Rallarvegen

July – September

79km

DISTANCE

827m

ELEV.GAIN

1-2

DAYS

85%

UNPAVED

6/10

DIFFICULTY

35-45m

IDEAL TYRES

Rallarvegen

Norway’s most renowned cycling route offers the perfect opportunity for those eager to explore untamed landscapes without worrying about safety or unexpected challenges. While the route takes you through wild and rugged terrain, it also provides ample opportunities for shelter and assistance if needed, making it the perfect route to become comfortable riding a bike in untamed nature. Originally a construction route for the Bergensbanen railway, Rallarvegen stretches from Haugastøl to Flåm, leading riders through the expansive Hardangervidda plateau.

 

Along the way, cyclists are treated to stunning views of towering mountain peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and magnificent waterfalls. The trail combines gravel paths, thrilling descents, and manageable climbs, making it suitable for experienced and novice cyclists seeking an adventurous ride. Notable highlights include Finse, home to Norway’s highest railway station, and the exhilarating descent into the scenic fjord village of Flåm. With its rich history, captivating landscapes, and challenging yet accessible terrain, Rallarvegen offers an unforgettable cycling experience for all.

 

Questions like “Is the route suitable for children?”, “Will my e-bike battery last?” and “What extensions can I add?” are all answered in our Premium Membership Full Story Rallarvegen page. The most comprehensive guide to getting the most out of your journey, written by experienced locals.

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Route map

When?

– Haugastøl – Finse (28 km): In recent years, this section has opened in early to mid-June and is a nice ride connecting the two train stations.

– Finse – Hallingskeid (11km): This is the highest and most difficult part. Snow is not fully clear until early to mid-July.

– Hallingskeid – Myrdal (15km): Usually clear in mid to late June

– Myrdal – Flåm (17km): Early/Mid June.

An update report on the route’s accessibility is found here. We strongly recommend checking this if you are riding in June or early July.

 

– Note: In June, many hotels and cafes will be closed on the route. 

Getting there

You can reach Rallarvegen by train on the Bergen Line, with stations at Haugastøl, Finse, and Myrdal giving direct access to the route. Oslo and Bergen both have frequent trains that connect straight to these starting points, and there’s a dedicated bike carriage on the line. Many riders begin at Haugastøl, but you can also start at Finse or Myrdal, depending on how much of the trail you want to cycle.

Hazards

– The route is not completely car-free. The section from Haugastøl to Finse allows cars, and you may encounter a few locals heading to their cabins.

– Snow early in the season can be hazardous, and dismounting and walking your bike is recommended.

– The section between Finse – Hallingskeid (11km) has some rough, rocky, and uneven areas with a few short but steep descents. Inexperienced cyclists should take their time over this part.

– Steep descent into Flåm – The last stretch down Myrdalsberget has 21 tight hairpin bends on a rough gravel road. Brakes heat quickly, and many riders walk sections for safety.

Bike rental

You don’t need to bring your own bike – there are rental options along the route with flexible pick-up and return.

Haugastøl Turistsenter – Largest and most established rental service with custom-built bikes for Rallarvegen. Pick up at Haugastøl, return at Finse, Myrdal, or Flåm. haugastol.no

Flåm Bike Rental – Ideal if finishing in Flåm. Train up to Finse and ride back down. flambikerental.com

Norway’s Best (Finse, Kårdal, Flåm) – Rentals available at several points along the line.

Flåm Railway Info – Overview of stations and return options.

Tip: Haugastøl is the most reliable start point with the best bikes and support.

With scenery and history to match its fame, Rallarvegen is more than a route – it’s a rite of passage for cyclists

Matthew Tolley, Founder of Cycle Norway

Local recommendations

Useful links

Booking.com – for accommodation options across Norway

Entur app
– for planning public transport trips around Norway

Ferries – routes, timetables and information
by Statens Vegvesen

Wild camping etiquette – important to know

Further Reading

E-Bike Info
Public Transport
Accommodation
Gear List

Keep in mind

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.

Connecting Routes

Mjølkevegen - Jotunheimen Vegen

Mjølkevegen

Hundreds of kilometers of hard-packed gravel roads stretch across high mountain plains, offering stunning 360-degree views.
Mjølkevegen - Jotunheimen Vegen

Mjølkevegen

Hundreds of kilometers of hard-packed gravel roads stretch across high mountain plains, offering stunning 360-degree views.

Hallingdal & Rallarvegen

This is a bikepacking paradise where nature, gravel, and road combine to give you an experience unlike everything else.

Hallingdal & Rallarvegen

This is a bikepacking paradise where nature, gravel, and road combine to give you an experience unlike everything else.

Bergen – Trondheim

The quieter roads of Fjord Norway, are not to be underestimated. Few people get to experience this area of Norway, which offers great ocean views, fresh sea air, and plenty of quiet islands to hop over and explore.

Bergen – Trondheim

The quieter roads of Fjord Norway, are not to be underestimated. Few people get to experience this area of Norway, which offers great ocean views, fresh sea air, and plenty of quiet islands to hop over and explore.

Have you cycled this route?

Contribute with a photo of your own!

Keep in mind

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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