The Laerdal Tunnel in Norway, which runs from Bergen to Oslo, is the longest road tunnel in the world, stretching an incredible 15 miles, but not everyone is a fan according to Tripadvisor reviews
The world’s longest road tunnel spans an incredible 15 miles and takes roughly 20 minutes to traverse from one entrance to the other. However, based on Tripadvisor reviews, not everyone is wowed by this engineering marvel.
Holding the title in the latest Guinness World Records book, the Laerdal Tunnel stretches between Bergen, Norway’s second largest metropolis, and the nation’s capital, Oslo, securing its place as the world’s longest.
It was a five-year endeavour that began in 1995, with engineers tackling numerous challenges to ensure safety, maintain air quality, and combat driver fatigue and claustrophobia.
Norway’s King Harald officially inaugurated the two-lane thoroughfare on November 27, 2000, opening to the public the following year, with it reportedly costing around £85million to construct.
Despite being a testament to formidable engineering skills, some Tripadvisor reviewers haven’t held back their opinions, the Express reports. Some called it “boring” and said it didn’t live up to expectations.
Thomas, from Belgium, said: “The tunnel itself is not special at all. You better take the old road to Laerdal – which is absolutely breathtaking and one of the most beautiful roads in Norway. Only take the tunnel if you’ve got no time to waste.”
Another visitor from Boston, USA, shared their letdown, saying that the Laerdal Tunnel fell “far below our expectation”. They elaborated: “Our expectation was very high after looking at the pictures taken by others.
“When we drove through it, there were only three short sections with weak blue light. We didn’t know if the colourful lights will turn on only at some given time. A total disappointment.”
However, not everyone had a negative experience in the world’s longest road tunnel.
Lloyd from Melbourne, Australia, said it “surpassed expectations”. He said: “When I think of tunnels I think dimly lit, eerie and boring death traps waiting to happen.
“But for its couple of light installations and ability to now say I’ve been through the longest road tunnel in the world, this tunnel has surpassed expectations. Added bonus that it got me (safely) to the phenomenal Aurlandfjord much faster than the ‘scenic’ road.”
Savitha from India exclaimed: “What an experience! ” She added: “Guess only road without any scenic beauty in the country! Longest tunnel, was quite apprehensive, but it wasn’t made, excellent lighting, good signage and we could complete the tunnel within 15 mnts. Ample shoulder space if you want to take a break. Must drive while at Norway.”
The tunnel’s design takes into account the mental strain drivers undertake from driving through a long tunnel.
It is divided into four sections that are separated by three large mountain caves at 6km intervals. These are also used as turnaround points and as break areas to help stave off claustrophobia during the 20-minute drive through the tunnel.
YouTuber Simon Whistler, who shot a video about the tunnel, called it a “fantastic example of human engineering done right”.
