Atlantic Road Norway Travel Guide: The World’s Most Scenic Drive

Imagine a road that dances across the Atlantic Ocean, connecting islands with sweeping bridges that appear to leap into the sky. Welcome to The Atlantic Road (Atlanterhavsveien)—a marvel of modern engineering and one of the most dramatic coastal routes on Earth.
 

This stretch of road doesn’t just connect places—it connects you to nature. It’s a symphony of stormy waves, wild landscapes, ocean spray, and curving bridges that appear sculpted by the wind. Buckle up, because this is a road trip like no other.

📍 Where is the Atlantic Road?

🌍 Located on the western coast of Norway in Møre og Romsdal county

Connects the towns of Kristiansund and Molde

Part of Norwegian County Road 64

Total length: about 8.3 kilometers (5.2 miles)

🌟 Why the Atlantic Road is Famous

🏆 Named "Norwegian Construction of the Century" in 2005

Regularly listed among the world’s most scenic drives by National Geographic and The Guardian

Known for its dramatic curves, stormy waves, and breathtaking ocean views

A top destination for photographers, road trippers, and nature lovers

🛠️ History & Construction

The idea of building a coastal road linking the island communities dates back to the early 20th century, but it wasn't until 1983 that construction began. The road took six years to build, battling 12 powerful Atlantic storms during the process. It opened in 1989, revolutionizing connectivity between islands once reliant on ferry service.

🏞️ Highlights Along the Atlantic Road

1. 🌉 Storseisundet Bridge

The most iconic and photographed of the eight bridges

Often called the “drunk bridge” or rollercoaster bridge because of its unique curve

Appears to leap into the sky from certain angles—creating an optical illusion

2. 📸 Kårvåg and Vevang Villages

Starting/ending points of the Atlantic Road

Great base for exploring nearby islands and fjords

Enjoy local seafood and traditional Norwegian hospitality

3. 🐋 Whale and Seal Watching

The waters along the route are teeming with marine life

During the right seasons, you might spot seals, porpoises, and even whales

4. 🎣 Fishing Spots

Designated areas along the road for shore fishing

The Atlantic Ocean offers cod, mackerel, and pollock

No license needed for recreational sea fishing in Norway

5. 🥾 Hiking Trails

Short walks and longer hikes available from parking lots

Try the Eldhusøya circular trail, a stunning walkway built on a floating path

Nearby mountains offer panoramic views of the ocean and archipelago

6. 🌬️ Storm Watching

One of the few roads in the world more popular in bad weather

Brave the elements in autumn or winter to see Atlantic waves crashing over the bridges

Excellent for storm photographers and thrill-seekers

📷 Best Photo Spots

🗺️ Map & Route Overview

📍 Start Point: Kårvåg

📍 End Point: Vevang

🚘 Distance: 8.3 km, usually driven in 15–30 minutes

🧭 Drive slowly to enjoy the views and stop at pullouts

🚗 How to Get to the Atlantic Road

From Ålesund:

🚘 ~3.5 hours by car

Route: E136 → E39 → Fv64 (includes ferry across Moldefjord)

From Kristiansund:

🚘 ~45 minutes

Drive south via the Atlantic Tunnel

From Molde:

🚘 ~1 hour

Scenic drive through countryside and fjord landscapes

🏨 Where to Stay Near the Atlantic Road

🍽️ Where to Eat Nearby

Bjartmars Favorittkro – Local seafood restaurant with great views

Ørjavikgården – Traditional Norwegian dishes and fresh fish

Sjøstjerna in Kristiansund – Upscale dining with a local focus

🗓️ Best Time to Visit the Atlantic Road

Note: The road is open year-round, though storms may cause short-term closures.

🧭 Suggested Atlantic Road Itinerary

🚘 1-Day Self-Drive:

Start in Kristiansund

Drive through Atlantic Tunnel to Kårvåg

Explore Eldhusøya, stop at viewpoints

Lunch at Bjartmars Favorittkro

Cross all eight bridges slowly

Return via Molde with a fjord ferry crossing

🧳 Add-ons for 2-3 Days:

Explore Averøy island: Caves, churches, beaches

Visit Kvernes Stave Church – a 14th-century wooden church

Hike in Hustadvika coastal park

Combine with Trollstigen and Geirangerfjord for an epic western Norway road trip

🚴 Can You Cycle the Atlantic Road?

Yes—and it’s a top cycling destination!

🚴 Dedicated cycling lanes along most of the road

Best in summer for calmer winds

Stunning experience for photography stops and fresh sea air

🧳 What to Pack

🧥 Waterproof jacket and windbreaker

🥾 Walking shoes or hiking boots

📸 Camera or drone for aerial shots (drones allowed with caution)

☕ Thermos – enjoy a hot drink at a windswept viewpoint

🎣 Fishing gear if you want to try your luck!

🌱 Sustainable Travel Tips

♻️ Use eco-friendly accommodations and avoid single-use plastics

🚮 Leave no trace at picnic stops or viewpoints

🚗 Drive carefully and yield to wildlife

🐟 Support local seafood producers and restaurants

🎉 Events and Local Activities

Storm Watching Weeks (Autumn) – Hotels and tour guides offer storm-viewing packages

Local food festivals in Kristiansund and Molde during summer

Hustadvika Art Walk – temporary exhibits along coastal trails

❤️ Why You’ll Fall in Love with the Atlantic Road

There are roads, and then there are experiences—and the Atlantic Road is truly one-of-a-kind. Whether bathed in sunshine or pounded by ocean waves, this dramatic stretch of highway captures the essence of Norway: raw nature, breathtaking beauty, and deep connection between people and the sea.

So grab your keys, roll down your windows, and prepare for one of the most unforgettable drives on Earth.