Norwegian Scenic Routes

This programme involves 18 routes that run through breath-taking Norwegian landscapes, enriched with viewpoints and rest areas designed by innovative architects and artists, giving visitors every reason to stop for a unique experience along the way.

2000 attractive kilometres

The project is being carried out by the Norwegian Public Roads Administration, and aims to make Norway an even more attractive destination, to promote local businesses and strengthen rural communities.

According to the Norwegian Scenic Routes, a total of NOK 4,6 billion will be invested in the project, which involves 10 county administrations and about 60 municipalities in addition to local business communities.

In 2023, Norwegian Scenic Routes will emerge as a fully-fledged attraction with about 200 picnic areas and viewpoints along just over 2000 kilometres of road.

Bold, considerate and durable

The architecture aims to be bold and functional. Materials and workmanship must also be of the highest quality, as the sites need to stand the test of time and harsh weather. So far, more than 50 architects, landscape architects and artists have been involved, mostly Norwegian, both well-established and up and coming. For many young architects, the Norwegian Scenic Routes has been a stepping stone, resulting in awards and international recognition.

One of the most recent projects is the rest area Ureddplassen by Haugen/Zohar Arkitekter, while veterans Jensen & Skodvin have created seven projects since 1997, including the viewing point at Gudbrandsjuvet gorge. Perhaps the most iconic project is Reiulf Ramstad’s dramatic viewing platform edging over a sheer drop of 200 meters overlooking Trollstigen.

Architecture enhancing nature – and vice versa

So far, the Norwegian Scenic Routes has been an enormous success, both in terms of visitor numbers and valuable international media coverage. A report by Menon Economics from 2007, shows that local businesses are strengthened, indicating that the architecture and publicity are having positive effects on local tourism.