Beautiful Norway Tour Highlights 2025
Our ‘Beautiful Norway’ tours along the Sognefjellet mountain road: A photographic journey through spectacular mountain scenery and contemporary landscape architecture.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the stunning landscapes of Norway with our ‘Beautiful Norway’ semi-independent tour. This journey takes you along the Sognefjellet mountain road, offering a unique blend of dramatic natural beauty and modern architectural design. The photographic journey showcases not only Norway's awe-inspiring mountain scenery but also contemporary landscape architecture that harmonises with the environment.
One of the highlights of this tour, which spans several days, is the opportunity to experience the National Tourist Route 55, winding its way across the Sognefjell mountain area. The route stretches between the charming villages of Lom and Gaupne, offering magnificent views and connections to Norway’s natural wonders. Day 5 of the semi-independent tour presents an unforgettable exploration of this picturesque road, leading you through the heart of Jotunheimen National Park, home to Norway’s tallest peaks.
The Sognefjell mountain pass itself is the highest in all of Northern Europe, soaring up to an impressive 1434 metres above sea level. The surrounding mountains and vast panoramas leave a lasting impression. Along the way, visitors are treated to various attractions and artworks, thoughtfully designed to enhance the experience of the natural surroundings, complementing the views with a perfect blend of art and nature. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key highlights along the route.
The rest area of Liasanden
The first optional stop after leaving the village of Lom is the Liasanden rest area, set within the lush pine forest of Leirdalen. This site is a striking example of contemporary landscape architecture, where the natural terrain, trees, and surroundings have all been considered in the design. The architects have created a space that blends seamlessly into the forest, making it the perfect place to take a break, stretch your legs, and absorb the tranquil beauty of the area. Liasanden exemplifies a thoughtful approach to architecture, where nature and design coalesce to create a harmonious environment.
The viewpoint of Vegaskjelet
A short drive further up the road from Liasanden brings you to the viewpoint of Vegaskjelet, a stunning lookout point offering sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Here, a keyhole-shaped viewing platform rises above the trees, providing an elevated perspective of the 2000-metre peaks of Skarsnebb and Steinetind. This striking view offers both serenity and excitement, as the towering mountains command attention, giving you a real sense of anticipation for the grandeur that lies ahead. The viewpoint allows you to take in the scale and beauty of the landscape in a way that is truly awe-inspiring, and you may feel the mountains calling you as you continue your journey.
Continuing on:
The Sognefjellshytta lodge
At approximately 1400 metres above sea level, the Sognefjellshytta lodge is the highest point along the route and offers both a functional rest stop and a remarkable example of modern architecture. The lodge itself is beautifully integrated into the surrounding landscape, offering spectacular views of the mountain range. The common room is designed with a blend of wood and glass, allowing light to flood into the space from every direction. The changing light conditions, along with the dramatic weather at this high altitude, create a dynamic atmosphere within the lodge. The experience of being indoors while still so closely connected to nature is rare, offering an immersive connection to the environment that is as much about feeling as it is about seeing.
Continuing on:
The sculpture at the Mefjellet rest area
Continuing along the route, the Mefjellet rest area offers another opportunity to take in both natural beauty and art. At this stop, you can enjoy a striking cubist stone sculpture by renowned artist Knut Wold. The natural stonewalls surrounding the sculpture are designed to function as a ‘nature gallery,’ framing panoramic views of the Fanaråken glacier and the surrounding peaks. This unique design not only enhances the experience of nature’s magnificence but also encourages a deeper connection with the landscape through art. The juxtaposition of stone, art, and nature creates a memorable moment that visitors often reflect on long after they leave.
The Nedre Oscarshaug viewing point
Another remarkable stop along the Sognefjellet route is the Nedre Oscarshaug viewing point. Here, a round viewing platform offers a 360-degree perspective of the Hurrungane mountain range. The platform is equipped with a glass telescope that provides an informative touch by displaying the names of the surrounding peaks, allowing visitors to familiarise themselves with the dramatic mountain formations in the area. The sweeping vistas from this point are simply breathtaking, offering panoramic views that make this one of the most impressive stops along the route.
Descending Towards the Sognefjord
After leaving Nedre Oscarshaug, the landscape begins to change as you descend towards the majestic Sognefjord, Norway’s largest and most famous fjord. As you make your way down, enjoy the peaceful beauty of Skjolden, a small village nestled between the mountains. The drive along the Lusterfjord is equally picturesque, with the sight of the spectacular Feigumfossen waterfall cascading down the mountainside across the fjord. This final stretch offers a perfect contrast to the rugged mountain landscapes, leading you to the serene fjord at the end of your journey. It’s a fitting conclusion to an incredible experience, combining both raw natural beauty and the tranquil charm of the fjords.
Tour Overview
Our ‘Beautiful Norway’ tour, meticulously planned by our Scandinavian destination specialists, is an 8-day independent journey through the heart of Norway’s most iconic landscapes. From the towering mountains of Jotunheimen National Park to the scenic fjords, this tour highlights the best of Norway’s natural beauty and architectural wonders.
What sets this tour apart is the exclusive transfer experience aboard our premium 50 Degrees North mini-coach, designed for superior comfort and flexibility. The mini-coach allows for impromptu stops, whether to enjoy a scenic vista or capture a perfect photograph. We also ensure that your stay is just as memorable, with overnight accommodations in some of Norway's finest boutique hotels. These hand-picked hotels offer an authentic and charming experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the Norwegian way of life.
We look forward to welcoming you on this unforgettable journey through the natural beauty and modern design of Norway!
Crediting ©Foto: Jarle Wæhler / Statens vegvesen, ©Foto: Werner Harstad / Statens vegvesen, ©Foto: Kjetil Rolseth, ©Foto: Tonje Tjernet / Statens vegvesen https://www.nasjonaleturistveger.no/