Overview of the Norsemen – Norway Cycling Tour
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.
Lofoten Islands Tour Highlights
- Scenic Routes: Among which is one of our stand out soul rides from Svolvær and Reine.
- Midnight Sun: During the summer months, experience the phenomenon of the Midnight Sun, where the sun never sets.
- Quaint Fishing Villages: Explore charming fishing villages like Reine, Nusfjord, and Henningsvær, each offering picturesque settings and opportunities to learn about local culture.
- Varied Terrain: Diverse terrains, from gentle coastal paths to challenging mountainous trails, catering to cyclists of different skill levels.
- Birdwatching: Lofoten is a paradise for birdwatchers, with numerous species of seabirds and migratory birds, including puffins and sea eagles.
- Fresh Seafood: Savor the local cuisine, particularly fresh seafood like cod, salmon, and king crab, at the island’s restaurants and eateries.
- Cultural Sites: Visit cultural landmarks such as the Lofotr Viking Museum and the Norsk Tele Museum, offering insights into the island’s history and heritage.
- Friendly Locals: Experience the warm hospitality of the locals who are known for their friendliness and welcoming nature.
Trondheim to Bergen
- Scenic Fjord Views: Experience breathtaking views of majestic fjords as you cycle along the coastal route from Trondheim to Bergen.
- Charming Coastal Towns: Pass through charming coastal towns like Kristiansund, Molde, and Ålesund, each offering unique cultural experiences and picturesque settings.
- Atlantic Ocean Road: The world-famous Atlantic Ocean Road, an engineering marvel with stunning bridges and causeways that connect several small islands.
- Trollstigen (The Troll’s Path): Challenge yourself with a climb up Trollstigen, a dramatic and winding mountain road offering breathtaking views.
- Geirangerfjord: Marvel at the beauty of Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its steep cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and emerald-green waters.
- Nærøyfjord: Cycle along Nærøyfjord, another UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its narrow and dramatic landscapes.
- Hardangerfjord: Enjoy the scenic splendor of Hardangerfjord, the second-longest fjord in Norway, with its fruit orchards and idyllic villages.
- Steinsdalsfossen: Visit the Steinsdalsfossen waterfall, where you can ride behind the cascading water curtain for a unique experience.
- Voss: Explore the adventure town of Voss, known for its outdoor activities like hiking, rafting, and paragliding.
- Bergen: Reach the picturesque city of Bergen, Norway’s second-largest city, known for its colorful Bryggen Wharf, rich maritime history, and vibrant cultural scene.
- Norwegian Cuisine: Savor delicious Norwegian cuisine, including fresh seafood, traditional dishes like rakfisk, and mouthwatering pastries.
Norsemen – Tromsø to Bergen Tour Dates
2025 Dates
Stage | Start Date | End Date | Days | Cost (Euros) |
---|---|---|---|---|
The Epic – Tromsø to Bergen | 7th July | 30th July | 24 Days / 23 Nights | €15,900 |
Stage 1 – Lofoten Islands | 7th July | 16th July | 10 Days / 9 Nights | SOLD OUT |
Stage 2 – Trondheim to Bergen | 17th July | 30th July | 14 Days / 13 Nights | €9,300 |
All tours and individual stages are available as a custom tour for your group – contact us for details.
What’s Included?
- Accommodation in our carefully selected hotels
- Meals – hotel breakfasts, snacks en route and pre/post-ride nutrition, lunches, multi-course group dinners with a focus on the local cuisine.*NB we include occasional independent lunches & dinners to break up the week
- Ride and Seek jersey
- Garmin 1030 use with all routes preloaded
- Ride and Seek water bottle
- Kit laundry service once a week
- Passionate, experienced and knowledgeable guides always on hand to help
Not Included
- Alcoholic beverages
- Bike hire
- Pre & post tour accommodation
Supplements
- Single supplement – Our prices are based on twin/double occupancy. If you wish to have your own room then a supplement is applicable.
Deposit
- To reserve a place on a stage of this tour we ask for a deposit of €500 (or your local currency equivalent). We also accept payment in GB£ and AU$. The final invoice will include any applicable single supplements and bike hire costs.
Norway Cycling Tour Food & Drink
We are big fans of Norwegian cuisine, which is deeply rooted in the country’s natural bounty, featuring a strong emphasis on seafood due to its coastal location. Salmon, cod, herring, and shrimp are widely enjoyed. Traditional dishes include lutefisk (dried fish soaked in lye), rakfisk (fermented fish), and fårikål (lamb and cabbage stew). Game meats like reindeer and elk are cherished delicacies. Berries such as lingonberries and cloudberries add flavour to dishes. Rye bread and potatoes are staple foods. The food culture values locally sourced ingredients, promoting sustainable and organic practices. Norwegian cuisine showcases the nation’s culinary traditions, closely tied to its maritime history and rugged landscapes.
Drink-wise, you might be surprised to read that Norway does actually produce some wine in the southern part of the country, where a few wineries are experimenting with cold-resistant grape varieties like Solaris and Rondo. Like all alcoholic drinks, though, taxes are high, and if you are a wine drinker, you are better off splurging on the broad range of international wines on offer.
Norway also has a strong aquavit tradition, a traditional spirit infused with herbs and spices. It is a significant part of Norwegian drinking culture and is often enjoyed during festive occasions. In recent years, Norway has seen a rise in craft beer production, with numerous breweries offering a diverse range of flavorful and innovative beers.
Feature Dish #1: Lofotfisk
One classic seafood dish from Lofoten is “Lofotfisk,” which translates to “Lofoten Fish.” It is a traditional and iconic meal that locals and visitors have enjoyed for generations. Lofotfisk is made using dried and stockfish (air-dried fish), typically cod or haddock, which are abundant in the Lofoten Islands due to their rich fishing grounds. To prepare Lofotfisk, the fish is first dried in the cold Arctic air, preserving it for long periods. The dish has a unique flavour, and the tender and flaky fish combined with the creamy sauce and vegetables create a delightful and hearty meal that captures the essence of Lofoten’s maritime heritage.
Feature Dish #2: Fårikål
And for those partial to a meat course, Fårikål is a traditional Norwegian dish, often considered the national dish. It consists of tender lamb meat and cabbage stewed together with simple seasonings like black pepper and bay leaves. This hearty and comforting meal is cherished for its rustic flavours and cultural significance, especially during autumn.
Feature Dish #3: Vegan Lefse
Norwegian cuisine is predominantly fish and meat-based, but we have found on our scouting trips that they are happy to adapt to the needs of those following vegetarian and plant-based diets. Vegan lefse is a delightful adaptation of the traditional Norwegian flatbread, carefully crafted to cater to plant-based diets. Using dairy-free alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter, the lefse retains its signature thin and soft texture while providing a delicious, animal-free option for all to enjoy. Whether wrapped with sweet fillings or savoury delights, vegan lefse captures the essence of this beloved Scandinavian treat, bringing joy to those seeking a compassionate and delectable culinary experience.
Norway Cycling Tour Accommodation
Our journey from the Lofoten Islands to Bergen (pictured above) gives us a chance to experience a broad range of accommodations along our route. Central to the choices we have made, and in keeping with our other tours, is the hospitality of our hosts and the sense of place they provide. Below we present a couple of the places en route that we have booked that reflect the style of abode you will experience on our Norsemen tour.
Mefjord Brygge Hotel (stage 1) offers a captivating escape in Norway’s Lofoten Islands and is one of our favourite abodes on stage 1. Surrounded by breathtaking fjords and towering mountains, it provides a cozy and welcoming ambience.
The hotel’s charm lies in its idyllic location, making it an unforgettable destination for adventurers seeking a serene retreat amidst the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the region.
Nyvågar Rorbuhotell (stage 1) is in a perfect location by the Lofoten Sea, in the historically significant Storvågan area. Here we stay in traditional Norwegian fishermen’s huts, converted into comfortable hotel rooms. We can also take advantage of the Lofot Spa with sauna and outdoor hot tub, and the Akevittloft Bar, which claims to have the largest selection of Aquavit in the world.
Angvik Hotell (stage 2) is a delightful boutique hotel nestled along the shores of Tingvollfjorden in Norway. Surrounded by lush gardens and stunning landscapes, this charming retreat offers a perfect blend of luxury and tranquility. The historical building exudes elegance and houses beautifully appointed rooms with modern amenities.
Håholmen (stage 2) – is part of a cluster of dwellings, many of which date from the 17th and 18th centuries, and which now includes 47 fishermen’s cabins, a restaurant and museum. The cabins have been beautifully reimagined to combine modern comforts with traditional charm.
Next:
Overview
Norsemen - Tromsø to Bergen, Norway
Cycle from the Lofoten Islands above the Artic Circle down to Bergen over the course of two stages that embrace the natural wonders of Norway.
Email me the Tour Overview Schedule a CallTour at a Glance
The Epic – Tromsø to Bergen 2025 Dates: 7th to 30th July 2025
Countries: Norway
Number of days: 24 days
Number of stages: 2
Price: €15,900
Grading:
Stage 1 – Lofoten Islands Dates: 7th to 16th July 2025
Number of days: 10 days
Price: SOLD OUT
Grading:
Stage 2 – Trondheim to Bergen Dates: 17th to 30th July 2025
Number of days: 14 days
Price: €9,300
Grading:
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