Two roads draw more photographers to this part of Norway than any others: Trollstigen, the Troll Road, which climbs a mountain wall in eleven hairpin bends, and the Atlantic Road, which hops across the sea on a chain of bridges. Both are within reach of Ålesund, but both need planning. This guide explains how to approach each and whether to drive or join a tour.
Trollstigen: what it is
The road climbs from the valley of Isterdalen to a plateau, passing a waterfall and a dramatic series of hairpin bends. At the top, striking viewing platforms look back over the road and the valley. It is part of a longer scenic route between Åndalsnes and Valldal, and the drive is as memorable as the destination. It is a seasonal road, closed in winter and reopening in late spring, so check the status before planning.
Atlantic Road: what it is
This roughly eight-kilometer road crosses islets and skerries on eight bridges, with the open sea on both sides. It is famous for the curved Storseisundet bridge, which seems to rise into the sky, and for the way waves can break over the road in storms. There are walking paths, viewing areas and a nearby visitor center, so it is worth stopping rather than just driving through.
Driving versus a guided tour
If you hire a car, you have freedom, but you also take on ferries, mountain bends and long driving days. Norwegian roads are well maintained, but distances are large, and ferry timetables shape the day. If you prefer to look at the scenery, a guided day trip handles the driving and gives commentary. For Trollstigen, a tour from Ålesund is a full day. For the Atlantic Road, a guided trip is also a full day because of the distance and ferry. Compare costs, comfort and flexibility.
Combining the two
It is tempting to do both in one day, but this is ambitious. Think about doing one per day, with the other as an alternative depending on the weather. Trollstigen needs clear conditions to be at its best, while the Atlantic Road can be dramatic in a range of weather. Choose the road that suits the forecast and keep the other for the next day.
Other stops on the way
Valldal, at the foot of Trollstigen, offers canyoning for adventurers and local food. The viewpoints above Geiranger can be combined on a longer loop. On the Atlantic Road side, the coastal villages offer walks and quiet harbors. Keep your plans flexible, and do not try to squeeze in too much.
What to pack
Layers, a waterproof jacket, sturdy shoes, a hat and gloves for the top of Trollstigen, where temperatures drop. Sunglasses help with glare off the sea. Bring snacks and a thermos, as services are limited between stops. A camera with a wide lens is useful, and a polarizing filter helps with glare on the water.
Safety and etiquette
Drive slowly on bends and give way as signs indicate. Park in designated areas, not on the road. Stay behind railings at viewpoints and keep children close. On the Atlantic Road in storms, stay clear of the water and respect any closures. Do not fly drones without checking local rules. Take your litter with you.
Timing
The best light is in the morning and the late afternoon. Midday sun can flatten the scenery, though clouds can add drama. Summer evenings last long, so a late visit can avoid crowds. In shoulder seasons, check for road closures and daylight, and in winter, expect Trollstigen to be closed and plan accordingly.
Our advice
If you have one day, choose by interest: mountains and hairpins mean Trollstigen, sea and bridges mean the Atlantic Road. If you have two, do both on separate days and keep a weather buffer. If you do not drive, book guided trips early in summer, when places go quickly. Either way, you will bring home photographs that make friends ask where on earth you went.
A sample day
Leave early, stop for coffee at the first scenic ferry crossing, reach the road by late morning, spend an unhurried hour on the platforms or bridges, eat a packed lunch with a view and start back in the afternoon with time to spare. Arrive in Ålesund for a late dinner by the harbor, and sleep well.