Lysevegen

A Spectacular Journey Through Norway’s Majestic Landscape

Lysevegen is one of Norway’s most impressive mountain roads, winding its way from Lysebotn by the Lysefjord, over towering peaks through a lunar-like landscape, and down into the picturesque Sirdal valley. With 27 hairpin bends and an elevation change of over 900 meters, this route offers an unforgettable driving experience through dramatic and breathtaking scenery. Since the opening of the Suleskard Road in 1990, access to the area has significantly improved, making Lysevegen a must-visit destination for both national and international travelers.

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Lysevegen | Lysebotn - Sirdal

Open – Ice/snow conditions

Construction of Lysevegen began as a requirement from Forsand municipality in connection with the development of the Tjodan hydroelectric power station in the early 1980s. The most challenging part of the construction was navigating through an area known as “Råså,” a difficult scree slope at the bottom of the mountainside. To overcome this obstacle, engineers built a unique corkscrew tunnel that winds beneath Råså. The road then emerges onto the mountain ledge called “Okslå,” where the spectacular hairpin bends offer exceptional views over the Lyse Valley, Lysebotn, and the Lysefjord.

At the top of these bends, you’ll find Øygardstøl, a popular viewpoint and starting point for hikes to attractions like Kjeragbolten and Nesatindane. Beyond Øygardstøl, the road continues to twist through a moon-like landscape for 25 kilometers before descending into Sirdal. From there, you can drive onward over Suleskard to Setesdal, through Sirdal to Egersund, or via Hunnedalen towards Byrkjedal, Jæren, and Stavanger.

Practical Information

Lysevegen is a seasonal road. It closes each November when the snow arrives and reopens in late May after snowplows have cleared the way. When the road opens in spring, the snow walls are often several meters high, making it an adventurous drive. The road is narrow and winding, so driving carefully and being mindful of oncoming traffic is recommended. There are several rest areas along the route where you can stop and enjoy the magnificent scenery.

The road starts at Lysebotn at the end of the Lysefjord and stretches to Sirdal in Vest-Agder. It’s part of County Road 500 and easily accessible by car. For a complete experience, consider combining the drive with a ferry trip through the Lysefjord.

Experience one of Norway’s most spectacular road journeys and be captivated by world-class engineering and natural beauty along Lysevegen.