hovedveje

Hovedveier is a term used in Scandinavian languages to describe main roads within a country’s road network. The concept designates routes intended to carry higher traffic volumes and to connect major urban areas, serving as core corridors for travel and freight outside of motorways. The exact criteria for what constitutes a hovedvei vary by country and over time, and the term functions more as a planning and administrative designation than a fixed technical standard.

In Denmark, hovedveje form part of the national road network aimed at long-distance and regional connectivity. They link key cities and towns and are prioritized for capacity improvements, safety, and maintenance, though they are distinct from motorways (motorveje). In Norway, the notion appears in planning as main roads that connect cities and regional centers; the formal road classification has evolved through reforms, with responsibility for different road classes shifting between national and regional authorities.

Hovedveier exist alongside other classifications such as motorveier (motorways), riksveier or fylkesveier (national or county roads), and småveier (minor roads). In practice, decisions about upgrading, signage, speed limits, and maintenance are made by the relevant transport authorities, guided by national policy and regional planning goals.