🚴‍♂️ Hardangervidda på hjul: den legendariske sykkelruten Rallarvegen

Imagine: you are racing through endless mountain plateaus with icy lakes, and you can hear the sound of waterfalls and mountain rivers. Here, on Europe's largest mountain plateau, Hardangervidda, lies one of Norway's most famous cycling routes, Rallarvegen. This old railway line, built in the 19th century, is now a popular destination for travellers who want to combine cycling with the famous landscapes of Scandinavia.

The 82-kilometre route has everything from green meadows and snowy mountains to amazing views of fjord valleys. Put on your helmet, check your brakes and get ready for a cycling adventure you will never forget!

What is Rallarvegen famous for and why should you visit?

The Rallarvegen route (which translates as 'Railway Workers' Road') was built in the early 20th century to serve the famous Bergen-Oslo railway. Today, it is a place that attracts many cyclists from all over the world, and every turn you take reveals a new and stunning landscape. From Finse, Norway's highest railway station (1,222 metres above sea level), you'll go down through mountain passes, past bright blue lakes, snowfields and the special plants and animals of the Hardangervidda plateau.

Here's how to get there and where to start.

The best place to start is Fjørland railway station. It is easy to get here by train from Bergen (2.5 hours) or Oslo (4.5 hours).

Advice: book tickets in advance on the Vy.no website, as this is one of the most popular places to visit in summer.

If you don't want to bring your own bike, there are bike rental shops in Finske. It costs around NOK 450 to rent one, and you get a helmet and repair kit. There are also small cafés where you can get a snack and buy a map of the route before you set off.

Day 1: From Finse to Hallingskjed (21 km) — Among glaciers and plateaus

When you start your trip in Finse, you will immediately feel like you are in the middle of the mountains. You will be surrounded by glaciers and snowy mountains, even in summer.

In the first few kilometres of the route, you will often encounter snowfields, so you may have to get off and walk with your bike. But you can see amazing views of the Hardangervidda glacier in the ice-covered lakes, which make up for it.

After reaching the highest point of the route (1,343 m), the road gradually goes down. All around you is the endless northern tundra, where reindeer roam freely and the air is filled with the scent of moss and freshness.

We're going to spend the night at the DNT Hallingdal hut, which is a really nice place to stay. Here you can enjoy a traditional dinner and beautiful views of the sunset over the mountains.

Day 2: Hallingdal – Vatnahalsen (25 km) – Waterfalls and picturesque valleys

The second day starts with a scenic trip through a valley, with lots of fast-flowing mountain streams and waterfalls. This is where you will experience the thrill of going down fast, with the sound of water and the wind whistling in your ears.

The best part of the day is a visit to the Kjosfossen waterfall. Here, cyclists stop to enjoy the sound of the powerful water and take great photos. Next, you will reach Vatnahalsen station, which is well known for its beautiful views and comfortable guest houses.

Tip: Take a raincoat and warm clothes — the weather can change quickly, and the mountain wind is cool even in July.

Day 3: Vatnahalsen – Flåm (17 km) — Descent to the fjord

The last day is a pretty walk to the village of Flåm. The road goes down the mountain quickly, along curving paths, next to rivers and bright green fields. On this part of the route, you will see amazing views of the Eurlansfjord, with steep cliffs and waterfalls.

You will finish in Flåm, a small village by the fjord. There, you can celebrate finishing the route with fresh seafood in a local café, walk along the fjord, or take a boat trip.

Tip: Make sure you try the local brunost cheese and hot chocolate at the Flåm Bakery café — you deserve it!

Where to stay along the way

There are three main places to stay overnight along the route:

• Finse 1222 Hotel: a comfortable mountain hotel with magnificent views.
• Hallingdal (DNT cabin): a traditional Norwegian cabin with hot meals.
• Vatnahalsen Høyfjellshotell: a panoramic guest house with a homely atmosphere.

Book in advance, especially in summer when demand is high.

What to bring

• A reliable mountain bike with thick tyres.
• Helmet and goggles (the road is sometimes rocky and dirty).
• Raincoat and light down jacket (the high mountains are unpredictable).
• A mini first aid kit and a repair kit for your bike.
• A power bank and a portable charger for your devices.
• Snacks, water and a thermos with hot tea.

Rules and safety tips

• Be careful on descents: there are sharp turns and gravel.
• Respect nature: do not leave rubbish behind and stick to the marked routes.
• Check the weather forecast and road conditions the day before each day on Yr.no.

Rallarvegen is a route that combines unique history, stunning landscapes and the thrill of freedom and speed. In just three days, you will see the amazing beauty of the Hardangervidda plateau and experience the wonders of nature. You will love this adventure so much that you will want to come back for more.

Get on your bike and explore the great outdoors in Norway!