The road over Saudafjellet is one of the most dramatic stretches in western Norway. It climbs from the fjord at Sauda to around 900 metres, crossing into Hardanger and descending to Røldal. The road was completed in 1960, built partly for the hydropower development in the area.
It connects to the earlier Dollarvegen - the road from Sauda to Ropeid that opened in 1931. Before that, Sauda had no road connection to the outside world at all. The nickname comes from the American owners of the smelting plant, who helped finance the construction.
The mountain road is narrow in places, with tight bends and exposed sections. Take your time. Near the highest point, you can stop by the lake Svartavatnet - one of the most photographed spots on the route, with a dam and views across the plateau. A memorial plaque here honours Knut Vesthassel, the director of Saudefaldene who pushed to get the road built.
The road is closed in winter between Hellandsbygd and Røldal. Snow can pile up to six metres. Closures typically happen in November or December, and the road usually reopens in May or June. Check conditions before you travel.