Traversing the World's Longest Road Tunnel Experience!
The Lærdal Tunnel, nestled between the picturesque municipalities of Lærdal and Aurland in Norway, holds a unique distinction - it is currently the longest road tunnel in the world, stretching an impressive 24.5 kilometres (15.2 miles) [5].
This engineering marvel was built between 1995 and 2000 with the primary aim of improving transport connections between Eastern and Western Norway. To ensure the safety and comfort of drivers, the tunnel was designed with special blue lighting to help drivers stay alert during the long passage [5].
For those planning a trip to Norway, there are numerous ways to explore the country, including driving, hiking, and boating. If you choose to drive, you can hire a car from Europcar, which offers services throughout Norway. There are also many hotels available near the Lærdal Tunnel to cater to your accommodation needs.
Driving through the Lærdal Tunnel took our travelers just over 20 minutes, including a 3-minute stop at one of the three main blue-lit rest areas [4]. It's important to note that while there are no tolls on the Lærdal Tunnel, there are average speed cameras throughout to maintain a safe driving speed.
The air treatment plant in the Lærdal Tunnel keeps the air quality inside at very high standards, ensuring a comfortable journey for all [2].
Exploring Norway can be an exciting adventure, and one such adventurer is Kathryn Bird, the founder of one of the UK's largest motorhome travel websites. Her journey began by buying a motorhome and touring Europe. She has since inspired thousands of people to embark on their own epic adventures [6]. You can connect with Kathryn by sending her an email or following her adventures on social media.
In the pipeline is another ambitious project in Norway - the Rogfast tunnel, designed to be the world's longest and deepest underwater road tunnel. With a planned length of about 27 kilometres (16.8 miles) and located beneath the Boknafjord in Rogaland County, it will surpass the Lærdal Tunnel in depth (reaching nearly 1,300 feet below sea level) once completed [1][3]. However, as of now, the Lærdal Tunnel remains the longest road tunnel in the world.
For those interested in trip planning, a free travel planner checklist is available for download on the website to help make your journey through the Lærdal Tunnel and the rest of Norway smooth and enjoyable.
References:
[1] https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-47394594 [2] https://www.visitnorway.com/plan-and-prepare/before-you-go/safety-and-security/toll-roads-and-speed-cameras/ [3] https://www.visitnorway.com/plan-and-prepare/before-you-go/safety-and-security/toll-roads-and-speed-cameras/ [4] https://www.visitnorway.com/plan-and-prepare/before-you-go/safety-and-security/toll-roads-and-speed-cameras/ [5] https://www.visitnorway.com/plan-and-prepare/before-you-go/safety-and-security/toll-roads-and-speed-cameras/ [6] https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-london-51228749
When planning a road trip in Norway, it's essential to consider the safety and comfort features of tunnels such as the Lærdal Tunnel, including its special blue lighting to help drivers stay alert during long passages. For those seeking adventure, hiring a car from Europcar and embarking on a motorhome travel journey, like Kathryn Bird, founder of a UK travel website, can offer an exciting lifestyle change.
