Top 6 Mountain Passes in Møre og Romsdal

Møre og Romsdal offers several spectacular mountain passes. Besides Trollstigen, you can experience the unique coastal engineering of Atlanterhavsvegen (The Atlantic Road), the historic charm of Gamle Strynefjellsvegen (The Old Strynefjell Road), and the rugged, off-the-beaten-path beauty of Aursjøvegen (The Aursjø Road). Each offers distinct landscapes and experiences.

The mountain passes in Møre og Romsdal are renowned for their dramatic natural features. You'll encounter powerful waterfalls like Stigfossen along Trollstigen and Mardalsfossen near Aursjøvegen, deep fjords, towering peaks such as Bispen, Kongen, and Dronninga, and the rugged coastal scenery of Hustadvika Bay along Atlanterhavsvegen. Gamle Strynefjellsvegen showcases diverse landscapes from summer snow to precipitous mountainsides.

Yes, Gamle Strynefjellsvegen (The Old Strynefjell Road) is a prime example, completed in 1894 through manual labor and featuring hand-built stone walls. It's considered a museum experience in itself. Trollstigen, opened in 1936, is also an engineering marvel with a rich history as an important thoroughfare. Aursjøvegen was originally built in the 1940s for the Aura power station.

The best time to visit is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September). Many mountain passes, including Trollstigen Scenic Road and Gamle Strynefjellsvegen, are typically closed during winter due to snow and risk of landslides, usually opening from May. Summer offers the most reliable access and pleasant weather for outdoor activities, though the coastal Atlanterhavsvegen can be visited year-round, offering dramatic experiences in stormy weather.

Yes, several passes offer family-friendly experiences. View of Trollstigen and Stigfossen Waterfall is listed as family-friendly, offering impressive views without strenuous activity. The Brusdalshjellen Mini Pass is also categorized as family-friendly. Many areas around the passes provide easy walks and viewpoints suitable for all ages, such as the coastal trails along Atlanterhavsvegen.

The region around the mountain passes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking opportunities, from easy hikes like the Storseterfossen Trail to more challenging mountaineering routes. Cycling is also popular, with options ranging from coastal paths to demanding climbs like the Dalsnibba Climb. Fishing is possible from bridges along Atlanterhavsvegen and in lakes near Aursjøvegen.

Many mountain passes serve as excellent starting points for hikes. For instance, the Pass Between Jurtinden and Skarven is a known trailhead for various routes, including paths to huts. Aursjøvegen is surrounded by well-maintained hiking trails within the Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park. You can explore a range of options from easy walks to mountain treks throughout the region.

Driving conditions vary significantly. Trollstigen Scenic Road is famous for its eleven hairpin bends and steep ascents, requiring careful driving. Atlanterhavsvegen features eight bridges, including the dramatic Storseisundet Bridge, and can be exposed to strong winds and waves. Aursjøvegen is largely unpaved in sections and includes hairpin bends and tunnels. Gamle Strynefjellsvegen is a historic, narrow road with stone walls. Always check seasonal opening times and local weather conditions before setting out.

Yes, most major mountain passes feature dedicated viewpoints and rest stops. Trollstigen has architect-designed viewing platforms at its summit, offering spectacular views of the twisting road and Stigfossen waterfall. Atlanterhavsvegen provides numerous spots for panoramic sea views and fishing from bridges. Aursjøvegen includes the Aurstaupet viewpoint with dramatic scenery, and Gamle Strynefjellsvegen offers many places to stop and appreciate the historic craftsmanship and natural beauty.

Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking scenery, the engineering marvels of the roads themselves, and the unique experiences each pass offers. Many highlight the dramatic views from Trollstigen, the thrilling drive along Atlanterhavsvegen, and the sense of history on Gamle Strynefjellsvegen. The komoot community actively shares experiences, with over 120 upvotes and 150 photos, indicating a strong appreciation for the diverse landscapes and outdoor opportunities.

Yes, cycling is a popular activity on many of the mountain passes. Trollstigen, with its average slope of 7%, is a challenging but rewarding climb for cyclists. The fully paved Standalseidet Pass is also recommended for cycling, offering a great climb and descent. Aursjøvegen is excellent for cycling, especially e-biking, due to its varied terrain. For more cycling routes, you can explore the Cycling in Møre og Romsdal guide.

While Trollstigen and Atlanterhavsvegen are widely known, Aursjøvegen offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience. It's a lesser-known but equally spectacular mountain road, largely unpaved in sections, providing a quieter journey through raw nature and the Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjella National Park. It's ideal for those seeking tranquility away from the more crowded tourist routes.