A drive from Åndalsnes to Bjorli in Norway offers a truly breathtaking experience through some of the country's most spectacular landscapes. The journey covers about 60 kilometers (around 37 miles) and typically takes about an hour, though you'll likely want to take your time to stop, admire, and photograph the stunning views along the way.
The Start: Åndalsnes
The drive begins in Åndalsnes, a charming town located at the edge of the Romsdalsfjord and surrounded by dramatic peaks. Known as Norway’s "Alpine Town by the Fjord," Åndalsnes is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. After leaving town, you quickly find yourself immersed in the scenic beauty of the Romsdalen Valley.
The Scenic Drive
Heading inland, you’ll follow the E136 highway, which runs parallel to the Rauma River. The valley opens up to reveal soaring mountains on both sides, with jagged peaks, lush forests, and the sparkling river creating a dynamic and ever-changing landscape. The natural grandeur of the Romsdalen Valley is awe-inspiring, and you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a postcard.
Trollveggen (The Troll Wall): As you make your way along the road, you'll pass by the famous Trollveggen, the tallest vertical rock face in Europe, rising about 1,100 meters (3,600 feet). It’s an impressive sight and a favorite for rock climbers from all over the world.
Rauma River: This crystal-clear river runs alongside much of the route, and there are several spots where you can pull over to take in the views of its rushing rapids and waterfalls.
Kylling Bridge
Further along the route, one of the highlights is crossing the Kylling Bridge. This stone railway bridge, which is a marvel of engineering, offers stunning views down into the deep gorge carved by the Rauma River below. If you're lucky, you might even spot the Rauma Railway train passing on the bridge.
Bjorli: The Destination
As you approach Bjorli, the landscape starts to change from deep valleys to more open mountain terrain. Bjorli is a small village known for its excellent skiing in the winter and access to hiking trails in the summer. Its high-altitude location makes it a popular destination for winter sports, but it’s also a peaceful retreat for nature lovers year-round.
Points to Note:
Photo Stops: This drive is filled with opportunities to stop and admire the views. Many rest areas and pull-offs offer safe places to take photos or simply soak in the scenery.
Seasonal Beauty: In the summer, the valleys are green and lush, with wildflowers in bloom and snow-capped peaks still visible in the distance. In autumn, the landscape is ablaze with the golden colors of fall foliage. Winter transforms the region into a snowy wonderland, and in spring, the waterfalls are at their most powerful, fed by melting snow.
Driving from Åndalsnes to Bjorli is an unforgettable experience, with the combination of dramatic natural beauty, fascinating landmarks, and the serene atmosphere of rural Norway. It’s the kind of journey where the drive itself becomes the destination.
