When we first decided to cycle the Rallarvegen, we knew we were in for some stunning landscapes, but nothing could have prepared us for the sheer beauty of this iconic Norwegian gravel route.
Starting from Haugastøl, we only made it to Finse on our first day (thanks to a very late start). The scenery was incredible right from the start. And then, just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, we hit Finse and were absolutely blown away by the glacier views.
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This year, my dad and I embarked on our annual bikepacking trip, and we decided to explore the heart of Southern Sweden once again. Over four days, we cycled through the breathtaking regions of Österlen, Skåne, and Blekinge, immersing ourselves in the natural beauty of the Swedish countryside. Along the way, we enjoyed scenic roadside snack breaks, campfires, refreshing lake dips, and braved the inevitable rain.
The real highlight, though, was the quality time we spent together. This father-son adventure made the journey unforgettable. Read on for the highlights from our bikepacking trip through Southern Sweden!
Day one kicked off with packing our bikes. For my dad, we rented a Bombtrack Munroe SG from Bienvelo Malmö, a local bike shop known for its quality rentals. After collecting the bikes, we hopped on a train from Malmö to Simrishamn, the starting point of our 275 km bikepacking journey.
Our route began in Österlen, a picturesque region along Sweden’s southeastern coast, famed for its lush green forests, rolling hills, and charming coastal scenery. Even though we encountered heavy rain showers, we embraced the elements and stopped at a local pizzeria to enjoy a Swedish favorite: kebab pizza. With our clothes soaked, we opted to stay at a hotel instead of camping on the beach as planned, which allowed us to dry off and rest well for the next day.
Waking up to clear skies was a relief, especially with our route packed with swimming spots. We followed the east coast of Skåne, passing the breathtaking Friseboda National Park. The day’s highlights were supposed to be two nature reserves that double as military training areas. Unfortunately, military exercises were underway, so we took a detour. Luckily, it led us to a delightful coffee stop and an ice cream break.
The next leg of the journey became my favorite: the stunning gravel roads near Halen. This area, dotted with lakes, offered classic Swedish landscape views that were nothing short of magical. We ended the day at a wind shelter by a serene lake, where we enjoyed a swim and a barbecue before settling in for the night.
Day three greeted us with sunshine, setting the tone for an incredible day of riding. After a cup of Aeropress coffee to start the morning, we hit the gravel roads that stretched across West Blekinge and East Skåne. The entire day was spent cycling along some of the most beautiful gravel paths I’ve ever seen, and with the sun blazing, we made frequent stops at supermarkets for ice cream, cold drinks, and iced coffee to keep cool.
Arriving at our campsite early, we found it to be a nice spot—except for the relentless swarms of mosquitos. We quickly lit a campfire to smoke them out and pitched our tent for protection. Dinner consisted of tortellini with prosciutto and cheese, paired with a couple of beers.
The final day started with sunshine as we rode through the scenic landscapes of Skåne. I was blown away by the incredible gravel roads north of Höör—a hidden gem I hadn’t known about but now plan to revisit.
Food options were scarce on this stretch, but we stumbled upon a classic Swedish roadside café serving simple sandwiches and strong, pitch-black filter coffee. It was exactly what we needed to keep going. As we ventured deeper into the agricultural lands, clouds began to roll in, but with our rain gear ready, we soaked in the beautiful contrast of vibrant green grasslands against the gray sky.
Our motivation soared as we neared Höör, knowing a warm meal awaited us before we boarded the train back to Malmö. That promise of good food and a comfortable ride home kept our spirits high as we pushed through the final stretch of our unforgettable bikepacking adventure in Southern Sweden.
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Lysebotn, a small village nestled at the end of the Lysefjord in Norway, is a hidden gem for cycling enthusiasts. The area offers a unique combination of climbs, breathtaking fjord views, and remote gravel paths. Whether you’re drawn by the challenging climb or gravel cycling in Lysebotn on lesser-known backroads, Lysebotn provides an unforgettable outdoor experience. This guide will take you through the must-do rides and practical tips for planning your trip.
Lysebotn is perhaps best known for its iconic climb, a must-ride for any serious cyclist. The road winds up from the fjord in a series of 27 hairpin turns, rising to an elevation of 932 meters over 8.9 kilometers. This climb is a true test of endurance and skill, with an average gradient of 10%. The Lysebotn climb is famous in the cycling world, revered for its challenging switchbacks. Those who reach the top are rewarded with the stunning views of Lysefjord from the Kjerag Cafe & Restaurant Øygardstøl.
But while the climb is the star attraction, real adventurers go gravel cycling in Lysebotn just north of the fjord. Accessible via a service road used by a hydroelectric company, this route offers rough asphalt and an entertaining section of gravel/singletrack, with virtually no traffic. The ride begins with a climb, but the effort is well worth it as you pedal through one of Norway’s most serene landscapes.
A highlight of this route is the tunnel leading to Strandavatnet Lake. It’s unlit, so be sure to bring lights and a wind jacket—the temperature inside the tunnel drops significantly. Once you reach Strandavatnet, the road continues towards Breidavatnet, offering more stunning views. Although the road ends here, the journey back is equally beautiful, with new perspectives on the surrounding mountains and lakes.
Expect a bit of adventure as the road quality deteriorates on the return along Strandavatnet. A section of the route turns into a true “hike-a-bike” experience, where you’ll likely have some friendly sheep guiding your way. The effort is rewarded with a thrilling descent on a smooth, traffic-calm road back to Lysebotn.
The Lysebotn climb is just a small part of the much longer and equally spectacular Lysevegen road. This popular tourist route stretches from Lysebotn to Sirdal, offering an epic 30-kilometer journey through some of Norway’s most dramatic landscapes. Built in the 1980s as a service road for the Tjodan hydroelectric plant, Lysevegen was once the only link between Lysebotn and the outside world, apart from the fjord.
Due to snow conditions, Lysevegen is usually accessible between May and October/November, making it a seasonal treasure. The narrow, single-lane road is shared with cars, campers, and motorcyclists, so stay alert. The views along Lysevegen are nothing short of breathtaking, but they can become distracting for fellow motorised road companions.
With such an abundance of natural beauty, it would be a crime not to explore the famous hikes around Lysefjorden. The area is a paradise for hikers, offering trails that range from gentle walks to challenging treks. Popular hikes include the trail to Kjeragbolten, a boulder wedged between two cliffs, and the hike to the Kjerag viewpoint, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Lysefjord. Another must-see on the other side of the fjord, is the iconic natural landmark Preikestolen: a unique flat-topped cliff formation at 604 meters above sea level.
For the best experience, take the ferry from Lauvvik to Lysebotn. The ferry ride itself is a scenic journey through the fjord, offering a preview of the stunning landscapes you’ll explore on your bike. Be sure to check the timetable, as the ferry runs daily but doesn’t always take cars. The car ferry runs on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.
We opted for a rental car from Stavanger Airport, driving to Lysebotn with our bikes packed in the back. Once in Lysebotn, you’ll find a small village with more tourist beds than residents. We stayed at the Lysefjorden Tourist Cabin—simple yet comfortable. Besides tourist cabins and B&Bs, there’s ample space for tents and campers.
Plan to spend 3-4 days or a long weekend in Lysebotn to fully enjoy the cycling, canoeing, hiking, perhaps even base jumping and of course the tranquility of the fjord.
We didn’t need to choose between road or gravel cycling in Lysebotn, as we brought our Fara F/All-Roads. This bike seamlessly blends the speed of a road bike with the toughness needed for gravel adventures. Its lightweight carbon frame, wider tire clearance, and stable geometry make it a reliable choice for cycling in Norway.
Lysebotn is a paradise for classic road cyclists, gravel enthusiasts and outdoor explorers alike. Whether you’re tackling the legendary Lysebotn climb, exploring the quiet roads, or hiking to breathtaking viewpoints, this spectacular part of Norway offers an adventure like no other. Pack your bike, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to experience the beauty of Norway.
Oslo, with its close access to the gravel cycling paradise of Nord Marka and its vibrant cafe and culinary scene, has quickly become our favourite bikepacking weekend destination. While traveling with bikes can be challenging, choosing the right mode of transport can turn even this into a pleasurable part of the journey. Therefore, we chose to travel to Oslo by ferry from Copenhagen for the perfect bikepacking weekend getaway.
Our latest journey to Oslo started with a ferry ride from Copenhagen. After a short 5-minute bike ride from the Pas Normal Studios HQ, where Robin works, we boarded the ferry. The process was simple: roll up to the car entrance, receive a lane number, and once onboard secure the bikes with provided bungees. The ferry offered stunning views of Copenhagen and Malmö, and the 19-hour journey felt like a comfortable ride.
Traveling by ferry offers ease, especially for cyclists. Additionally, the opportunity to enjoy the scenic journey is a definite pro. However, it’s worth noting that ferry travel is slower compared to other modes of transport. Last-minute tickets can get expensive, so early booking for cost-effectiveness may be required.
For those seeking speed, flying to Oslo is the way to go. With good train connections from the airport to the city center, it’s an easy option for those traveling from mainland Europe and beyond. But packing bikes in cardboard boxes or bike bags can be cumbersome and may incur additional costs.
Norwegian has affordable ticket options and you can bring a bicycle for a reasonable price. However, e-bikes are not allowed.
While budget-friendly, traveling by bus comes with its own set of challenges. Not all bus companies allow bikes, and those that do (FlixBus for example) may have limited space. Furthermore, if you are very careful with your bike, keep in mind that the driver might not be as gentle when mounting and dismounting your beloved bicycle on the back of the bus. Yes, we’re speaking from personal experience.
It was the month of May, and we couldn’t believe that we could still encounter snow on some trails, even with temperatures of +20 degrees Celsius and wearing short-shorts. A stop at Ullevålseter for coffee and waffles provided a delightful break. After plodding some more through the snow, we made it back to the Fara Cycling clubhouse. It’s cool to see that Fara HQ isn’t solely a place to see their latest models; it is also a starting point for group rides and meeting fellow cycling enthusiasts.
Just like on our previous trip to Oslo, we followed the classic gravel route – called Ring 4 – with a scenic coffee stop at Kikutstua. Instead of returning to Oslo, we opted for a memorable stay at Kleivstua, indulging in locally sourced cuisine and capturing breathtaking sunset views over Steinsfjorden.
Kleivstua Hotel is a forest hotel situated on a hill with a magnificent location. From the hotel, you can overlook a lush forest landscape and the sparkling Steinsfjorden far below. It was an amazing ride getting there on a long, quiet gravel road through Krokskogen. It might be one of the prettiest gravel roads we’ve seen!
The benefit of staying up on a hill is that the way back is downhill! With the last views over Tyrifjorden behind us, we flew over rolling gravel roads with gentle turns. As we passed Lommedalen and approached the outskirts of Oslo, it was just an easy spin left alongside Bunnefjorden.
After a quick coffee at one of our personal favorites, Fuglen, before we returned to the ferry terminal for the homeward-bound trip. Our latest Oslo adventure had nearly come to an end. However, we had another 19-hour ferry ride ahead giving us plenty of time to relax and have a good night’s sleep dream-filled with gravel crunching under tires.
Our journey was made possible by our collaboration with Fara Cycling, maker of the F/All-Road. This fast bike is designed for both smooth pavement and gravel trails and has a clever integrated system for bikepacking bags. The bags snap on and off easily in seconds when not in use. Fara’s philosophy of crafting bikes specifically for long-distance bikepacking trips on diverse terrains resonates perfectly with how we explore. Fara/wayistan: a perfect match!
With more Norway trips on the horizon, we would love to hear about your favorite Norwegian cycling destinations in the comments.
Bikepacking offers us a unique chance to explore nature and to fully immerse in the great outdoors. Riding along gravel roads on a bicycle, packed with bags carrying your camping gear, creates a magical adventure experience.
Embarking on a bikepacking journey in an incredibly beautiful natural environment, brings the whole experience to another level. We’re fortunate enough to be based in forested and lakes-dotted Sweden. But besides dreamy gravel roads and stunning nature, Sweden has another major perk to offer as the ultimate bikepacking destination: ‘Allemansrätten’ or ‘Right of Public Access’.
The allemans-what? The Swedish word ‘allemansrätten’ translates into something like ‘everyman’s right’. It refers to the legal concept of the public’s right to access and enjoy nature. This means you can pretty much access all forests, fields and roads, for recreation, exercise, and other activities – within certain legal and ethical boundaries. So, Sweden’s nature is open to all thanks to the right of public access. This also means that you can stay in most natural areas without worry, even in privately-owned forests and lands. The key words “do not disturb, do not destroy” summarize the right of public access well.
The Swedish Right of Public Access is a fantastic principle. It allows for free roaming to hike, paddle a canoe, pick berries, camp almost wherever you want – and ride bicycles as well. Of course, it is important to show consideration for landowners, animals, nature, and other people. There are some limitations to the Right of Public Access, such as when you are in sensitive environments and close to private residences. But in the vast majority of places, you can stay freely in nature.
While allemansrätten grants broad access to Sweden’s outdoors, it’s essential to be aware of regulations and local rules. Especially if we’re talking about bikepacking and camping, because these may impact your bikepacking adventure. Some areas may have restrictions on camping, particularly in environmentally sensitive areas or during certain times of the year. And good news for the trail-loving bikepacker: there isn’t a universal prohibition on cycling on hiking trails. But since the trails are designed for hiking, remember that hikers and runners have the right of way.
A few more pointers to remember:
Please note that these rules only apply for Sweden. There are similar principles of the Swedish Right of Public Access in other places. As far as we know Finland, Norway, Iceland, Scotland and New Zealand have similar rules. But, they could differ somehow. In Norway, for example, you’re not allowed to pitch your tent within 150 meters of someone’s house. And when researching information for this blog, we read that you always need the permission of the landowner before lighting a campfire in Finland. So, if you’re setting out on a bikepacking adventure in one of these places, we’d recommend checking out the local regulations before freely roaming around and setting up the campfire.
From all of the 300,000 kilometers of gravel roads, approximately 75,000 kilometers wind through private lands. They are often gated with barriers, but fortunately (in most instances) signs next to these gates indicate that access by foot and bike is perfectly permitted. In our three years of bikepacking in Sweden, encounters with local landowners have been positive – a simple greeting often is enough. Even during the rare situations when we’ve been stopped, a friendly conversation has always resolved any concerns. By spreading awareness, hopefully more people feel inspired to explore the outdoors and appreciate nature responsibly.
When going out exploring in Sweden, the allemansrätten feels like stepping into a world of wonder. It’s amazing how quickly we’ve got used to the freedom of it all. We rarely pause to consider its uniqueness on a global scale. The realization hits when we adventure elsewhere, encountering those annoying ‘no-entry’ signs. Yet, here in our own backyard, Sweden offers an expansive network of trails and roads to discover without worrying. So, dreamy gravel roads, stunning nature, and the right of public access. What a perk, right?
Follow all our adventures on Instagram and make sure to explore the related posts for more information!
Feeling stuck in the same old routine? Are you longing for a way to break free from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, even if just for a moment? Well, there’s no better remedy than packing up your gear, hopping on your bike, and setting off on an overnight bikepacking adventure.
Every now and then, we gather the core essentials and set off on a bikepacking overnighter in Southern Sweden. Here’s why an overnight bikepacking journey could be exactly what you need to refresh your adventure spirit while limited on time.
An overnight bikepacking trip is the perfect introduction to the world of bikepacking. You don’t need a full expedition setup to embark on adventures—all you need is a sense of curiosity and a willingness to explore. Unlike longer multi-day journeys, like this one, an overnight bikepacking trip is a great way to enter the world of bikepacking.
With just a small day pack or saddlebag containing essentials like a toothbrush and change of clothes, you can experience the thrill of self-supported travel. And while some hardcore bikepackers may opt to spend the night under the stars in a bivy bag, there’s nothing wrong with treating yourself to a bit of comfort by booking a hotel room along the way. After all, a good night’s sleep can make all the difference when it comes to enjoying your adventure to the fullest.
Check out these snapshots from our overnight bikepacking adventure in Southern Sweden with a friend! I’ve always fantasized about traversing Skåne diagonally, from coast to coast, covering roughly 100 kilometers each way. Instead of rushing back and forth in a single day, we decided to treat ourselves to a cozy bed and breakfast. From stumbling upon new roads and breathtaking scenery to indulging in supermarket ice coffee and savoring pizza with a glass of wine, our escapade was packed with fun in under 5 hours! After a refreshing shower and a restful night’s sleep, we geared up for another day of pure bikepacking-fun—despite battling relentless headwinds throughout. It was definitely a little escape, but oh-so-worth it!
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While names like Girona, Tuscany, and Mallorca often dominate the world of gravel cycling, a hidden gem calls on to those seeking a different kind of adventure. Say hello to Scandinavia’s best-kept secret: Oslo, the gravel capital of Europe.
Nestled amid awe-inspiring natural beauty, Norway’s capital, Oslo, reveals a cycling paradise like no other; a network of endless gravel roads, a thriving cycling community, and a vibrant coffee and food scene. Join us on this unforgettable gravel cycling getaway.
While Norwegian tarmac also deserves its praise, we’re gravel enthusiasts at heart. Jørgen, a local gravel expert from Fara Cycling, dares to go as far to proclaim Oslo as Europe’s gravel capital. What set Oslo apart for us, is the vast forest known as “Marka,” covering thousands of square kilometers. In winter, it offers over 450 km of ski trails, but during summer, it’s a gravel paradise.
We escaped the city’s hustle and bustle just a few kilometers from downtown. To be exact, our Airbnb in Oslo’s Majorstuen was only 4.2 kilometers from the first gravel section, making the city an unique urban cycling experience.
Fara Cycling All-road bike, our gravel adventure companion
For fellow cycling enthusiasts exploring Oslo, a visit to Fara Cycling HQ is a must. This local bike brand, situated in the city’s heart, is more than an office and showroom; it’s a hub of cycling passion. We learned about Fara’s impressive range of bikes, including road, all-road, and gravel bikes. We opted for the F/All-Road, which turned out to be the perfect choice for our gravel rides.
Oslo’s finest coffee brews for cyclists
Just down the street from Fara Cycling we enjoyed an amazing brew at Fuglen. Scandinavians have a deep love for coffee, with Norwegians ranking second globally in coffee consumption. So coffee bars line nearly every street corner. Fuglen is an Oslo classic, serving coffee since 1963. The wallpaper and bar are still the original from the 60’s!
During our Oslo trip, we also visited Tim Wendelboe, another haven for coffee connoisseurs. The place is runned by former World Barista Champion and houses a Micro roastery and coffee training centre too. The perfect spots for our coffee fixes, which fueled our gravel rides.
Traditional Norwegian “Tur Fuel” at Markastues on Your Gravel Ride
During our gravel rides we took part in another beloved Norwegian tradition: Kaffe og vafler på markastue. Dotted over Marka you can find mountain huts that offer coffee, delicious waffles and other treats to fuel the tur (tour). We loved the incredible views at Kikutstua and Skjennungstua.
Fueling Up and Dining in Style – Culinary Delights for Cyclists in Oslo
Cycling makes one hungry, so we were most pleased with Oslo’s cycling-themed culinary delights. Henrik Norre, former Team Sky chef, has created a cyclist’s haven in Oslo with his restaurant VeloChef. They cater to cyclists’ nutritional needs while offering gourmet dining and fabulous wines. It’s a must-visit spot for cyclists seeking both delicious cuisine and fuel for their rides.
Another highlight was Café Rouleur Oslo, neighbor of Candy Mountain Cyclery. Café Rouleur serves Scandinavian-style coffee and a wide wine selection, while Candy Mountain Cyclery, is a workshop where in-house steel bikes are crafted.
There is more in life than cycling. So our last culinary tip for Oslo is not cycling-themed but Japanese. Located in a cozy basement at St. Olav’s Square, we shared small Japanese dishes and enjoyed Japanese beers. The menu is inspired by authentic Japanese cuisine and it truly blew us away. Izakaya got its name from Japanese words that mean “stay,” “alcohol,” and “room” or “shop,” which perfectly captures what this great place is all about.
The best time to visit Oslo for cycling
“But isn’t Norway like, really cold?” we hear you thinking. The best time to visit Oslo for cycling is from May to August. We visited the last week of August, and although the weather was a bit gloomy due to more rainfall than usual, it was never uncomfortably cold. Actually, all the rain made nature look even more beautiful. The forests were greener, the waterfalls roared with an impressive intensity. Yes, the rain did wash out some of the roads, but the stunning scenery in Marka more than made up for it.
Nordmarka Gravel Routes from Oslo – Unforgettable Cycling Adventures
We handpicked some of the best gravel routes of Nordmarka, Oslo, in our komoot collection. These routes lead you through stunning scenery, offering an unforgettable journey through Oslo’s stunning natural landscapes. Because after this trip we have to agree with Jørgen, Oslo truly is a gravel capital you should add to your travel list!
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Traditional bike touring across continents, long expeditions through woodlands and high mountains, and even ultra racing with minimal bike weight—bikepacking has taken us on numerous adventures in recent years. However, there was one style of bikepacking that we had yet to try: credit card bikepacking.
Driven by a desire for the same sense of joy, we embarked on a credit card bikepacking adventure. Packed with nothing more than one pair of off-bike clothing, essential toiletries, and an insatiable hunger for adventure. Our journey took us on a 600-km loop around the enchanting rolling hills, vineyards, and picturesque white roads of Tuscany. Now, you might be wondering, did we find the same sense of adventure while credit card bikepacking?
Credit card bikepacking, at its core, involves carrying only the essential items on your bike and relying on transactions at hotels, restaurants, and cafes for provisions. While traditional bikepacking requires self-sufficiency, credit card bikepacking allows for more convenience. Like visiting local establishments for repairs, medical needs, and sustenance.
Tuscany proved to be the perfect backdrop for our credit card bikepacking adventure. It offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural wealth, and delectable culinary experiences. We had pre-booked hotels and agriturismo accommodations, spaced approximately 75 km apart. Along our route, we encountered villages every 30 kilometers, providing the modern conveniences we needed. As we pedaled through the undulating hills of Tuscany, the winding white roads of Strade Bianche unveiled breathtaking vistas at every turn.
Undoubtedly, the highlight of our trip was the local cuisine. Instead of settling for our typical freeze-dried meals, we indulged in fresh pasta, roasted meats, tasty bruschetta, heavenly tiramisu, delightful gelato, and strong espressos. We even had the privilege of dining at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Siena and savoring a burger from the food truck of the renowned chef, Dario Cecchini, as featured on Netflix.
Italian hospitality embraced us with warmth, and the locals exuded a remarkable sense of humor and pride. Although ordering a cappuccino after 12 o’clock raised some eyebrows, the coffee was still served with a genuine smile. We learned valuable insights into Italian dining etiquette. Such as not requesting starters and main courses simultaneously or pairing sweet iced tea with savory pizza. The waiters kindly shared these cultural nuances with us.
Packing for credit card bikepacking necessitated a different approach compared to our previous adventures. The clear advantage was the ability to travel lighter, so we carefully curated our off-bike items. Our clothing selection was tailored to accommodate various activities while remaining lightweight and easily packable. Toiletries were streamlined to minimize weight and space.
To our surprise, all the clothing and accessories required for our 10-day biking journey fit into a single saddle bag each. Our packing list included two bib shorts, two cycling jerseys, off-bike pants, off-bike shorts, two sets of underwear, a t-shirt, a rain jacket, a windproof jacket, two pairs of socks, swimwear, and a cap. Additionally, Robin carried an extra 7-liter handlebar bag to hold toiletries, tools, and a few electronics. In hindsight, packing just one spare tube might have been overly optimistic, but we managed nevertheless.
Now, the burning question: did credit card bikepacking deliver the same sense of adventure? Initially, we worried that forgoing the experience of pitching a tent at the end of a long ride might dampen the excitement. However, we were pleasantly surprised to find that our journey was filled with enchanting moments. Interactions with local shopkeepers, encounters with animals crossing our path, and the sheer joy of beholding awe-inspiring landscapes all contributed to our sense of adventure. No, we may not have had the same level of independence. The trade-off of enjoying a satisfying meal, a refreshing swim, and a comfortable bed at the end of each day proved to be well worth it.
Whether you are a seasoned bikepacker or an adventurous explorer, we wholeheartedly recommend giving credit card bikepacking a try. Bikepacking offers a unique way to experience the world, create lasting memories, and embrace the thrill of the open road, regardless of the form it takes. So, gear up, embark on your own journey, and let the joy of bikepacking ignite your spirit of adventure.
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Over the past few years, the Dirty Halland has become a staple in our cycling adventures. We’ve taken part in both the 2021 and 2022 editions of this social gravel race held in Hallands län every last weekend of March. Each year brings a new route filled with challenging gravel roads and steep climbs.
However, this time we decided to approach things a bit differently. We can’t solely blame the unpredictable weather on the day of the event. Our own lack of fitness played a significant role. So what do you do when faced with 160km of gravel and 2,500 meters of elevation? Well, we made the decision to cut the route in half and set our own pace, aiming for the Slowest Known Time (SKT) on the course. Here’s a photo recap of our Dirty Halland 2023 in touring mode.
Our journey began with a train ride from Malmö to Falkenberg. Upon arriving in Falkenberg, we wasted no time and embarked on a 20-kilometer bike ride to reach our charming Bed & Breakfast. We randomly picked a place on Booking.com, which was located conveniently close to the start- and finish location.
And at first glance, Slöinge may seem like an ordinary village blending into its surroundings, but upon closer inspection, we discovered a few local treasures. Within Slöinge, there’s the SIA ice cream factory, a coffee roaster, and one of the best fika spots we’ve come across called Solhaga Stenungsbageri.
The northern loop of the route is a climber’s paradise. We braced ourselves for steep inclines and ventured onto rugged dirt roads that wound through lush forests, treating us to breathtaking views at every twist and turn. Sabina even spotted a majestic wild moose on the trail ahead of her, a truly awe-inspiring moment.
This part of the route truly tested our stamina and determination, as there wasn’t a single meter of level ground. As we pedaled through the area, it became apparent that it was heavily utilized for wood production. Enormous machinery and excavators with continuous tracks, shared the same gravel roads we were riding on. These already rough and rocky roads transformed into challenging washboard surfaces, adding an extra dose of thrill to our cycling experience.
Resupply options were scarce on this particular loop. However, our luck turned when we stumbled upon a generous individual living in an isolated cabin in the woods. She not only provided us with much-needed water for our bottles but also shared heartfelt advice. One peculiar piece of wisdom she offered was to avoid storing our phones in our cycling jerseys. As she believed it could potentially harm our kidneys. We found it odd at first, but it made sense coming from someone with such a unique lifestyle surrounded by nature’s serenity.
We set off on our intended route, eagerly embarking on our journey southward and then northeast. The initial kilometers were smooth and paved. But we knew that the real adventure awaited us beyond the first gravel section. As we pedaled along, we were treated to breathtaking glimpses of the ocean from the hills. Surrounded by the beauty of the Swedish countryside.
Our timing couldn’t have been better, as we were fortunate enough to witness the vibrant yellow blooms of the rape seeds. Blanketing the landscapes in a golden hue.
Heading north, the terrain became more challenging, with climbs and technical trails. This occasionally required us to dismount and walk. But these moments of pushing our bikes only added to the thrill and sense of exploration on our journey. And let’s be honest, there’s something special about a good old hike-a-bike.
One particular highlight of the route was the section that encircled Biskopstorps Naturreservat. After a long climb, we found ourselves immersed in its beauty.
Rain and hail showers cut our ride short. We made the decision to deviate from the route and opted to ride back to our cozy Bed & Breakfast. We chose the wide road with a generous shoulder, ensuring that the few passing cars could safely give us enough space as we pedaled our way back.
Berte B&B in Slöinge served as the perfect base for our Dirty Halland experience in touring mode. And if your fitness level surpasses ours, why not take on the 2022 route the next day? You can practically pick up the route right at the doorstep of the Bed & Breakfast. Plus, the extensive breakfast provided is cyclist-proof, a true bonus.
Big shout out to Team Cyklamera for coming up with another spectacular route.
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For a lot of cyclists, the last week of December marks the annual Festive 500 challenge. Cycling enthusiasts attempt to ride a total of 500 kilometers between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve in a challenge.
We also intended to saddle up and power through the 500 kilometers, like we did last year. However, a combination of illness and work-related stress crashed and burned the plan. Additionally, we couldn’t really be bothered to add any ‘pointless’ mileage to our total year distances. So what to do now?
Well, this is where the Bikepacking.com Good Night Challenge came in. Good Night 2022 invites people to sleep under the stars, have a good night outdoors, and blissfully send off the year between December 25th and 31st.
Robin had everything planned out. The idea was to collect our camping gear and cycle to the biggest hilltop in our local area – just 35 kilometers from home. We’ve been there before, so we knew on a clear day you can see both the skyline of Malmö (Sweden) and Copenhagen (Denmark) in one line of sight. This had to be an incredible spot to see the fireworks at NYE. We could already imagine ourselves peaking through the doors of our tent, watching the colourful pyrotechnics in the sky. Whilst sipping champagne from a camping mug.
The false start
But then we had a look at the weather forecast. Chances of a clear sky were absolutely null. The weather app on our phones predicted a visibility of a lousy four kilometers. And to top things off, the meteorological outlook showed torrential rain and heavy winds with gusts up 70 km/h.
But still we decided to head out to go NYE camping. We collected our stuff, wrapped ourselves in waterproof Gore-Tex gear from head to toe and we rolled out. To the train station. Approximately 1200 meters from home. Some say all adventures start with a train ride.
We rolled out for a proper start, hoping that the forecast had changed. Despite the bitter cold drizzle, the ride itself was rather enjoyable. There is something special about riding a bike in total darkness. We took a wrong turn and ultimately ended up on a hiking track with the typical Swedish wooden decks. You can’t beat a little adventure when you go NYE camping.
When we finally arrived at the hilltop in the natural reserve Häckeberga, there was zero visibility of the skylines. Because of the strong wind gusts it took a lot of effort to even get the ground sheet in place. It for sure didn’t help that we are still figuring out the best way to pitch our brand new Sea to Summit tent. After battling the wind for some time, the half-pitched tent almost blew away. We had no other choice than to seek out a more wind-sheltered location.
So, did our little plan got us pinched? Yes, maybe. Because it was impossible to camp at the hilltop. We did not see any of the fireworks as it was pouring down at midnight. And we didn’t raise a glass since we forgot the bring a bottle of champagne.
So was our NYE camping adventure a fiasco? Certainly not! We got exactly what we wanted: a good night spend outdoors. At the very least, one to remember. And during our ride back the next morning the sun even peeked through the clouds. A great success of the Bikepacking.com Good Night 2022 challenge and a magical start of 2023!
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