Kystriksveien Coastal Road is one of the 101 World’s most Scenic Routes
Kystriksveien (Coastal Highway) is a very scenic drive located in the Nordland coastline of Norway. It is one of The Best Coastal Drives in the World. The tortuous drive will allow you to experience a beautiful cultural landscape.
How long is Kystriksveien Coastal Road?
The road, Norwegian County Road 17, is 630 kilometres (390 mi) long, running from Steinkjer in Trøndelag county, to Bodø, the largest urban area and town in Nordland county, across the Arctic Circle. According to National Geographic, it’s one of the ’101 World’s most Scenic Routes’. The road has it all: small fishing villages, white sandy beach coves and mighty mountains.
How long does it take to drive the Kystriksveien Coastal Road?
The road, winding and narrow in parts, is totally paved and includes at least six ferry crossings, taking from 10 min to an hour each (more if you want to visit the islands). To drive the road without stopping will take most people between 7 and 10 hours but allow yourself at least 4-5 days to explore Kystriksveien. There are numerous spots to visit along the route, so set aside plenty of time for the trip.
Is Kystriksveien Coastal Road worth the drive?
The drive is extremely scenic and features sweeping views of some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth. Along Kystriksveien there are many islands that you may visit by ferry or boat. Allow yourself to travel slow and explore! The tortuous Kystriksveien will allow you to experience a beautiful cultural landscape. Along the road you will encounter many famous landmarks, such as Torghatten, De Syv Søstre (The Seven Sisters mountain range), Svartisen glacier and Saltstraumen (world’s strongest whirlpools).
Can you see fjords on the Kystriksveien Coastal Road?
The drive has stunning views of fjords. Carved by glaciers throughout the ages, some of these fjords stretch for 200 kilometres inland and are over a kilometre deep. The journey is an experience of rare and staggering beauty. It’s an unforgettable road trip. Along the road 12,000 islands awaits you and you should take the time to visit a few of them. It’s by many called one of the world’s most beautiful tourist routes. The drive offers both beautiful scenery and a rich heritage. This is the Norwegian coastline at its best, with popular attractions lying side by side along the route. You can expect breathtaking views and you will cross the Arctic Circle along the way.
What you need to know about Kystriksveien Coastal Road?
The road is lightly trafficked but does get busier at weekends and in the main holiday season. Gas stations are within easy reach, as are grocery stores. It was built by 144.000 prisoners in the 1940’s. Check the weather forecasts before because the route is so much nicer in good weather.
More info: https://www.visitnorway.no/reisemal/trondelag/kystriksveien/