When you glance at a map of Norway, you begin to grasp its complexity. The intricate geography has compelled Norwegians to develop an equally intricate road network. As you might expect, Norway is a fantastic country for lovers of winding roads, stunning vistas, and not least, the aroma of oil and the sound of a combustion engine.
I am one of those enthusiasts. According to family lore, the first word I ever spoke was ‘car’, much to the disappointment of my parents. My childhood room was plastered with posters of Maseratis and Mercedes. To this day, I harbour an unhealthy love for cars.
During the summer months, MGs, Triumphs, BMWs, and Porsches form convoys through the fjord regions to enjoy the beautiful roads. Hence, it seemed appropriate to present a list of hotels perfectly suited for holidaying petrolheads in Norway.
A 24 km tunnel and spectacular fjords: Lærdalsøren Motor Hotel
Let’s start with the absolute pinnacle. What car lover doesn’t dream of gazing at their car from their bed? Hotel director Johannes Einemo understood this perfectly. Here, you can book a room with a glazed indoor parking spot, allowing you to sleep alongside your machine.
Situated in a former slaughterhouse, the Lærdalsøren Motor Hotel is a truly unique piece of heritage. Lærdalsøren itself is an ancient trading post with a special atmosphere and a long history. But it’s not just petrolheads who are welcome here. Modern EV drivers are also warmly invited, as the room is equipped with an EV charger.
The hotel and its surroundings have become a magnet for car enthusiasts. It’s likely that you’ll spend the evening outside on the terrace with a beer, chatting about crankshafts and horsepower. The hotel also offers several fantastic day trips with detailed routes. It’s a one-stop shop for any car lover. Nearby, you’ll find the longest car tunnel in Europe, and trust me, the acoustics of the Lærdalstunellen is superb. For 24 km, you can drive with your windows down, listening to the roar of your six or eight-cylinder.
A bucket list road and a cinematic location: Juvet Landscape Hotel
Nestled in a spectacular landscape, this is an excellent stop when you’re about to drive the Trollstigen. This series of hairpin bends is a bucket list item for driving enthusiasts.
Aim to tackle it early in the morning, as later in the day, a caravan of campers and other amusing vehicles clogs the pass, making it quite a tight squeeze.
The Juvet Landscape Hotel itself is a rather iconic place. Not only because part of the film "Ex Machina" was shot here, but also because the hotel’s architecture is focused on the spectacular surroundings.
An ancient mountain pass and spectacular views: Hotel Videseter
At the foot of the legendary Strynefjellsveg mountain pass lies Hotel Videseter with a rather fabulous view. Equally fabulous is the winding strip of asphalt leading you there. Numerous hairpin bends, beautiful waterfalls, and increasingly spectacular vistas make the drive to Hotel Videseter a true experience.
The first time I drove the old Strynefjellsveg, the sky was just beginning to clear. It was midsummer, but there were still large patches of snow everywhere. As the road progresses, the surface deteriorates, so I wouldn’t recommend driving your Porsche here. In that case, opt for the newly constructed road. But if you have a regular car, the old road is a must.
In addition to the stunning nature, car culture plays a significant role in this part of Norway. The Stryn Motor Festival takes place here annually, featuring events focused on unique vehicles, burnt rubber, beer, and lively concerts.
24 hairpins and a stay in the clouds in Lysefjorden: The Bolder
Most people travel from Stavanger to Lysefjorden to climb Preikestolen or to walk to Kjeragbolten in heels, waiting in line for half an hour for a photo. But few know that Lysefjorden also hosts one of Norway’s most spectacular roads with about 24 hairpin bends and significant elevation changes. Every self-respecting car enthusiast must drive this road at least once. Moreover, at the top of the climb, you can enjoy a lovely cup of coffee and the serene view over the spectacular Lysebotn valley.
For an overnight stay, I highly recommend booking a night at The Boulder. Not only is it a great start or end point for an amazing day of driving, but from the dining table, you also have a spectacular view of the fjord landscape and the impressive Lysefjord Bridge. Furthermore, the architecture of The Bolder’s cabins is breathtaking in itself.
Pristine asphalt and a rugged ocean along the Atlantic Road: Hustadvika Havhotell
You undoubtedly know this road from pictures. Narrow, elongated bridges carry you through the surf of Norway’s rugged west coast from rock to rock. It’s one of those roads you must drive at least once, preferably in somewhat rough weather, to fully experience the character of this illustrious part of Norway. But I understand if you’re hesitant to drive through saltwater spray in a rust-sensitive 1970s Alfa Romeo. The weather can be a lengthy discussion topic, but this road is a must for driving enthusiasts. Not necessarily for the hairpins, but for the spectacularly engineered infrastructure—a gem of engineering.
In the evening, stay at the Hustadvika Havhotell. The hotel is beautifully located on a secluded part of an island, with the vast Atlantic Ocean as its only neighbour. Dining is at Restaurant Flo, where everything is homemade, from freshly baked bread to home-smoked fish. Attention to detail and craftsmanship ensure you have an unforgettable end to a day of driving.
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