Iconic views and famous fjords
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When you imagine Norway, this place is what instantly comes to mind. Think jaw-dropping fjords stretching endlessly, towering mountains crowned with glaciers, and valleys so perfectly sculpted by ancient ice that they seem almost too good to be true!
Pedalling through here is like riding a rollercoaster of emotions you’ve never felt before. Picture days on end filled with nothing but awe-inspiring views that leave you constantly amazed.
But hey, it’s not all solitude and open road. With so much natural beauty packed into one area, expect tunnels through mountains and on popular roads you’ll be sharing the tarmac with tourist traffic. And yes, rain showers and mountain mist are a strong possibility.
If you’re a gravel enthusiast, you might have to compromise a bit as most roads are paved. But trust me, it’s a small sacrifice to make for the chance to experience the magic of Fjord Norway from the saddle of your bike.
As the wettest and occasionally the windiest region of the country, Fjord Norway subjects you to the whims of Mother Nature, who alternately bestows her blessings and challenges. During favorable conditions, seize the opportunity to embark on extensive rides, particularly traversing mountain passes under stable weather conditions. Exercise heightened caution when crossing mountainous terrain amidst unsettled weather, as even in July, temperatures can plummet drastically at higher altitudes.
Typically, May and June witness lower precipitation levels compared to the months of July and August, albeit with cooler temperatures prevailing. To confront the full spectrum of weather conditions, ensure adequate preparedness, including the inclusion of gloves in your kit, especially when ascending beyond the 600-meter mark.
Regrettably, there are no direct train routes from Bergen to Ålesund and Trondheim. If you’re travelling with your bike, your top option would be catching an express passenger ferry or boarding the renowned coastal liner. The region is also well-served by a network of buses, both local and national, making it easy to get around. This flexibility proves invaluable, particularly when encountering tunnels where bikes are not permitted.
In this region, efficiency is key. Monitor the forecast daily and determine the optimal times for riding. With nearly 24 hours of daylight during summer, you have the luxury of flexibility. Keep in mind that the most popular scenic roads tend to be busiest with traffic between 11 am and 4 pm during peak summer months. To make the most of your experience, consider embarking on rides in the early morning or evening.
Additionally, it’s essential to manage expectations; not every mountain will reveal itself in clear weather, and clouds may obscure views you were anticipating. Seeing everything this area has to offer may require multiple trips across different seasons, but that’s part of what makes it so special. Nothing is guaranteed, so exercising patience and strategic planning is crucial when riding.
The beautiful city surrounded by seven mountains, has plenty of rides to tackle over a day or weekend.
Scrutinize every item you choose to bring along. With each passing day, the weight of your bike may seem to increase as fatigue sets in and the ascent persists. Opt for lightweight, high-quality bags with restricted space to compel yourself to streamline and prioritize essentials.
If you intend to partake in hiking activities as well, consider investing in bags that are versatile enough to be utilized both on and off the bike. One such highly regarded option is the utility hip bag offered by Restrap.
Back in 2021 I cycled the whole of Fjord Norway from Oppdal to Lindenes in the very south. This is my jounrey.
Cycle Norway is dedicated to making Norway, safer and more enjoyable to experience by bike and to inspire and inform a growing audience of the opportunities available.
