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Have you heard about the stunning Atlantic Ocean Road in Norway? This unique and dramatic highway runs right across the water, connecting small islands, islets and skerries in the western part of Norway. A marvel of modern engineering, Norway’s Atlantic Road is known as one of the world’s most beautiful drives – and for good reason!
If you’re wondering ‘is the Atlantic Road worth it?’, this guide will help you learn all you need to know to decide whether you want to drive this incredibly scenic route during your road trip in Norway. We’ll explore how long it takes to drive Norway’s Atlantic Road, where this famous route is and distinctive features along the road to look out for.
What is the Famous Atlantic Road in Norway?
So what exactly is the Atlantic Road in Norway? This famous National Tourist Route in More og Romsdal county in Fjord Norway is composed of eight bridges that dip, curve and arch over the strong Norwegian Sea waves.
The Atlantic Road in Norway is so stunning and unique that it actually featured in the James Bond blockbuster: ‘No Time to Die’. Driving this amazing Norway ocean road offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Norway's coastline while marveling at the architectural feats that made it all possible.
Known as Atlanterhavsveien, Norway in Norwegian, this incredible road connects the two largest towns in Fjord Norway: Kristiansund and Molde. Linking several islands and skerries, the Atlantic Highway in Norway is a testament to Norwegian engineering and the nation’s commitment to maintaining infrastructure in challenging coastal environments.
You may have heard of the famous Atlantic Road Norway bridge, which is actually the dramatically-curved Storseisundet Bridge. As the longest of the eight bridges that make up the Atlanterhavsveien, this bridge is often referred to as ‘the road to nowhere’, due to the unique angle and design of the road appearing to drop off into the sea – but don’t worry, it doesn’t!
Where Does the Atlantic Road Start?
Situated about 30 kilometers southwest of the town of Molde, the Atlantic Road in Norway runs from the town of Karavag to the village of Verang across the island of Averoy.
Norway’s Atlantic Ocean Road is a stretch of Route 64 arching over the sea, connecting Averoy with the mainland and joining several islets and skerries along the way. Taking the Atlantic Road in Norway is a key part of the journey between the towns of Kristiansund and Molde.
How Long Does it Take to Travel the Atlantic Road in Norway?
At 8.3 kilometers (5.2 miles) long, the Atlantic Road in Norway takes about 10 minutes to drive, depending on your speed.
If you want to drive the whole of Route 64, which includes the Atlantic Road, you’ll need around an hour and a quarter. Route 64 takes you from Molde to Kristiansund, or vice versa, with part of the journey being on the incredible Atlantic Road.
How Much Does it Cost to Go on the Atlantic Ocean Road?
Driving on the Atlantic Road in Norway is free, making this toll-free route an amazing and affordable addition to your Norway road trip itinerary.
Tolls were previously collected on Atlanterhavsveien. Within ten years after the road opened, the tolls paid off the road’s construction costs. The Atlantic Road has been toll-free since June 1999.
Building the Atlantic Road in Norway
Opened in 1989, the Atlantic Road in Norway took six years to construct at a total cost of 122 million NOK (Norwegian Krone). Built to improve transportation between the islands and the Norwegian mainland, the Atlantic Road’s breathtaking views quickly made it a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors from around the world.
Originally proposed as a railway line but changed to a roadway, the Atlantic Road started to be planned seriously in the 1970s. The incredible result has since been given the incredible accolade of the ‘Norwegian Construction of the Century’.
Consisting of eight bridges, several causeways and viaducts that connect the islands and span the open sea, Norway’s Atlantic Road is considered an engineering marvel due to its challenging construction. There were as many as 12 hurricanes that occurred during the building process!
Atlantic Road Norway Points of Interest and Things to Know
What makes the Atlantic Road in Norway so special and what can you do on and around this unique tourist route? Let’s explore some of the best ways to experience Norway’s Atlantic Ocean Road and some important things to know about this stunning road.
- Scenic beauty – The Atlantic Road offers breathtaking views of the Norwegian coastline, the North Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding fjords and mountains. Renowned for its picturesque landscapes, the Atlantic Road is definitely worth a visit to experience these incredible natural landscapes up close – just remember to pack your camera!
- Fishing – Along Atlanterhavsveien in Norway, you’ll find several fishing spots. Popular with anglers, the entire road allows you to fish in very close proximity to the sea, relatively far from big stretches of land. There is a particular bridge called Myrbærholmbrua that has a specially-designed pedestrian walkway to facilitate fishing.
- Bird watching – Avid bird watchers may also like to visit Norway’s Atlantic Road to spot some sea eagles, Atlantic puffins, gulls and a whole range of other sea birds. Bring your binoculars and enjoy spotting all the different bird species to be found flying across and swimming in the sea around Atlanterhavsveien.
- Cycling or walking – If you want to experience the Atlantic Road by foot or bike, you can! Breathe in the fresh ocean air and enjoy a brisk walk across this incredible ocean route.
- Rest-stops and viewpoints – There are several rest-stops and viewpoints along Norway’s Atlantic Road, with the biggest of these being on the island of Eldhusoya, which houses a service building, café, bathroom facilities and a mobile home parking lot. We recommend taking some time out of your Norway road trip to stop and soak in the incredible views from this unique ocean road.
- Potential for stormy weather – Norway’s Atlantic Road is particularly famous for its exposure to the elements, including storms and heavy waves. During storms, the road can be closed to traffic for safety reasons. As changeable weather can be expected on this ocean road, we recommend keeping an eye on the Norwegian weather forecast around the time of your Atlantic Road trip.
- Seasonal considerations – The Atlantic Road is typically open year-round, but weather conditions can be challenging in the winter months, so it's important to check road conditions before planning your trip.
Experience the Amazing Norway Atlantic Road Views For Yourself!
Inspired to take this stunning route for yourself? You can even plan to stay in one of the campervan and motorhome parking lots along the Atlantic Road to experience a night among the sea and stars – sounds magical, right?
Make your dream Norway trip a reality by choosing an affordable and reliable campervan rental in Norway today. Then, it’s simply a case of designing your perfect itinerary and booking your travel and accommodation. You’ll be driving Norway’s Atlantic Road before you know it!
