Hotels in Norway
The Lyse Road was constructed as a service route for a hydro-electricity station, but that bland description reveals nothing of the experience the road has to offer. It twists and sweeps, clinging precariously to the side of a mountain that rises out of one of Norway's most beautiful fjords, making it the ultimate challenge to your driving skills and a rush like no other.
Built in the 1980s, the 44-km (27 mi) long Lyse Road stands as the critical test for those who have a zest for driving on mountain roads. All along the route you are book-ended by magnificent mountains on one side and the shimmering darkness of Lysefjord on the other - this really is like a scene from a car advertisement.
Viewed from above it would seem as if someone had thrown a giant sidewinder onto the edge of a mountain. With 27 hairpin bends, the Lyse is the ultimate brake-tester. The views are always amazmg, if at times a little disorienting - and the relativ shallowness of parts of the fjord produces the most wonderful light.
There are a few places where you can stop and it is advisable to do so, if only for the sake of the driver, who should be concentrating so hard on the road that he/she will have little chance to enjoy the stunning scenery. Consideration for other users of the road must be a priority on this often single lane highway, but this is a top rate scuttle if you get a clear run.
HOW
By car
WHEN TO GO
The road is closed in winter – roughly - -- between November and April.
TIME IT TAKES
One to two hours
HIGHLIGHTS
The hike to pulpit Rock - with its views high above the fjord.
The view of the road from Oygardsstolen.
Tjodan hydro-electric power station - the reason for the road's existence.
The charming little town of Lysebotn.
YOU SHOULD KNOW
Speed limits are rigorously enforced in Norway, so if you are tempted to - speed, don't - this road demands the utmost respect and fines can be as steep as the road itself.
