Driving the Scenic Fylkesvei 50 (Fv50) Road in Southern Norway
Norway, europe
4.2 km
N/A
moderate
Year-round
# Fylkesvei 50 (Fv50): Norway's Alpine Beauty
Ready for one of Norway's most breathtaking drives? Fylkesvei 50 in Vestland County is calling your name—seriously, pack your camera because you'll be stopping constantly.
This 94 km (58.40 miles) ribbon of asphalt stretches from Aurlandsvangen (sitting pretty on the east side of Aurlandsfjorden) all the way east to the tiny village of Hagafoss in Buskerud. What started as a summer-only route back in 1974 is now a year-round adventure, though fair warning: you'll encounter some genuinely steep and narrow sections with grades reaching up to 10%.
Don't let that intimidate you though. The road is fully paved, and the engineering is solid—you'll cruise through 12 tunnels, including the epic 4.2 km Berdal Tunnelen. These aren't just practical passages; they're part of the experience.
The real magic? You're driving through Hallingskarvet National Park with jaw-dropping views of Strandavatnet lake unfolding around every corner. And here's the bonus: this route is basically the front door to the spectacular Aurlandsdalen valley, a glacially-carved wonderland that'll make your jaw drop. Whether you're a serious road-tripper or just someone who appreciates stunning scenery, Fylkesvei 50 delivers.
Where is it?
Driving the Scenic Fylkesvei 50 (Fv50) Road in Southern Norway is located in Norway (europe). Coordinates: 62.0529, 11.9203
Road Details
- Country
- Norway
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 4.2 km
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 62.0529, 11.9203
Related Roads in europe
extremeWhat is at the summit of Seminsky Pass?
🌍 Russia
Seminsky Pass in the Altai Republic of Russia is a total must-see! This high mountain pass sits at 1,894m (6,213ft) and is the highest point on the highway, winding through the Seminsky ridge. Locals also call it Dyal-Menku or Dyal-Menka, which means "The timeless mountain." At the summit, you'll find a huge sculpture, a bustling little market with souvenir shops, and a monument commemorating Gorny Altai's incorporation into Russia. There's also a big parking lot, a bar, and more souvenir shops – perfect for a pit stop! The pass marks a key natural boundary between the Northern and Central Altay regions. The road itself is fully paved – it’s the P56, or Chuiskyi trakt road, the main artery connecting Siberia with Mongolia and China. What's now a smooth ride was once a crazy dangerous horse path! It evolved over the years, from a single-lane crushed stone road in the early 20th century where drivers had to honk to warn oncoming traffic, to the dual highway we have today (built in 1984). The pass stretches 176km (109 miles) from Tuyekta to Mayma, with a 9 km climb up and an 11 km descent. Expect miles of incredible views, twisty hairpin turns, and steep grades. It can get crowded with trucks heading between Russia and Mongolia, so be aware. Seminsky Pass has been a sacred place for centuries, with a "cult of mountains" influencing local traditions, like the "obo" monuments where people leave offerings.
moderateCol des Fourches
🇫🇷 France
# Col des Fourches: Alpine Adventure Awaits Ready for a serious elevation gain? Col des Fourches sits pretty at 2,258 meters (7,408 feet) in France's Maritime Alps, right in the heart of Provence-Alpes-Côte-d'Azur. The road up (D64) is fully paved, which means you can actually focus on the views instead of wrestling with your steering wheel. As you climb toward the summit, you'll start noticing some fascinating relics from military history scattered around—including the intriguing Ouvrage sul Col des Fourches and Fort de Roche la Croix. These old fortifications add a cool historical layer to what's already an impressive mountain crossing. The scenery is pure Alpine gold, with dramatic peaks and stunning vistas that'll make you want to pull over constantly for photos. Whether you're a road-tripping enthusiast or just chasing that perfect mountain pass experience, this one delivers the goods. Just come prepared for the altitude and weather conditions—mountain passes have a way of keeping you humble.
hardDriving the scenic P16 Road with stunning views of Shkodra Lake
🌍 Montenegro
Okay, picture this: You're cruising in Montenegro, hugging the southern edge of stunning Shkodra Lake. This isn't just any drive; it's the P16, a 51.2km (31.81 miles) thrill ride from Virpazar to Vladimir in Bar Municipality! Get ready for hairpin turns galore — seriously, they just keep coming! The road is paved, but don't let that fool you. It gets narrow and steep in sections, so be prepared to hug the edges and maybe do some strategic maneuvering if you meet another car. Blind corners? Yep, got those too, so take it slow and steady. But the views? Totally worth it! We're talking epic, sustained vistas of Skadar Lake, the biggest lake in the Balkans. Imagine crystal-clear water, maybe even a glimpse of that medieval monastery on its own little island. Plus, you'll pass through charming old villages that'll make you feel like you've stepped back in time. Trust me, this road is a total blast, delivering both a challenge and scenery that'll make your jaw drop.
hardIs Bamford Clough in the Peak District the steepest road in England?
🇬🇧 England
Dare to tackle Bamford Clough in the Peak District, England? This might just be the world's steepest road, with a sign warning you of a 35% gradient and that it's "unsuitable for motor vehicles". You'll find this wild climb, also known as The Clough, snaking up from near the River Derwent, right behind the local primary school in Derbyshire. Once just a lane that morphed into a track, it got a fresh layer of smooth tarmac between 2020 and 2021. This beast of a road stretches for 0.64km (0.4 miles), climbing 142m from Taggs Knoll to New Road. Expect an average gradient of 21%, but be warned – it spikes to a brutal 36.5% in sections! That crazy steepness isn't just a fleeting moment; it holds for a good few meters. The climb is relentless from the village, but things get seriously intense after you pass that first 35% warning sign. No one really knows why this road was paved, and to add to the mystery, there's a newly installed sign at the bottom warning drivers to stay away. It's even blocked with rocks, though cyclists can sneak around the barrier. As for vehicles, who knows what the future holds? Officially, Ffordd Pen Llech in North Wales holds the Guinness World Record for Britain's steepest road at 37.45%. But Bamford Clough is a serious contender, offering an unforgettable (and leg-burning) experience!