Norwegian Scenic Route Havøysund

Norwegian Scenic Route Havøysund is a 67-kilometre Arctic coastal drive from Kokelv to Havøysund, taking you through a remote landscape of open sea, bare rock and small coastal communities in Finnmark.

Across Norway recommended route

For the best experience, we recommend starting the drive in Kokelv and following the dramatic coastal road north towards Havøysund, where the road ends at the edge of the Arctic Ocean.

Much of the route feels exposed to the elements. The road crosses a stark landscape where rugged rock formations rise beside the Arctic Ocean, with very little separating the traveller from the sea. The scenery can appear almost empty at first, but the area supports rich wildlife and it is possible to encounter both sea eagles and reindeer along the way.

The destination, Havøysund, lies at approximately 71 degrees north and marks the end of the road. Despite its remote location, it is a living fishing community and an important part of the coastal culture of Finnmark.

Stops along the route

Official stops include Storberget, Lillefjord, Snefjord, Selvika and the Havøysund artwork. Selvika is one of the most distinctive rest areas on the route, positioned close to the sea and surrounded by the open Arctic landscape.

These stops make it possible to experience the changing character of the coastline rather than simply driving straight through. The combination of sea, rock, wildlife and settlement gives Havøysund a character very different from Norway’s southern scenic routes.

Travel information

The route runs from Kokelv to Havøysund and reaches 233 metres above sea level. The road follows the coast but also crosses several higher sections of fell, so weather and wind can change quickly.

From Havøysund it is possible to continue the experience by express boat to islands such as Rolvsøy, Ingøya and Måsøya. The Hurtigruten coastal express also calls at Havøysund.

A northern round trip

Norwegian Scenic Route Havøysund can be combined with the Hurtigruten coastal express and Norwegian Scenic Route Varanger to form a memorable circular journey through Finnmark. Allow time for stops and changing weather conditions; the remote setting is an important part of the experience.