HGT'24 Arctic Circle | Epic 14-Day Road Trip to Norway

[AlexC2er]

Originally Posted by admranger

Rent what you want from Sixt. Shipping is not a good value proposition. Only other option is Euro delivery from Porsche (or Volvo if you're so inclined). Sadly, BMW has discontinued that practice. We did BMW Euro delivery 3 times and it was fantastic each time.

Good to know. Next time I’ll take it into consideration when I buy my next vehicle

[dutchm2]

Originally Posted by admranger

Moab, Utah to see Arches National Park, then via Utah scenic highway 12 to I-70 across Colorado to Lincoln, Nebraska (via Denver) to see a college football game, then to west central Minnesota to visit with my sister for four days. After that we're heading to Duluth, Minnesota to visit Lake Superior and see the sights there. After that we're off for four nights in the Black Hills of South Dakota (Custer State Park, Badlands National Park, Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, Devils Tower in Wyoming, and some of the twisty roads in the Black Hills). Back to Lincoln for another football game, then back home via Cheyenne, Wyoming.

We're looking forward to the trip. My wife has a 4 page spreadsheet itinerary made up (including places to eat at!). We're ready!

Oh that sounds lovely! It's so rewarding to get your travel plan right! It can also be complicated, but honestly, one of the things I appreciate most is the linear nature of the tours we take. Our friend Malcolm is very demanding and careful with our tours and I really appreciate this dedication. I hope everything goes well and that you have a good day with your family.

[dutchm2]

Originally Posted by admranger

Oslo is one of our favorite cities in the world. It, like the rest of Norway is very clean and friendly. I believe you would walk around with large denomination currency hanging out of your pockets and people would stop you to warn you it's about to fall out. Not the same experience in the US I'm afraid.

Did you tour the Nobel Peace Prize museum? Very interesting though not as good as I'd hoped. The highlight was a temporary exhibit on oppression in Iran. The book "White Torture" highlights the struggles of women in Iran.

The waterfront is indeed vibrant and busy. When we docked and overnighted there, the weather was beautiful and every restaurant was very busy.

Yes, I completely agree. A very special place without a doubt and one that has made us feel quite safely, practically not only in Oslo but throughout Norway. Sadly we didn't have the opportunity to visit the Nobel Peace Prize museum due to lack of time. Something that we have to improve for future events where planning to visit some museums or events should also better considered.

[dutchm2]

Originally Posted by AlexC2er

Good to know. Next time I’ll take it into consideration when I buy my next vehicle

Regardless of the fact that I live in Europe and about 9 hours from Munich, I still haven't had the opportunity to experience what will be something unique like the BMW European Delivery Program. But from what I've read and heard from several people and some friends, it's something epic. I keep hoping this could happen for you.

[mjn77]

Originally Posted by joao.toscano

Regardless of the fact that I live in Europe and about 9 hours from Munich, I still haven't had the opportunity to experience what will be something unique like the BMW European Delivery Program. But from what I've read and heard from several people and some friends, it's something epic. I keep hoping this could happen for you.

Sadly not available to UK buyers.

[dutchm2]

Originally Posted by mjn77

Sadly not available to UK buyers.

Yeah indeed ... Guess the distance factor is considered here. I was reading about it and i hope this will program/experience will never end.

https://www.bmwblog.com/2023/06/07/n...-the-bmw-welt/

[mjn77]

Originally Posted by joao.toscano

Yeah indeed ... Guess the distance factor is considered here. I was reading about it and i hope this will program/experience will never end.

https://www.bmwblog.com/2023/06/07/n...-the-bmw-welt/

Nothing to do with distance, but the warranty of the car. In the UK, new cars come with 3 year warranty, but in europe, just 2 years. And for that 3 year warranty to be valid, the vehicle must be bought and taken delivery of in the UK.

[dutchm2]

Originally Posted by mjn77

Nothing to do with distance, but the warranty of the car. In the UK, new cars come with 3 year warranty, but in europe, just 2 years. And for that 3 year warranty to be valid, the vehicle must be bought and taken delivery of in the UK.

3 years!! Sweet! I wasn't aware.

[dutchm2]

Very interesting architecture in Oslo.









How Norwegians enjoy some beautiful sunny days. Very similar to Dutch people. All over the place as long there's sun out there.



Nice...





Bad Boy









And so was our day in Oslo. Now we are on our way to the hotel because tomorrow we have to cross Sweden and our final destination is Copenhagen, Denmark. Until then

[dutchm2]

Originally Posted by admranger

Oslo is one of our favorite cities in the world. It, like the rest of Norway is very clean and friendly. I believe you would walk around with large denomination currency hanging out of your pockets and people would stop you to warn you it's about to fall out. Not the same experience in the US I'm afraid.

Did you tour the Nobel Peace Prize museum? Very interesting though not as good as I'd hoped. The highlight was a temporary exhibit on oppression in Iran. The book "White Torture" highlights the struggles of women in Iran.

The waterfront is indeed vibrant and busy. When we docked and overnighted there, the weather was beautiful and every restaurant was very busy.

I almost forgot to tell you about! We were just there but didn't went inside.

PEACE is POWER

[dutchm2]

Day 11:

Departure: Oslo, Norway
Destination: Copenhagen, Denmark
Drive Distance:7h 39m | 643.69km
Total Distance: 77h 9m | 5341.66 km
Max: 166 km/h
Max Alt: 192m



After spending a lovely day in Oslo, we're off to Copenhagen. We'll be passing Sweden in a glance and sadly there will be no time to stop in Gothenburg. Other time. In HGT'2030

So today is all about driving and not really too much to do. Seat in the car and just move on. I let the co-pilot ride the bimmer.

The most interesting part of the driving was coming to The Great Belt Bridge. One of the largest bridges in the world.

Officially known as the Great Belt Fixed Link, is a remarkable engineering feat that connects the eastern and western parts of Denmark, specifically the islands of Zealand and Funen. Spanning the Great Belt strait, this bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Denmark, offering a unique and memorable experience for those who traverse it. We did

Photo is not mine.



These ones are mine:





Arriving Copenhagen and finding good gas! Right



We stayed outside the city center and avoid some local traffic congestion.



In the end of the day we took a cab to the center and find some asian restaurant. On the way back walk a bit. Second time i'm in Copenhagen and same thoughts as the previous time...





Time to go to bed and wait for the morning. We're heading to Hamburg and after that home sweet home.

Day 12:

Departure: Copenhagen, Denmark
Destination: Hamburg, Germany
Drive Distance:4h 38m | 467.04km
Total Distance: 81h 47m | 5808.70 km
Max: 268 km/h
Max Alt: 90m



Morning Denmark! We're off to Hamburg!

Picking up the car in the parking place next to the hotel.





Around 20 euros for daily rate. Okay...



But before we drive towards Hamburg we're going to meet a very special person. Frank Berben Founder of the 360 RoadBooks | 360RoadBooks/

And after 40 minutes of drive there he was! With his gorgeous 360 convertible!



The moment that stay for the prosperity. Frank's legend books given to the club members with a super special discount.



And as we didn't had breakfast Frank so kindly recommend us a cozy spot for one. Ty again!



Walking around cute Hamburg city. Nice place to visit!





And lovely bimmers in mint condition.







Spotted a lovely E93 M3



And obviously a reservation made at the one and only Hofbräu München - a popular German beer hall and restaurant that brings the lively Bavarian atmosphere to the heart of the city. Modeled after the famous Hofbräuhaus in Munich, it offers an authentic experience with traditional Bavarian cuisine, hearty portions, and a wide selection of beers brewed according to the Bavarian Purity Law.



What's can be better to handle with two hands!



And gorgeous food!



Thank you again very much Frank | 360 Roadbooks | for your kindness in meeting up and providing your gorgeous books to our BMWPCC members! I can't wait to start reading the books!



And it's tomorrow we're heading home in Netherlands. There's a mix of nostalgia and satisfaction of a mission accomplished. Almost 6000 kms covered in 13 days is my new record!

As our engines cool and we reflect on the incredible journey we've just completed, it's hard to find the words to express the camaraderie, excitement, and sheer joy that this adventure has brought us all.

Crossing into the Arctic Circle in Norway was a momentous occasion, marking not just a geographical milestone but the culmination of thousands of kilometers traveled, countless hours shared, and memories that will last a lifetime. The crisp Arctic air, and the sense of achievement as we reached our northernmost point was truly something special.

Along the way, we navigated through diverse terrains, tackled challenging weather conditions, and shared many laughs, meals, and stories. Each stop along the route brought us closer together, turning a group of car enthusiasts into a tightly-knit community. The support, encouragement, and enthusiasm shown by each participant made this journey not just a success, but an unforgettable experience.

As we all now return to our respective homes, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of you. Your dedication, spirit of adventure, and love for the open road made this tour extraordinary. Whether you joined us from the United Kingdom, Luxembourg, Switzerland and the locals in Norway, or anywhere in between, your presence made all the difference.

Let's cherish the memories we've made, the friendships we've strengthened, and the stories we now have to tell. Until our next adventure, keep those engines running and the passion for driving alive.

Safe travels back home, and see you on the road soon! HGT'25 Cross-Alps Tour

[admranger]

Outstanding travelogue. Really enjoyed the trip you presented. Thank you.

[dutchm2]

Originally Posted by admranger

Outstanding travelogue. Really enjoyed the trip you presented. Thank you.

I'm glad you've enjoyed it. It was a remarkable journey and experience. Can't wait to next year's edition.

[dutchm2]

Arctic Circle in my car - The beginning of my epic road trip to Norway | 4K - by MDrives

[dutchm2]

Day 13:

Departure: Hamburg, Germany
Destination: The Hague, Netherlands
Drive Distance:5h 18m | 479.74km
Total Distance: 87h 6m | 6288.44 km
Max: N/A
Max Alt:N/A



And of we go to our home. More than 6000 kms done in 13 days. Crazy!!!
For now enjoying Autobahn and wait for the speed limits roads that Netherlands always give us.

[snowbimmer]

Quite the journey there, guys. Very envious. Congrats on a great write-up.

PS...Oslo looks like they have it together.

[mjn77]

Originally Posted by snowbimmer

Quite the journey there, guys. Very envious. Congrats on a great write-up.

PS...Oslo looks like the have it together.

It was fantastic and we'll definitely be back in the future. Maybe 2030, as 2025, 2026 and 2028 are already bookmarked

[dutchm2]

Originally Posted by snowbimmer

Quite the journey there, guys. Very envious. Congrats on a great write-up.

PS...Oslo looks like the have it together.

Thank you! You are also a source of inspiration so that these events can happen and more happen.

Let's roll out somehow somewhere one time in this life!

[papertiger]

Looks like a fantastic trip you've had! Also great photos and storytelling.

Interestingly enough you have visited the neighborhood where I spent a lot of my childhood growing up, and also spend a lot of time now, considering my parents have a cabin there, and my parents-in-law live there; Sauda. Fun to see pictures from this area on a international BMW-forum

The picture with the sheep in the road; the place is called Breiborg, and my in-laws have their cabin just just across on the other side of the small lake that was not captured in the photo. Picture is actually showing their parking spot. Road is closed during winter season, and normally opens just before the constitution day of 17th May, with 5-6m high snow edges surrounding the road.

Coming down into Sauda city (yes, it's defined as a city), my parents have their cabin in the city centre, 2 minute walk up to the cliff straight behind/above the Esso petrol station where you topped up your cars before heading back towards Odda.

Strangely you actually missed the best piece of the scenic driving route in Ryfylke; Rv13 National Scenic Route. from Sauda, continue out alongside the fjord, crossing the Sandsfjord bridge (magnificent piece of engineering without any bridge towers, opened only a few years ago), drive towards Erfjord and into the fjord called Jøsenfjorden. Then you enter a twisty piece of road up to the mountain area of Gullingen. In this area you can drive into the enormous dam area with the artificial lake called Blåsjø (Bluesea). Great roads, great views of great dams. You actually see it in the map snapshot below, in lower right corner.

Then head down into an equally twisted road section leading you to Suldalsosen (my hometown), and head further up to Røldal which is where you entered the mountain road to Sauda. In the middle between Suldal and Røldal you will find the small place of Nesflaten, housing an architectural masterpiece consisting of a big powerplant, a hotel and connected housing area designed in brutalism style - in the middle of nowhere. Google Energihotellet. Absolutely a place to visit, I can guarantee you a magnificent drive!

[Mani59]

What an epic trip! Thank you for sharing!

[mjn77]

Originally Posted by papertiger

Looks like a fantastic trip you've had! Also great photos and storytelling.

Interestingly enough you have visited the neighborhood where I spent a lot of my childhood growing up, and also spend a lot of time now, considering my parents have a cabin there, and my parents-in-law live there; Sauda. Fun to see pictures from this area on a international BMW-forum

The picture with the sheep in the road; the place is called Breiborg, and my in-laws have their cabin just just across on the other side of the small lake that was not captured in the photo. Picture is actually showing their parking spot. Road is closed during winter season, and normally opens just before the constitution day of 17th May, with 5-6m high snow edges surrounding the road.

Coming down into Sauda city (yes, it's defined as a city), my parents have their cabin in the city centre, 2 minute walk up to the cliff straight behind/above the Esso petrol station where you topped up your cars before heading back towards Odda.

Strangely you actually missed the best piece of the scenic driving route in Ryfylke; Rv13 National Scenic Route. from Sauda, continue out alongside the fjord, crossing the Sandsfjord bridge (magnificent piece of engineering without any bridge towers, opened only a few years ago), drive towards Erfjord and into the fjord called Jøsenfjorden. Then you enter a twisty piece of road up to the mountain area of Gullingen. In this area you can drive into the enormous dam area with the artificial lake called Blåsjø (Bluesea). Great roads, great views of great dams. You actually see it in the map snapshot below, in lower right corner.

Then head down into an equally twisted road section leading you to Suldalsosen (my hometown), and head further up to Røldal which is where you entered the mountain road to Sauda. In the middle between Suldal and Røldal you will find the small place of Nesflaten, housing an architectural masterpiece consisting of a big powerplant, a hotel and connected housing area designed in brutalism style - in the middle of nowhere. Google Energihotellet. Absolutely a place to visit, I can guarantee you a magnificent drive!

Attachment 3539809

Thanks for that. Will add it to the 2030 route

[dutchm2]

Originally Posted by papertiger

Looks like a fantastic trip you've had! Also great photos and storytelling.

Interestingly enough you have visited the neighborhood where I spent a lot of my childhood growing up, and also spend a lot of time now, considering my parents have a cabin there, and my parents-in-law live there; Sauda. Fun to see pictures from this area on a international BMW-forum

The picture with the sheep in the road; the place is called Breiborg, and my in-laws have their cabin just just across on the other side of the small lake that was not captured in the photo. Picture is actually showing their parking spot. Road is closed during winter season, and normally opens just before the constitution day of 17th May, with 5-6m high snow edges surrounding the road.

Coming down into Sauda city (yes, it's defined as a city), my parents have their cabin in the city centre, 2 minute walk up to the cliff straight behind/above the Esso petrol station where you topped up your cars before heading back towards Odda.

Strangely you actually missed the best piece of the scenic driving route in Ryfylke; Rv13 National Scenic Route. from Sauda, continue out alongside the fjord, crossing the Sandsfjord bridge (magnificent piece of engineering without any bridge towers, opened only a few years ago), drive towards Erfjord and into the fjord called Jøsenfjorden. Then you enter a twisty piece of road up to the mountain area of Gullingen. In this area you can drive into the enormous dam area with the artificial lake called Blåsjø (Bluesea). Great roads, great views of great dams. You actually see it in the map snapshot below, in lower right corner.

Then head down into an equally twisted road section leading you to Suldalsosen (my hometown), and head further up to Røldal which is where you entered the mountain road to Sauda. In the middle between Suldal and Røldal you will find the small place of Nesflaten, housing an architectural masterpiece consisting of a big powerplant, a hotel and connected housing area designed in brutalism style - in the middle of nowhere. Google Energihotellet. Absolutely a place to visit, I can guarantee you a magnificent drive!

Attachment 3539809

Thank you for the kind words!

And thank you very much for the route suggestion. It will definitely be considered on our next trip to Norway. The idea that remains with us is that there are so many places to explore and that sometimes we felt that something special was close to us but we couldn't be distracted because we had our route to follow. But it is excellent to include this route in detail and the promise that we will follow this route and visit the highlighted places. Thank you very much!