How long is Ryfylke National Tourist Route?

How long is Ryfylke National Tourist Route?

Norway, europe

Length

260 km

Elevation

972 m

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

Year-round

Okay, picture this: you're in southern Norway, cruising along the Ryfylke National Tourist Route. This isn't just a drive, it's an experience! We're talking dramatic mountains, seriously cool rock formations, sheer cliffs, and of course, those iconic fjords Norway is famous for.

Stretching for 260 km (161 miles), it's the perfect length for a multi-day adventure. Fair warning though: some parts, especially over the mountains, get a little tight with some twisty bends. Keep your eyes on the road, folks!

The route winds its way from Røldal (a cute village nestled in a valley) all the way to Oanes (a charming farming village). Trust me, this trip is packed with variety.

Heads up for winter travelers! The road climbs to 972m (3,188 ft) and usually closes around November, reopening in June. The section from Helandsbygd to Røldal is usually closed in the winter in November and reopens in June. So plan accordingly. Overall, if you're after breathtaking views and a true taste of Norway's natural beauty, Ryfylke is an absolute must-do.

Share this road

Road Details

Country
Norway
Continent
europe
Length
260 km
Max Elevation
972 m
Difficulty
hard

Related Roads in europe

Alpe Galm, One of the Hardest Roads of the Alpsextreme

Alpe Galm, One of the Hardest Roads of the Alps

🇨🇭 Switzerland

# Alpe Galm: A Breathtaking Alpine Challenge Nestled in Switzerland's Valais region, Alpe Galm rises to a stunning 2,231 meters (7,319 ft) above sea level. At the summit, you'll find a handful of charming houses and the adorable Galm Chapel, originally built way back in 1681. This tiny religious gem, dedicated to the Holy Trinity, showcases the humble faith of centuries past and has been lovingly restored over the years. Here's where things get real: the road to the top is mostly paved (except the final 1.5 km of gravel), but it's narrow and brutally steep—we're talking sections exceeding 12% gradient. The good news? During summer, most regular cars can handle it. Plus, you'll find what might be Central Europe's highest roundabout up there, which is pretty cool. This is legitimately one of the Alps' toughest climbs. Starting from Guttet-Feschel, the 10.7 km (6.6-mile) push gains a whopping 1,001 meters of elevation. The average grade sits at 9.35%, but brace yourself for some stretches hitting 14%—that's serious business. What makes it worth the effort? The entire route wraps you in stunning alpine pastures and passes through quaint mountain villages. As you climb, the valley and surrounding peaks unfold beneath you in increasingly spectacular views. It's tough, it's thrilling, and it's absolutely unforgettable.

An abandoned road through Dobroselicki Prerast cavehard

An abandoned road through Dobroselicki Prerast cave

🌍 Serbia

Okay, adventurers, listen up! Hidden in the Zlatibor Mountains near Čajetina, Serbia, lies the incredible Dobroselički Prerast. This isn't your average scenic overlook; it's a massive through-cave that you can (well, *could*) drive through! Finding this gem is half the adventure. Tucked away just off Road 23, near the village of Dobroselica, you'll need your map and navigation skills on point. Trust me, signage is practically non-existent. Picture this: a 48-meter long cave, 12 meters wide, acting as a natural bridge. This geological marvel boasts a 12-meter high entrance and a 16-meter high exit. It's one of the largest stone bridges in Serbia! Now, here's the slightly sad part: while a road *used* to run right through this cave, it's been abandoned. Nature has started to reclaim it, with weathering and rockfall blocking the old path. A new road winds around a nearby hill, but you can still trace the original route with a footpath that takes you through the cave itself! Dobroselički Prerast is truly a sight to behold, attracting hikers and those looking for a unique off-the-beaten-path experience. Just remember, this natural wonder is in a pretty remote spot, and the turnoff can be easily missed. Come prepared, and get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Pico da Barrosamoderate

Pico da Barrosa

🇵🇹 Portugal

Okay, road trip enthusiasts, listen up! If you're heading to São Miguel in the Azores, you HAVE to conquer Pico da Barrosa! This mountain pass climbs to a cool 936 meters (that's 3,070 feet!), and trust me, the views are worth every inch. You'll be cruising on EN5-2A, a winding, paved road that's definitely on the steeper side. But hey, that just adds to the adventure, right? The route carves through incredible volcanic landscapes - keep your eyes peeled! Once you reach the top, you're rewarded with panoramic views of both the North and South Coasts. Seriously breathtaking stuff! The road itself is about 21 kilometers long and features around 16 hairpin turns, connecting the towns of Ribeira Grande and Lagoa. The journey is exhilarating, so embrace those twists and turns! Heads up: There's a rough 4x4 track branching off towards Poios Brancos for those who want to get *really* off the beaten path, and the equally scenic EM513 Road leads to Alto de Vaires. At the summit, you'll find a parking lot and some communication towers. Don't let those towers distract you from the epic scenery. Get ready for some seriously stunning vistas!

D918 is a challenging balcony road in Franceextreme

D918 is a challenging balcony road in France

🇫🇷 France

# D918: France's Most Thrilling Mountain Balcony Road Want to experience one of Europe's most heart-pounding drives? The D918 in the Pyrenees is calling your name. This iconic 45-kilometer mountain road stretches between the charming towns of Laruns and Argelès-Gazost, taking you on an unforgettable journey through some seriously dramatic scenery. ## The Setup Carved into the mountainside back in the early 1900s, this legendary "balcony road" hugs the edge of towering cliffs with hundred-meter drops on one side and sheer rock faces on the other. It's absolutely not for anyone with a fear of heights—seriously, this one demands respect. ## The Challenge The real test comes at the Cirque du Litor, where the road narrows to a single track winding through the upper Ouzom valley. There's barely enough room for two cars to pass, so you'll find yourself holding your breath and hoping nobody's coming the other way until things finally open up a few kilometers down the line. Add hairpin curves, unlit tunnels, and zero margin for error, and you've got yourself one serious adrenaline rush. ## The Views (and the Reality) You'll reach the summit at 1,713 meters (5,620 feet), where panoramic Pyrenees vistas reward your white-knuckle efforts. Just keep in mind: this road is typically closed December through June due to snow, and Mother Nature can shut it down anytime she feels like it. Drive slow, use those convenient pullouts, and soak in one of the most spectacular—and notorious—roads in all of France.