The best cycling routes in Oppland

Oppland offers a comprehensive network of over 420 touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy paths to challenging long-distance tours through diverse landscapes.

You'll find a wide range of difficulties. There are 21 easy routes perfect for a relaxed ride, 160 moderate routes for those seeking a bit more challenge, and 239 difficult routes for experienced touring cyclists looking for demanding terrain and longer distances.

Yes, Oppland has routes suitable for families. For an easier option, consider one of the 21 routes classified as 'easy'. While specific family routes aren't detailed, generally flatter sections along Mjøsa or parts of the Gudbrandsdalen valley offer gentler terrain. Always check the route's elevation profile and distance to ensure it matches your family's ability.

Many touring cycling routes in Oppland are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Hafjell mountain – loop from Mosetertoppen, a moderate 20.7 km ride, or the more challenging Loop through Vassfaret Nature Reserve, which covers 72.3 km with significant elevation changes.

Oppland's landscapes are incredibly diverse. You can cycle through the high mountains of Jotunheimen National Park with its glaciers and lakes, explore the rugged plateaus of Dovrefjell and Rondane, or enjoy the expansive valleys like Gudbrandsdalen with winding rivers and pine forests. Routes along Norway's largest lake, Mjøsa, offer scenic views and flatter terrain.

Oppland is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can encounter dramatic mountain passes such as Fantesteinen Pass Summit or Døralsglupen. The region also features unique geological formations like Helvete Potholes and various caves, including the Ice Cave (Klimapark 2469). Many routes also pass through or near national parks like Jotunheimen and Rondane, offering breathtaking vistas.

Yes, Oppland is known for its scenic gravel routes. The Mjølkevegen Scenic Gravel Road – View of Lake Vinstre loop from Skåbu is a difficult 105.3 km path that traverses a beautiful gravel road with views of Lake Vinstre. Another challenging option is the Beautiful gravel road – Dombfossen loop from Hjerkinn, an 129.9 km trail through the Dovrefjell Plateau.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 300 reviews. Touring cyclists often praise the region's diverse and dramatic natural features, the well-maintained gravel roads, and the breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls, and vast plateaus. The variety of routes, from high mountain passes to picturesque valleys, is also frequently highlighted.

The best time for touring cycling in Oppland is generally from late spring to early autumn (June to September). During these months, the weather is milder, and most mountain passes and gravel roads are free of snow. Summer offers the longest daylight hours and the most accessible conditions for exploring the high mountain regions.

Absolutely. Many routes in Oppland provide stunning panoramic views, especially those traversing high mountain areas or circling large lakes. For instance, the View of Djupvatnet – Panoramic view of Geiranger loop from Geiranger offers spectacular vistas, including the iconic Geirangerfjord area. Routes through Jotunheimen and Rondane National Parks are also renowned for their grand, expansive views.

Yes, Oppland is rich in cultural heritage. The Gudbrandsdalsleden, also known as the Pilgrim Route, is a historic path that offers a unique blend of nature and history through the Gudbrandsdalen valley. The Peer Gynt Road, located north of Lillehammer, also passes through ancient cultural landscapes associated with the famous folk tale hero.

Oppland is ideal for multi-day touring. Routes like the Mjølkevegen (The Milk Road) are highlighted as excellent for bikepacking, offering day stages up to 65 km on well-maintained gravel roads with ample accommodation options. The Tour de Dovre and the Jotunheimen Gravel Loop are also designed as multi-day trips, providing lodging and services en route.