We’re heading to another well-known attraction of our road trip, the so-called Atlantic Ocean Road, in Norwegian Atlanterhavsvegen. It is a short but iconic stretch of road on Norway’s west coast that, using bridges, small bridges and man-made channels, connects a number of small islands and skerries directly in the open sea.
Already upon arrival it’s clear why this road appears in so many photographs and lists of the “most beautiful roads in the world.” Everything is concentrated in a small area – sea, wind, rocks and the engineering solutions that made it possible to lead a road where it would once have seemed pure madness.
The bridges that made it famous
The most famous section of the entire route is undoubtedly the Storseisundbrua bridge. It is the highest bridge on the Atlantic Road and also its most iconic element. Its pronounced arch, which from some angles appears almost like a leap into the void, provides impressive views of the ocean and is among the most photographed spots in the whole area.
The bridge structure itself has become a symbol of the Atlantic Road. Images of Storseisundbrua in a stormy sea have significantly contributed to the road’s reputation as a dramatic and extreme place.
Reality versus expectations
Despite its reputation, the Atlantic Ocean Road left us somewhat ambivalent. We’re not saying it was a disappointment, but at the same time we feel it’s a slightly overrated attraction. While traveling across Norway, sooner or later you come across very similar, sometimes even more interesting bridges, tunnels and road solutions.
The difference is that here you have several of them together, in one short stretch. The Atlantic Road thus functions more as a concentrated showcase of what is fairly common in Norway – the coexistence of roads, the sea and rugged nature.
Stops and parking areas
A positive aspect of the whole route is the number of smaller and larger parking lots and lay-bys right by the road. These allow you to stop safely, walk down to the sea, or take iconic shots without endangering yourself or other traffic.
If you really want to enjoy the Atlantic Road, it’s worth not rushing, stopping several times and simply watching the sea. It is precisely outside the car and away from driving that the road shows its calmer, less dramatic, yet all the more authentic side.
A short stop on a long journey
For us, the Atlantic Road was not a destination in itself, but rather a short, interesting stop on a long journey through Norway. A place that is undoubtedly photogenic and iconic, yet fits neatly into the broader picture of a country where similar technical and natural contrasts are not the exception but rather the rule.
Finally, it’s worth adding one practical note: since the Atlantic Road is located practically in the open sea, the weather can be unpredictable. Before visiting it’s good to check the current weather conditions – wind, rain or storms can significantly change the experience.