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ROADTRIP THROUGH SOUTH NORWAY
Norway has so much to offer — charming cities, stunning fjords, and endless hiking opportunities. It may not be a huge country, but it’s packed with natural beauty and cozy towns that make every stop worthwhile. Whether you're into scenic drives, outdoor adventures, or cultural gems, Norway delivers it all in a compact and unforgettable package.
Ready to explore? Scroll down to discover the perfect two-week itinerary through Norway and start planning your dream road trip!
SUMMARY OF OUR 12-DAY ROADTRIP
Day 1: Travel Day and Mandal
Day 2 Coastal views and Stavanger
Day 3: Kjeragbolten and Ferry
Day 4: Preikestolen and off to Oda
Day 5: Buarbreen Glacier and Eidfjord
Day 6: Voringfossen and Kjaesen
Day 7 & 8: Bergen
Day 9: Naeroyfjord
Day 10: Flam and surroundings
Day 11 & 12: Oslo
THE FULL ROADTRIP
Day 1: Mandal and Lindesnes Fyr
We’re hitting the road with our own car, starting the day by boarding the ferry from Hirtshals to Kristiansand. Around midday, the real road trip kicks off! We’ve decided to drive straight to Mandal so we can take it a bit easier tomorrow. This afternoon, we’re exploring the charming village Mandal and visiting the iconic Lindesnes Lighthouse — the southernmost point of Norway!
Day 2: Coastal Views and Stavanger
Today we’re cruising from Mandal to Stavanger along the scenic North Sea Route — a drive packed with stunning coastal views. We spend the day exploring Stavanger’s charming streets and stock up on food for tomorrow. In the evening, we continue our journey to Tjørhom, so we’ll be perfectly positioned for tomorrow’s big adventure: the hike to the famous Kjeragbolten!
Day 3: Kjeragbolten and Ferry to Forsand
Today, a challenging hike is on the agenda — the trail to Kjeragbolten!
For us, the weather made it even more intense: we experienced snow, hail, rain, sunshine, and even rainbows along the way. But despite the wild conditions, the hike is absolutely worth it. We’ve set aside nearly the entire day for this adventure.
Want all the details about the hike? Keep reading in the next article!
In the late afternoon, we took the ferry from Lysebotn — the small village at the base of the hike, to Forsand. To get to Lysebotn, you first have to drive down a dramatic road with nearly 100 hairpin bends winding through the mountains. Once on the ferry, you’re treated to spectacular views of the hike you completed today, as well as a glimpse of Preikestolen — tomorrow’s adventure!
Day 4: Preikestolen and Odda
This morning, we’re up early to start the hike to Preikestolen! An early start is highly recommended, as this trail can get very busy later in the day. The hike involves a fair amount of elevation gain, but the path is well-maintained and easy to follow.
Curious about all the details of this iconic hike? Keep reading in the next article!
After the hike, we continue our journey to Odda — a small village nestled between the fjords. We’re spending the night here so we can start our next hike early the following morning. From Odda, there are two popular hiking options: the iconic Trolltunga trail or the Buarbreen glacier hike.
Since we read that Trolltunga is extremely demanding, we opted for the Buarbreen hike instead — and it turned out to be a beautiful and enjoyable adventure! (But that’s coming up on Day 5.)
Day 5: Buarbreen Glacier and Eidfjord
The route mainly climbs on the way out and descends on the way back, making for a satisfying round trip. You’ll need to watch your step in a few places, but overall it’s a rewarding and scenic hike. At the furthest point, you’ll reach the glacier itself — a breathtaking sight and well worth the effort.
Want all the details about this hike? Read on in the next article!
After the hike, we continue our journey to Eidfjord — a tiny village tucked between the fjords. Though small, Eidfjord has become a stop for occasional cruise ships, adding a touch of bustle to its peaceful charm. We’re staying here for two nights, giving us time to explore the surrounding area and soak in the natural beauty.
Day 6: Voringfossen and Kjeasen
In the morning, we drove to Vøringsfossen — a massive waterfall located near Eidfjord. We only made a short stop here, and intentionally came early to avoid the crowds, as tour buses from cruise ships often arrive later in the day. The waterfall is truly impressive and definitely worth a quick visit!
After visiting the impressive Vøringsfossen waterfall in the morning, we prepared ourselves for a more adventurous hike: the trail to Kjeåsen, one of Norway’s most remote and fascinating mountain farms. Perched high above the Simadal Fjord near Eidfjord, Kjeåsen offers breathtaking views — but reaching it is part of the adventure.
Want to know more about the hike? Then keep reading in the next article
If the hike feels too intense, don’t worry — you can also drive up to the viewpoint. Just keep in mind that the access tunnel to Kjeåsen operates on a timed schedule: certain hours are reserved for driving up, and others for coming back down.
Day 7 & 8: Discovering Bergen
The next morning, we drive to Bergen — a journey that takes around three hours. After several days immersed in nature, it’s refreshing to dive back into city life. Bergen offers just the right balance: a small city full of charm, color, and atmosphere. We’ve dedicated not only Day 7 to exploring Bergen, but we’re also staying for a full extra day to soak it all in.
I haven’t written a separate piece about Bergen — it’s really the kind of city you should just stroll through. Wander around and you’ll naturally come across charming spots and hidden gems.
If you do want to visit something specific, then definitely check out the harbor and the viewpoint overlooking the city.
Day 9: Nærøyfjord
Today we’re driving from Bergen to Dyrdal — a scenic journey of about 2.5 hours, so we’re giving ourselves plenty of time to enjoy the ride. We’ve chosen a campsite right by the Nærøyfjord, and waking up next to this majestic fjord is pure magic! This afternoon, we’re exploring the beautiful surroundings of Gudvangen, soaking in the charm of this fjord-filled wonderland.
Day 10: Flam and surroundings
We’re making a few scenic stops today, starting with Otternes Farm Village — a charming cluster of historic farmhouses dating back to the 1700s. Nestled on the hillside above Aurlandsfjord, it offers a glimpse into traditional Norwegian life and stunning fjord views.
Next, we drive to the Stegastein Viewpoint, a spectacular platform that juts out 30 meters from the mountainside, offering panoramic views over the fjord far below. It’s one of those places that makes you stop and say “wow.”
In the afternoon, we lace up our hiking boots for the Dronningstien trail. Unlike the more famous hikes, this one is a peaceful escape — less crowded, more serene, and perfect if you enjoy walking in solitude surrounded by nature. It’s a royal route with royal views!
On today’s route, you’ll also pass through something truly unique: a roundabout inside a tunnel! It’s part of the Lærdal Tunnel system and feels almost surreal — driving underground and suddenly encountering a perfectly lit roundabout carved into the mountain.
Day 11: Driving to Oslo
Today we’re heading back toward a city — destination: Oslo! It’s a drive of over four hours, but the landscape is so breathtaking that we can’t help but make a few stops along the way. Rolling hills, shimmering lakes, and cozy villages make the journey feel like part of the adventure. We arrive in Oslo by late afternoon, ready to soak up the city vibes after days of nature and fjords.
Day 12: Exploring Oslo
A full day to discover Oslo — and what a fun city it is! From vibrant neighborhoods and cozy cafés to impressive museums and waterfront strolls, there’s plenty to enjoy. Whether you're into culture, architecture, or just soaking up the city vibe, Oslo has something for everyone.
The next day we're heading back home!
