The Road That Skips Across the Sea
Spanning just over eight kilometres on Norway’s western coast, the Atlantic Road, or Atlanterhavsvegen, is no ordinary highway. This celebrated stretch of County Road 64 is a national treasure, connecting the island of Averøy with the mainland through
a series of eight breathtaking bridges that leap between small islands and skerries. Often called one of the world's most beautiful drives, it’s a journey that puts you in the middle of the Norwegian Sea, offering a front-row seat to the raw power and serene beauty of the ocean. The drive itself might be short, but the experience is unforgettable, winding through a landscape where modern engineering meets untamed nature.
An Architectural Marvel Forged by Storms
The star of the show is the Storseisundet Bridge, the longest and most dramatic of the route's eight bridges. Famous for its sharp, elegant curve, it creates a remarkable optical illusion when approached from a certain direction, appearing to be a “road to nowhere” that dramatically drops off into the sea. This architectural masterpiece wasn't built easily. Construction crews battled the region's notoriously wild weather for six years, enduring twelve major storms to complete the project in 1989. Today, the road stands as a testament to Norwegian resilience and has been named the country's “Construction of the Century,” a symbol of humanity’s ability to create beauty in even the harshest environments.
More Than a Drive, It's an Experience
While the drive is the main attraction, the journey is peppered with unique stops that invite you to get out of the car. Halfway along the route, the island of Eldhusøya features a suspended walkway, called Svevestien, that loops around the islet, allowing you to walk above the fragile terrain for panoramic views of the ocean. At other viewpoints like Askevågen, you can stand on specially designed platforms to feel the sea spray on a windy day. For fishing enthusiasts, the Myrbærholm Bridge is a popular spot to cast a line with a near-guaranteed catch. And for a true taste of coastal life, take a short boat trip from Geitøya island to the preserved fishing village of Håholmen, where historic wooden buildings now house charming restaurants and inns.
Exploring the Surrounding Beauty
The Atlantic Road is the centrepiece of a 36-kilometre-long National Scenic Route that extends from the village of Kårvåg to Bud. The charming fishing village of Bud is a worthy destination in itself, with a scenic harbour and the historic Ergan Coastal Fort, a remnant of World War II fortifications. On the island of Averøy, you can visit the Kvernes Stave Church, a beautifully preserved example of traditional Norwegian architecture dating back to the 1600s. Nearby towns like Molde, the “City of Roses,” and Kristiansund also serve as excellent bases for exploring the wider region.
Planning Your Unforgettable Trip
The Atlantic Road offers a different personality with each season. Summer (June to August) is the most popular time, with long daylight hours and calmer seas perfect for a leisurely drive. However, many argue the road is at its most spectacular in the autumn, when dramatic storms cause massive waves to crash against the bridges, offering a thrilling display of nature’s power. The road is open year-round but can face temporary closures in winter due to extreme weather. Located between the cities of Molde and Kristiansund, the route is a manageable detour and can be combined with other iconic Norwegian drives like the Trollstigen for an epic road trip adventure.
