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One of the world’s most famous and beautiful roads runs along Norway’s west coast: the Atlantic Road. TRAVELBOOK editor Katharina Regenthal took a road trip through Norway and drove the eight-kilometer panoramic route.
Drive on the Atlantic Road Was in Jeopardy
Before the trip, I naturally did some research: What do I absolutely want to see in Norway, what is possible in three weeks with a camper, and which attractions can I perhaps skip? Long before I knew I was heading north this year, I definitely wanted to see and drive along the famous Atlantic Road. Some may recognize it visually: Scenes for the 2021 James Bond film “No Time to Die” were shot there.
But my plan almost fell through because I came across some not-so-positive comments about the Atlantic Road during my trip planning. Some said it was just a road, nothing special–and you wouldn’t see the architecture anyway because you’re driving over it, not looking down from above.
However, since we had already marked the small town of Kristiansund as the northernmost point of our Norway route, it was clear to me that we would definitely drive over the Atlantic Road–and I can reveal this much: I definitely didn’t regret it!
Eight Bridges in Eight Kilometers
The special thing about the Atlantic Road, as the name suggests, is that it runs directly over the Atlantic. However, the ground is not continuous–over a stretch of about eight kilometers, there are eight bridges that lead directly over the sea, connecting Kristiansund and Molde. In between are smaller islands, some inhabited, some not.
According to history, a railway was originally supposed to run along this route. However, the plans were eventually abandoned, and later the road was built, replacing a ferry connection. In July 1989, the Atlantic Road, known in Norwegian as Atlanterhavsveien, was opened. In 2005, it was voted the construction of the century by the Norwegian people.
A Walk Right by the Sea
Driving over the road quickly makes it clear why it received this title. I was a bit worried beforehand that the full extent of this special road section could only really be seen from a bird’s-eye view–as is known from most pictures. But that’s not the case. Even from the car, the route is simply impressive.
On both sides, the sea, rocks, and uninhabited islands. And in between, there are always opportunities to stop and enjoy. It was well thought out that people would naturally want to stop and get out. At one point, right by the Storseisund Bridge, the longest and highest, under which ships also pass, there is a great place to stop.
Because there is not only a small café there but also the Svevestien. This is a path about 550 meters long, built specifically for walking right by the sea. You seem to float over the rocks and water. But not only is the view into the distance special, but you also have a wonderful view of the Storseisund Bridge. This is the one most often depicted in photographs because it was built in a particularly unique way.
My Conclusion on the Atlantic Road in Norway
Definitely do it if you have the chance! Because you really have the opportunity to stop repeatedly, you can truly enjoy the route. And yes, of course, the Atlantic Road is not particularly long at about eight kilometers, but the drive is worth it. You don’t just race over it; you have to enjoy the whole thing–after all, you wouldn’t just speed past a landmark. You should take a little time for the Atlantic Road, get out occasionally, let your gaze wander into the distance, and marvel at the road that winds over the sea and rocks. And if it goes by too quickly, you can simply drive back and enjoy the route again!
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