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Winter road conditions in Norway
Norway’s Snowy Roads

Norway’s Snowy Roads

Picture yourself driving through a winter wonderland, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, ethereal fjords, and the enchanting Northern Lights. This is what awaits you when you embark on a road trip through Northern Norway in winter. Despite the harsh weather conditions, the region’s road network is impeccably maintained, allowing you to explore its breathtaking beauty in relative comfort and safety. In this blog post, we will delve into the unique aspects of winter driving in Northern Norway, including the importance of proper tires, the challenges of sudden weather changes, and how the local authorities keep the roads open and safe for travelers.

The Importance of Good Winter Tires

While the road network in Northern Norway is meticulously maintained 24/7 to ensure that snow is cleared and the roads are passable, good winter tires or spiked tires are an absolute necessity when driving in the region. These specialized tires provide better traction on the slippery, icy roads, preventing accidents and allowing for a smoother driving experience. In Norway, it is mandatory to have winter tires on your vehicle from November 1st to April 15th, so make sure you are prepared before hitting the road.

Sudden Weather Changes and Snow Storms

One of the unique aspects of driving in Northern Norway during winter is the unpredictability of the weather. While you may start your journey under clear skies, you could suddenly find yourself in the midst of a snowstorm or a significant temperature drop. It is crucial to stay updated on the local weather forecasts and be prepared for any changes in conditions. Pack warm clothing, blankets, and emergency supplies in your vehicle, and always be prepared to adjust your travel plans if necessary.

Closed Mountain Passes and Convoy Driving

In case of heavy snowfall or extreme weather, some mountain passes in Northern Norway may be temporarily closed to ensure the safety of drivers. When this occurs, local authorities work tirelessly to clear the roads and restore access as quickly as possible. During these periods, convoy driving may be arranged, where vehicles are guided behind a snow-cleaning car through the affected areas. This system allows drivers to safely navigate through challenging conditions, ensuring that they reach their destinations without unnecessary risks.

 

A winter road trip through Northern Norway is an unforgettable experience, filled with breathtaking landscapes and the thrill of exploring a magical, snowy wonderland. While the region’s roads are expertly maintained, it is essential to be prepared for sudden weather changes and challenging driving conditions. Equip your vehicle with appropriate winter tires, stay informed about weather forecasts, and be ready to adjust your plans if needed. By taking these precautions, you can confidently navigate Northern Norway’s winter roads and create lasting memories of your Arctic adventure.

Here are some helpful links for winter driving in Norway, providing valuable tips, weather updates, and road condition information to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey:

 

Winter Tire Guide for Safe Driving In Norway

If you visit the northernmost part as Nordland, Troms, and Finnmark, you can use studded tires from October 16th to April 30th. In the rest of the country, you can use studded tires from November 1st to the first Sunday after Easter Monday. If you have studless tires, you can use them all year round.

If the driving conditions are challenging and poor where you are driving, it is allowed to use studded tires and chains outside these dates. It is essential that your tires are in good condition and adapted to the vehicle and road conditions, regardless of the season.
Requirements for winter tires

The tread depth must be at least 3 millimeters, regardless of the tire type on your car, and studs are only allowed on winter tires.

If you are driving with a trailer, the same tread depth requirements apply to the trailer’s tires as to the vehicle’s.

As a driver, you are responsible for ensuring that the vehicle has sufficient road grip all year round.

Always remember that tires are perishable goods. The rubber in the tires deteriorates as they age. Therefore, make sure the tires are in good condition before you change them.

The E6 – Norway’s Ultimate Road Trip Experience

The E6 – Norway’s Ultimate Road Trip Experience

The E6, stretching over 3,000 kilometers from the southernmost tip of Norway to its northernmost reaches, is truly a testament to the country’s magnificent beauty. Winding through the heart of Norway’s diverse landscapes, this scenic route offers an unparalleled road trip experience. The sheer variety of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and unique experiences that the E6 has to offer is what makes it so amazing. As you traverse this remarkable highway, you’ll be captivated by the ever-changing vistas that unfold before your eyes.

Diverse Landscapes

From the fertile agricultural lands in the south to the rugged coastlines and breathtaking fjords of the west, and from the serene forests of the central regions to the Arctic tundra in the north, the E6 takes you through a kaleidoscope of Norway’s most stunning landscapes. With each twist and turn, you’ll be greeted by a new and awe-inspiring view, making every moment of your journey a memorable one.

Cultural Riches

As you travel along the E6, you’ll have ample opportunities to delve into Norway’s rich cultural history. Visit ancient stave churches, marvel at the Hanseatic wharf of Bergen, and explore the Sami culture in the northern regions. Immerse yourself in the arts, history, and architecture of cities like Oslo, Trondheim, and Tromsø, each offering a unique perspective on Norway’s heritage.

Outdoor Adventures

The E6 is a gateway to an array of outdoor activities that cater to every type of adventurer. Whether you’re a hiking enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or an adrenaline junkie, you’ll find something to suit your interests. Trek through national parks like Jotunheimen, Rondane, and Dovrefjell, or go on a wildlife safari in search of musk oxen, reindeer, and moose. For thrill-seekers, embark on a river rafting adventure, try your hand at glacier hiking, or soar above the fjords on a zipline.

The Midnight Sun and Northern Lights

As you journey northwards along the E6, you’ll enter the realm of the Midnight Sun, where the sun never sets during the summer months. This natural phenomenon allows for extended days of exploration and a unique, almost otherworldly atmosphere. In contrast, during the winter months, the E6 offers prime opportunities to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights, as the ethereal aurora borealis dances across the Arctic sky.

Culinary Delights

Norwegian cuisine is a delicious blend of traditional dishes and modern innovation. Traveling along the E6, you’ll have the chance to savor a variety of regional specialties. Sample fresh seafood in coastal towns, indulge in hearty mountain fare, and discover local artisanal products, from cheese to cured meats. The culinary journey is an essential part of the E6 experience, offering an authentic taste of Norway’s diverse flavors.

Warm Hospitality

One of the most endearing aspects of traveling the E6 is the warm hospitality of the Norwegian people. From charming countryside inns to family-run businesses and friendly locals, you’ll be welcomed with open arms as you journey through this captivating land. This sense of camaraderie and connection adds an extra layer of joy to your E6 adventure.

Finally

The E6, stretching from the south to the north of Norway, is an extraordinary road trip that offers an unparalleled experience. Its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, outdoor adventures, natural phenomena, culinary delights, and warm hospitality combine to create a journey that is nothing short of amazing. As you traverse this epic route, you’ll be constantly enchanted by the surprises and discoveries that await around every corner. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, the E6 is a testament to Norway’s natural and cultural wonders, promising an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. So, buckle up, hit the road, and let the magic of the E6 sweep you away on the ultimate Norwegian odyssey.

Why the E6 is a Dream Route for Camper Van Enthusiasts

The E6 is the quintessential camper van-friendly route in Norway, offering an unparalleled travel experience for camper enthusiasts. Its thoughtful infrastructure, abundance of scenic rest areas, and easy accessibility to diverse attractions make it an ideal choice for a camper van adventure.

  1. Well-Maintained Infrastructure: The E6 is well-maintained and regularly updated, ensuring a smooth and comfortable drive throughout your journey. The road is designed to accommodate larger vehicles such as camper vans, allowing you to navigate with ease and confidence.
  2. Scenic Rest Areas: As you travel along the E6, you’ll find numerous picturesque rest areas where you can stop and take a break. These spots not only offer essential facilities such as restrooms and picnic tables but also provide stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, making them perfect for a leisurely lunch or an overnight stay.
  3. Accessible Attractions: The E6 connects you to a plethora of Norway’s most iconic attractions, from national parks and fjords to charming villages and vibrant cities. With easy access to these diverse sights, you can tailor your camper van journey to suit your interests, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

In conclusion, the E6’s camper van-friendly features make it a dream route for vanlife travelers. Its well-maintained infrastructure, scenic rest areas, and accessible attractions combine to create a stress-free and enjoyable journey, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Norway.

Camper and Outdoor Supplies

Camper and Outdoor Supplies

When embarking on a Norwegian road trip, it is essential to equip yourself with the right camper and outdoor supplies. This guide will help you locate the top stores in Norway to find everything you need for your journey.

  1. Biltema: Your One-Stop-Shop for Car Parts and Camper Equipment

When traveling through the larger towns in Norway, you’ll most likely come across a Biltema store. This shop is widespread across the country and offers everything from car parts to camping gear and building materials. Whether you need to repair your vehicle, stock up on camper equipment, or find some useful gadgets for your trip, Biltema has you covered. The store prides itself on offering high-quality products at affordable prices.

BILTEMA WEBSITE

  1. Jula: Another Option for Camper and Outdoor Supplies

While not as common as Biltema, Jula is another chain store that offers a similar range of products. You can find car parts, camper equipment, and various outdoor supplies here. Although Jula may not be as widespread as Biltema, it is still worth checking out if you’re in a town with one of their stores.

JULA WEBSITE

  1. XXL and Intersport: The Go-To Stores for Outdoor Gear and Clothing

For those seeking proper outdoor gear and clothing, you can find everything you need at XXL and Intersport. These stores are available in most larger towns across Norway, and they specialize in high-quality outdoor equipment, clothing, and accessories. They cater to a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, skiing, and fishing. At XXL and Intersport, you can find top brands and a vast selection of products to suit your outdoor needs.

XXL WEBSITE

Norway is well-equipped with stores catering to the needs of road trippers and outdoor enthusiasts. Biltema and Jula are great options for car parts and camper equipment, while XXL and Intersport provide a wide range of outdoor gear and clothing to ensure you’re well-prepared for your adventures in the Norwegian wilderness. With these resources at your disposal, you’ll be ready to make the most of your unforgettable road trip through Norway.

The Adventures of North & Beyond

The Adventures of North & Beyond

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Our friend Sii from Australia is exploring Northern Norway in his self converted Mercedes Sprinter van. While he is doing that, he started his own web-series on Youtube. Watch him brewing beer from glacier ice. Or building a Pizza oven out of an ship wreck in the Lyngen Alps. He is diving in winter in the Arctic ocean or SUPing with whales in Skjervøy. You can find all episodes on www.north-beyond.com

North of the Sun – Lofoten

North of the Sun – Lofoten

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The movie of the two Norwegian surfer & film makers “North of the Sun” is already some years old. But still it is inspiring many visitors to start their own adventure while visiting Norway. Many people are doing the hike into the hidden bay of Kvalvika in Lofoten. With a bit of searching you will find the driftwood cabin build by Inge Wegge (25) and Jørn Ranum (22) back in 2011. Here they spent 9 month in the Norwegian winter. Picking up trash, surfing and living on expired food the stores would otherwise have thrown away.

There movie has won many outdoor and surf film festivals around the globe. The starting point for the hike into the bay of Kvalvika is on the Lofoten island Moskenesøya.

 

Here you can watch the movie in full as video on demand.

Top 10 of Norway

Top 10 of Norway

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According to photographer Morten Rustad this are the top 10 must-see places of Norway:

1. Senja
1. Varangerhalvøya
1. Femundsmarka
4. Loenvatnet
5. Valdres
6. Hardanger
7. Helgeland
8. Lofoten
9. Nærøyfjorden
10. Jettegrytene i Nissedal

Morten says:  These tips are from the perspective of a photographer, but the places are perfectly fine to visit if you’re a regular traveller as well.

I’ve been fortunate enough to travel around in Norway almost contently for the past few years as a time-lapse photographer. That has given me extensive knowledge of what Norway has to offer, also outside the most touristic places. This list includes some true hidden gems you might not have heard of before.

Vanlife on the Lofoten

Vanlife on the Lofoten

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Watch a vlog from Theo and Bee traveling Lofoten in their converted VW T4 camper van.

If you want to experience Lofoten you should consider your visit in the off season (September until May). The Islands are very popular as a summer destination and it can get very crowded. You will find many wild camp spots located right at the Atlantic. The weather situations can be kind of tricky. If you are planing outdoor activities, it is strongly recommended to check the forecast (for example here YR.no) since the weather situations can change quickly.

Check out this map made by the Lofoten municipality for finding toilets and garbage bins.