National Scenic Route Aurlandsfjellet

Aurlandsfjellet National Scenic Route

20th July 2025, I drove on the national scenic route with a friend, we went on a short hike and stopped at the scenic spots. The ponds were cold and the views were amazing. We also saw some sheep impossible to hike and not see sheep in Norway!

Overview

If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable road trip or a challenging bicycle adventure through the dramatic landscapes of Norway, the Aurlandsfjellet National Scenic Route should be at the top of your list.

• Length: 47 kilometers (29 miles)

• Route: From Aurlandsvangen to Lærdalsøyri, Vestland county, Norway

• Season: Usually open from early June to mid-October (closed in winter due to snow)

• Alternative in winter: Lærdal Tunnel (world’s longest road tunnel)

• Official Route Information: Aurlandsfjellet – National Scenic Routes Norway
  Visit Norway – National Tourist Route Aurlandsfjellet

• View the official interactive route map and highlights here:
  🔗 Aurlandsfjellet Route Map – nasjonaleturistveger.no

Route Highlights

1. Stegastein Viewpoint

• Location: 7 km from Aurlandsvangen

• About: An iconic viewing platform projecting 30 meters out from the mountainside, 650 meters above Aurlandsfjord.

• Experience: Panoramic views of the fjord, perfect photo stop, modern architecture

• Tip: Open all year, accessible by car and shuttle bus. Check out the award-winning public toilets.

2. Aurlandsfjellet Mountain Plateau

• About: Known as “Snøvegen” (the Snow Road) due to deep snow banks even in early summer.

• Experience: Alpine scenery, untouched wilderness, unique feeling of crossing the high Norwegian plateau. Hiking is possible if you are an experienced hiker - to go on unmarked trails.

• In some rest areas there are marked hiking trails and paths to follow.

• Season: Accessible only in summer months; expect snow walls even in June!

3. Vedahaugane and Flotane Rest Areas

• Facilities: Rest stops with parking, information, and picnic tables

• Views: Wild, open landscapes with distant views of fjords and peaks

4. Art Installation “DEN”

• Location: Near the route’s highest point

• About: By artist Mark Dion, an unexpected “cave” artwork integrating art and nature

5. Lærdalsøyri Old Town

• About: The historic center of Lærdal, with over 170 protected wooden buildings.

• Swim in the Sognefjord, visit the Salmon center, art exhibition.
  

6. Lærdal Tunnel

• Alternative route: At 24.5 km, the world’s longest road tunnel connects Aurland and Lærdal year-round, allowing you to skip the mountain crossing in winter or bad weather.

Cycling and Road Trip Tips

• Cyclists: The route is challenging due to steep climbs, high altitude, and unpredictable weather. Suitable for experienced riders and well-maintained bicycles.

• Drivers: Narrow and winding road sections, especially on the mountain. Drive slowly and be cautious of cyclists, sheep, and snow banks. Parts of the roads are actually so narrow that only one car can pass.

• Travel Season: Best between June and September; always check current road conditions before departure Vegvesen.no road reports.

• Travel Time: Allow 3 hours or more with stops for hiking and sightseeing.

• Facilities: Limited; carry water and snacks. Public toilets at Stegastein and rest areas.

What to Pack

• Clothing: Warm layers, windproof jackets, even in summer mountain weather changes quickly.

• Map/GPS: Download maps, as mobile coverage is limited on the plateau

Respect local nature

• Stick to marked trails

• Take all waste with you

• Drive and park only in designated areas

Official Resources for Planning

• National Scenic Routes Norway

• Visit Norway Information

Final Inspiration

Whether you travel by car, camper, or bicycle, the Aurlandsfjellet National Scenic Route offers an authentic taste of Norway’s wild heart: deep fjords, high plateaus, dramatic viewpoints, and charming villages. Plan ahead, drive carefully, and take your time—this is a road where every stop is a memory.