Discover the Untamed Beauty of Norway's Havøysund Scenic Route

If you’re seeking a road trip that captures the rugged soul of Arctic Norway, the Havøysund National Scenic Route is one of the country’s most dramatic and rewarding drives. This 67-kilometre stretch along County Road 889 runs from Kokelv to the remote fishing village of Havøysund, showcasing stark coastal landscapes, weather-beaten cliffs, and the endless horizon of the Barents Sea.

A Drive Like No Other

What makes this route truly memorable is the sheer variety of terrain you pass through in such a short distance. The road winds over treeless fells and bare rocky plateaus, giving the sensation of driving high above the world—even though most of the route sits only a few hundred metres above sea level. At almost every turn, the sea appears on both sides, its colour changing with the weather and the hour.

This is an area where the elements are always present. You’ll feel the wind even on calm days, and the light can shift from brooding steel to brilliant gold in moments. Along the way, it’s not uncommon to spot reindeer grazing by the roadside or sea eagles circling overhead—a reminder of how far north you’ve ventured.

Scenic Stops and Viewpoints

Storberget Viewpoint

A striking architectural lookout perched over the Russelva river and the surrounding fjord. It’s one of the highlights of the route, offering expansive views of the open sea and the rugged terrain below.

Selvika

A beautiful stop where paths loop gently around a crescent-shaped bay. The area is rich in history, with traces of settlement stretching back thousands of years. It’s a peaceful place to stretch your legs and feel the landscape’s ancient quiet.

Lillefjord

Near the southern entrance to the route, Lillefjord offers a short trail across a bridge to a scenic overlook and a small waterfall. It’s an easy stop for all travellers and a lovely introduction to the area’s softer side before the route becomes more exposed and dramatic.

Havøysund: The Journey's Reward

At the northern end of the road lies Havøysund, a colourful and windswept fishing village perched at nearly 71° north. It feels remote in the best possible way—small, friendly, and shaped by the rhythm of the Barents Sea.

For travellers with time to explore, Havøysund offers plenty:

- Boat trips to nearby islands like Ingøy, Rolvsøya, and Måsøy

- Hiking to Havøygavlen, the island’s highest point, for sweeping views of the sea and offshore wind farm

- Coastal walks such as the route to Storvika, where rocky promontories meet crashing waves

- Local history, including the little-visited Russehula cave on the northeast side of Havøya

This is a place where you can breathe, wander, and feel truly connected to the far north.

Seasonal Magic: Midnight Sun and Northern Lights

Travellers who time their visit right can experience two of Norway’s greatest natural spectacles:

- In summer, the midnight sun hangs low over the sea for weeks, bathing the coastline in a soft, endless glow.

- In winter, the long polar night sets the stage for the Northern Lights, which dance over the cliffs and ocean when conditions are right.

Both phenomena amplify the route’s sense of wilderness and wonder.

Practical Things to Know

- Distance: 67 km from Kokelv to Havøysund

- Driving conditions: Exposed to wind, especially on the higher stretches

- Cycling: Possible but challenging due to hills and gusts

- Facilities: Regular rest areas, though services between villages are limited

- Connections: Havøysund is also served by the Hurtigruten Coastal Express

Final Thought

Havøysund isn’t just a road; it’s an experience that distils the essence of Norway’s far north. For travellers who want to explore beyond the familiar icons of Lofoten and Nordkapp, this scenic route is a gem—raw, dramatic, and wonderfully remote. It’s a drive visitors will remember long after they’ve returned home.