A journey through scenic highways and iconic routes

Embark on an unforgettable journey along some of the world's most thrilling roads. Imagine cruising down California’s Pacific Coast Highway, traversing the legendary stretches of Route 66, exploring the stunning vistas along Australia’s Great Ocean Road, or winding through Iceland’s breathtaking Ring Road.

Atlantic Ocean Road, Norway: Experience the breathtaking fusion of innovative engineering and untamed coastal beauty as you traverse a series of curving bridges linking rugged islands, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the North Atlantic. Photo by Mario von Rotz on Unsplash

Venture further to experience Norway’s dramatic Atlantic Ocean Road, often paired with the twisty, mountain views of Trollstigen. Each route promises unique landscapes, rich history, and adventures at every turn.

Pacific Coast Highway, USA: Traverse one of America's most iconic routes where sunlit beaches, dramatic cliffs, and vibrant coastal towns create a tapestry of breathtaking views. From the rugged charm of Big Sur to the timeless allure of Monterey and Santa Barbara, every mile promises an adventure steeped in natural beauty and endless discovery. Photo by Tobias Tullius on Unsplash

Pacific Coast Highway (USA) Location

California, USA, from San Diego to San Francisco.

How to get there Fly into either San Diego or San Francisco, and start your journey south or north.

Car rental $35-55/day for a standard car.

Motorbike rental $50-85/day.

Distance 650 miles (1,050 km).

Fuel prices $3.50-4.50 per gallon.

Driving Licence A standard US driver’s license is sufficient. Non-US drivers can use an IDP.

Traffic rules ollow California road rules, including seat belt usage and speed limits (65 mph/105 km/h max). Watch out for pedestrians in tourist areas.

Left or right side Right-hand side.

History

This coastal route was built in the 1930s, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Attraction

Big Sur: Known for its rugged cliffs and scenic beauty.

Hearst Castle: A grand estate built by publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst.

Monterey Bay Aquarium: A top-rated aquarium showcasing marine life.

Santa Barbara: Known for its beautiful beaches and Spanish architecture.

Hearst Castle, California: Step into a world of lavish opulence and storied history as you explore this majestic coastal estate. With its grand rooms, exquisite art collections, and sweeping views of the Pacific, Hearst Castle stands as a testament to the era of glamorous excess and timeless architectural beauty. Photo: Dale Cruise, Flickr, CC BY 2.0

Accommodation

Budget:

Motel 6 in Monterey ($75-100/night).

Santa Barbara Hostel ($60-90/night).

Mid-range:

Big Sur River Inn ($200-300/night).

Hotel Corque in Santa Barbara ($150-250/night).

Luxury:

Post Ranch Inn in Big Sur ($1,200+ per night).

San Ysidro Ranch in Santa Barbara ($500-800/night).

Restaurants

Budget:

La Super-Rica Taqueria in Santa Barbara ($10-20).

Café Fina in Monterey ($15-30).

Mid-range:

Nepenthe in Big Sur ($30-60).

The Lark in Santa Barbara ($40-70).

Luxury:

The Dining Room at Post Ranch Inn ($100-150).

Bouchon in Yountville ($100+).

Accidents: The winding roads can be dangerous, especially around Big Sur. There have been occasional rockfalls and accidents due to narrow roads.

Great Ocean Road (Australia)

Location: Victoria, Australia, from Torquay to Allansford.

How to get there: Fly into Melbourne and drive southwest.

Car rental: $40-60/day for a standard vehicle.

Motorbike rental: $55-100/day.

Distance: 150 miles (240 km).

Fuel prices: $1.30-1.60 per liter.

Driving Licence: A standard international driving permit is recommended.

Traffic rules: Follow Australian road rules, including speed limits (60-100 km/h) and seatbelt use. Watch for wildlife.

Left or right side: Left-hand side.

History

Built between 1919 and 1932 as a memorial to soldiers who died in WWI, this road is famous for its coastal beauty and iconic landmarks.

12 Apostles, Australia: Marvel at these towering limestone pillars that rise majestically from the Southern Ocean. Carved by time and the relentless forces of nature, each formation stands as a testament to the rugged beauty and timeless allure of Australia’s dramatic coastline. Photo by Ted Bryan Yu on Unsplash

Attractions

12 Apostles: Limestone stacks rising out of the sea.

Great Otway National Park: Home to lush rainforests and waterfalls.

Bells Beach: Famous for its surfing competitions.

Lorne: A charming coastal town.

Accommodation

Budget:

Port Campbell Hostel ($50-70/night).

Lorne Hotel ($70-100/night).

Mid-range:

The Twelve Apostles Lodge ($150-250/night).

Luxury:

Southern Ocean Lodge ($600+ per night).

The Bay of Islands Coastal Resort ($400-600/night).

Restaurants

Budget:

The Fish and Chip Shop in Lorne ($10-20).

Timboon Distillery for local dishes ($15-30).

Mid-range:

The Loft in Apollo Bay ($30-60).

The Wild Dog Café in Lorne ($25-45).

Luxury:

The Dining Room at Southern Ocean Lodge ($80-120).

Ocean View Restaurant in Port Campbell ($50-70).

Accidents The road is often windy and can be slippery, especially in rainy weather. Watch for sudden wildlife crossings.

Route 66 (USA)

Location: Chicago to Santa Monica, USA.

How to get there: Fly into Chicago or Los Angeles and rent a car.

Car rental: $30-50/day for a standard car.

Motorbike rental: $50-80/day.

Distance: 2,400 miles (3,900 km).

Fuel prices: $3.50-4.50 per gallon.

Driving Licence: Standard US driver’s license. Non-US drivers can use an IDP.

Traffic rules: Follow US road laws, including speed limits (55-70 mph).

Left or right side: Right-hand side.

History Known as the «Main Street of America,» Route 66 played a crucial role during the Great Depression and Dust Bowl.

Painted Desert-Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona: Step into a surreal landscape where vivid, swirling hues of the desert meet the ancient, fossilized remnants of a bygone era. Here, nature paints its masterpiece on a canvas of time, inviting you to explore a world both mystical and enduring. Photo: RB Photo, Flickr, CC BY 2.0

Attractions

St. Louis Gateway Arch: A monument to the Westward Expansion.

Cadillac Ranch: A public art installation of spray-painted Cadillacs.

Petrified Forest National Park: A stunning landscape with ancient fossilized trees.

The Wigwam Motel: Iconic roadside motel in Holbrook, AZ.

Accommodation

Budget:

Motel 6 ($50-75/night).

Super 8 ($60-90/night).

Mid-range:

Best Western ($100-150/night).

Holiday Inn ($100-170/night).

Luxury:

The Four Seasons in Chicago ($300-600/night).

The Beverly Hills Hotel in Santa Monica ($500-1,000/night).

Restaurants

Budget:

Lou Mitchell's in Chicago ($10-20).

El Rancho in New Mexico ($15-30).

Mid-range:

Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo ($25-50).

Route 66 Diner in Albuquerque ($20-45).

Luxury:

The Spotted Dog in Santa Fe ($50-80).

Crossroads Café in Santa Monica ($40-70).

Accidents Route 66 passes through diverse areas, from desert to urban streets, so watch out for varying road conditions.

Ring Road (Iceland)

Location: Iceland, a circle around the island.

How to get there: Fly into Reykjavik and rent a car.

Car rental: $40-70/day for a standard car.

Motorbike rental: $50-100/day.

Distance: 830 miles (1,300 km).

Fuel prices: $6.00-6.50 per gallon.

Driving Licence: A standard international driving permit is recommended.

Traffic rules: Drive cautiously, especially during winter months. Speed limits range from 30-90 km/h depending on area.

Left or right side: Right-hand side.

History

Iceland’s Ring Road is a scenic route showcasing volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, and geothermal landscapes.

Blue Lagoon, Iceland: Immerse yourself in the surreal beauty of geothermal waters set against a rugged lava landscape. The milky blue waters provide a striking contrast to the surrounding black volcanic rocks, creating an otherworldly haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. Photo: dom fellowes, Flickr CC BY 2.0

Attractions

Blue Lagoon: A famous geothermal spa.

Golden Circle: Includes Geysir and Gullfoss waterfall.

Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: One of the most iconic waterfalls in Iceland.

Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: Stunning glacial lake filled with icebergs.

Accommodation

Budget:

Reykjavik City Hostel ($30-60/night).

Camping or guesthouses along the route ($40-80/night).

Mid-range:

Icelandair Hotel in Vik ($150-200/night).

Hotel Keflavik ($150-250/night).

Luxury:

Hotel Borg in Reykjavik ($300-600/night).

ION Adventure Hotel ($400-700/night).

Restaurants

Budget:

Bæjarins Beztu Pylsur in Reykjavik for Icelandic hot dogs ($5-10).

Matur og Drykkur in Reykjavik for traditional Icelandic dishes ($10-30).

Mid-range:

The Fish Market in Reykjavik ($30-60).

Bistro 1789 in Akureyri ($30-50).

Luxury:

Dill Restaurant in Reykjavik ($60-100).

Kopar for fine dining with ocean views ($80-150).

Accidents

The weather in Iceland can be unpredictable, and roads may be slippery or closed in winter. Always check road conditions before traveling.

The Garden Route (South Africa)

Location: South Africa, from Mossel Bay to Storms River.

How to get there: Fly into Cape Town or Port Elizabeth and rent a car.

Car rental: $35-50/day for a standard car.

Motorbike rental: $50-90/day.

Distance: 300 miles (480 km).

Fuel prices: $5.30-5.80 per gallon.

Driving Licence: A standard international driving permit is recommended.

Traffic rules: Drive on the left side. The speed limit is usually 120 km/h (75 mph) on highways.

Left or right side: Left-hand side.

History

This iconic route offers a diverse range of scenery from beaches to forests and wildlife. It’s part of the country's heritage, showcasing its natural beauty and wildlife.

Tsitsikamma National Park, South Africa: Immerse yourself in a breathtaking wilderness where ancient forests, rugged cliffs, and crashing ocean waves converge to create a haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Photo by Matthias Wesselmann on Unsplash

Attractions

Knysna: Known for its beautiful lagoon and indigenous forests.

Tsitsikamma National Park: Offers hiking trails and the famous Storms River Mouth.

Cango Caves: A stunning limestone cave system near Oudtshoorn.

Addo Elephant Park: A game reserve home to over 600 elephants.

Accommodation

Budget:

Backpacker’s Lodge in Knysna ($50-70/night).

Jemima's Hospitality in Oudtshoorn ($60-90/night).

Mid-range:

The Turbine Boutique Hotel & Spa in Knysna ($150-250/night).

The Plettenberg Hotel in Plettenberg Bay ($200-350/night).

Luxury:

Fancourt Hotel in George ($400-800/night).

Tsitsikamma Village Inn ($250-500/night).

Restaurants

Budget:

The Olive Tree Restaurant in Knysna ($15-30).

The Earth Restaurant in Plettenberg Bay ($20-40).

Mid-range:

The Cattle Baron in George ($30-50).

Zinzi Restaurant in Plettenberg Bay ($40-70).

Luxury:

The Mugg & Bean in George ($50-100).

The Lookout Deck in Plettenberg Bay ($60-120).

Accidents

The road is generally safe but has some sharp turns in the mountainous sections, so caution is needed.

North Coast 500 (Scotland)

Location: Scotland, from Inverness to Inverness (circular route).

How to get there: Fly into Inverness and rent a car or motorbike.

Car rental: $35-55/day for a standard car.

Motorbike rental: $55-95/day.

Distance: 500 miles (805 km).

Fuel prices: $5.90-6.20 per gallon.

Driving Licence: An international driving permit is recommended, though a UK license works.

Traffic rules: Drive on the left side. Speed limits are 30-60 mph (48-97 km/h).

Left or right side: Left-hand side.

History

The NC500 offers a scenic route around the Scottish Highlands, passing through castles, rugged coastlines, and wildlife-rich landscapes.

Loch Ness, Scotland: A place of mystery and legend, this deep, misty loch is surrounded by rolling highlands and ancient ruins, inviting visitors to explore its beauty—and perhaps catch a glimpse of the elusive Nessie. Photo by Emilie CRƧƧRD on Unsplash

Attractions:

Dunrobin Castle: A beautiful castle with stunning gardens.

John O’Groats: The northernmost point of mainland UK.

Loch Ness: The famous Loch home to the mythical Nessie.

Applecross Peninsula: Famous for its views and scenic roads.

Accommodation

Budget:

The Royal Highland Hotel in Inverness ($80-120/night).

The Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness ($100-150/night).

Mid-range:

The Torridon in Wester Ross ($150-250/night).

Riverside Lodge in Applecross ($180-300/night).

Luxury:

Dunrobin Castle Accommodation ($250-500/night).

Kinloch Lodge on Skye ($300-600/night).

Restaurants

Budget:
The Kitchen Restaurant in Inverness ($15-30).
The Applecross Inn ($20-35).
Mid-range:
The Old Bridge Inn in Inverness ($25-50).
The Galleon Bistro in Ullapool ($30-60).
Luxury:
The Torridon Dining Room ($60-120).
The Three Chimneys on Skye ($80-150).

Accidents

The winding roads and remote sections can be dangerous, particularly in bad weather, so use extra caution during wet conditions.

Romantic Road, Germany: Travel through a storybook landscape of medieval towns, fairytale castles, and rolling countryside. From the historic charm of Marburg to the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle, this scenic route captures the essence of old-world Germany. Photo by Christian Lue on Unsplash

The Romantic Road (Germany)

Location: Southern Germany, from Würzburg to Füssen.

How to get there: Fly into Munich or Frankfurt, then rent a car or motorbike.

Car rental: $40-70/day for a standard car.

Motorbike rental: $55-100/day.

Distance: 220 miles (350 km).

Fuel prices: $5.50-6.00 per gallon.

Driving Licence: A standard international driving permit is recommended.

Traffic rules: Drive on the right side. Speed limits range from 60 to 130 km/h (37-81 mph).

Left or right side: Right-hand side.

History

A medieval route lined with castles, charming villages, and ancient churches that represents Germany’s cultural and architectural heritage.

Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany: Perched atop a rugged hill, this fairytale castle inspired by medieval romance captivates with its soaring towers, intricate details, and breathtaking views of Bavaria’s alpine landscape. Photo by Felix on Unsplash

Attractions

Neuschwanstein Castle: A fairy-tale castle, one of the most famous in Europe.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber: A well-preserved medieval town with cobblestone streets.

Füssen: A charming Bavarian town at the end of the Romantic Road.

Würzburg Residence: A UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful baroque architecture.

Accommodation

Budget:

Hotel Goldenes Lamm in Rothenburg ob der Tauber ($70-110/night).

Würzburg Youth Hostel ($50-80/night).

Mid-range:

Hotel Eisenhut in Rothenburg ob der Tauber ($150-200/night).

Hotel Müller in Füssen ($120-180/night).

Luxury:

Schlosshotel Fiss ($300-600/night).

Bayerischer Hof in Munich ($400-800/night).

Restaurants

Budget:

Gasthof Hotel zum Grünen Baum in Rothenburg ob der Tauber ($15-30).

Brauhaus am Stein in Würzburg ($20-35).

Mid-range:

Gasthof Goldener Löwe in Rothenburg ($25-50).

Restaurant Reiser in Füssen ($30-60).

Luxury:

Restaurant Gabelhofen in Füssen ($60-120).

Dallmayr Restaurant in Munich ($80-150).

Accidents

This route has a well-maintained infrastructure, but sharp turns and narrow passages in some medieval towns can be challenging.

Icefields Parkway & Moraine Lake, Canada: Journey through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, where towering glaciers, turquoise lakes, and rugged peaks create a breathtaking landscape. Moraine Lake’s vibrant blue waters, set against the Valley of the Ten Peaks, make it one of the most iconic and photographed spots in the world. Photo by John Lee on Unsplash

The Icefields Parkway (Canada)

Location: Alberta, Canada, from Jasper to Banff.

How to get there: Fly into Calgary or Edmonton and drive toward the Rocky Mountains.

Car rental: $50-80/day for a standard car.

Motorbike rental: $60-120/day.

Distance: 140 miles (225 km).

Fuel prices: $4.50-5.00 per gallon.

Driving Licence: A valid international driving permit is advised.

Traffic rules: Drive on the right side. Speed limits range from 60 to 100 km/h.

Left or right side: Right-hand side.

History

One of Canada’s most scenic routes, running through the majestic Canadian Rockies and past glaciers, lakes, and waterfalls.

Athabasca Pass, Icefields Parkway, Canada: A historic mountain pass along one of the world’s most scenic drives, where glaciers, rugged peaks, and cascading waterfalls showcase the untamed beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Photo by Charlie Gallant on Unsplash

Attractions

Columbia Icefield: One of the largest icefields in North America.

Athabasca Falls: A stunning waterfall along the route.

Lake Louise: Famous for its turquoise waters and breathtaking scenery.

Peyto Lake: Known for its striking wolf-head shape.

Accommodation

Budget:

Hostel in Jasper ($40-70/night).

Camping in Banff ($30-50/night).

Mid-range:

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge ($150-300/night).

Lake Louise Inn ($150-250/night).

Luxury:

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise ($400-800/night).

The Rimrock Resort in Banff ($350-600/night).

Restaurants

Budget:

Jasper Pizza Place ($15-30).

The Old Spaghetti Factory in Banff ($20-35).

Mid-range:

The Chateau Dining Room at Lake Louise ($30-50).

The Maple Leaf in Banff ($40-70).

Luxury:

The View Restaurant at Fairmont Jasper ($60-100).

The Bison Restaurant in Banff ($70-120).

Accidents

Snow and icy roads can make driving conditions hazardous in winter months, so exercise caution.

The Amalfi Coast (Italy)

Location: Southern Italy, from Sorrento to Salerno.

How to get there: Fly into Naples and rent a car.

Car rental: $40-70/day for a standard car.

Motorbike rental: $50-90/day.

Distance: 30 miles (50 km).

Fuel prices: $6.00-6.50 per gallon.

Driving Licence: A standard EU driving permit is enough, or an international license for non-EU visitors.

Traffic rules: Drive on the right side. Narrow, winding roads require careful driving.

Left or right side: Right-hand side.

History

Known for its dramatic cliffs, picturesque villages, and Mediterranean culture, the Amalfi Coast has been a destination for travelers for centuries.

Attractions

Positano: Famous for its colorful houses and stunning beach views.

Ravello: A hilltop town with beautiful gardens and villas.

Amalfi: Home to the cathedral and stunning coastal views.

Capri: An island famed for its natural beauty and luxury shopping.

Amalfi Coast, Italy – Ravello: Perched high above the Mediterranean, Ravello enchants with its historic villas, lush gardens, and panoramic sea views, offering a peaceful retreat along Italy’s most spectacular coastline. Photo by Tanner Crockett on Unsplash

Accommodation:

Budget:

Hotel La Caravella in Sorrento ($80-130/night).

Hotel Villa Annalara in Positano ($90-150/night).

Mid-range:

Hotel Poseidon in Positano ($200-350/night).

Hotel Luna Convento in Amalfi ($150-250/night).

Luxury:

Le Sirenuse in Positano ($500-900/night).

Belmond Hotel Caruso in Ravello ($800-1,200/night).

Restaurants

Budget:

La Dolce Sosta in Sorrento ($10-20).

Ristorante Il Capitano in Positano ($20-35).

Mid-range:

Chez Black in Positano ($30-60).

Trattoria da Gemma in Amalfi ($40-70).

Luxury:

Zass Restaurant in Positano ($80-150).

Ristorante Il Riccio in Capri ($100-200).

Accidents

The road is notoriously narrow with many sharp bends. Accidents are common, so take extreme care when driving, especially during the tourist season.

Transfăgărășan, Romania – Curtea de Argeș: Winding through the towering Carpathian Mountains, this legendary road offers breathtaking scenery, hairpin turns, and a journey through Romania’s rich history, starting from the historic town of Curtea de Argeș with its stunning monastery and royal legacy. Photo by Piotr Dutko on Unsplash

The Transfăgărășan Highway (Romania)

Location: Romania, through the Făgăraș Mountains from Curtea de Argeș to Sibiu.

How to get there: Fly into Bucharest, rent a car, and drive north.

Car rental: $30-60/day for a standard car.

Motorbike rental: $50-90/day.

Distance: 90 miles (150 km).

Fuel prices: $5.30-5.80 per gallon.

Driving Licence: A standard international driving permit is recommended.

Traffic rules: Drive on the right side. Watch for narrow roads and sharp turns.

Left or right side: Right-hand side.

History

Constructed by Ceaușescu’s regime in the 1970s, this road is a feat of engineering winding through the highest peaks of Romania.

Attractions

Balea Lake: A glacial lake at the highest point of the highway.

Poenari Castle: Dracula’s real-life castle.

Vidraru Dam: One of the largest dams in Romania.

Accommodation

Budget:

Pensiunea Făgăraș ($50-80/night).

Motel Capra ($60-90/night).

Mid-range:

Hotel Transfăgărășan ($150-250/night).

Căsuța Poienari ($130-200/night).

Luxury:

Hotelul Valea Cu Brazi in Sibiu ($200-350/night).

Conacul Boieresc in Curtea de Argeș ($300-500/night).

Restaurants

Budget:

Restaurant Capra in Făgăraș ($10-20).

La Căsuța Poienari ($15-30).

Mid-range:

Restaurant Alpin in Făgăraș ($25-50).

Casa de Munte in Curtea de Argeș ($40-60).

Luxury:

Transfăgărășan Restaurant ($60-120).

Hotel Valea Cu Brazi Restaurant ($70-150).

Accidents

Due to its steep inclines and sharp corners, accidents can occur, especially in foggy weather.

Atlantic Ocean Road (Norway)

Location:This iconic route is located in the county of Møre og Romsdal, western Norway, connecting several small islands via a series of bridges. It lies between the coastal towns of Kristiansund and Molde.

How to Get There:

By Air: Fly into Kristiansund Airport, Kvernberget, or Molde Airport, Årø.

By Car: Rent a car from local agencies or international rental companies upon arrival.

Combination Option: Consider pairing this drive with the nearby Trollstigen route for an extra dose of adventure (more on Trollstigen below).

Car Rental:

Price Range: Approximately $50-80 per day for a standard car.

Motorbike Rental:

Price Range: Approximately $60-100 per day.

Distance:The Atlantic Ocean Road itself spans about 8 miles (13 km). Although short in distance, the route is renowned for its dramatic scenery and engineering marvels. Many visitors combine it with additional scenic drives—most notably, Trollstigen—to create a longer, exhilarating journey.

Fuel Prices:

Expect to pay around $1.80-2.00 per liter. It’s wise to refuel in larger towns before venturing onto the more remote stretches.

Driving Licence:

A valid domestic driving license is required. Non-Norwegian visitors should also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with their regular license, especially if it is not in English or Norwegian.

Traffic rules & driving details:

Side of the Road: Drive on the right-hand side.

Speed Limits: Typically, local limits range from 50 km/h (31 mph) on small roads to 80-90 km/h (50-55 mph) on open stretches—always obey posted signs.

Special Conditions: The route’s exposure to the Atlantic means that strong winds, sudden rain, or even icy conditions in colder months may occur. Use caution, especially on bridges.

History

Opened in 1989, the Atlantic Ocean Road is celebrated for its innovative design. It has become an international symbol of modern engineering and natural beauty, frequently listed among the world's most scenic drives.

Engineering

The road’s series of curving bridges and causeways are designed to withstand harsh coastal weather, blending functional design with breathtaking vistas.

Attractions

Scenic Overlooks: Multiple pull-off points allow for stops to capture panoramic views of the rugged coastline and crashing Atlantic waves.

Architectural Marvels: Admire the creative design of the bridges that snake across the islands.

Local Charm: Encounter small fishing villages and enjoy glimpses of everyday coastal life.

Combination with Trollstigen:

Trollstigen, known for its steep, hairpin bends and dramatic mountain scenery, is located in the same region. Combining these routes lets you experience both the raw power of the ocean and the majesty of Norwegian alpine landscapes on a single trip.

Atlantic Ocean Road & Trollstigen, Norway: Extend your adventure by combining two of Norway’s most iconic routes. From the dramatic bridges and coastal views of the Atlantic Ocean Road to the steep, serpentine curves of Trollstigen, this extended trip offers a thrilling journey through Norway's most stunning landscapes. Photo by Kristoffer Eknes on Unsplash

Accommodation

Budget:

Guesthouses & Hostels: In nearby Kristiansund, simple guesthouses or hostels typically cost around $60-100 per night.

Camping: Seasonal campsites along the coast are available for $30-50 per night.

Mid-range:

Hotels: Comfortable hotels in Molde or Kristiansund usually range from $150-250 per night.

Boutique Inns: Quaint inns with local character in surrounding villages often cost between $120-200 per night.

Luxury:

Resorts & Coastal Lodges: Upscale accommodations offering panoramic ocean views and premium amenities can be found for $300+ per night.

Restaurants

Budget:

Local Cafés & Fish Shacks: Enjoy fresh seafood or traditional Norwegian fare at casual eateries for around $15-25 per meal.

Mid-range:

Family-Run Restaurants: In Kristiansund and Molde, restaurants offer regional dishes like fish soup and grilled salmon for approximately $30-60 per person.

Luxury:

Fine Dining: Upscale restaurants located in luxury hotels or coastal resorts, with contemporary Norwegian cuisine and scenic views, may charge $80-150 or more per person.

Accident & safety warnings

Weather sensitivity: The route’s exposure to the Atlantic Ocean means it is particularly susceptible to high winds and rapidly changing weather conditions.

Road conditions: Bridges can be slippery when wet, and gusts of wind may require reduced speeds.

Combined routes: If combining with Trollstigen, be aware that Trollstigen is a steep, winding mountain road with tight hairpin bends. Both routes demand careful, attentive driving—especially if you’re not accustomed to such conditions.

General Advice: Always check local weather and road conditions before departure, and drive at moderate speeds to ensure safety.