The Atlantic Ocean Road sits 47 kilometers northwest of Molde, connected by a combination of subsea tunnels, island crossings, and mainland highways. The journey takes just under an hour in clear conditions, though winter weather and tunnel toll stops can extend the drive. This guide maps the route, timing, and road segments between Molde's harbor district and the first curve of Atlanterhavsvegen.
Quick answer
The atlantic ocean road from molde spans 47 kilometers and takes 50 to 60 minutes by car under normal conditions. The route follows E39 and E39/Rv64 through the Atlanterhavstunnelen subsea tunnel, crosses Romsdalsfjorden via the Fannefjord Tunnel, and continues through Bremsnes before reaching the southern access point at Vevang. No tolls apply to the Atlantic Ocean Road itself, though the Atlanterhavstunnelen charges a standard tunnel fee.
The Atlanterhavstunnelen drops 250 meters below sea level at its deepest point, making it one of Norway's most ambitious subsea crossings. Opened in 2009, the 5.7-kilometer tunnel replaced a ferry route that once required advance booking and operated on restricted winter schedules. Drivers heading from Molde toward the Atlantic Ocean Road now bypass the old maritime dependency entirely, emerging on the island of Averøy without interruption. The drive begins at Molde's harbor front, where Route 64 cuts west through the suburbs of Reknes and Kleive before merging with E39 at the Fannefjord interchange. The Fannefjord Tunnel, a 2.4-kilometer passage beneath Romsdalsfjorden, marks the first underwater segment. Upon surfacing, the route threads through Bremsnes, a low-lying agricultural stretch where the road straightens and speed limits rise to 80 km/h. At the Bremsnes junction, signage directs drivers onto Rv64 toward Kristiansund and Averøy. The Atlanterhavstunnelen entrance appears 12 kilometers later, flanked by automated toll gantries that register passing vehicles without requiring a stop. Once through the tunnel, the landscape shifts from forested ridges to exposed moorland. The road to Atlanterhavsvegen crosses the interior of Averøy, passing the medieval stone church at Kvernes and the scattered fishing hamlets of Bruhagen. At Vevang, the first of the eight bridges appears: a low concrete span over tidal shallows, followed by the rising arc of Storseisundet Bridge. The atlantic ocean road from molde culminates here, where the asphalt narrows and the barrier islands begin. Timing the drive requires accounting for weather rather than distance. Fog banks roll in from the Norwegian Sea with little warning, reducing visibility on the open bridge sections to under 50 meters. Winter storms close the road entirely when wave crests exceed the bridge decks. The Norwegian Public Roads Administration posts real-time closure alerts on its Atlanterhavsvegen route page, updated hourly during unsettled periods. Summer traffic peaks between 10:00 and 16:00, when motorhomes and tour coaches queue at the designated photo stops. Early morning and late evening offer clearer lanes and softer light across the water.
“The Atlanterhavstunnelen drops 250 meters below sea level, replacing a ferry route that once dictated the rhythm of travel between Molde and the outer islands.”
The Atlantic Ocean Road is located approximately 50 kilometers north of Molde. The most direct approach is by car, which allows for flexibility when navigating the coastal landscape.
Follow Fv662 and Fv64 via the Mordalsvågen–Solholmen ferry
Line 420/421 from Molde to Kristiansund, then local connection to Atlanterhavsvegen
If driving, check the ferry schedule between Mordalsvågen and Solholmen in advance to ensure a smooth connection. Parking is available at designated scenic viewpoints along the route.
This itinerary suits a half-day excursion from Molde, covering the round-trip drive and key stops along the Atlantic Ocean Road in 4–5 hours. Start early to enjoy calmer conditions and give yourself time to explore the bridges and viewpoints at your own pace.
Drive northeast from Molde city center, following E39 then Route 64 toward Averøy. The journey takes roughly 1 hour; expect morning traffic if departing on a weekday.
Park at the southern entrance near Eldhusøya and walk onto the first bridge sections. Spend 20–30 minutes taking in the causeway views and checking wind conditions.
Pull into the marked layby on the north side of Storseisundet Bridge for the classic angle across the curved span. Allow 15 minutes for photos and a short walk along the guardrail.
Located near the northern end at Kvernes, the small exhibition covers the road's engineering history. Budget 30 minutes if you want context on the 1989 construction.
A 10-minute detour east brings you to this medieval wooden church, open for summer visits. Allocate 20 minutes for the interior and churchyard.
Continue north to Vevang for a harbor café, or loop west to the fishing village of Bud for a waterfront meal. Plan 45 minutes to an hour.
Retrace your route south, stopping briefly at any viewpoints you missed on the outbound leg. Arrive back in Molde by early afternoon.
The period between June and August offers the most reliable daylight for exploring the coast, while the autumn and winter months provide opportunities to witness significant North Atlantic storms. Travelers from Molde should balance the desire for mild temperatures with the appeal of dynamic weather conditions.
Mild with average temperatures of 12–16°C.
Clearer roads and extended daylight hours facilitate photography and exploration of coastal viewpoints.
Cool, variable; 6–12°C with high winds.
Increased frequency of Atlantic storms creates high-drama conditions against the bridge structures.
Cold, frequent snow; 0–5°C.
Travelers should monitor regional road reports as conditions shift rapidly during winter months.
Verdict: For optimal visibility and manageable weather, visit between June and August, while those seeking the dramatic power of the ocean should choose late September or October.
The Atlantic Ocean Road is a public scenic route that remains accessible to visitors at all times throughout the week.
Daylight hours
Position yourself on the low rocks near the bridge base to capture the dramatic arch against the horizon. Accessible via the designated parking area.
Daylight or golden hour
This glass-walled viewpoint offers a panoramic perspective of the ocean and the coastal road. It provides a sheltered position for wide-angle compositions.
Daylight hours
Walk the circular elevated steel path for views of the surrounding islands and the bridge silhouette. The walkway provides distinct angles of the structure and sea.
Daylight during high tide
Located along the route, this spot overlooks the open sea and shipping lanes. It is ideal for capturing waves crashing against the rocky coastline.
Everything you need to know about atlantic ocean road from molde
The Atlantic Ocean Road is open 24/7, meaning you can plan your trip whenever it suits your schedule. While the road is accessible year-round, the coastal weather can shift rapidly, so check local conditions before your journey.
There is no cost to enter, as this is a public scenic route with no tolls. You do not need to purchase any tickets for the drive itself, making it an accessible experience for all travelers.
The drive from Molde to the Atlantic Ocean Road generally takes around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on your chosen route and stops. Planning your atlantic ocean road from molde itinerary in advance allows you to enjoy the coastal views along the way.
While driving by car is the most flexible option for the atlantic ocean road from molde, local buses operate in the region. Check current schedules to coordinate your travel if you prefer not to drive yourself.
The road is open 24/7, providing total flexibility for your arrival. Visiting during daylight hours offers clear views of the bridges and ocean, while storms bring a more dramatic, powerful atmosphere to the Atlanterhavsvegen landscape.
The scenic route is very popular for family road trips, as it offers several stops for fresh air and photos. As you plan your atlantic ocean road from molde excursion, ensure you have appropriate gear for the wind and variable weather found along the Norwegian coast.