Curator’s statement
This 10-day road trip is not for the faint of heart. Picture this: after nearly 24 hours of travel with little sleep on the plane, we land in Norway. Next, grab the rental car, and hit the road for a nearly 5-hour drive to the first destination. And that’s just the beginning. If that doesn't sound daunting enough, just wait — this guide is only a glimpse of the adventure that awaits. Buckle up because you’re about to drive 1442 miles and spend 34 hours on the road! You spend the first 4 days on the mainland before continuing to Lofoten Island. Continue your trip using my guide: ” Lofoten Adventure: A Seven-Day Journey Through Stunning Nature and Viking History”. Ready to take on the open road? Let’s dive into the first four days of this epic road trip, where you’ll drive through Norway's awe-inspiring landscapes, cross into the Arctic Circle and experience some of the most stunning views and historic landmarks in the world.
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Day 1: Arrival in Oslo & drive to Åndalsnes
Arrive in Oslo, pick up your rental car and begin the thrilling journey toward Åndalsnes. The drive will be an adventure, with dramatic cliffside waterfalls greeting you as you approach your destination.
Drive Time: 5 hours and 10 minutes
Hotel: Grand Hotel: A luxury option in Åndalsnes with comfortable accommodations and beautiful views.
Dinner: Make sure to pre-book your reservation at Eggen Restaurant, offering an unforgettable dining experience at the top of the mountain. You’ll ride on the Romsdals Gondola to reach the restaurant, adding an extra thrill to your day.
Day 2: Trollstigen & Trondheim
Start your day by renting electric bikes from the Grand Hotel and tackle the iconic Trollstigen road. This 23-mile stretch of road is renowned for its winding turns and dramatic drops, and biking it gives you an exhilarating way to experience the landscape. Be sure to stop at the various lookout points to catch stunning views of the surrounding valleys. After your morning workout of a bike ride up Trollstigen, you’ll then head to your next city: Trondheim.
Drive Time to Trondheim: 5 hours
Hotel: Klostergården Tautra: Located on a beautiful island near Trondheim, this serene spot offers peaceful views of nearby beaches and stunning nature.
Nearby Beaches: Tautra Island has a few quiet beaches perfect for a relaxing stroll. If you have time, take a walk along the coast to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Day 3: Brønnøysund & Torghatten hike
From Trondheim, head towards Brønnøysund, catching a ferry to save time and add an extra layer of adventure to your day.
Hotel: Corner Hotel: Comfortable and convenient for exploring Brønnøysund.
Torghatten hike: This famous hike to the mountain with a hole in the center is a must-do! It takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, offering stunning views and a truly unique experience.
Hiking tips: The trail is moderate in difficulty, so be sure to wear good shoes and bring water. The hole in the mountain is a great photo op!
Day 4: Final stretch to Bodø & Mjelle Beach
This is your final stretch of driving on the mainland before taking the ferry to Lofoten. On this day, you will officially be driving above the Arctic Circle!
Drive Time to Bodø: 6 hours 30 minutes
Hotel: Clarion Collection Hotel Grand Bodø – A cozy stay in Bodø with easy access to the ferry terminal.
Mjelle Beach: After checking in, head to Mjelle Beach, known for its stunning pink sand and crystal-clear waters. The beach is a serene spot, offering a peaceful atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a long drive. The pink sand and the surrounding rugged mountains make it a great place for a quiet walk or a beautiful sunset view.
Fun Facts: Mjelle Beach is a hidden gem, often overlooked by tourists. A mixture of crushed shells and coral creates the pink sand. It gives the beach a soft, rosy tint that stands out against the blue-green water.
Day 5: Lofoten Island journey
Continue reading "Lofoten Adventure: A Seven-Day Journey Through Stunning Nature and Viking History” for the rest of the trip itinerary.
Need to know
From Bodø, you’ll take the ferry to Lofoten, where your adventure continues! The ferry ride itself is a remarkable experience, offering stunning views of the sea and surrounding fjords as you make your way to the Lofoten Islands. Once you arrive in Lofoten, you’ll be greeted by the jagged peaks, crystal-clear waters and picturesque fishing villages. This is what makes this region one of the most beautiful places on earth.
Your journey through Lofoten is where the real magic begins — this is where nature truly takes center stage. From here, you can dive into my next guide, Lofoten Adventure: A Seven-Day Journey Through Stunning Nature and Viking History. On this detailed itinerary, you’ll explore the heart of Lofoten, including thrilling hikes, historic sites and serene coastal landscapes. You’ll experience the essence of Norwegian culture and history, all while being surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery you’ll ever see. Whether you're hiking in the Arctic, discovering ancient Viking history or simply taking in the peaceful beauty of the islands, Lofoten offers an adventure that perfectly complements the road trip you’ve already started.
So get ready to embark on the next leg of your journey through Lofoten, where your unforgettable adventure truly begins!
Travel Advisor
Richelle Sierra
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