Driving the FV975 road: A scenic gateway through Southern Norway
The FV975 is a high-quality paved road located in Agder county, within the southern interior of Norway. This 17.4 km (10.8 miles) stretch is more than just a transit route; it is a vital link through the Sirdal valley, a region defined by its dramatic alpine plateau and deep glacial lakes.
Running from Sinnes to Suleskard, the road serves as the essential gateway for those heading towards the famous Suleskarvegen, one of the highest and most iconic mountain passes in Southern Norway. The landscape here is quintessentially Norwegian: a mix of rugged granite outcrops, high-altitude wetlands, and a chain of pristine lakes that dominate the valley floor. The road is a favorite for driving enthusiasts who value smooth asphalt combined with technical, flowing curves.
| Road facts: FV975 (Sirdal) | |
|---|---|
| Location | Agder, Southern Norway |
| Length | 17.4 km (10.8 miles) |
| Route | Sinnes – Suleskard |
| Surface | Paved / Asphalt |
| Key Lakes | Sinnesvatn, Fidjelandsvatnet, Ortevatnet |
What is the driving experience like on the FV975?
The FV975 is fully paved and maintained to a high standard, but its mountain character requires focus. The road winds north-south, hugging the shores of several major lakes, including Sinnesvatn, Fidjelandsvatnet, and Ortevatnet. The technicality of the drive lies in its constant changes in elevation and the narrow sections where the rock face meets the water. While the average gradient is not extreme, the turns can be sharp, and local traffic—including sheep during the summer months—can be a frequent hazard.
For drivers, the section near Fidjeland is particularly striking, where the road carves through steep slopes that are popular for skiing in winter. The asphalt provides excellent grip, but during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn), black ice can form quickly near the lake surfaces. It is a road that rewards a steady pace, allowing you to manage the rhythmic curves while navigating the narrow mountain corridors.
When is the best time to drive the FV975?
The road is open year-round, as it provides access to major ski resorts in the Sirdal area. However, the experience changes drastically with the seasons. In winter, the FV975 is a snowy corridor that requires high-quality winter tires and, occasionally, studded tires after a heavy freeze. In the summer, it becomes a bustling route for travelers heading to Lysebotn or the Setesdal valley. The best time for a pure driving experience is late spring or early autumn, when the mountain air is crisp, the traffic is light, and the granite peaks of Agder are reflected perfectly in the still waters of Ortevatnet.