Rv 108: Hvalerveien

Rv 108 is a stunning coastal route. It stretches from Fredrikstad to the heart of the Hvaler islands. Many call it the “Atlantic Ocean Road of Southern Norway.” The road leaps across an archipelago of over 800 islands. It eventually leads to the edge of Ytre Hvaler National Park. It is a great alternative to the famous northern route. You get the same feeling of riding across the open sea. However, this road has less wind and fewer tourists. 👌

Combine with family

The region is also a perfect spot for a family vacation. You can enjoy the coastal roads and bridges. Meanwhile, your family can enjoy the sandy beaches and hiking trails. It is easy to combine great riding with a summer getaway. The island villages are vibrant and full of life. This makes it a top choice for everyone in the group.

Locals know this road as Hvalerveien. Historically, these islands only had ferry links to the mainland. This changed with the construction of high-arcing bridges like Puttesund. The biggest step was the Hvaler Tunnel in 1989. This subsea tunnel plunges 120 meters below the ocean floor. It is nearly 4 kilometers long. All tolls were removed in 2009. Now, the entire route to the national park is free to traverse.

Places to stop along Rv 108

• Skjærhalden – The main harbour village and a natural endpoint for Rv 108. Cafés, restaurants, guest harbour, fuel, Vinmonopolet, and tourist information at Kornmagasinet. A good base before heading further out into the islands or toward the national park. [visitnorway.no]
• Utgårdskilen – Popular stop with beaches, coastal paths and ferry connections to outer islands. Easy access to the coastal hiking trails and archipelago scenery. [ytrehvaler.no]
• Kuvauen & Guttormsvauen (Vesterøy) – Classic Hvaler coastal scenery with sheltered coves and sandy beaches. Especially popular for families and summer stops. [tripadvisor.com], [alltrails.com]

Things to see & experience

• Ytre Hvaler National Park – Norway’s first marine national park, covering more than 800 islands and islets. Known for its smooth granite shoreline, coastal forests, rich birdlife and one of Europe’s largest cold‑water coral reefs at Tisler. Excellent for hiking, kayaking and swimming. [ytrehvaler.no], [miljodirektoratet.no]
• Kyststien (The Coastal Trail) – A network of marked coastal paths across several Hvaler islands, offering easy walks with continuous sea views. Suitable for most fitness levels and ideal to combine with short riding days. [ytrehvaler.no]
• Stone Art Hvaler (Rødshue) – Outdoor sculpture park set in an old stone‑quarry landscape by the sea, blending nature, history and modern art.
• Kystmuseet Hvaler – A small coastal museum focusing on fishing, seafaring and life in the archipelago. A nice cultural stop close to the main routes.

YouTube video by t0mall