Introduction
Known for its and a picturesque coastline dotted with pretty harbour towns and white-painted houses, souther Norway is a delightful spot for a summer break. And, while it might not have the wild drama of other parts of Norway, but its skerries, forests, inlets and family-friendly beaches are deservedly popular with the locals, and many have summer cabins here, which they use as a base for camping, sailing, walking and swimming. Perhaps the region's top highlight, however, is the spectacular Atlantic Road.
Kristiansund
The largest town in the region is the lively port of Kristiansand. It's a good starting point for visiting Southern Norway's various attractions, such as the country's southernmost point at Lindesnes. Another local highlight is the small harbour town of Grimstad, where the celebrated dramatist Henrik Ibsen lived for six years and which features as a setting in some of his best-known plays. From Kristiansand it's just a short hop across the North Sea to Denmark. As such, creating a tailor-made tour that incorporates attractions in both Scandinavian countries is a viable option.
Kristiansund in summer
The Atlantic Road
Stretching all the way from Kristiansund to Bud, this is one of the most spectacular roads in Scandinavia. A truly remarkable feat of engineering, it links a series of islands and islets via eight bridges with a combined length of 8,274 metres. The landscapes are truly spectacular, and diverse, taking in everything from lush coastal stretches to flowering heaths and the bare rock crags of the Hustadvika. If you're planning one road trip during your stay in Norway, make this it.
