Kristiansand to Ålesund: Norway's Ultimate Road Trip

Did you know the E39 between Kristiansand and Ålesund passes through over 100 tunnels, including the 24.5 km long Sotra Tunnel near Bergen? This route stitches together Norway's south and west coasts.

The drive covers roughly 700 km of jaw-dropping scenery. Expect ferry crossings, fjord views, and winding mountain roads. Plan for 10-12 hours of non-stop driving, but add days for exploration.

The primary route is the E39, a coastal highway with several ferry crossings. Key ferries include Mortavika-Arsvågen (20 min) and Haljem-Sandvikvåg (40 min). Check ferry schedules in advance.

• Fuel stations are sparse in rural stretches, especially between Bergen and Ålesund.
• Toll roads: Some sections, like the E39 near Sotra, have tolls. Use AutoPASS for seamless payment.
• Road quality: Excellent paved roads, but narrow in mountain passes. Watch for sharp curves.

Fuel costs: Expect to pay around 20-22 NOK per liter. The terrain is hilly, reducing fuel efficiency. For a standard sedan, budget about 900 NOK for the whole trip. Carrying extra fuel is unnecessary but ensure your tank is full before long stretches.

Roads are well-maintained, but fog and rain reduce visibility. Summer offers midnight sun, but fall brings icy patches. Always wear seatbelts; children under 135 cm need booster seats.

• Pet-friendly: Many rest stops have designated dog areas. The Vindafjord rest area has a dog park. Cafes like Bakeriet in Bergen welcome dogs.
• Family stops: The Vitensenteret science center in Stavanger and the Bergen Aquarium are great for kids. The Trollstigen path (near Ålesund) excites older children.

Fatigue management: Rest zones at the Jønshallen parking (near Flekkefjord) and the Ålgård rest stop. If tired, pull over at a “rasteplass” – many have picnic tables. For a quick nap, the Røykås parking area offers quiet spots away from traffic.

The landscape shifts from southern archipelago to steep fjords. Between Kristiansand and Stavanger, the terrain is dotted with lakes and rolling hills. The Lysefjord near Stavanger offers the famous Preikestolen cliff.

• UNESCO Sites: The route passes near the Bryggen wharf in Bergen (UNESCO) and the West Norwegian Fjords – Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord (UNESCO).
• Geirangerfjord is a 1-hour detour from Ålesund via the E136 and fv63. A must-see.
• Local crafts: Look for wool sweaters from Setesdal region and ceramic from Stavanger.

For authentic cuisine, stop at the Dinematte in Klepp for herring plates, or at Kafe Arus in Bergen for fresh seafood. The Jæren region is known for its dairy products.