Aurlandsfjellet

Most scenic routes are stunning no matter what direction you drive in but this particular stretch presents its most dramatic side if you start the trip at Lærdal and drive towards Aurlandsvangen. You will come away with powerful impressions, and the contrasts between the fjord and the high mountain region where snow lies on the ground for most of the year are compelling. The road is closed in winter but the stretch from Aurlandsvangen is open as far as the viewing point at Stegastein all year round. Many people find this point as spectacular as the view. In winter especially it’s fascinating to see how the landscape changes character from the colourful tapestry of summer to a symphony in black and white with grey nuances. We don’t always regard such things as anything special but it’s often about taking time to look.  Allow time to experience the installation “DEN” by the American artist Mark Dion at Vedahaugane, and keep in mind that art is intended to stir the emotions

History

The road was opened in 1967 and its forerunner was a construction access road. The road runs from Lærdalsøyri to Aurlandsvangen over the mountains and the highest point is 1,306 metres above sea level. The road is closed in the winter and snow lies on the mountain throughout large parts of the summer, so the name “the snow road” is truly befitting. 

Experiences

Sometimes it’s all about having the opportunity to experience something exactly as it is, neither more nor less. For many the feeling of being in a place where there are few traces of mankind is what makes the greatest impact at Aurlandsfjellet. It’s like being a guest somewhere you are not expected. The real quality lies in the little things, like touching the snow or dipping your toes into an icy mountain tarn. The desolate landscape itself offers something unique, and the drive takes you from fjords to mountains, from lush valleys to the stony wasteland of the high mountain region. You will encounter many striking contrasts over a short distance.

Cycling

Aurlandsfjellet can be a demanding cycle ride with a long climb up the mountain whether you start from Lærdal or from Aurland. From the Lærdal side there is a steady climb up the steep and lush hills of the Erdalen valley. The highland landscape has scanty vegetation and cycling this route is obviously best when the weather is okay. Stegastein is a natural place to stop on your way down from the mountain before continuing downhill to Aurlandsvangen. Please note that there may be a lot of traffic from Stegastein towards Aurlandsfjorden.

Hiking 

The mountain road between Aurlandsvangen on Aurlandsfjorden and Lærdalsøyri on Sognefjorden is an excellent starting point for great hikes with magnificent views of the fiords. Lærdal is the end point of the historical “Kongevegen” (Kings’ Road) that takes you from the inland settlements in the east to the fiord landscapes at the head of Sognefjorden. From Borgund Stave Church you can walk a part of this road, along the beautiful stretch known as Vindhellavegen. Another popular hike from Lærdal is the trail to Torsteinen. This is a large rock at the top of a steep cliff with an amazing view down towards Lærdal.

At Bjørgo on the descent towards Aurlandsvangen you will find the starting point for the hike to the peak of Prest. After a steep climb, you will have reached the top and can enjoy the view of Aurlandsfjorden. A little further down the hillside is the viewing platform at Stegastein. Keen hikers can park their car at Aurlandsvangen and walk along the waymarked trail from the centre and up to Stegastein. From the southern point of the Scenic Route you can walk the lush and beautiful Aurlandsdalen valley. The best view can be obtained by walking down the valley to Vassbygdi, starting at Aurlandsdalen Turisthytte (tourist lodge).

You will find more great roadside hikes in the Outdooractive hiking guide.