Unforgettable Road Trip in Norway

1. The Route

2. Bergen to Alesund

3. Alesund to Kristiansund

4. Kristiansund to Åndalsnes

5. Åndalsnes to Stryn

6. Stryn to Flåm

7. Flåm to Bergen

8. Bergen

9. Drone Images

10. Final Thoughts

The Route

Northwards Southwards

Norway, a land that ignites the imagination of any photographer, beckoned us with its promise of breathtaking vistas. For Eva, a photographer friend and seasoned traveller and myself, this journey was the culmination of shared dreams which included driving the Atlantic Road. We envisioned ourselves traversing winding roads, dwarfed by majestic mountains and accompanied by the glint of sun-kissed fjords and recording it all with our cameras.

Our adventure began as we met at Bergen Airport, ready to embrace the freedom our hired car offered. We were ready for the off, however a narrative which would feature frequently during our trip had us pausing to take photographs even as we were keen to move on!

At Bergen airport

The Journey

Bergen to Alesund

Starting our road trip in Norway we had decided to make haste northwards towards Alesund, negotiating three ferries en route and arriving in the evening ready to relax for 3 days. We were immediately immersed into breathtaking scenery as if the very landscape had been lifted from a postcard. As we left Bergen mist started to rise creating beautiful vistas across the water. We clung to our resolve, the miles stretching out before us and the need to keep moving uppermost in our minds. Barely thirty minutes had passed however, before our ambitious commitment crumbled. There, cascading down a moss-covered cliff face was our first waterfall and we couldn't resist the pull of its untamed beauty.

The call of "stop" echoed frequently from that point forward, in order to pause and absorb the unfolding scenery. We embraced this rhythm, surrendering to the flow of the journey and drinking in every sight and sensation. Our stops were for a multitude of reasons: to capture the beauty of reflections dancing on the water's surface, to marvel at the raw power of rushing cascades, to discover the quaint charm of hidden structures and even to engage in unhurried conversation with Egberg, who, in the heat of the day was happily and diligently orchestrating traffic through tunnel roadworks.

Our first day on the road was a whirlwind of unforgettable moments, a testament to the beauty of the open highway and it culminated in a truly breathtaking sight. As we drove alongside another lake, the setting sun, having gifted us a canvas of dramatic clouds earlier, now painted a part rainbow in the sky, its vibrant colours mirrored perfectly in the glassy surface of the tranquil lake; the ultimate pièce de résistance to a memorable day.

Next day, deciding to make use of the soft morning light, we headed to a nearby beach a short drive away. We had the place virutally to ourselves providing a tranquil sanctuary where the only sounds were the rhythmic crash of waves and the cries of distant gulls. We reveled in the peaceful solitude, our footsteps leaving fleeting imprints as we traversed the landscape of tide-worn rocks and exposed sandbanks. It was during this exploration that Eva discovered a treacherous secret hidden beneath the water's surface – the unsettling pull of quicksand! The discovery tempered our adventurous spirits as we rejected a route across the sand to reach a small lighthouse we'd seen.

After our beach visit, our main focus for later in the day was to head to the Aksla viewing point above Ålesund in the anticipation of a spectacular sunset. We began by immersing ourselves in the charm of the town, strolling through its picturesque centre and along the bustling harbour. The salty air and the cries of seagulls were a perfect prelude to some classic fish and chips! With appetites satisfied and spirits high, we then began the ascent to Aksla, eager to witness the sun paint the sky with its vibrant hues over the iconic Art Nouveau architecture of Ålesund.

Our final day in Alesund proved to be a dynamic exploration of both our ambitions and the elements. The morning saw us head towards the Ulla lighthouse, a place I envisioned capturing from above with my drone. En route we stopped to capture images of autumnal colours and bridge reflections as well as an impressive bridge over which we would later travel.

The journey itself transformed into an unexpected photographic expedition, punctuated by stops to capture the hues of autumn and the mirrored perfection of bridge reflections in the still waters. We were also impressed at the sheer scale of one bridge over which we would travel. Unfortunately, despite having the dramatic Ulla Lighthouse location entirely to ourselves, a fierce wind thwarted our aerial aspirations. Undeterred, we made the most of our time on the ground, absorbing the rugged beauty of the coastline and decided to revisit later in the day, a hopeful gamble that the wind might relent and with the added promise of capturing the magical transition from sunset's fiery hues to the deepening blues of twilight.

We had been invited by a photographer friend from Alesund to join him and his dogs at his boathouse, for home cooked pizza.

It was an idyllic setting and we enjoyed our time together before setting off on a mission to uncover a secret cave rumoured to be nestled amongst the colossal boulders adorning a rugged shoreline. Though our quest for the cave proved unsuccessful, we experienced a different, yet equally breathtaking reward. As the sun set, the distant snowy mountain tops turned beautiful pink and purple, a spectacle we watched unfold as we walked in the gathering darkness back to our car.

Under the deepening twilight we headed back to Ulla lighthouse whose light was now flashing as a warning beacon in the dark, still night.

Our day, already rich with shared moments, found a fitting conclusion as we paused at the impressive bridge we had crossed earlier, to capture a photograph of the bridge's lights and the emerging stars beginning to pepper the vast canvas of the night sky; a perfect end to a memorable day.

Alesund to Kristiansund

Our anticipation peaked as we set our sights on the Atlantic Road, a stretch of highway we'd both eagerly awaited. This 8.3-kilometer marvel, winding its way across Norway's rugged west coast, is world-renowned for its audacious bridges that leap across the ocean, linking a chain of picturesque islands.

En route to the beginning of the Atlantic Road, we viewed other striking bridges and I seized the opportunity to fly my drone in readiness to capture the breathtaking spectacle that awaited us on the main event. We were genuinely surprised by the lack of traffic when we ventured onto this iconic road. This unexpected tranquility afforded us an opportunity to truly appreciate the sheer marvel of the engineering that sculpted this route as we drove along or took advantage of the stopping points. The entire experience, from the peaceful journey to the awe-inspiring design, not only met but significantly surpassed our most optimistic expectations.

After an epic day of adventuring, we finally reached our accommodation for the next three nights in Kristiansund, a charming, albeit somewhat unconventional abode. Access to our living and sleeping quarters was via a dizzying, steep wooden ladder, a definite deterrent to hauling luggage upstairs – our cases wisely remained stowed on the ground floor. With no kitchen facilities and a kettle and water available downstairs, the ascent and descent of that ladder became a daily exercise in strategic planning.

Our first day of exploration involved an early start, driven by the allure of churches that, more often than not, were nestled in settings of unparalleled beauty. As we navigated our way through the charming landscapes, our route frequently guided us over more impressive bridges, structures that commanded our attention both from their towering heights and from the intriguing perspectives offered by looking up at them from below. The focus on churches led us on a journey not just through spiritual sites, but also created the opportunity to meet with locals. Eva and I were enjoying a quiet lunch on a church bench, the sun warm on our faces, when a gentle-faced elderly gentleman approached. He carried a small bouquet of flowers destined for a nearby headstone. After carefully tending to the grave, he paused and a conversation blossomed between us. He shared, with a quiet strength, that his beloved wife had died the year before. It was a comfort to him, he explained, to live so close and be able to visit her resting place, a tangible connection to the love they had shared. I hope that our conversation added to his day as it did to ours.

Kristiansund to Åndalsnes

On what turned out to be our final day in Kristiansund began with a breathtaking spectacle as a fiery sunrise painted the sky, prompting us to hastily throw on clothes over our pyjamas and rush to the nearest water's edge to witness its fading glory.

With the last hues of dawn behind us, we decided to leave Kristiansund a day early and set our sights on Andalsnes, where another perfectly still day promised a canvas of serene reflections and vibrant colours.

En route, we were making our way to Urnes to visit Norway's oldest stave church when our journey was briefly interrupted by a stubborn pair of goats who initially refused to budge from the road. Once they were appeased, we continued on our way. As we reached the ancient church, an unexpected alarm blared. The church warden, arriving to silence the noise, graciously offered us a private tour of the church. Built in the 12th century, its medieval timber-frame construction was an awe-inspiring testament to history and stepping inside, we were enveloped by the scent and texture of its ancient wooden interior. Though now too small for its growing congregation, the church stands as a remarkable piece of heritage.

Continuing our journey towards Åndalsnes, we found some lovely areas to explore which were often out of sight of other travellers hurrying along. Later, a cable car ride to Mount Nesaksla in Andalsnes provided panoramic views and after a meal while a faint sunset graced the horizon, we concluded our day on the waterfront, mesmerised by the emerging stars in the vast, clear night sky.

With an unexpected extra day added to our itinerary in Åndalsnes our time unfolded with delightful spontaneity. The area offered constant invitation to explore with each bend in the road seeming to reveal bodies of water that beckoned us to their shores. While access sometimes proved more challenging to navigate than anticipated, our perseverance was rewarded with picturesque spots perfect for capturing photographs.

When we eventually arrived at our accommodation, we were delighted to see how quirky it was with a traditional grass-topped roof! It was also set in a beautiful location which we were able to photograph from our balcony.

Next day setting out before the morning mist had fully lifted, our early exploration of the breathtaking landscape between Åndalsnes and Bjorli rapidly gained a defining characteristic. We very quickly started to refer to the 50km stretch as "Waterfall Valley," and for good reason. Within this concentrated expanse, waterfalls of varying heights, lengths, and volumes cascaded down the rugged terrain, each one a unique spectacle of nature's power and grace. The sheer abundance of such mesmerizing beauty made it incredibly difficult to know when to stop and admire, however eventually we reached the iconic Kylling bridge, where the morning light perfectly illuminated the autumnal colours, showcasing them in all their glorious, vibrant splendour.

We followed narrow roads into the forested area and arrived at an old sawmill which was ostensibly closed, however one entrance remained usable and so of course we entered and explored. The dense canopy of ancient trees muffled all but the softest sounds of nature, although we imagined many people must populate this very spot during peak season. Today however, the wilderness held us in its quiet embrace and we enjoyed a restorative moment of stillness before Eva decided to go rock climbing over a ferocious body of water. Safely down and ready to move, we headed back to our accommodation to pack for the next day's adventure.

Åndalsnes to Stryn

Our early start wasn't dictated by an impending long drive, but rather by the sheer abundance of astonishing sights we planned to encounter along the way, each demanding its due time. What an unforgettable experience it was, starting with reflected colours from a magnificent sunrise.

We navigated through majestic mountain valleys, ascending to breathtaking viewpoints adorned with a vibrant tapestry of autumnal hues via winding roads and hairpin bends. Along our journey, we stumbled upon hidden treasures: felt the delicate spray of waterfalls and enjoyed the charming architecture of ancient bridges. The drone flew high as we recorded our insignificance in areas seeming to stretch into the distance.

The adventure culminated with a breathtaking cable car ride, offering panoramic vistas of serene fjords far below, a spectacle which we then savoured while dining in a restaurant that afforded an unparalleled perspective of the magnificent landscape.

Stryn to Flåm

Our eleventh day in Norway dawned with gloomy heaviness, our first overcast sky since arrival and a stark contrast to the previous sun-drenched days. The forecast predicted more rain, leading us to embrace the day with a playful, yet fitting, theme: "atmospheric." Without a strict itinerary, we surrendered to the journey, allowing the moody weather to guide our discoveries. The clouds, far from being a deterrent, added a dramatic depth to the landscapes, while the persistent drizzle seemed to amplify the vibrant greens and muted earth tones, transforming the ordinary into something truly captivating. Each unplanned stop, each turn in the road, revealed a new, evocative scene, proving that even a dreary day can hold immense, atmospheric beauty.

Next morning, with the sky seeming to offer little hint of excitement, a spontaneous decision was made to ascend to the highest mountain viewpoint, a hopeful quest to discover any dawn colour that might be seeping through. Just as we'd done on previous impulsive adventures, we hastily threw on clothes over our pyjamas. Emerging into the pre-dawn gloom, we navigated the winding, narrow mountain tracks, a sense of quiet confidence settling over us that our mad dash was likely a solitary one, with few others brave enough to embrace such an unconventional start to the day. We had the place to ourselves; an overnight camper van leaving soon after our arrival.

After several enjoyable hours we returned to Flåm and caught the Flåmsbana train which promised a journey of breathtaking natural beauty over 20 kilometers of track. It is a route renowned as both one of the world's most stunning and steepest train rides. Our anticipation was particularly high for a glimpse of the mighty Kjosfossen waterfall, a spectacle said to be exclusively visible from this very railway. However, fate intervened; the waterfall, harnessed as part of a hydroelectric power system, was experiencing a period of low flow. As our train stopped to view the cascade, the flow was reduced to a mere trickle, a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between nature's grandeur and human intervention.

Flåm to Bergen

The serene Norwegian landscape, which had charmed us with its gentler aspects, unleashed its full fury last night. A tempest of ferocious winds, punctuated by violent gusts, battered our accommodation, shaking not only the sturdy house but the very bed in which I was sleeeping; a surprisingly effective lullaby that rocked me to sleep! In the morning, the storm's lingering power was evident in the absence of electricity, which temporarily cut us off from the internet. Electricity eventually restored we finished packing and started our journey towards Bergen.

Despite the blustery, rain-soaked start in Flåm, our expectations for capturing compelling images were quickly surpassed as the weather playfully shifted. A sliver of sunshine soon graced the sky, painting a delicate rainbow over the fjord, a promising sign of the beauty to come.

Our journey led us to a breathtaking waterfall, enticing us to venture further up the road for a more encompassing perspective. It was then we discovered we'd stumbled upon Stalheimskleiva, a remarkable 1.5 km stretch of road boasting 13 hairpin bends, renowned as one of Northern Europe's steepest. This hidden gem offered unparalleled vistas of the Nærøydalen valley and the majestic Stalheimsfossen and Sivlefossen waterfalls. The adventure continued with a stop at Tvindefossen, another impressive cascade plunging 110 meters and also where I was able to photograph one of the delightful grass-roofed bus stops.

With rainfall now a constant companion, we set our sights on Bergen Airport and the arrival of Lee, a photographer friend with Nordic roots.

Bergen

Our meticulously planned itinerary, designed for a serene transition from travel weariness to readiness to collect and welcome Lee, unraveled spectacularly in Bergen. What was meant to be a leisurely check-in, a refreshing shower and a moment of calm, dissolved into chaos when storm-induced fallen trees blocked the ring road. The unexpected detour, forcing us to backtrack, left us with barely enough time to deposit our luggage at the apartment before rushing off to the airport to meet Lee. Thankfully, Lee's own flight was delayed, a small silver lining ensuring our meeting was less about frantic waiting and more about a collective sigh of relief. Lee was set to join us for our last few days in Bergen and was looking forward to finding some waterfalls. Although the weather forecast was less than ideal, we were confident we'd discover plenty to explore.

The next day began with enthusiasm and a clear objective: Lee's desire to witness some waterfalls. Although we had a lengthy day planned and humorously promised ourselves to stay focused on our primary itinerary, that resolve crumbled almost immediately. The allure of the unknown proved too strong, and we soon found ourselves veering off the intended route, our journey unexpectedly taking us through a series of intriguing, unclassified mountain tunnels and along winding, lesser-known roads. Eventually we arrived at the breathtaking Steindalsfossen, a location I was particularly eager to revisit. This time, however, my goal was to capture its grandeur from a new vantage point, utilizing my drone for an aerial perspective that contrasted with my previous, ground-level experience.

Our journey next led us towards the breathtaking Vøringsfossen waterfall and views of the dramatic Måbødalen Valley, where an impressive bridge walkway stretched precariously across a deep ravine. Knowing of my aversion to heights, I braced myself for what I anticipated would be a significant personal challenge. Yet, surprisingly, it wasn't the airy expanse of the bridge itself that truly tested my resolve; instead, it was the steep, uneven, and relentlessly rocky path leading down to its starting point that proved to be the real trial of both my stamina and my nerves.

This iconic Norwegian waterfall certainly commands attention with its sheer scale, a spectacle that truly demands inclusion on any visitor's itinerary. However, the overwhelming presence of throngs of selfie-snapping tourists, their chatter and movement a constant hum, made it difficult for me to connect with the raw power of nature on display. While the immense height of the falls is undeniable, their thunderous roar is softened to a distant murmur from the viewing points, a subtle reminder of the imposing distance. Despite the challenges in immersing myself fully in its grandeur, the dramatic landscape and the waterfall's legendary status solidify its position as a must-see, a place whose visual impact, at least, is unforgettable.

We were quiet when leaving the bustling Vøringsfossen area then almost immediately calls of "stop, stop" rang out! We had caught sight of still water perfectly mirroring the sky and surrounds. Pulling over to take a closer look, a profound sense of relief washed over me; this smaller, more intimate landscape felt instinctively more comprehensible to my eyes after the overwhelming grandeur we'd just experienced. Eager to capture its subtle beauty, I launched my drone, sending it soaring to gain the extra perspective that height uniquely affords. From this elevated vantage point, the intricate patterns and textures truly came alive, and I once more felt that familiar thrill of meticulously photographing detail, a joy amplified by the surrounding tranquility.

The three-hour return journey to our apartment was marked by frequent cries of "stop" and enthusiastic declarations of "unbelievable" and "wow"as we unearthed gem after gem. One particularly fruitful discovery yielded an astounding four captivating images within a mere ten-meter radius, leaving us almost ready to pack away our gear. However, as if orchestrated by fate, a perfect rainbow materialized just as we were considering it, presenting an ideal, breathtaking subject for our final shots of the day.

Exhausted but exhilarated, we arrived back in Bergen, channeling our remaining energy into a trip up the Fløibanen funicular. From the panoramic viewpoint overlooking the city, we captured a few more memories before finally indulging in a well-deserved meal, capping off a truly magical day brimming with unexpected delights and unforgettable experiences.

As we were tired after the long exhausting previous day and the weather was gloomy and miserable, we opted for a day inside, looking at and editting our images. We all felt the benefit of the relaxing day and next day were looking forward to meeting with our photographer friends in town.

The following morning, despite the continued melancholic weather, our spirits were bright, anticipating a rendezvous with our friends. However, as the rain showed no signs of abating, we decided to make a brief excursion to a nearby, intriguing mill, eager to photograph its unique character before our scheduled meeting.

The weather became instantly irrelevant the moment we joined our friends. It was so good to be together again, where laughter punctuated the tales of recent adventures and general life updates. We spent a truly lovely time catching up, indeed, Norway had provided us not only with such memorable experiences but, more importantly, has served as the backdrop for finding genuinely lovely friends who share our absorbing hobby. This shared passion provides a deep, enduring connection that ensures these gatherings, filled with camaraderie and planning for future adventure, will long continue.

Drone Images

Without a doubt, my drone images added a profound sense of understanding to the areas we were photographing with our cameras. The occasion when this reality was most obvious was during our journey along the Atlantic Road. By capturing the curves and elevations from a height of 100 meters, my drone footage didn't just document the scenery; it truly amplified the sense of wonder we felt from experiencing it firsthand. The aerial perspective revealed the intricate relationship between the road and the rugged coastal landscape, highlighting the sheer audacity of its construction and the breathtaking, sweeping vistas that would have been impossible to fully grasp from ground level. This elevated viewpoint transformed a scenic drive into a more comprehensive and awe-inspiring experience, allowing us to appreciate the monumental scale and unique beauty of the location in a way that traditional photography alone could not convey.

When photographing churches, drone imagery proved invaluable, revealing their full grandeur in ways ground-level shots couldn't achieve. Often, dense foliage or surrounding structures would obscure these magnificent buildings, presenting only partial views. However, from an aerial perspective, the drone showcased the churches' commanding presence and their significant impact on the surrounding landscape. These elevated perspectives underscored the churches' role as prominent landmarks which dominate the environment.

Where the drone footage consistently felt less successful was in its attempt to showcase truly colossal waterfalls. The inherent problem was one of scale; in many instances, the waterfalls were so immense that capturing their entire scope required the drone to ascend to a significant height which inadvertently minimised their grandeur. Since crucial features providing necessary perspective—such as surrounding trees, the edge of the gorge, or visible boulders—were too distant from the aerial camera’s vantage point, the sheer power and overwhelming immensity of the natural feature were lost, reducing the roaring cascade to a beautiful yet miniature ribbon of white against a vast, overwhelming landscape.

The unique aerial capabilities of drone photography transform how we perceive familiar aquatic and structural landscapes. Bridges, typically viewed from their base or deck, unfurled as intricate architectural patterns from above, while the sprawling complexity of harbours and the serene expanse of lakes gained new grandeur. Crucially, reflections dancing on water surfaces, often fleeting or distorted from ground level, were captured with an almost perfect, mirror-like clarity, revealing a flawless inverted world. Below the surface, the drone’s elevated view unveiled a vibrant tapestry of underwater colours, intricate patterns of aquatic flora, and the hidden context of submerged structures—details invisible to the ground-bound observer.

This elevated perspectives achieved didn't just capture images; they offered a comprehensive, revealing narrative not always attainable from ground level, enriching our understanding and appreciation of the environments in which we found ourselves. While it wasn't always possible to fly where I wanted because of restrictions and the weather, the sheer, breathtaking majesty captured in those frames makes the decision to fly the drone whenever possible a foregone conclusion, always guaranteeing a perspective unavailable to the earthbound observer.

Final Thoughts

Norway holds a truly special place in my heart and this recent trip, my first outside the winter months, proved just as memorable and captivating as those visits when the country is blanketed in snow. The unparalleled freedom the country offers, with its easy and abundant access to nature, unequivocally makes it a photographer's paradise. From the diverse flora and fauna to the majestic mountains and serene lowlands, there is always an activity of interest or a stunning vista to pursue. Without a doubt, I will return!