Winter in Varanger.
Winter in Varanger. Photo: Øyvind Antonsen

The road to the Arctic Ocean

A drive in the fluctuating light of the ocean and sky – towards the expanse of ocean and unique rock landscape.

Varanger is about the long lines in the landscape, as well as the long lines of history. Proximity to Russia, Finnish immigration and Sami traditions provide the area with exciting cultural diversity.

The drive runs through birch woods, marshland and a rugged cliff landscape. The light is special and the birdlife and wildlife unique. Species of birds that you won’t find anywhere else in the world are relatively easily accessible. There is also a good chance of experiencing reindeer at first hand along this road.

The route will reveal natural surroundings full of contrasts, and the lunar landscape out towards Hamningberg in many ways makes your drive feel like a journey to the end of the world. 

Travel information

Length
160 km
MASL
0 – 123

Norwegian Scenic Route Varanger runs from Varangerbotn [75] to Hamningberg [8100]. Experience one of Norway’s most beautiful round trips by combining this route with the Hurtigruten coastal express and Norwegian Scenic Route Havøysund.

For cyclists: The scenic route is a relatively easy but long bike ride along Varangerfjorden, with Varangerbotn as the recommended starting point. Note that the road to Vardø requires you to go through an underwater tunnel. The ride out to Hamningberg runs through a hilly landscape. 

Traffic and road information

Telephone +47 815 48 991

Traffic alerts in map (Norwegian only)
Traffic alerts in telephone app (Norwegian only)

Map information

GPS, Hamningberg:
70.541044, 30.609745
GPS, Varangerbotn:
70.173942, 28.567617

Gpx file download for gps and navigation app.
In this file, the direction of travel is from
Varangerbotn to Hamningberg. Gpx files for all Scenic Routes. Any alternative driving pattern must be adapted by the users themselves.

Information

Emptying toilets from motorhomes and caravans is not permitted in our toilets. The facility is not designed for such use. The nearest dump station is at Vadsø.

Winter information

The road is closed for the winter!

The road between Smelror and Hamningberg is closed in winter. Previous closures are 4 November and 22 December. Previous openings are 18 April and 25 May. NOTE: Opened road may be closed for a period at night and closed at short notice in bad weather. Time for closing and estimated opening can be seen by clicking on the snow icon in the map.

Road condition

The road between Svartnes and Hamningberg is narrow with a number of bends.

Experiences

The weather in the Arctic climate zone is an experience in itself; in one day you may experience four different seasons. In summer, Siberian heat may suddenly be replaced by an icy sea fog; in winter, violent storms rage along the coastline.

Varanger is one of northern Europe's richest bird areas. Take the time to observe the rare bird species. Along this route, several bird-watching hides have been built where you can sit well sheltered against the vagaries of the weather while you enjoy the landscape. After visiting the Steilneset Memorial you should drop by the picturesque Vardøhus Fortress, situated at the easternmost point of Norway.

Nature in Varanger is rugged and desolate, with unique landscape formations that provide a powerful backdrop for your hiking experience. Large areas consist of terrain that is easy to walk, but you should remember that the climate here is partly Arctic and the weather can change rapidly.

For bird enthusiasts we recommend the islands of Ekkerøya and Hornøya with their rich birdlife, or the bird trail in Komagdalen, which is located within Varangerhalvøya National Park. 

Useful links

The 18 Norwegian Scenic Routes

Norwegian Scenic Routes are roads that run through unique Norwegian nature. Along the roads you will find artworks, viewpoints and rest areas with innovative architecture in beautiful landscapes.

View all Scenic Routes