renowned architects and designers to create viewing platforms, rest areas, and facilities that complement rather than compete with the landscape. This approach has garnered international recognition and serves as a model for scenic route development worldwide.

Complete Guide to All 18 National Tourist Routes

Northern Norway Routes (Arctic Experiences)

Varanger (160 km) - Europe's northeasternmost scenic route offers Arctic tundra landscapes, Sami culture, and exceptional bird watching. The route connects Varangerbotn to Hamningberg, featuring the dramatic Varanger Peninsula where visitors can experience midnight sun and Northern Lights depending on season.

Havøysund (67 km) - This coastal route through Finnmark showcases traditional fishing communities and arctic landscapes. The journey from Olderfjord to Havøysund includes spectacular views of the Barents Sea and opportunities to experience indigenous Sami culture.

Senja (102 km) - Known as "Norway in Miniature," Senja offers fjords, beaches, and mountains in compact form. The route from Gryllefjord to Botnhamn provides dramatic contrasts between the wild Atlantic coast and gentle inland valleys.

Andøya (58 km) - The northernmost Lofoten island features whale watching opportunities, midnight sun, and pristine beaches. From Andenes to Risøyhamn, travelers experience Arctic nature at its most accessible.

Lofoten (230 km) - Perhaps Norway's most famous scenic drive connects dramatic peaks, fishing villages, and white sand beaches. The route from Å to Raftsundet represents the pinnacle of arctic coastal beauty.

Helgelandskysten (431 km) - Norway's longest National Tourist Route follows the dramatic Helgeland coast, featuring the Seven Sisters mountain range, traditional fishing culture, and numerous islands accessible by ferry.

Central Norway Routes (Fjord and Mountain Experiences)

Atlanterhavsvegen - The Atlantic Road (36 km) - The subject of this website, connecting small islands via dramatic bridges and offering spectacular coastal scenery. From Bud to Kristiansund, this route epitomizes Norwegian coastal engineering and natural beauty.

Geiranger (104 km) - Home to UNESCO World Heritage fjords, this route from Langvatnet to Geiranger includes some of the world's most dramatic fjord scenery, including the famous Seven Sisters waterfall.

Trollstigen (106 km) - The "Troll's Path" features Norway's most famous mountain road with 11 hairpin turns. From Åndalsnes to Valldal, the route showcases engineering marvels amid spectacular mountain scenery.

Rondane (75 km) - Norway's first national park provides the backdrop for this route from Folldal to Mysusæter, featuring ancient mountain landscapes and traditional Norwegian mountain culture.

Western Norway Routes (Fjord Country)

Gamle Strynefjellsvegen (27 km) - This historic mountain road, dating from 1894, offers traditional Norwegian mountain pass experiences. The route from Grotli to Videsæter represents authentic mountain travel through pristine wilderness.

Sognefjellet (108 km) - Norway's highest mountain pass connects eastern and western Norway via spectacular alpine scenery. From Lom to Skjolden, the route reaches 1,434 meters above sea level.

Gaularfjellet (130 km) - This route from Balestrand to Moskog provides access to traditional Norwegian mountain culture and spectacular views of surrounding fjords and peaks.

Aurlandsfjellet (47 km) - Connecting Aurland to Lærdal, this high mountain route offers dramatic transitions from fjord-level valleys to alpine plateaus, including the famous Snow Road section.

Hardangervidda (68 km) - Europe's largest mountain plateau provides the setting for this route from Haugastøl to Eidfjord, featuring traditional mountain culture and spectacular wilderness.

Southern Norway Routes (Coastal and Mountain Diversity)

Hardanger (158 km) - Following the famous Hardangerfjord, this route from Granvin to Odda showcases fruit orchards, dramatic waterfalls, and traditional Norwegian fjord culture. Spring brings spectacular fruit blossoms.

Ryfylke (240 km) - This complex route through multiple fjord branches from Oanes to Hjelmeland offers intimate fjord experiences and traditional rural Norwegian culture.

Valdresflye (51 km) - Connecting Beitostølen to Hindsæter, this mountain route provides access to traditional Norwegian mountain resorts and spectacular highland scenery.

Jæren (41 km) - Norway's only National Tourist Route featuring flat coastal landscapes, from Ogna to Bore, showcasing traditional farming culture and dramatic North Sea coastlines.

Luxury Travel on National Tourist Routes

Each National Tourist Route offers opportunities for luxury experiences that complement the natural beauty. Premium accommodations range from historic hotels to modern design properties, often featuring locations chosen specifically for their scenic value.

Exclusive Accommodations along the routes include historic grand hotels like the Hotel Union Øye on the Geiranger route, boutique properties such as the Storfjord Hotel near Trollstigen, and luxury lodges throughout the mountain regions. Many properties offer concierge services specializing in arranging private guides, helicopter tours, and exclusive access to remote locations.

Premium Experiences available along various routes include private yacht charters in the Lofoten Islands, helicopter tours over the Geiranger fjord, exclusive Northern Lights viewing in Finnmark, and private chef experiences featuring local ingredients and traditional Norwegian cuisine.

Planning Your Multi-Route Journey

Many travelers combine multiple National Tourist Routes into comprehensive Norwegian adventures. Popular combinations include the "Fjord Triangle" (Geiranger, Trollstigen, and Atlantic Road), the "Lofoten Experience" (connecting northern routes), and the "Southern Coastal Journey" (Hardanger, Ryfylke, and Jæren).

For luxury travelers, specialized tour operators offer comprehensive packages that include premium accommodations, private transportation, and exclusive experiences across multiple routes. These journeys typically range from 10-21 days and provide access to experiences unavailable through independent travel.

The National Tourist Routes represent more than scenic drives; they offer immersion into Norwegian culture, history, and natural beauty at the highest level. For those seeking to understand Norway's essence through its most spectacular landscapes, these 18 routes provide unparalleled access to experiences that define the Norwegian spirit.