Curving across the Norwegian Sea on eight bridges that leap from island to island, the Atlantic Road stands as one of the world’s most spectacular drives. This engineering marvel—voted Norway’s Construction of the Century—offers just 8.3 kilometers of road, but the experience of driving across open ocean with waves crashing below and mountains rising in the distance creates memories that last a lifetime. The iconic Storseisundet Bridge, with its dramatic curve that appears to launch into the sky, has become one of Norway’s most photographed landmarks.
The Atlantic Road opened in 1989 after six years of construction that saw workers battle 12 hurricanes during the building process. Today, this toll-free route forms part of Norway’s 18 National Scenic Routes—a 2,240-kilometer network of the country’s most beautiful roads enhanced by architect-designed viewpoints and rest areas.
According to Visit Norway, the Atlantic Road “is a part of the Norwegian Scenic Routes network and offers unforgettable views of the open ocean, unique bridges, and the chance to see seals, whales, and seabirds.”
Understanding the Atlantic Road
Route Specifications
The Atlantic Road (Atlanterhavsveien) connects the island of Averoy with the mainland through an engineering achievement that seems to defy the ocean itself.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | 8.3 km (iconic bridge section) |
| Full Scenic Route | 36 km (Karvag to Bud) |
| Bridges | 8 bridges |
| Construction Period | 1983-1989 (6 years) |
| Opened | July 7, 1989 |
| Toll | FREE (since June 1999) |
| Hurricanes During Construction | 12 |
| Recognition | Norway’s Construction of the Century |
| Scenic Route Status | 1 of 18 National Scenic Routes |
| Total Scenic Routes Network | 2,240 km across Norway |
Location and Access
| Direction | Distance | Drive Time |
|---|---|---|
| From Alesund | ~90 km | 1.5 hours |
| From Molde | ~60 km | 1 hour |
| From Kristiansund | ~35 km | 45 minutes |
| From Trondheim | ~285 km | 4 hours |
The Atlantic Road lies along County Road 64 in More og Romsdal county, positioned between the coastal cities of Kristiansund and Molde. It forms the westernmost section of the mainland connection to Averoy island.
Why the Atlantic Road Matters
The Atlantic Road represents more than engineering achievement—it symbolizes Norway’s relationship with the sea. For centuries, isolated fishing communities along this coast relied on dangerous boat crossings to reach the mainland. The road connected these communities permanently, transforming daily life while creating what would become a world-renowned tourist destination.
Historical Context:
- Fishing communities isolated for centuries
- Dangerous sea crossings previously required
- Campaign for road connection began in 1909
- Construction finally approved in 1983
- Completed 1989 after surviving 12 hurricanes
- Toll removed 1999, making it free forever
The Eight Bridges
Storseisundet Bridge: The Iconic “Road to Nowhere”
The most famous bridge on the Atlantic Road creates one of Norway’s most photographed optical illusions.
| Storseisundet Statistics | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 260 meters |
| Height Above Sea | 23 meters at peak |
| Gradient | 8% |
| Nickname | ”Road to Nowhere” / “Drunk Bridge” |
| Design Feature | Dramatic curve creating optical illusion |
| Vessel Clearance | Allows fishing boats to pass |
The Optical Illusion: From certain angles—particularly approaching from the south—the bridge appears to end abruptly in mid-air. The dramatic upward curve, combined with the road dropping away behind it, creates the illusion that vehicles will launch into the sky. This heart-stopping visual has made Storseisundet one of the world’s most viral road images.
Engineering Purpose: The curve was not purely aesthetic—engineers designed it to provide sufficient clearance for fishing vessels while maintaining a navigable gradient for vehicles. The 8% slope, combined with the bridge’s dramatic arc, achieves both practical function and visual drama.
All Eight Bridges
| Bridge Name | Length | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Vevangstraumen Bridge | 132 m | Eastern entrance to route |
| Hulvagen Bridge | 130 m | Views of outer skerries |
| Storseisundet Bridge | 260 m | The famous curved bridge |
| Geitoya Bridge | 48 m | Crossing to Geitoya island |
| Myrbærholmbrua Bridge | 95 m | Fishing platform access |
| Rolvsnes Bridge | 88 m | Mountain backdrop views |
| Eldoysundet Bridge | 85 m | Calm water crossing |
| Hustadsundet Bridge | 95 m | Western mainland connection |
Each bridge offers unique character and viewing angles, making the route worth driving in both directions.
Book Atlantic Road ToursViewpoints and Stops
Eldhusoya Island: The Main Attraction
The primary stopping point on the Atlantic Road features award-winning architecture and spectacular views.
Svevestien (The Floating Path):
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type | Wooden walkway |
| Design | ”Floating” above rocky terrain |
| Length | ~200 meters |
| Views | 180-degree ocean panorama |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible |
| Designer | Ghilardi+Hellsten Arkitekter |
The Svevestien walkway appears to hover above the rocky island landscape, connecting the parking area with viewing platforms overlooking the Norwegian Sea. The undulating wooden path echoes the movement of ocean waves while providing multiple vantage points for photography.
Eldhusoya Facilities:
| Facility | Availability |
|---|---|
| Parking | Free, ~50 spaces |
| Restrooms | Yes, maintained |
| Information Boards | Yes, multilingual |
| Picnic Areas | Yes, sheltered spots |
| Viewing Platforms | Multiple levels |
| Walking Trails | Easy, 30-60 minutes |
Askevagen Viewpoint
A raw, unadorned viewpoint offering direct connection with the ocean:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Structure | Steel viewing platform |
| Character | Minimalist, elemental |
| Views | Open ocean, horizon |
| Best For | Storm watching, contemplation |
| Weather Exposure | High—dress appropriately |
Additional Stopping Points
| Stop | Features | Time Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Myrbærholmbrua Bridge | Fishing platform, local anglers | 30-60 min |
| Haholmen | Historic fishing island, boat access | 2-3 hours |
| Photo Pullouts | Various along route | 5-15 min each |
The Extended Scenic Route
Karvag to Bud: 36 km of Coastal Beauty
While the 8.3 km bridge section draws most attention, the full Norwegian Scenic Route offers additional highlights spanning 36 kilometers from Karvag to the historic village of Bud.
From Karvag (East End):
| Attraction | Distance from Karvag | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Kvernes Stave Church | 5 km | Medieval wooden church (c. 1300) |
| Kvernes Museum | 5 km | Local rural history |
| Atlantic Road Start | 10 km | Bridge section begins |
| Eldhusoya | 15 km | Main viewpoint |
Kvernes Stave Church: One of Norway’s 28 surviving stave churches, dating to approximately 1300. The intimate wooden structure provides a counterpoint to the road’s modern engineering, connecting visitors with Norway’s medieval heritage.
| Kvernes Church | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | ~700 years old |
| Style | Medieval stave construction |
| Interior | Original painted ceiling |
| Adjacent | Kvernes Rural Museum |
| Season | May-September typically |
To Bud (West End):
| Attraction | Distance from Bud | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Bud Village Center | 0 km | Historic trading post |
| Ergan Coastal Fort | 1 km | WWII German fortification |
| Farstadsanden Beach | 8 km | Sand dunes, swimming |
Bud Village: Historic Fishing Community
The western terminus of the scenic route offers authentic coastal Norwegian atmosphere:
| Bud Features | Details |
|---|---|
| History | Trading post since 1500s |
| Character | Colorful waterfront houses |
| Ergan Coastal Fort | WWII German military installation |
| Museum | War memorial and exhibits |
| Dining | Traditional seafood restaurants |
| Atmosphere | Working fishing village |
Ergan Coastal Fort: A German WWII fortification built 1940-1945 to defend the strategic Hustadvika approach. The restored bunkers and gun emplacements now serve as a museum and memorial, offering historical context to the region’s wartime experience.
Activities on the Atlantic Road
Fishing
The Atlantic Road offers exceptional angling opportunities:
Myrbærholmbrua Bridge Fishing:
| Aspect | Information |
|---|---|
| Platform | Purpose-built fishing walkway |
| Access | Free, public |
| License | Not required (sea fishing) |
| Popular Fish | Cod, pollock, mackerel (summer) |
| Equipment | Bring your own or rent locally |
| Best Season | May-September |
What You Might Catch:
- Atlantic cod (torsk) - year-round
- Pollock (sei) - year-round
- Mackerel (makrell) - summer months
- Atlantic halibut - occasional
- Various coastal species
Bird Watching
The Atlantic Road area hosts rich birdlife:
| Species | Season | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| White-tailed Eagle | Year-round | Norway’s largest bird of prey |
| Atlantic Puffin | April-August | Breeding colonies on outer islands |
| European Shag | Year-round | Common on rocky shores |
| Great Cormorant | Year-round | Diving for fish |
| Arctic Tern | May-August | Dramatic aerial displays |
| Common Eider | Year-round | Large sea duck |
Bird Watching Tips:
- Bring binoculars for best viewing
- Dawn and dusk offer most activity
- Outer skerries host nesting colonies
- Boat tours reach puffin areas
- Quiet patience rewards observers
Cycling the Atlantic Road
An immersive way to experience the route:
| Cycling Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Difficulty | Easy-moderate (flat terrain) |
| Main Challenge | Strong coastal winds |
| Distance | 8.3 km (bridges) / 36 km (full route) |
| Time Needed | 2-4 hours recommended |
| Traffic | Busy in summer—use caution |
| Bike Rental | Available in Kristiansund, Molde |
Cycling Considerations:
- Strong winds possible, especially on bridges
- No dedicated cycling lane—share road
- Summer traffic requires awareness
- Multiple stops extend enjoyment
- Electric bikes available for easier riding
Whale and Seal Watching
The surrounding waters support marine mammal populations:
| Species | Likelihood | Best Season |
|---|---|---|
| Harbor Seal | High | Year-round |
| Grey Seal | Moderate | Year-round |
| Harbor Porpoise | Moderate | Summer |
| Orca (Killer Whale) | Rare | Winter |
| Minke Whale | Rare | Summer |
Viewing Tips:
- Seals visible on skerries from road
- Binoculars help spot distant wildlife
- Boat tours offer better whale chances
- Early morning often best for sightings
Best Time to Visit
Seasonal Guide
| Season | Weather | Crowds | Photography | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Best weather | Highest | Excellent (midnight sun) | Peak experience |
| Autumn (Sep-Nov) | Storm season | Low | Dramatic (storms) | Photography highlight |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Cold, storms | Lowest | Dramatic (Northern Lights possible) | For adventurers |
| Spring (Mar-May) | Variable | Low | Good (returning light) | Transitional |
Summer (June-August): Peak Season
Advantages:
- Best weather conditions
- Longest days (near midnight sun)
- Ideal photography light
- All facilities open
- Calm seas most days
- Best for cycling
Considerations:
- Busiest traffic
- Premium accommodation prices
- Book ahead for popular lodgings
- Early morning/evening best for photos
Autumn (September-November): Storm Season
Advantages:
- Dramatic storm photography
- Waves crashing over bridges
- Fewer tourists
- Autumn colors inland
- Lower prices
Considerations:
- Variable weather
- Rough conditions possible
- Some services reduced
- Requires flexible plans
Winter (December-February): Adventurous Season
Advantages:
- Storm watching at peak
- Northern Lights possible
- No crowds
- Lowest prices
- Unique atmosphere
Considerations:
- Cold temperatures
- Limited daylight
- Snow/ice possible
- Requires careful driving
- Some facilities closed
Spring (March-May): Awakening Season
Advantages:
- Increasing daylight
- Calmer weather
- Bird activity increases
- Pre-summer quiet
- Good value
Considerations:
- Variable conditions
- Some storms still possible
- Services opening gradually
Photography Guide
Best Photography Locations
| Location | Subject | Best Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Storseisundet South Approach | Iconic bridge curve | Golden hour | Classic viral shot |
| Eldhusoya Platform | Bridge + ocean panorama | Any | Wide angle essential |
| Askevagen Viewpoint | Raw ocean, horizon | Storms, sunset | Dramatic conditions |
| Myrbærholm Overlook | Evening light, fishing | Sunset | Less crowded |
| Varden Hike | Aerial view of route | Clear days | 20-min climb |
Photography Tips by Subject
Storseisundet Bridge:
- South approach creates “road to nowhere” illusion
- Include a vehicle for scale
- Golden hour light optimal
- Storm conditions dramatic but dangerous
- Drone shots popular (check regulations)
Storm Photography:
- Never stop on bridges during storms
- Use telephoto from safe distance
- Waterproof camera protection essential
- Fast shutter speeds freeze waves
- Safety always paramount
General Tips:
- Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) best light
- Blue hour for moody atmosphere
- Midnight sun period (June) unique light
- Overcast good for avoiding harsh shadows
- Include human scale for drama
Camera Equipment Recommendations
Essential:
- Wide-angle lens (16-35mm)
- Polarizing filter (reduce reflections)
- Weather protection (spray, rain)
- Sturdy tripod (wind resistant)
- Extra batteries (cold drains power)
Optional:
- Telephoto lens (for distant bridges, wildlife)
- ND filters (long exposures, waterfalls)
- Drone (check Norwegian regulations)
Drone Photography Regulations
Norway has specific drone rules:
| Rule | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Registration | Required for drones over 250g |
| Altitude | Maximum 120 meters |
| Line of Sight | Required at all times |
| Distance | 150m from crowds/buildings |
| No-Fly Zones | Check Luftfartstilsynet maps |
| Privacy | Respect others |
Driving the Atlantic Road
Practical Driving Information
| Aspect | Information |
|---|---|
| Drive Time (Bridges Only) | 15-20 minutes |
| Recommended Time | 2-4 hours with stops |
| Road Condition | Excellent, well-maintained |
| Toll | FREE |
| Speed Limit | 80 km/h (bridges), varies elsewhere |
| Parking | Free at viewpoints |
Driving Tips
On the Road:
- Drive slowly to appreciate views
- Use designated pullouts only
- Never stop on bridges
- Watch for cyclists
- Be prepared for wind gusts
- Headlights recommended always
Vehicle Considerations:
| Vehicle Type | Suitability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cars | Excellent | Standard choice |
| Campervans | Good | Wind awareness needed |
| Motorcycles | Spectacular | Wind caution essential |
| Bicycles | Good | Strong wind challenge |
| Electric Vehicles | Fine | Charging in nearby towns |
Best Driving Strategy
For Maximum Experience:
- Drive the route twice (each direction offers different views)
- Start early morning (fewer crowds, better light)
- Allow 3-4 hours total
- Include the extended route to Bud
- Check weather forecast before setting out
Nearby Attractions
Bergtatt Marble Mines
A unique underground experience between the Atlantic Road and Molde:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 30 km from Atlantic Road |
| Experience | Underground boat trip |
| Setting | Crystal-clear water in marble cavern |
| Duration | ~45 minutes |
| Season | Year-round |
| Price | ~350 NOK adult |
The underground raft trip through illuminated marble caverns offers a dramatic contrast to the Atlantic Road’s open ocean exposure.
Kristiansund (“Bacalao City”)
The nearest city, known for its dried cod (klippfisk) heritage:
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Opera House | Nordic Light Opera venue |
| Klippfisk Heritage | Dried cod history and cuisine |
| Island Character | City spans four islands |
| Sundbatene | Historic harbor boat connections |
| Grip | Abandoned fishing village island |
Molde (“City of Roses”)
A charming city with mountain panoramas:
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Moldejazz Festival | July jazz event |
| Romsdal Panorama | View of 222 mountain peaks |
| Rose Gardens | City’s flowering heritage |
| Varden Viewpoint | 360-degree mountain views |
| Atlantic Road Access | 60 km drive |
Trollstigen Combination
Many visitors combine the Atlantic Road with Trollstigen for the ultimate Norwegian road trip:
| Atlantic Road to Trollstigen | Details |
|---|---|
| Distance | ~120 km |
| Drive Time | 2-2.5 hours |
| Route | Via Molde and Andalsnes |
| Combined Experience | Full day |
| Season | Trollstigen: May-October only |
Where to Stay
On or Near the Atlantic Road
Haholmen Havstuer:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Historic fishing island hotel |
| Access | Boat only (included) |
| Experience | Unique overnight, sea eagle escorts |
| Dining | Seafood restaurant |
| Price Range | 2,000-3,500 NOK/night |
Atlanterhavsveien Sjostuer:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Seaside cabins |
| Location | Directly on route |
| Style | Self-catering |
| Views | Ocean panorama |
| Price Range | 1,200-2,000 NOK/night |
Stromsholmen Sea Sport Centre:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Activity-focused accommodation |
| Activities | Kayaking, diving |
| Location | On Atlantic Road |
| Style | Rooms and cabins |
| Price Range | 900-1,800 NOK/night |
Nearby Towns
| Town | Distance | Accommodation Options | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kristiansund | 35 km | Hotels, Airbnb | 800-2,000 NOK |
| Molde | 60 km | Hotels, guesthouses | 900-2,200 NOK |
| Averoy | 5-15 km | Cabins, B&Bs | 700-1,500 NOK |
Sample Itineraries
Half-Day Atlantic Road
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10:00 | Arrive from Kristiansund side |
| 10:30 | Eldhusoya viewpoints and Svevestien walk |
| 11:30 | Drive across bridges with photo stops |
| 12:30 | Continue to Bud village |
| 13:30 | Lunch and explore Bud |
| 15:00 | Return via Atlantic Road |
Full Day Experience
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 09:00 | Kvernes Stave Church |
| 10:30 | Atlantic Road drive with stops |
| 12:00 | Eldhusoya exploration |
| 13:30 | Fishing at Myrbærholmbrua |
| 15:00 | Continue to Bud |
| 16:00 | Ergan Coastal Fort |
| 17:30 | Return via scenic route |
Multi-Day Atlantic Coast
| Day | Activities | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kristiansund exploration, evening Atlantic Road | Atlantic Road area |
| 2 | Full Atlantic Road day, Bud village | Averoy or Molde |
| 3 | Bergtatt marble mines, drive to Molde | Molde |
| 4 | Molde exploration, Romsdal panorama | Departure |
Atlantic Road + Trollstigen Combo
| Day | Activities | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Alesund arrival, evening exploration | Alesund |
| 2 | Atlantic Road full day | Kristiansund or Averoy |
| 3 | Trollstigen, Geirangerfjord | Geiranger |
| 4 | Geiranger exploration, return Alesund | Alesund |
Practical Information
Costs
The Atlantic Road experience is remarkably budget-friendly:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Road Toll | FREE |
| Parking | FREE |
| Eldhusoya Facilities | FREE |
| Walking Trails | FREE |
| Item | Estimated Cost (NOK) |
|---|---|
| Cabin Accommodation | 1,000-2,500/night |
| Hotel (nearby town) | 1,000-2,500/night |
| Bergtatt Marble Mines | 350-400 |
| Car Rental | 700-1,500/day |
| Fuel (full day driving) | 300-500 |
| Meals | 150-400/person |
Facilities
On the Route:
- Parking at Eldhusoya (main viewpoint)
- Restrooms at Eldhusoya
- Information boards
- Walking paths
- Fishing access
Nearby:
- Gas stations in Averoy and nearby towns
- Limited restaurants on route
- Supermarkets in larger towns
- Full services in Kristiansund/Molde
Weather Resources
| Resource | Purpose | URL |
|---|---|---|
| yr.no | Weather forecasts | yr.no |
| vegvesen.no | Road conditions | vegvesen.no/trafikk |
| storm.no | Storm tracking | storm.no |
Norway’s National Scenic Routes Context
The Atlantic Road belongs to a prestigious network of scenic driving routes:
The 18 National Scenic Routes
| Route | Region | Length | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlantic Road | More og Romsdal | 36 km | Ocean bridges |
| Trollstigen | More og Romsdal | 106 km | Mountain hairpins |
| Geiranger-Trollstigen | More og Romsdal | 106 km | UNESCO fjord |
| Hardanger | Vestland | 158 km | Voringfossen |
| Lofoten | Nordland | 230 km | Island archipelago |
| Helgeland Coast | Nordland | 433 km | Coastal scenery |
| Senja | Troms | 102 km | Remote island |
| Varanger | Finnmark | 160 km | Arctic coast |
| And 10 more… | Various | Various | Various |
Total Network: 2,240 km of scenic roads
What Makes National Scenic Routes Special
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Architect-Designed Viewpoints | World-class design integration |
| Rest Areas | Facilities respecting landscape |
| Information | Multilingual boards |
| Maintenance | High standards maintained |
| Free Access | No route charges |
| Year-Round | Most accessible always |
Final Advice
The Atlantic Road is more than just a drive—it is an experience of Norway’s relationship with the sea. This 8.3-kilometer stretch of highway, built across open ocean and surviving 12 hurricanes during construction, represents human determination to connect communities separated by water. Today, as one of 18 National Scenic Routes spanning 2,240 kilometers of Norway’s most beautiful roads, the Atlantic Road draws visitors from around the world who come to photograph the iconic Storseisundet Bridge and experience driving across the Norwegian Sea.
Take your time, pull over often at the designated viewpoints, and let the drama of bridges spanning wild ocean create lasting memories. Whether you visit on a calm summer day with perfect blue skies or brave the autumn storms when waves explode over the road, this engineering marvel delivers one of the world’s great driving experiences.
Key Tips for the Best Experience:
- Allow Time: The 15-minute drive deserves 2-4 hours with stops
- Drive Both Directions: Each offers unique perspectives
- Visit Eldhusoya: The main viewpoint with Svevestien walkway
- Consider Weather: Summer for ease, storms for drama
- Extend to Bud: The historic fishing village adds depth
- Combine Routes: Trollstigen creates an epic road trip
- Respect Safety: Never stop on bridges in storms
- Free to Enjoy: No tolls since 1999
The Atlantic Road proves that the journey truly can be the destination. From Bergen’s colorful wharf to the Arctic reaches of Nordkapp, Norway offers countless spectacular roads—but none quite matches the drama of driving across the Norwegian Sea on eight bridges connecting islands to mainland.
Information in this guide is sourced from Visit Norway and Norwegian Scenic Routes. The Atlantic Road: 8.3 km iconic section, 8 bridges, opened 1989, toll-FREE since 1999. Part of Norway’s 18 National Scenic Routes covering 2,240 km total. Weather conditions vary—always check forecasts before travel. Last updated January 2026.