Tusenmeteren (The Thousand Meter). 1000 vertical meters starting from the fjord in Øvre Årdal. The climb is part tarmac part gravel with 42 hairpin bends and an average gradient of around 9%. However, the icing on the cake is waiting at the top - Tunnelvegen, a stunning stretch of flat gravel road clinging to the side of the mountain with mesmerizing views. This loop back to Øvre Årdal makes for a total ride of 40 km and 1065m elevation (which is all in one go).
The mountain views are some of the most impressive, with many of the highest mountains in Norway on offer. This is perhaps the best gravel in Norway and is worth every opportunity to cycle it.
Usually clear of snow by early to mid-July.
The 1000meter (Tusenmeteren) (visitardal.com)
Note: Parts of the road are narrow and unsafe with a rough and uneven surface. You must therefore go slower than on a modern cycle path, and the trip is not suitable for inexperienced cyclists. The most demanding sections can be found just before and inside the tunnel about 5.5 km into the cycle route and from there it can be challenging from the viewpoint at 1000m and down to FV53 (long descent and sharp bends). The road is prone to rock falls, especially during heavy rainfall, and it is not cleared/maintained by anyone. You cycle here at your own risk.
Route type: Gravel