Trollstigen (The Troll Road)

Trollstigen, the Troll Road, is among Norway's most dramatic mountain roads. It climbs from the Isterdalen valley in a series of eleven hairpin bends cut into a near-vertical mountainside, with the Stigfossen waterfall plunging beside it. At the top, a visitor area with architecturally striking viewing platforms looks back over the valley, the road snaking up the slope and the surrounding peaks. It is part of a longer scenic route between Åndalsnes and Valldal and is one of the signature landscapes of the region, so for many visitors it is the reason they come.

The road is open seasonally. Heavy snow means it closes in winter and typically reopens in late spring, so check conditions before you plan. When it is open, drive carefully; the bends are tight, the road is narrow in places and large vehicles share it. Allow plenty of time, because every turn offers another stop. Many visitors drive the full route from Ålesund through Valldal, a long but spectacular day.

At the top, take your time on the platforms and walk the paths around the plateau. The structures are designed to blend with the rock and offer unobstructed views, with glass panels in places for the brave. Weather matters: on clear days the view is stunning, while mist and cloud can obscure it and make the road hazardous. Dress warmly, as the plateau is exposed and cold, even in summer. A cafe and facilities are normally available during the season.

If you do not want to drive, join a guided tour, which also removes the stress of the bends. Combine with the Geirangerfjord, which lies along the same scenic route, or with the Valldal canyoning for a day of contrast. Photographers should plan for light: morning and evening cast long shadows on the valley, while midday can flatten the scene.

Check the road status before heading out; closures can be sudden, and alternatives such as a different day trip should be ready. Fuel up in advance, bring snacks and plan for ferries on the route. For the best experience, allow a full day for the road alone, with no rush, and enjoy the drive as much as the destination.

If you are driving yourself, rent a car with good brakes and drive in a low gear on the descent, and give way to oncoming vehicles at the narrow bends according to the road signs. Park at the visitor area rather than on the road, and walk to the platforms with a warm layer. The waterfall is most dramatic after rain or during snowmelt in early summer.

Keep an eye on weather alerts, because fog can reduce visibility sharply, and have a plan for an alternative route if the road is closed. A thermos of hot coffee and sandwiches from town make the stop at the top more comfortable, and a pair of binoculars helps you pick out the hairpin bends from the platforms.

Allow a margin for the weather and for sightseeing delays; a day that starts clear can end in rain, and the road is at its best when you are not in a hurry. If you plan to hike near the plateau, wear proper boots and check the trail conditions with staff before you set out.