Your Ultimate Norwegian Motorcycle Route Map
If you are planning your ultimate Norwegian motorcycle route, you are probably wondering how to select the best path. Because of how vast Norway is and its incredible variety, choosing the best motorcycle route for exploring Norway can be challenging. The first questions you need to ask yourself are: How long do I have for this trip, and what am I interested in seeing?
Although Norway does offer ways to see glimpses of it all in just a few days, these kinds of trips require a lot of insider knowledge. We cover these in detail in our e-book, ‘Essential Guide to Motorcycling in Norway.’ But in this article, we will guide you on how to connect all the major Norwegian attractions if you have two weeks or more to create your best motorcycle trip in Norway.
Starting Your Adventure – “Fly and Ride”
To make the most out of your trip, we suggest considering the ‘fly and ride’ option. You can avoid long highways leading to Norway and start your Norwegian adventure on day one by flying in and renting a motorcycle. Starting from Oslo’s Gardermoen Airport, we suggest first exploring Eastern Norway, heading as far north as your vacation days allow—be it Trondheim, Lofoten, Andøya, or even North Cape. Then, work your way down and west to The Atlantic Road and fjords, and finally take a leisurely cruise along the southern coast of Norway, ending your journey back in Oslo.
Your journey would then look something like this depending on your selected alternatives.
Exploring Eastern Norway
Begin by heading north from Oslo, exploring the beauty of Eastern Norway. The region offers a diverse range of landscapes, from lush valleys to rugged mountains, with well-maintained roads that allow you to get accustomed to Norway’s unique riding conditions and slower pace. Don’t miss the spectacular Rondane National Park, known for its dramatic mountain scenery and winding roads perfect for motorcycling. Eastern Norway is also rich in cultural heritage and historic landmarks, making it an ideal destination for those who appreciate scenic rides combined with a touch of history.
Mjøsa, the largest Norwegian lake, viewed from Mjøsli Cabins and Nature Park
Key Attractions:
- Rondane National Park: Famous for its ancient mountain ranges and winding roads.
- Lillehammer: A charming town known for its Olympic history and vibrant cultural scene.
- Røros: A UNESCO World Heritage town with well-preserved wooden houses and mining history.
Related and “Nearby” Scenic Roads: Rondane and Valdresflye
Best of Gravel and Hidden Roads: Jotunheimvegen
Heading north you can either choose E6 or after exploring Rondane, you can skip part of the E6 and drive a bit through Sweden up north. This route offers dense forests, serene mountain passes, and a quieter road experience. However, be prepared for mosquitoes, especially during the summer months.
Heading to Northern Norway
After exploring Eastern Norway, venture further into the wild and into the remote beauty of Northern Norway on your motorcycle route through Norway. Known for its raw, untamed Arctic landscapes, this region offers dramatic mountain peaks, untamed coastlines, and the phenomenon of the midnight sun. Riding through Northern Norway provides a sense of expedition, with roads that twist and turn along fjords and ocean views that seem to stretch to infinity, immersing you in some of the most breathtaking scenery on earth.
Lofoten Islands
Key Attractions:
- Crossing the Arctic Circle: An iconic milestone for any traveler, marking your entry into the land of the midnight sun.
- Lofoten Islands: Renowned for its sharp peaks, fishing villages, and white sandy beaches.
- Andøya: Ideal for whale watching and mesmerizing coastal rides.
Related and “Nearby” Scenic Roads: Andøya, Lofoten
Best of Gravel and Hidden Roads: Mountain pass between Norway and Sweden near Abisko National Park.
We recommend riding through Lofoten from north to south, against the typical tourist flow. This allows you to catch ferries more easily and experience a beautiful buildup to the most famous parts of Lofoten. If you’re adventurous, consider going all the way to the North Cape, the northernmost point of mainland Europe.
About North Cape: The northernmost point of mainland Europe, offering breathtaking ocean panoramas. The Holy Grail for motorcyclists. TET Norway section 3: Finnish border — North Cape
Westward to The Atlantic Road and Fjords
From Northern Norway, head southwest towards the legendary Atlantic Road, a stretch of highway celebrated for its dramatic ocean views and remarkable engineering—it’s easy to miss if you’re not paying attention (we actually missed it the first time we were in the region!). This part of the journey showcases Norway’s most iconic landscapes, with towering mountains, deep fjords, and charming coastal towns. The roads here are exhilarating for motorcyclists, featuring hairpin turns and sweeping vistas. Rain is common, but it often clears quickly, unveiling stunning panoramas.
Trollstigen
Key Attractions:
- Geirangerfjord: One of the most beautiful fjords in the world.
- Trollstigen: A famous mountain road with hairpin bends and stunning vistas.
- Vøringfossen: One of Norway’s highest waterfalls.
- Lom Stave Church: A beautiful historic church with unique architecture.
- Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock): A popular tourist attraction, but note that it requires several hours of hiking. We recommend booking a campsite nearby if you plan to hike.
Related and “Nearby” Scenic Roads: Atlanterhavsvegen, Geiranger – Trollstigen, Gamle Strynefjellsvegen
Best of Gravel and Hidden Roads: Aursjøvegen
Southern Coasts of Norway
After exploring the dramatic fjords, continue your ride south along Norway’s beautiful coastline, enjoying a more leisurely pace as you cruise through charming villages and sandy beaches on your way back to Oslo. Southern Norway offers a relaxing end to your adventure, with coastal roads perfect for laid-back riding. Known for its quaint fishing villages, historic towns, and sunny beaches, this area provides the perfect opportunity to unwind after the more rugged terrains of the north and west.
Bergen
Key Attractions:
- Bergen: A picturesque coastal city surrounded by stunning fjords, known for its charming old town, vibrant cultural scene, and rich maritime heritage.
- Sverd i fjell: A striking monument of three massive swords embedded in rock, symbolizing Viking unity and Norway’s historic battles.
- Kristiansand: A vibrant coastal city known for its beautiful beaches and lively cultural scene.
- Jæren Scenic Route: A breathtaking coastal drive along Norway’s south coast, featuring open landscapes, sandy beaches, and dramatic ocean views.
Related and “Nearby” Scenic Roads: Ryfylke, Jæren
Best of Gravel and Hidden Roads: Suleskarvegen
Oslo
Conclude your motorcycle adventure by returning to Oslo, Norway’s vibrant capital. This bustling city is a blend of modern architecture and rich history, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Oslo offers a perfect mix of urban life and outdoor experiences, with everything from lively cultural attractions to tranquil parks and waterfront areas, making it an ideal place to soak in the essence of Norway’s everyday culture.
Oslo
Beyond the Main Route: Hidden Marvels
If you’ve been to Norway before or are looking to explore lesser-known areas, there’s even more to discover. Consider a motorcycle route exploring Norway’s charming Telemark region, the beautiful valleys of Valdres, historic mountain passes, and secret lakes accessible only through Norway’s back roads.
This route covers most iconic places, but the real beauty of motorcycling in Norway is the freedom to explore. If you’re looking for even more hidden marvels, check out our E-Book: The Essential Guide To Motorcycling In Norway (E-Guide with 4 Self-guided tour options to explore Norway on two wheels like a local motorcyclist). For a completely hassle free experience, consider Fly & Ride and check out our motorcycle rental options.
Ready to hit the road? Pack your gear, prepare for all types of weather, and get ready for the motorcycle adventure of a lifetime!
Take Care Until The Next Time,
Your Nordic Riders
