Whether the city is an attraction in its own right might be up for discussion, but there are definitely other reasons to head North: the magic aurora borealis during the winter months; and the equally magic midnight sun during summer time. But still, unforgettable. This left the midnight sun still on my bucket list — until this summer. This past year I took six months off from work. But from the outset it was clear there should be also a bike adventure.
One month. Once a destination firmly in mind, I could start making preparations. To get everything in place took me a couple of months of preparations.
Going to the far north meant being prepared for possibly rainy and cool weather. Good rain gear, a light but sturdy one-person tent, a warm sleeping bag and comfy mattress was among the essentials. I also got five bicycle bags: two front and rear rollers each, as well as one for the handlebar. My bike is a Finna gravel bike, which allows for good cycling both on tarmac as well as dirt tracks. For navigation I used Komoot, a treasure chest in which I found endless inspiration which helped tremendously with the preparation — and the premium version comes with travel insurance to pick you up wherever you get stranded.
Trains, of course, and many boats and ferries. Norway is spectacular. And it was extremely calm in terms of other bike tourists. On the Pilgrims Route , despite peak season, there were days I saw perhaps two or three fellow bikers.
It only got somewhat busy on the Lofoten archipelago. An incredible archipelago with white sandy beaches and crystal clear water — but also lots of caravan traffic on the main route. That of course, is the main challenge when cycling in Norway. Due to its topography and low population density, there is usually just one main road.
