Driving through a roundabout in a tunnel in Norway

Driving through a roundabout in a tunnel in Norway

Norway, europe

Length

N/A

Elevation

N/A

Difficulty

moderate

Best Season

Year-round

# The Bømlafjord Tunnel Roundabout: Norway's Underground Marvel

Tucked beneath the waters of western Norway, near Eidfjord in Vestland County, sits one of the world's most mind-bending driving experiences—a fully functional roundabout *inside* a subsea tunnel. Yes, you read that right.

This incredible feat of engineering lives within the Bømlafjord Tunnel (Bømlafjordtunnelen), part of the E39 highway. The tunnel connects the islands of Stord and Bømlo to the mainland and holds the distinction of being one of the world's deepest subsea tunnels. Navigating a roundabout while underwater? That's peak Norway right there.

**Getting There**

Simply follow the E39 highway and drive straight into the tunnel—just stick to the speed limits and road signs like you would anywhere else. The tunnel is well-lit and designed for regular highway traffic, so it's a straightforward drive despite its unusual feature.

**What to Know**

There's no entrance fee for the roundabout itself, though tolls may apply on the E39 depending on where you enter and exit. Vehicle type affects pricing, so check before you go.

If you're on a motorbike, you can safely snap a quick photo at the roundabout. Car and larger vehicle drivers should skip the photo stop and keep moving. And pro tip: make sure your vehicle is in good condition before tackling long subsea tunnels.

**The Wow Factor**

Here's the kicker—this isn't even Norway's only underground roundabout. The country boasts around 14 roundabouts tucked inside tunnels, with another nearby one just north across a bridge. It's a quirky testament to Scandinavian engineering creativity and the dramatic demands of fjord-region infrastructure.

For adventurous drivers, this is a genuinely unforgettable stop that perfectly captures the spirit of Norway's wild, ingenious landscape.

Where is it?

Driving through a roundabout in a tunnel in Norway is located in Norway (europe). Coordinates: 66.6841, 11.4022

Share this road

Road Details

Country
Norway
Continent
europe
Difficulty
moderate
Coordinates
66.6841, 11.4022

Related Roads in europe

Where is Selleries Refuge?moderate

Where is Selleries Refuge?

🇮🇹 Italy

Okay, adventure awaits! Let's talk about the road up to Selleries Refuge in the Metropolitan City of Turin, Italy. This mountain hideaway sits pretty at 6,637 feet above sea level within the Parco Naturale Orsiera Rocciavrè, cradled by the Susa, Chisone, and Sangone valleys – think stunning Italian scenery! You'll find it in the northwestern part of the country, near some wild ravines. The journey begins from Strada Provinciale 23 del Colle del Lis. Now, the road to Selleries Refuge is a mix of paved and unpaved sections, so get ready for a little off-road action! Initially, there's a string of hairpin turns on a consistent climb, heading towards the crossroads for Selleries Refuge. After a couple more curves, the road evens out, but don't let that fool you. The climb is one to remember, especially the middle part. Get ready for some amazing views!

Sella Pass is one of the most iconic roads of the Dolomiteshard

Sella Pass is one of the most iconic roads of the Dolomites

🇮🇹 Italy

# Passo Sella: A Dolomite Adventure If you're after seriously stunning mountain driving, Passo Sella deserves a spot on your bucket list. This iconic Alpine pass sits at 2,246m (7,368ft) in Italy's gorgeous Dolomites, straddling the border between Trento and Bolzano provinces. It's the perfect connector between Val Gardena in South Tyrol and Canazei in the Fascia Valley, and trust us – the views are absolutely incredible. The 17.4km (10.81 miles) route from Canazei to Plan De Gralba isn't for the faint of heart. This fully paved beauty (officially known as Strada Statale 242) winds through some seriously dramatic hairpin bends with steep drops that'll get your adrenaline pumping. The gradient hits a punchy 12.5% at its steepest points, so bring your driving skills – and maybe some courage. Here's a bit of history: construction kicked off way back in 1843, with the road officially opening in 1856. It's such a legendary route that the Giro d'Italia regularly features it as the race's highest point (Cima Coppi). Yeah, we're talking professional cyclist-level challenging here. The summit rewards you with phenomenal views of the Torri del Sella, Mesules, and the dramatic Sassolungo group (3,181m). The charming villages dotted along the route are worth savoring, and there's a hotel and refreshment options at the top. Fair warning: summer holidays bring absolute chaos, especially mid-August. Coaches roll through constantly with tour groups, so pick your timing wisely. Winter access is generally open year-round, though weather closures do happen. This is mountain driving at its finest – just plan accordingly.

Driving the Thrilling Puerto del Ponton in Spain's Cantabrian Mountainshard

Driving the Thrilling Puerto del Ponton in Spain's Cantabrian Mountains

🇪🇸 Spain

# Puerto del Pontón Ready for a serious mountain challenge? Puerto del Pontón sits at a respectable 1,298m (4,258ft) in León Province, tucked into the northwestern corner of Castile and León in northern Spain. The 20.2 km (12.55 miles) stretch of the N625 runs from Vegacerneja to Oseja de Sajambre, climbing steadily through some seriously impressive terrain. Good news: it's fully paved. Better news: it's in solid condition. The catch? This road doesn't mess around with gradients hitting 9-10% on the steepest sections, and you're looking at four tight hairpin turns that'll keep your hands busy on the wheel. Most of the climb unfolds within the stunning Picos de Europa National Park, so at least you'll have breathtaking views while you're working hard. The pass has even earned its stripes as a Vuelta stage, which tells you everything you need to know about its credentials. Perched high in the Cantabrian Mountains, the pass typically stays open year-round, but don't get cocky—winter can close things down without warning thanks to gnarly weather conditions. Spring through autumn? Your sweet spot for tackling this one.

Where is Col de la Chambotte?moderate

Where is Col de la Chambotte?

🇫🇷 France

Okay, buckle up for the Col de la Chambotte in the Savoie region of France! This isn't your average Sunday drive. You'll find this gem nestled in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, a 7.2km (4.47 miles) stretch of pure driving bliss (and a little bit of terror!). The Route de la Chambotte (D991B) is paved, but don't let that fool you. This road, topping out at 650m (2,132ft), is known for its "balcony" sections — think narrow, winding stretches clinging to the mountainside, with some unlit tunnels thrown in for good measure. Oh, and did I mention sections with limited or no guardrails running right above the lake? Yeah, it's that kind of ride. But the views? Absolutely incredible! You'll be treated to stunning panoramas of Lac du Bourget, France's largest natural lake, glimmering with clear turquoise waters. This glacial lake is framed by mountains, making for a breathtaking backdrop as you navigate this precarious (but unforgettable) road. It runs roughly north-south, connecting Chindrieux to Saint-Germain-la-Chambotte. Get ready for a truly unique experience!