Norway Bike Tours: Best Routes for Cycling in Norway
Norway is a dream destination for cycling enthusiasts from all over the world. This guide will take you through everything you need to know about bike tours in Norway, including the top routes, tips for planning your trip, and why biking in Norway is an unforgettable experience.
From its beautiful fjords and rugged mountains to its charming coastal towns, Norway offers some of the best cycling holidays imaginable. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist seeking a road bike trip or a beginner looking for a relaxing biking vacation, Norway has something for everyone.
Why Choose Norway for Your Next Cycling Holiday Adventure?
Norway’s unique combination of natural beauty and well-maintained cycling infrastructure makes it a top destination for cycle touring holidays. The country is home to a vast network of scenic routes designed specifically for cyclists. From dramatic coastal roads to quiet forest trails, Norway cycling offers an adventure like no other.
Reasons to choose a cycling holiday in Norway:
Spectacular Scenery: Picture yourself riding along the edge of majestic fjords or through lush valleys surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Safe and Well-Maintained Routes: Norway has dedicated cycling paths and low-traffic roads that ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.
Diverse Routes for All Skill Levels: Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking for road cycling holidays or a family planning a leisurely bike holiday, there are routes for every skill level.
Cultural Highlights: Cycling in Norway gives you the chance to explore charming villages, historic landmarks, and vibrant cities up close.
Sustainability: A bicycling vacation is an eco-friendly way to explore the country while reducing your carbon footprint.
Top Norway Bike Tours for an Unforgettable Biking Vacation
1. The Atlantic Road
The Atlantic Road is one of Norway’s most iconic cycling routes, stretching over a series of stunning islands connected by bridges. The route offers unparalleled of the ocean and rugged coastline, making it perfect for a cycling weekend or a short bike riding vacation views. The road is well-suited for all levels of cyclists, with plenty of stops to soak in the views or take photos.
2. Rallarvegen (The Navvy Road)
Rallarvegen is considered one of the best cycling holidays in Norway. This historic gravel road stretches for 80 km (50 miles) through the mountains, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls, and lush landscapes. It’s an ideal route for those looking for a bit of adventure and is particularly popular among cycle touring holidays enthusiasts.
3. The Lofoten Islands
The Lofoten Islands are a paradise for road bike trips. With quiet roads, jaw-dropping scenery, and charming fishing villages, this route is perfect for a relaxing biking vacation. The islands also offer opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and exploring local culture, making it a great choice for a multi-activity cycling retreat.
4. Telemark Canal
For a more relaxed cycling break, the Telemark Canal offers a flat and scenic route along a historic waterway. This is an excellent choice for families or those looking for a leisurely bike holiday. The canal route is dotted with charming towns and provides easy access to museums and local attractions.
A Unique Frozen Lake Cycling Adventure
How about something totally out of the ordinary? If you’re in Norway during the colder months or even early spring—like April in the Tromsø area—you might just get the chance to cycle on a frozen lake! Imagine pedaling across a smooth, icy surface with snow-covered mountains all around you. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that feels like gliding through the winter wonderland. Of course, you’ll want to check that the ice is safe and thick enough—but once you’re out there, it’s pure, frosty fun you’ll never forget.
Planning Your Norway Bike Tour: Cycling Guides and Tips
When to Go
The best time for a Norway cycling tour is during the summer months, from late May to early September. During this period, you’ll experience long daylight hours and mild temperatures, perfect for cycling. However, if you’re looking to avoid crowds, consider planning your biking vacation in late spring or early autumn.
Essential Tips
Pack Smart: Weather in Norway can be unpredictable, so pack layers, waterproof gear, and a good quality cycling guide.
Plan Your Routes: Use online tools or simply Google maps or Strava to find detailed maps and cycling guides.
Stay Safe: Always wear a helmet and make sure your bike is in top condition before setting off.
Book Accommodations Early: Norway is a popular destination, so secure your lodging well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.
Best Destinations for Cycle Touring Holidays in Norway
Bergen to Oslo: A Classic Road Bike Trip
This classic route takes you through Norway’s stunning interior, showcasing mountains, valleys, and picturesque villages. It’s a fantastic choice for a week-long cycling adventure for those who want a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Stavanger and the Lysefjord: A Scenic Biking Vacation
Stavanger and the Lysefjord offer breathtaking landscapes with opportunities to visit iconic landmarks like Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock). This region is perfect for a relaxing cycling retreat that combines scenic rides with local attractions.
Tromsø and the Arctic: Midnight Sun Cycling Retreat
The Arctic region around Tromsø delivers a truly unique cycling experience. Riders can explore dramatic landscapes under the midnight sun, where the sun doesn’t set during summer, allowing for long, uninterrupted cycling adventures. Tromsø also offers rich cultural experiences, such as visiting local museums, enjoying Arctic cuisine, or taking a fjord cruise to witness the region’s stunning natural beauty.
The Arctic Race of Norway
The Arctic Race of Norway is one of the world’s most northern cycling events, attracting elite riders and cycling fans from across the globe. In 2025, the final stage of this iconic race will take place in Tromsø, showcasing the region’s dramatic Arctic landscapes. Known for its challenging terrain and breathtaking views, the race is not just a competition but a celebration of Norway’s cycling culture. For more details, you can visit the official Arctic Race of Norway website.
While primarily a professional event, the Arctic Race has inspired countless cycling enthusiasts to explore northern Norway’s stunning routes themselves, making it a symbolic event for both competitive and recreational cyclists.
Why Norway is One of the Best Cycling Holiday Destinations
Norway stands out as one of the best cycling holiday destinations due to its commitment to sustainability, safety, and world-class infrastructure. With its diverse landscapes, you can tailor your Norway cycling tour to match your interests, whether that’s road cycling holidays along the coast or mountain biking vacations in the highlands.
Moreover, events like the Arctic Race of Norway put the country on the map as a premier destination for competitive cycling and recreational biking holidays alike.
Additional Resources
If you’re planning your Norway bike tour, don’t miss our guide on how expensive is Norway to help budget your trip.
You can also check out our tips for experiencing the northern lights during your cycling retreat – this is in the case you visit Norway in the March or October, where there is still sun during the day for cycling but dark during the night for the Northern Lights.
For official information about cycling routes, accommodations, and safety tips, you can visit Norwegian Scenic Routes.
Final Thoughts about norwegian cycling
A Norway bike tour is more than just a vacation; it’s an adventure of a lifetime. With its stunning landscapes, top-notch cycling infrastructure, and rich cultural experiences, Norway is truly a cyclist’s paradise. Whether you’re planning a short cycling weekend or an extended cycle touring holiday, Norway offers an unforgettable journey for every type of rider. So pack your gear, plan your route, and get ready to experience the thrill of cycling in Norway.