How to drive the scenic Road Fv551 on the southeastern shore of the Hardangerfjorden?
Norway, europe
12.1 km
11,150 m
easy
Year-round
# County Road 551 (Fv551) – Norway's Hidden Fjord Gem
Ready to experience one of Norway's most scenic drives? County Road 551 winds along the stunning southeastern shore of Hardangerfjorden in Hordaland county, just north of the charming town of Odda. This 12.1 km (7.51 miles) east-west route connects the peaceful village of Eitrheim in Ullensvang municipality to Austrepollen in Kvinnherad municipality, cutting right through the heart of Folgefonna National Park.
The entire route is fully paved, which is great news for your car – but here's the cool part: most of the drive actually takes you through the Folgefonntunnelen, an impressive 11,150-meter (36,580 ft) tunnel that opened back in 2001. It's a marvel of engineering that lets you bypass some seriously dramatic alpine terrain. Just a heads up: if you're planning to bike or hike this route, the tunnel is strictly off-limits for pedestrians and cyclists.
The scenery surrounding this road is absolutely breathtaking, with dramatic fjord views and mountain landscapes that'll have you reaching for your camera at every turn. Whether you're a road-tripping enthusiast or just looking to explore one of Norway's hidden gems, this drive delivers an unforgettable experience.
Where is it?
How to drive the scenic Road Fv551 on the southeastern shore of the Hardangerfjorden? is located in Norway (europe). Coordinates: 65.1019, 13.4761
Road Details
- Country
- Norway
- Continent
- europe
- Length
- 12.1 km
- Max Elevation
- 11,150 m
- Difficulty
- easy
- Coordinates
- 65.1019, 13.4761
Related Roads in europe
hardA wild 4x4 road to Sillianer Hütte
🇦🇹 Austria
# Sillianer Hütte: A High-Alpine Adventure in the Dolomites Perched at a breathtaking 2,428 meters (7,965 feet) on the Austria-Italy border, the Sillianer Hütte is one of those bucket-list mountain refuges that'll make your heart race. Straddling the line between Tyrol and South Tyrol, this place is pure magic for adventurous drivers. Fair warning though—the gravel road up to the hut is genuinely rough and tumble. We're talking seriously bumpy terrain that'll test both your vehicle and your nerve. The steep climb is no joke, and you'll definitely want to keep your eyes on the road rather than the dizzying views (though they're absolutely stunning). This is decidedly not a drive for anyone who gets squeamish about heights. Here's the kicker: winter weather can shut this road down without much notice. Heavy snowfall at this altitude means the access road gets blocked regularly, sometimes unexpectedly. Before you even think about heading up here, make sure your vehicle is in top shape and you've got a 4WD that can handle serious mountain terrain. And honestly, check the conditions first—there's no point in the drive if you're not getting through. But if you're the type who thrives on Alpine adventure and don't mind a little road punishment, the Sillianer Hütte experience is absolutely worth it.
moderateMonte Colmo
🇮🇹 Italy
# Monte Colmo Tucked away in Lombardy's stunning High Camonica valley, Monte Colmo is a serious alpine challenge sitting pretty at 1,933 meters (6,341 feet). This mountain pass in Italy's Brescia province isn't messing around—it's a real test of your driving skills and nerves. The paved route, Via Monte Colmo, climbs an intense 12.5 kilometers starting from the charming town of Edolo (675m). What makes this pass particularly thrilling? Several tunnels punctuate the ascent, including one seriously long stretch that's unlit—so definitely pack some headlights and a sense of adventure. With an average gradient of 9.4% and sections hitting a brutal 12%, this isn't your casual Sunday drive. The consistent, punishing climbs demand respect and attention, making every hairpin and switchback feel like you've earned it. If you're after authentic alpine driving with real elevation gains and dramatic mountain scenery, Monte Colmo delivers the goods.
hardHautacam is a legendary Tour de France climb
🇫🇷 France
Okay, picture this: you're in the French Pyrenees, ready for an epic climb up to Station du Hautacam. This ski resort sits pretty at almost 5,000 feet, and getting there is half the adventure! Starting just outside Argelès-Gazost, you've got about 8.3 miles of paved road ahead of you. "Highland" is what Hautacam translates to, and it lives up to the name. Some sections get seriously narrow, so keep your eyes peeled. Oh, and did I mention it's steep? We're talking gradients hitting a whopping 16% in places. Over the 8.3-mile climb, you'll gain over 3,500 feet in elevation, averaging around 8% grade. Keep an eye out, it's been featured in the Tour de France, so you know it's a leg burner! Once you make it to the top, there's a big parking area and views that'll make it all worthwhile.
hardCan you drive to Passo di Giau?
🇮🇹 Italy
Passo di Giau – wow, just wow! This epic mountain pass sits way up high in the Italian Dolomites, in the Veneto region. We're talking 2,238m (7,342ft) above sea level! Trust me, the views from the top are some of the best you'll ever see. Many say it's one of the most stunning passes in the whole Dolomites range. The road, Strada Provinciale 638 (SP638), is completely paved, so no need for an off-roader, but don't think it's a walk in the park! It's a real challenge, famous for its steep climbs and relentless hairpin turns – 55 of them! Plus, there are a few tunnels to protect you from avalanches. Be prepared for some serious gradients, with the steepest sections hitting a whopping 13%. At the summit, you'll find a small hotel and the adorable Chiesa di San Giovanni Gualberto church, all surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks. If you're feeling adventurous, a gravel road heads up to Monte Ragusela, but be warned, it's a bit rough. The pass is generally open year-round, but keep in mind that snow tires or chains are a must in winter. Avalanches can sometimes block the road during the winter months. The road itself is about 20.0 km (12.42 miles) long, running from Selva di Cadore to Pocol, near Cortina d'Ampezzo. It's even been part of the Giro d’Italia cycling race! Is it worth the drive? Absolutely! The scenery is simply incredible. Imagine breathtaking views of the Dolomites, especially amazing early in the morning when there are fewer cars. The pass even has a bit of history; it used to mark the border between the Republic of Venice and the Austrian Empire, and you can still spot the old border marker. Fun fact: some scenes from the classic 80s movie Ladyhawke were filmed here! Plus, not too far away you can find Strada degli Eroi, a military road built during WWI.