Trollstigen, in Romsdalen, ranks among Norway’s most spectacular mountain roads: 11 numbered hairpins carved into a cliffside, at the foot of steep peaks linked to local troll folklore.
A climb through 11 vertiginous hairpins
From Åndalsnes, the road climbs about 20 km for 850 m of elevation gain through the Isterdalen valley, before tackling the 11 characteristic hairpins that give Trollstigen its name. The 180 m Stigfossen waterfall is visible for much of the climb and crossed by a road bridge in its upper section.
Getting the ride right
A compact or triple crankset is recommended for the more sustained hairpins. Weather in the Norwegian mountains can change quickly even in summer: a light rain jacket is useful, the region being known for frequent showers despite generally mild summers.
When to go
June to September, as the road stays closed from October to late May due to snow and avalanche risk. July and August offer the best conditions, with particularly long days at this northern latitude.
Good to know
Åndalsnes, a small port town at the foot of the Romsdalen mountains, offers enough accommodation for a stopover, with convenient access to Valldal, on the other side of the pass, for extending the stay toward the Geirangerfjord.
