
Where is County Road 551 (Fv551)?
Norway, europe
N/A
11,150 m
moderate
Year-round
Okay, picture this: You're cruising along County Road 551 (Fv551) on the southeastern edge of Hardangerfjorden, just north of Odda. Seriously, this is prime Norway scenery, folks! You're right in Folgefonna National Park, so prepare for breathtaking views.
Now, this isn't a quick jaunt – we're talking a decent stretch from a village near the southern shore of the Sørfjorden to another one tucked away at the end of the Maurangsfjorden. And guess what? You're in for a loooong tunnel. A whopping 11,150 meters of underground adventure! Just a heads up, though: this tunnel is strictly for cars and motorcycles – no walkers or cyclists allowed.
Road Details
- Country
- Norway
- Continent
- europe
- Max Elevation
- 11,150 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
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