National Tourist Route Valdresflye is a scenic drive in Norway

National Tourist Route Valdresflye is a scenic drive in Norway

Norway, europe

Length

49 km

Elevation

1,393 m

Difficulty

hard

Best Season

Year-round

# Valdresflye: Norway's Epic Mountain Drive

Craving one of Norway's most iconic scenic drives? Look no further than Valdresflye, a stunning 49km (30.44 miles) mountain road that'll blow your mind. This gem winds through Innlandet county in eastern Norway, connecting the charming town of Garli near Beitostølen to Besstrondsæter in Vågå.

What makes this route so special? It's totally paved and sits perched high on the eastern slopes of the Jotunheimen mountains, topping out at an impressive 1,393m (4,570ft) above sea level. You're literally driving one of the country's highest roads. The road gets narrow in spots, but it's mostly smooth sailing across rolling terrain that feels absolutely effortless—like it's floating above the landscape.

The views? Absolutely breathtaking. From the mountain plateau, you'll catch stunning vistas of Jotunheimen National Park, then swoop down through gorgeous cultivated valleys dotted with mountain pastures. The contrast is incredible—wild, jagged peaks to the north giving way to serene rolling hills to the south. It's like you're getting two completely different landscapes in one drive.

The route typically opens in early May and stays accessible through November, though the summit weather can shift in a heartbeat, so come prepared. The plateau is a legendary launching point for spring skiing expeditions and hikes into the Jotunheimen peaks.

**Quick Details:** No ferries, but note that winter closures affect some stretches between Garli and Maurvangen (though the Hindsæter to Gjendesheim section stays open). Keep your eyes peeled for reindeer herds along the way!

Where is it?

National Tourist Route Valdresflye is a scenic drive in Norway is located in Norway (europe). Coordinates: 65.7436, 12.0259

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Road Details

Country
Norway
Continent
europe
Length
49 km
Max Elevation
1,393 m
Difficulty
hard
Coordinates
65.7436, 12.0259

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