Jordalen is one of two secluded valleys nestled in the mountainous region surrounding the main valley of Nærøydalen. An excellent white gravel road leads you through majestic scenery, away from the campervan tourists in the main valley below. The ride is challenging, with climbs up to 950m, and an optional extension to a hydro plant reaching 1100m before retracing your path. Planning is essential if you’re not traveling by car, as the busy E16 road through Nærøydalen connects you to the loop and is not recommended for cycling during peak hours. Starting from the towns of Voss or Flåm is ideal, and you can also combine this route with the Rallarvegen trail from Haugastøl to Myrdal.

From Flåm, take a boat or bus (the bus is cheaper) to Gudvangen, bypassing the two long, prohibited tunnels. Gudvangen offers plenty of campsites and accommodations if you arrive late. The route ascends the magnificent Nærøydalen valley on the E16 before turning onto Jordalen, where the road becomes gravel after a 3km tunnel. The loop takes a few hours, ending at the historic Stalheim Hotel. For an additional challenge, cycle down and back up Stalheimsklevia, Norway’s steepest road, before descending back to the E16. Note that if you descend Stalheimsklevia, you must climb back up, as there are two prohibited tunnels at the bottom on the E16.

From there, follow the E16 to Voss, using side roads where possible. Avoid cycling on the E16 during peak times (11-18).

To complete a loop, cycle east from Voss to the small train station at Upsete, then take a train through a tunnel to Myrdal. From Myrdal, follow the popular gravel road down the valley to Flåm.

Jordalen Loop Route from Gudvagaen (as taken in the video)

When: Late June – September

Bike tyres: 32mm +