Escape the Crowds With A Road Trip to Norway

Norway’s perhaps not the country which immediately springs to mind when thinking about a European driving holiday. But the combination of spectacular scenery and some of the best driving roads in Europe is an attractive prospect. Norway is also one of Europe’s least densely populated countries, so if your ideal holiday is an escape from the crowds and lots of peace and quiet, could it be your ideal destination?

Getting There

Most driving holidays to Norway start with a flight into Oslo. If you want to hire a car this is probably the easiest route for you, and all of the main car rental companies operate out of Oslo airport. But there is another option for those of an adventurous nature and with time to spare. It is possible to drive from Calais right up into Norway without any more ferry crossings. It’s a long 18 hour route though, taking you through Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark and Sweden before reaching the Norwegian border. If however you’re not in a rush, and wish to break the journey to look around Hamburg, Copenhagen or Gothenburg, it’s an option to consider.

If you are taking your own vehicle, make sure it’s in tip-top condition before you set off. Get it serviced, make sure tyres and fluids are filled up, check your MOT isn’t about to expire, and pay your road tax. Check your insurer is happy for you to take your car overseas too. Carry your UK driving licence with you, and read up on the driving laws not only in Norway, but in all the other countries you have to pass through to get there.

Where to Visit

The western coast of Norway, with its famous fjords is the most popular driving destination, and it’s easy to spend weeks driving through the valleys and inlets, exploring the little fishing villages along the way. The main settlement on this part of the coast is Bergen, with a picturesque old town and all the amenities of a modern city.

Follow the main road north and eventually you’ll end up in Trondheim, Europe’s most northerly city. This is the destination perfect for watching the Northern Lights, or going whale watching on an organised excursion. It’s a long way north, but worth the effort in order to experience the absolute wilderness which Norway has to offer.

The capital, Oslo is also a really interesting destination, especially if you are travelling with children who are not overly impressed with scenery and fjords. This is a modern, vibrant city which is best explored on foot. Find somewhere to park the car and head out to see the Viking museum, Askerhus castle or just do a spot of shopping. Don’t forget to try the Norwegian delicacy of Lutefisk, or pickled cod – it tastes better than it sounds.

What Do I Need to Know About Norway?

Norway is unusual in Europe in that it is in the European Economic Area, but outside the EU. In practical terms, that means from the UK we still have freedom of movement to travel to Norway without a visa, and can use EHIC cover to offset expensive medical treatment, should it be needed. Norway uses the krone, and has a reputation for being one of Europe’s most expensive countries. Fuel is more expensive than in the UK, so factor higher diesel or petrol costs into the overall price of your holiday. Alcoholic drinks are notoriously expensive too. If you’re trying to keep costs down, consider self-catering and cooking for yourself rather than hotels and restaurant meals.

On the positive side, most Norwegians speak at least a little English, so communication shouldn’t be difficult. The people are friendly and welcoming and the country has embraced tourism with thousands of visitors a year from cruise ships. Given that things in Norway are generally on the pricey side, check that you have a decent level of travel insurance before leaving home. Costs could be high if you fall ill, or are involved in an accident and need your car repaired. Check your mobile phone roaming plan covers Norway and if it doesn’t, get an international calling card before you leave the UK so that you’re not surprised by a nasty bill when you get home.