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.
Conquering the Lysebotn Climb: A Cyclist’s Dream
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.
The Hidden Gem: Gravel Cycling in Lysebotn
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.
Exploring Lysevegen: A Journey Beyond 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.
Hiking in the Lysebotn Area: Trails Worth the Trek
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.
Practical Information: Getting There and Where to Stay
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.
Road and/or gravel cycling in Lysebotn
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.
The Ultimate Lysebotn Adventure Awaits
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.
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