Norsemen - Tromsø to Bergen, Norway

Norway has come out on top in the last three end-of-season surveys we have sent out as the country you wanted us to cycle in. This one has been bubbling away for a long time, and we have discussed a number of iterations of how a Norway tour would look. With a couple of the team having run tours in Norway already, we had a good base from which to design a tour, but it was a chance meeting with an ex-pro cyclist from France who now calls Norway home that we found a formula we were happy with.

That formula is a two-stage tour that starts above the Arctic Circle in the spectacular Lofoten Islands and then takes us from Trondheim to Bergen. The Norsemen provides the historical context for your Norwegian adventure.

Stage 1: Lofoten Islands As you embark on a cycle ride through the mythical landscapes of the Lofoten Islands, you are transported back in time to the days of the fearless Norsemen. The rugged coastal terrain and majestic mountains mirror the spirits of these seafaring warriors who once roamed these very shores. Early in your journey, we arrive in Svolvær, where the modern world meets ancient legends. Pedalling along the winding coastal roads, you pass charming fishing villages where weathered wooden boats rest in the embrace of tranquil fjords. The scent of the salty sea breeze invigorates your senses, evoking memories of Viking ships navigating the vast ocean.

Your ride takes you through dramatic landscapes, surrounded by towering cliffs and the distant call of seagulls. Each bend in the road reveals a new breathtaking vista, and you imagine the Norsemen gazing upon these same vistas with a mix of awe and reverence. In Henningsvær, a picturesque village seemingly floating on the water, you pause to admire its timeless beauty. The ancient fisherman huts, called rorbuer, still stand as a testament to the resilient spirits of those who once braved the tempestuous seas. As the midnight sun hovers on the horizon, you are captivated by the enchanting play of light and shadows. The ethereal glow of the sunlit peaks transports you to the realm of Norse mythology, where gods and giants once shaped the world.

Stage 2: Trondheim to Bergen Your cycle ride from Trondheim to Bergen takes you through a historic path that resonates with the echoes of the Norsemen’s footsteps. Leaving Trondheim, the city of ancient kings and vibrant history, you venture into the rugged landscapes of the Norwegian heartland. The road winds through rolling hills and dense forests, evoking images of Viking explorers navigating the vast wilderness in search of new lands and riches. As you pass through quaint villages, you can’t help but imagine the Norse communities that once thrived here, living off the land and the sea’s bounty.

The climb up Trollstigen, the Troll’s Path, challenges your mettle just as it did the warriors of old. As you conquer this winding mountain road, you feel a sense of triumph akin to the victorious Norsemen returning from their expeditions. Descending towards the Geirangerfjord, the breathtaking beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage site reminds you of the Norse legends that often involved these dramatic landscapes. The cascading waterfalls and towering cliffs seem like the backdrop of ancient sagas, where gods and heroes weaved tales of valour and heroism.

Continuing south, the Hardangerfjord greets you with its picturesque orchards and serene waters. The Norsemen were skilled navigators, and you appreciate their mastery of these treacherous fjords as you pedal along the water’s edge. In Voss, known for its adrenaline-pumping activities, you can’t help but feel a kinship with the adventurous spirit of the Norse warriors. The thrill of conquering nature’s challenges echoes the daring feats of those who embraced the call of the wild.

Finally, you arrive in Bergen, a city steeped in history and maritime heritage. The colourful houses of Bryggen Wharf are a reminder of the bustling trade and exploration that once defined this Hanseatic port. Both rides immerse you in the world of the Norsemen, allowing you to connect with their spirit of exploration, resilience, and appreciation for the awe-inspiring beauty of the Nordic landscapes.