The best road cycling routes around Sør-Aurdal

Sør-Aurdal offers a diverse cycling landscape. You'll find quiet country roads along the Begna River, routes through extensive forests, and rolling hills. The terrain ranges from lowland forests at 300 meters to higher altitudes, providing a mix of thrilling rides and scenic views. Most routes feature mostly paved surfaces, ideal for road bikes.

Yes, Sør-Aurdal has routes suitable for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge. For instance, the Fossvang – Bjødnabakkatn loop from Vesleøye is a difficult 75.2 km route with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Reinli Stave Church loop from Bakkebygdi, which covers 114.1 km with over 2200 meters of ascent.

While many routes offer varied terrain, the region does provide options for less strenuous rides. The Roadbike loop from Aurdal is a moderate 20.8 km path offering a scenic ride on quiet roads. The 'Valdresbanevegen,' an old railroad line converted into a sealed pedestrian and cycling path between Leira and Fagernes, is also a popular and recommended option for easier cycling.

Sør-Aurdal is rich in history. You can cycle past two well-preserved medieval stave churches: Reinli Stave Church and Hedalen Stave Church. The Reinli Stave Church loop from Fagernes is a moderate 57.9 km route that takes you near one of these iconic structures. Other historical sites in the area include Bagn Bygdesamling, an open-air museum, and Bagnsbergatn, a national war memorial farm.

Absolutely. The region is known for its natural beauty. You can find dramatic natural features like the Kverrvilljuvet Gorge, and the Begna River flows through the entire municipality, offering picturesque riverside routes. For specific natural highlights, consider visiting Trollfossen or the View of the Waterfall on the Åsta River. Routes like the 'Sør-Aurdal skogsvei-rundtur' offer quiet forest roads and views toward the Begna valley.

The best time for road cycling in Sør-Aurdal is typically during the warmer months, from late spring through early autumn. This period offers pleasant temperatures, less chance of snow, and full access to the region's scenic routes and higher altitude areas like Valdresflya. The area is known for active summer farms, indicating a vibrant summer season for outdoor activities.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Sør-Aurdal are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the challenging Fossvang – Bjødnabakkatn loop from Vesleøye, the moderate Roadbike loop from Aurdal, and the scenic Strondafjorden loop from Bagn.

A significant advantage for cyclists in Sør-Aurdal is the presence of quiet country roads and forest paths. The area is generally sparsely populated, ensuring light traffic on many roads, which is ideal for a peaceful cycling experience. Some routes, like the Sør-Aurdal–Begnadalen landevei along the Begna river, are specifically noted for low traffic and smooth asphalt.

There are 8 road cycling routes available in Sør-Aurdal, ranging from moderate to difficult. These routes have been explored by over 40 road cyclists using komoot, showcasing the best of the region's diverse landscape.

For those looking for longer rides, Sør-Aurdal offers several options. The Reinli Stave Church loop from Bakkebygdi is a substantial 114.1 km route. Another excellent choice is the Fossvang – Bjødnabakkatn loop from Vesleøye, which covers 75.2 km.

Yes, Sør-Aurdal is located in the southern part of Valdres, a region celebrated for its open mountain landscapes, grand views, large lakes, and impressive mountains. This broader region is well-equipped for road cycling, offering a wide array of routes and scenic tours. You can find more information about cycling in the Valdres region on Visit Norway.