This varied long-distance tour is for well-trained cyclists accustomed to gravel roads and hilly terrain with 1600 m ascent. It is also suitable for e-cyclists who may want to take an overnight stop to recharge the battery.
The tour is described starting from Oslo city center, but it can be shortened by starting and ending at Røa metro station or Bogstadvannet where you´ll find parking lots. From Oslo city center, it gradually climbs towards Bogstad. From there, you follow the historic Ankerveien through the forest on good gravel roads, crossing rivers, passing fields, and golf courses. Bærums Verk is an old industrial area that has become a very cozy shopping area with waterfalls and charming cafes.
Now the hills await, and they can be quite steep. You are now entering the part of Oslo’s forest known as Krokskogen. Here, the old King’s Road to Bergen passed, with several signs along the way informing about names and historical events. At Langebrutjern, you pass the old stone bridge built to cross a wet area. After about 35 km, Kleivstua appears – this hotel on the edge of the forest with fantastic views towards Ringerike, which served as a coaching inn for travelers around 1800. It is possible to book an overnight stay in historical surroundings and enjoy delicious food. A short hike takes you to Kings View – the viewpoint King Karl Johan visited in 1832, offering views over large parts of Ringerike.
On the way down the hills – now on asphalt, the landscape opens up even more. At Kronprinsens Utsikt, you can climb the steps to the ramp, a popular starting point for air sports. The place is named after Norway’s Crown Prince, who flew hang gliding here. Down by Steinsfjorden lies Sundvollen Hotel and restaurant. Now follow about 9 km along the fjord, before it’s time for a solid climb with 500 meters of elevation over 6 km. Take your time here unless you have the help of an e-motor. A break by the lake at Damtjern can be nice.
The uphill is not quite over yet, but eventually, it flattens out somewhat, and the route continues along several idyllic lakes. The road continues on fine gravel roads through Krokskogen and down towards Sørkedalen. At Sørkedalen Landhandleri, there is a cozy cafe with a large garden. Cyclists often gather here after a ride in the forest. Between Sundvollen and Sørkedalen, there are no places to buy food, so make sure to bring what you need for the journey.
The last part of the tour is on asphalt to Bogstad and Røa and ends back in Oslo city center.
Bærums Verk, originally established in 1610, is one of Norway's oldest ironworks. Initially founded by King Christian IV, it played a crucial role in producing iron for the Norwegian market. Today, Bærums Verk retains its historic charm with preserved buildings, art galleries, shops, and cafes.
The old stone bridge, built to navigate the wet terrain, is part of the historic King’s Road, which once connected Oslo to Bergen, and dates back to 1807.
This hotel on the edge of the forest with fantastic views towards Ringerike, which served as a coaching inn for travelers around 1800.
A great view over the landscape of Ringerike. Walk up the stairs to get to the launch ramp - a popular starting point for hang gliding.
A cultural heritage from the period 1807-1850, showing the system used to transport timber up the hillside from Steinsjøen. Open some sundays during summer.
The lake is a nice resting place after the long uphill. Occasionally serving at the cabin.
At Sørkedalen Landhandleri, there is a cozy cafe with a large garden. Cyclists often gather here after a ride in the forest.
At Bogstad you´ll find a farm, park and beach. The farm dates back to the 14th century and today it´s a lot of activities around the farm. The lake is very popular for swimming.
On fine summer days there is a bustling life in Frognerparken; here you can go for a jog, walk the dog, have a picnic, barbecue, play badminton or just sunbathe. It´s always open,...
The Norwegian Folk Museum is one of Europe's largest and oldest open-air museums with many activities and excellent dining facilities in a cozy environment. Go horse-drawn carriage, visit the Stave Church, the Sami...
The Royal Palace Park surrounds the palace on all sides and features grassy areas, majestic trees, small ponds and statues. The building is in neo-classical style with a facade of stuccoed brick, and...
This is a very special place with a lot of history, great view over the Oslo Fjord and charming cobble stone streets. The medieval castle goes back to 1300, is a popular place...
The Opera House in Oslo is an architectural masterpiece and a nice place to stroll. Walking on the roof is a popular activity and the view from the top is super. Surrounded by...
The Botanical Garden features a vast collection of plants from Norway and around the world, including rare and endangered species. It's a serene and peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, with...
Margaretakirken was a stone church built in the 13th century. The ruin was partially excavated and restored in 1934, and is beautifully situated at Kirkeby at the northern end of Maridalsvannet.
The Bygdø Peninsula has a lot to offer for everyone - museums, summer palace, Kings Farm, forest, paths and several beaches. The largest one, Huk, attracts people all year round.
Popular lake for swimming.
Very popular lake in Nordmarka.
A small lake in the forest Nordmarka.