The best road cycling routes in Romeriksåsene

Romeriksåsene offers a varied topography, with terrain rising from approximately 200 meters in the south to over 500 meters in the northern parts. You'll encounter extensive coniferous forests and numerous lakes, providing a scenic backdrop. While many routes feature mostly well-paved surfaces, some segments might be unpaved, adding to the challenge and diversity.

Yes, Romeriksåsene offers a good selection of routes for all fitness levels. There are 25 easy routes, many of which are suitable for beginners or families looking for a less strenuous ride. These routes often feature quiet roads and lower elevation gains, making them ideal for a relaxed cycling experience.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can expect to see extensive coniferous forests, numerous lakes like Avalsjøen, Råsjøen, and Storøyungen, and protected nature reserves such as Prekestolen and Ryggevanna. For panoramic views, the highest point, Paradiskollen, at 670 meters above sea level, offers fantastic vistas, though it might require a detour from typical road cycling paths.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Romeriksåsene, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, the extensive network of routes, and the quiet roads that allow for an immersive experience in nature away from heavy traffic.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, Romeriksåsene has 18 difficult routes. An example of a longer, moderate route is the Kalvsjøtjernet – Stortjernet loop from Harestua, which covers 81.8 km with over 870 meters of elevation gain, taking nearly 4 hours to complete. These routes demand good to very good fitness.

Many of the road cycling routes in Romeriksåsene are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the popular Elgsjøen – Grønntjernet loop from Harestua is a 39.2 km moderate circular path offering scenic views around lakes and through quiet forest roads.

The best time for road cycling in Romeriksåsene is typically from spring through autumn when the roads are clear of snow and ice, and the weather is milder. The extensive coniferous forests are particularly beautiful during these seasons. While some routes might be accessible in winter, conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice.

Absolutely. If you're looking for a quicker ride, there are several shorter options. The Roadbike loop from Hungerholt is a good example, covering 17.4 km and typically completed in under an hour, leading through the lower parts of the region.

Elevation gains vary significantly depending on the route's difficulty. Easy routes might have around 1,000 feet (300 meters) of elevation gain over a couple of hours. Moderate routes, like the Roadbike loop from Bekkeberga (45.3 km), can feature around 360 meters of ascent. Harder routes can exceed 3,000 feet (900 meters) of elevation gain.

Yes, for those who enjoy a thrill, the El Falco High-Speed Downhill loop from Tjernsbekk is a notable route. This 55.1 km moderate trail is known for its exhilarating descents, offering an exciting experience for road cyclists.

Romeriksåsene spans several municipalities, and while specific public transport connections to trailheads can vary, many starting points are within reasonable proximity to local bus or train services. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for the specific area you plan to cycle in to confirm the best access points.

While Romeriksåsene is primarily a natural forest area, you can often find cafes or small shops in the villages and towns bordering the region, such as Harestua or near Hungerholt. Planning your route to pass through these areas can provide opportunities for refreshments and breaks.