Points on the map
EPIC CYCLING ON RALLARVEGEN: THE ULTIMATE GUIDE
Discover the amazing adventure of cycling Rallarvegen in Norway. From fjords to mountains, explore breathtaking landscapes on this biking route.
Since the day I visited Norway for the first time, my heart stayed with the fjords. A kind of nature and landscape I had never seen in my life before, and one that caught my attention for its incredible beauty, showing the true power of nature.
Years after my first visit, I met my now Norwegian partner, with whom I was able to explore even more of Norway’s nature, going on hikes in unique places (such as Knutshøe Hiking Trail) and camping between the mountains and fjords.
Like many things, foreigners don’t always find out about certain experiences when visiting countries as tourists. In Norway, this happens a lot with hikes and locations only Norwegians know about because they don’t appear on the internet or social media. I believe this is one of those! I didn’t know about this cycling route, but among Norwegians, it is a well-known and historical route, so we decided it was the perfect activity to do together at the end of summer!
If you’re looking for an epic cycling adventure or another way to experience Norway’s landscapes, Rallarvegen is the perfect destination. This route showcases the vast variety of Norwegian scenery. Specifically, it passes through the heart of the towering mountains, thus offering incredible views—from glaciers and green valleys to spectacular fjords. As you cycle along Rallarvegen, you will follow the path built in the early 20th century to facilitate the construction of the Bergen railway, thereby enjoying one of Norway’s most scenic journeys.
We started early in the morning because we wanted to complete the route in one day, take the train back from Flåm, and avoid staying overnight. However, there are places where you can spend the night and do the route more leisurely.
The “Flåm Railway” trains run six times a day, with the last one at 17:30, so it’s essential to keep this schedule in mind when organizing the cycling route and timing everything.
ROUTE DESCRIPTION
For almost the entire cycling route, you can see the old Bergen railway track, passing through some of the country’s most breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, you will witness the impressive Hardangerjøkulen glacier, the majestic Hallingskarvet, and numerous natural and cultural landmarks.
– Total Distance: 82 kilometers
– Elevation Change: From 1,000 meters above sea level in Haugastøl to nearly sea level in Flåm.
STAGES OF THE ROUTE
HAUGASTØL TO FINSE – 27 KM
The starting point can vary, but most people begin the journey at the Haugastøl Tourist Center, which is where we rented our bikes. This segment has moderate elevation and offers stunning mountain views, with cultural remnants from the railway construction era.
FINSE TO HALLINGSKEID– 21 KM
Finse is the highest point of the route and an ideal place to recharge. We ate some noodles, a cinnamon roll, and drank hot chocolate before continuing. I don’t know why, but hot chocolates in Norway are the best I’ve ever had. Perhaps it’s the combination of the cold outside and the comfort of drinking warm, creamy chocolate inside? It’s incredibly delicious and gives you a great sense of comfort! I highly recommend trying it when you visit Norway.
The trail climbs to Fagervatnet (1343 masl), the highest point of Rallarvegen, and then descends towards Hallingskeid. In this section, snowy landscapes are common even in summer, and you can stop at Fagernut to taste the delicious rallarvafler waffles.
HALLINGSKEID TO VATNAHALSEN – 17 KM
This section takes you through a steeper and more rugged landscape, with some steep inclines. If necessary, you can push the bike in certain areas. The end of this segment brings you to Vatnahalsen Hotel, an ideal place to rest if needed. We wanted to stay on schedule to catch the train back from Flåm to Finse, so we didn’t stop here, but many people were relaxing and enjoying the spot. If you’re not in a rush, I recommend resting here too, as it’s a beautiful place!
VATNAHALSEN TO FLÅM – 17 KM
Finally, we arrived at the stunning Flåmsdalen valley, where the mountainous landscape merges with green valleys and waterfalls! This segment is easier to ride because it’s flatter, without as many climbs and descents as before. Being at sea level, the weather is milder, and it’s not as cold as in the mountains. At the end of the route in Flåm, you can see the Aurlandsfjord, a spectacular place where cruise ships often dock, as it’s a famous tourist spot in Norway.
BIKE RENTAL
Bikes can be rented in Haugastøl, Finse, or Myrdal. We drove to Haugastøl, where there is parking, and from there, we started the bike route. We were given bikes and helmets, which are mandatory since the route has many steep slopes, and safety is essential. Upon arrival in Flåm, you can leave the bikes there, and the rental company will take care of returning them to the starting point.
SEASON AND IMPORTANT TIPS
The season for cycling Rallarvegen runs from mid-July to mid-September, although these dates may vary depending on weather conditions and the amount of snow in the mountains. Before planning your trip, check updated conditions on the Haugastøl website.
MOUNTAIN SAFETY AND ESSENTIAL GEAR
Norway is known for its unpredictable weather, especially in the mountains. Here are some essential tips to be well-prepared:
– Layered Clothing: Wear multiple layers, finishing with a waterproof, insulated jacket. It can rain at any time, and even if you start with sunshine, the mountains can cause the weather to change drastically. Always be prepared and never trust the weather when you begin the route!
– Wool Socks: Wool socks keep your feet warm after your shoes get wet for any reason. Always bring two pairs, just in case.
– Helmet and Repair Kit: Essential for a safe and variable ride like this, with steep climbs and descents.
– Food and Water: On such a long route, it’s important to stay well-hydrated and nourished. I recommend bringing chocolate and nuts, as they give your body the energy needed for this demanding activity.
Always follow the Norwegian Mountain Code—the weather can shift from summer to winter within minutes. Check the weather forecast before starting your ride and avoid heading out in bad weather or storms.
THE DESCENT THROUGH TIGHT CURVES TO FLÅM
One of the most spectacular and thrilling parts of the ride is the steep descent through 21 tight curves that lead to the Flåmsdalen valley. For adrenaline lovers, this is the most fun part!
CONCLUSION
Cycling Rallarvegen is an unforgettable experience that combines history, nature, and adventure. From the high mountains to the fjords, this route allows you to explore Norway’s wild beauty in a unique way. In my opinion, it was one of the best activities I did in Norway. It’s exhausting due to the physical effort required to complete the route, but in the end, you feel accomplished while gazing at the spectacular nature of Norway’s fjords!
Moreover, after finishing the route, taking the famous “Flåm Railway” back takes you through the mountains, with breathtaking waterfalls and scenery that seems unreal! Highly recommended!
That was my experience cycling the incredible Rallarvegen route!
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