
Driving the remote Henningsværveien (Road 816)
Norway, europe
7.7 km
N/A
moderate
Year-round
# Henningsværveien (Road 816): Norway's Hidden Island Gem
Want to drive one of the most spectacular roads in the world? Head to Henningsvaer, a charming fishing village tucked away in Nordland county, Norway – and the only way to get there is via Road 816, which is absolutely worth the trip.
This 7.7 km stretch of asphalt is pure magic. Starting from the E10, the narrow road hugs the mountainside as it winds along the water, connecting a string of tiny islands that seem almost impossibly placed in the middle of the ocean. You're driving through the Lofoten archipelago, just off the coast of Austvågøya, and honestly, the views are unreal.
Henningsvaer itself has earned the nickname "Venice of Lofoten" – and once you arrive, you'll understand why. The drive features everything a scenery-lover could want: dramatic mountains rising up beside you, crystal-clear water with pristine sandy beaches, and elegant bridges connecting the islands like something out of a postcard. Every turn offers another photo opportunity, so definitely bring your camera (you'll want to capture this).
This isn't a long drive, but it's the kind of road that stays with you. It's the perfect example of how sometimes the journey is just as incredible as the destination itself.
Where is it?
Driving the remote Henningsværveien (Road 816) is located in Norway (europe). Coordinates: 63.7731, 11.2139
Road Details
- Country
- Norway
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 7.7 km
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 63.7731, 11.2139
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