The best cycling routes in Avrillen Naturreservat

Touring cycling in Avrillen Naturreservat involves a varied landscape characterized by old-growth forests and diverse topography. You'll encounter plateaus, several hills, a small gorge, and a deeply incised valley, offering a mix of ascents and descents through a preserved natural environment. The routes often feature both gravel and asphalt sections, making them ideal for touring or gravel bikes.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Moen Church – Brandbu loop from Lygna is a difficult 28.9 km route with a significant elevation gain of 577 meters, typically completed in about 2 hours and 18 minutes. This route leads through varied terrain, testing your endurance.

Several moderate routes are available. The Sagvollen loop from Damtjernet is a popular choice, covering 24.5 km with 283 meters of elevation gain, taking around 2 hours and 7 minutes. Another moderate option is the Olaberget – Vesleelvfossen loop from Svartungsvegen, which is 18.4 km long with 303 meters of ascent.

The Hadeland region, including Avrillen Naturreservat, is best enjoyed for touring cycling during the warmer months, typically from late spring through early autumn. This period offers pleasant weather, flowering roadsides, and full access to routes. Always check local weather conditions before you go.

While Avrillen Naturreservat itself focuses on forest conservation, the broader Hadeland region offers multi-day touring experiences. The "Hadeland Heritage Trail" is a notable 3-day cycling holiday that utilizes quiet gravel and asphalt roads, winding through beautiful countryside, cultural sites, and farms. You can find more information about this trail on Visit Norway.

Given the varied surface of the routes, which can include both quiet gravel and asphalt roads, a touring bike or a gravel bike is ideal. Road bikes may find some sections unsuitable due to the terrain.

The primary natural feature of Avrillen Naturreservat is its extensive old-growth forest, with trees estimated to be between 150-300 years old, offering a tranquil atmosphere. While specific viewpoints are not detailed, routes like the Skrukkelisjøen loop (mentioned in the guide's introduction) offer views of Skrukkelisjøen lake. The general hilly terrain also provides scenic vistas over the surrounding landscape.

While specific amenities within the immediate reserve are limited due to its conservation focus, the broader Gran municipality and Hadeland region offer options. The Hadeland Heritage Trail, for example, suggests accommodations like Granavolden Hotell og Gjæstgiveri and Thorbjørnrud Hotell, with dining and shops available in towns like Brandbu and Røykenvik.

The touring cycling routes in Avrillen Naturreservat offer a range of difficulties. You'll find moderate routes like the Sagvollen loop from Damtjernet and the Olaberget – Vesleelvfossen loop from Svartungsvegen, as well as more difficult options such as the Moen Church – Brandbu loop from Lygna. This variety ensures options for different ability levels.

While the reserve itself is focused on forest conservation and some routes have moderate to difficult ratings, the broader Gran municipality and Hadeland region offer varied terrain. For family-friendly options, it's advisable to choose shorter, less hilly sections or explore dedicated family routes in the wider area that are specifically designed for easier cycling.