Atlantic Road (Atlanterhavsveien)

Overview

The Atlantic Road (Atlanterhavsveien) opened in 1989 after six years of construction. It connects the island of Averøy to the mainland across a chain of small islands and skerries in the Norwegian Sea. The road replaced a ferry route and was initially a toll road — the toll was paid off in 1999.

Eight bridges carry the road across open water. The Storseisundet Bridge is the most photographed: a 260-meter span that curves upward and appears to end in mid-air when seen from the approach. The optical illusion is not intentional — it is the result of the bridge’s steep gradient designed to allow fishing boats to pass underneath.

In autumn and winter storms, waves crash over the road surface. The Atlantic Road is one of the only roads in the world where you can legally drive through ocean spray. Storm chasing — driving the road during heavy weather — is a draw for photographers and adrenaline seekers. The road remains open in all but the most extreme conditions.

Along the route, fishing platforms extend from the roadside into the ocean. Locals cast for cod, pollock, and coalfish from these platforms year-round. Several designated pull-offs provide viewpoints, walking paths, and access to the fishing spots. The Eldhusøya viewing area has a looped walking path across a small island connected to the road.