Atlantic Ocean Road
Møre og Romsdal
The Atlantic Ocean Road, or Atlanterhavsvegen, is an 8.3-kilometer stretch of County Road 64 in Møre og Romsdal, Norway, linking the island of Averøya with the mainland across a rugged archipelago. Constructed over several small islands and skerries, the road features eight bridges, the most iconic being the 260-meter-long Storseisundet Bridge, known for its dramatic curves and striking architecture. Originally proposed as a railway route in the early 20th century, the plan was abandoned and replaced by road construction that began in 1983 and was completed in 1989. The road has become a National Tourist Route and a cultural heritage site, celebrated for its breathtaking coastal views and engineering excellence. It is a popular location for automotive commercials and has been recognized internationally as one of the world's best road trips. Along the route, visitors find multiple viewpoints, resting areas, and opportunities for fishing and scuba diving, enhancing its appeal as a multifaceted tourist destination. The road’s design harmonizes with the natural landscape, providing an exhilarating experience of Norway’s dramatic seascape and weather conditions.
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Tip: The best time to visit the Atlantic Ocean Road is during late spring to early autumn when weather conditions are milder and the views are most spectacular. Visitors are advised to check weather forecasts due to the area's exposure to strong winds and storms. It is recommended to plan for multiple stops at the viewpoints and resting areas along the route to fully appreciate the scenery. While the road is free to access since tolls were removed in 1999, pre-booking accommodations nearby during peak tourist seasons is advisable. The route is accessible year-round but can be challenging in winter due to snow and ice conditions.
Interesting facts
- •The Atlantic Ocean Road was named the Norwegian Construction of the Century (1905–2005) in Møre og Romsdal.
- •It has been declared the world's best road trip by The Guardian newspaper.
- •The road features eight bridges totaling 891 meters in length, connecting multiple small islands and skerries.
- •During construction, the area was struck by 12 European windstorms, posing significant challenges.
- •The Storseisundet Bridge is a cantilever bridge 260 meters long and the most prominent bridge on the route.
History
Initial plans for a railway line along the route were made in the early 20th century but were abandoned in 1935 in favor of road construction.
Serious planning for the road began in the 1970s, with construction starting on August 1, 1983.
Despite being hit by 12 European windstorms during construction, the road was completed and opened on July 7, 1989.
It cost 122 million Norwegian kroner, partially funded by tolls which were removed in 1999 after the road was fully paid off.
Since then, the Atlantic Ocean Road has been preserved as a cultural heritage site and designated a National Tourist Route, recognized as the Norwegian Construction of the Century.
Place Guide
Storseisundet Bridge1989
The most iconic bridge on the Atlantic Ocean Road, known for its dramatic curve and cantilever design. It spans 260 meters and offers stunning views of the Norwegian Sea and surrounding islands.
Viewpoints and Resting Areas
Several designated spots along the road provide panoramic views, parking, and opportunities to appreciate the rugged coastal landscape. These include viewpoints on Geitøya, Ildhusøya, Flatskjæret, Skarvøy, and Strømsholmen.
HulvĂĄgen Bridges1989
A series of three bridges totaling 293 meters in length that connect the islands of Flatskjæret and Hulvågen. These bridges continue the seamless connection across the archipelago towards the mainland.
Vevangstraumen Bridge1989
The final bridge leading from the archipelago to the mainland, measuring 119 meters in length with a sailing clearance of 10 meters.
