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Riding this route is a great way to experience the highlights of northern Telemark. You get to experience a lot of Norway’s lesser-known natural wonders. Heading clockwise you will begin low in a valley, cycling on paved and gravel roads through classic telemark forest scenery. Wild flowing rivers from the surrounding mountains will make you feel you’re going into the wild. And after a few small towns, that is exactly what you will get. Climbing high along the boundaries of Hardangervidda (the largest mountain plateau in Northern Europe). It will be cold and barren up here before a gentle descent into one of Norway’s narrowest and steepest valleys.
A handful of impressive waterfalls and the backdrop of lush greenery will bring a welcome change on the way into Rjukan – a UNESCO World Heritage site. This old town is famous for its industrial past and one of the greatest Second World War espionage stories ever told. After a short rest stop, the infamous Zombie Hill awaits. This challenging 1000m climb with Norway’s highest regional mountain, Gaustatoppen, as your backdrop is one for the bucket list. The summit is cold and barren, and the descent down long and exhilarating. This is a unique and perfect bike loop for those looking for a challenging and rewarding ride
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There are two roads to mention: The winding mountain road often referred to as “Zombie Hill”—the FV 651 pass via Tuddal up towards Gaustatoppen—is typically closed during winter and opens in spring each year. Usually early May, the road will be clear. There is also a small stretch on gravel, and this road should be clear of snow by May. If it isn’t, you can stick to the main road that follows the same route.
The best place to start is Notodden, which is easily reachable by train via the RE11 and R55 lines from Oslo. The journey takes around 3 hours, with a transfer at Skien. Surprisingly, a faster option is the Oslo-Notodden VY1 bus, which gets you there in about 2 hours. This is one of the few long-distance VY buses that allow bikes, but you must book a bike spot in advance when purchasing your ticket.
You can also start in Rjukan if you want to spend extra time here and visit some of the World Heritage sites before or after the ride. There is also a famous mountain gravel loop from the town, which makes for a great extra day or two. From Oslo, there are buses (VY1) with a transfer in Nododden (185). Bike allowed on both buses, book in advance for VY1.
After leaving Notodden, you’ll need to cycle short sections along the E134, a main road. During peak traffic hours and especially in poor weather, this can be an uncomfortable experience, so use lights and wear reflective gear. However, in quieter times and good conditions, the ride is scenic and fairly flat, offering some beautiful views.
For the most part, you’ll be on paved roads with very little traffic, especially in the more remote stretches. While most of the journey is low-stress in terms of vehicle encounters, this is not a beginner-friendly route if you’re unfamiliar or uncomfortable riding on main roads.
– Rental options in other areas of Telemark
Bike Mechanics can be found in Notodden and Rjukan at the local sports shops
Matthew Tolley, Founder of Cycle Norway
All cycling routes published on CYCLENORWAY.com are simply a planning resource to be used as a point of inspiration in conjunction with your own due-diligence. All route guidelines were prepared under diligent research. However, we can never for certain insure the complete accuracy of the routes. Cycling in Norway is in general very safe. Nevertheless, should you choose to cycle this route you do so at your own risk.
All cycling routes published on CYCLENORWAY.com are simply a planning resource to be used as a point of inspiration in conjunction with your own due-diligence. All route guidelines were prepared under diligent research. However, we can never for certain insure the complete accuracy of the routes. Cycling in Norway is in general very safe. Nevertheless, should you choose to cycle this route you do so at your own risk.
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