Sognefjellet National Tourist Route: Scenic Drive
Sognefjellet National Tourist Route, also known as the Sognefjellsvegen, is a stunning scenic road that runs through the heart of the Jotunheimen and Jostedalsbreen National Parks in Norway. It is one of Norway’s most scenic drives, offering breathtaking views of towering mountains, glaciers, and alpine landscapes. The road stretches between Lom and Gaupne, covering a distance of about 108 kilometers (67 miles) and reaching altitudes of up to 1,434 meters (4,705 feet) above sea level.
Visitor Fee: There is no specific visitor fee to access and drive along the Sognefjellet National Tourist Route. It is a public road and open to all visitors without any entrance fee.
Transportation: The Sognefjellet National Tourist Route is accessible by car, motorcycle, and bicycle. There are no public buses operating directly along the entire route, so the best way to experience it is by driving or cycling. The road is well-maintained and is typically open from late spring to autumn, depending on weather conditions.
Things to Do:
- Scenic Drive: Enjoy a spectacular drive through some of Norway’s most magnificent alpine landscapes, passing by glaciers, mountain peaks, and crystal-clear lakes.
- Hiking: There are several hiking trails along the route that offer opportunities for short walks or longer hikes to explore the surrounding nature and enjoy panoramic views.
- Photography: Capture the breathtaking scenery, dramatic mountains, and picturesque landscapes along the way.
- Glacier Tours: Take guided tours to explore nearby glaciers, such as Nigardsbreen or Bøyabreen, which are easily accessible from the Sognefjellet Road.
- Cycling: For cycling enthusiasts, the route offers a challenging and rewarding cycling experience with stunning views.
Why People Enjoy Coming Here: People enjoy visiting the Sognefjellet National Tourist Route for several reasons:
- Spectacular Scenery: The route offers unparalleled views of Norway’s dramatic alpine landscapes, including glaciers, mountains, and lakes.
- Outdoor Activities: It provides opportunities for hiking, glacier tours, and cycling amid breathtaking natural surroundings.
- Road Trip Adventure: Driving or riding along this scenic route is a memorable and rewarding experience for travelers.
- Photography Opportunities: The stunning landscapes and changing weather conditions provide photographers with fantastic photo opportunities.
- Close to Nature: Visitors can immerse themselves in the serene and untouched nature of Norway’s national parks.
How Old is this Place: The Sognefjellet National Tourist Route, as a designated tourist route, was established to showcase the scenic beauty of the area and provide an unforgettable driving experience. The road itself is not very old and has undergone improvements over the years to enhance the tourist experience.
Additional Nearby Attractions:
- Sognefjord: The Sognefjellet Route offers easy access to the beautiful Sognefjord, the longest and deepest fjord in Norway, where visitors can take fjord cruises and explore charming villages along its shores.
- Jotunheimen National Park: Located along the route, this national park is known for its towering peaks and vast alpine plateaus, offering numerous hiking and mountaineering opportunities.
- Nigardsbreen Glacier: Take a detour to visit the impressive Nigardsbreen Glacier, part of the larger Jostedalsbreen Glacier, and join guided glacier walks to experience its icy wonders up close.
List of Activities:
- Scenic driving and road trip.
- Hiking and trekking along the route and in nearby national parks.
- Photography of the stunning landscapes and natural beauty.
- Glacier tours and guided walks.
- Cycling along the challenging mountain roads.