Considering a Norway cycling holiday? Southern Norway’s Kristiansand region is a fantastic place to explore by bike.
We know this is unfamiliar terrain to most, and it is probably not your first choice when thinking about a cycling holiday in Norway. But we want to share what this underrated Norwegian region has to offer cyclists!
The riding here offers a mix of landscapes and experiences, often with very few people around. You can expect peaceful coastal lanes and island detours to forested climbs and scenic inland lakes. Add in friendly towns, ferry-accessible islands and a strong local cycling culture, and you’ll see why Agder is becoming an increasingly popular destination for cyclists looking for something a little different.
To get the full lowdown, in this article, we hear from local rider and Epic Road Rides ambassador Erik Duncan. Erik shares his favourite cycling routes around the region and top tips to make the most of your stay.
Let’s get started!
Based in Kristiansand, Norway, Erik Duncan has spent the past two decades on two wheels, devoting holidays and warm-weather weekends to cycling. Each summer, he undertakes a two-week tour across Central Europe, mixing classics with new discoveries, from the Romantic Road to the Mosel Bike Route. In spring and autumn, he gravitates to Girona and other Spanish cycling hotspots.
From mid-May to mid-September, he explores Kristiansand’s coast-and-low-mountain playground, riding both renowned and hidden routes within easy reach of the city centre. Most of his routes range from 68 to 118 kilometres, manageable for moderately trained riders. Wider Agder adds detours to the famous “white coastal towns” and quiet inland lakes.
Part 1: An overview of cycling in and around Kristiansand
The advantage of cycling in Kristiansand, and indeed cycling in Norway in general, is the mix of coastal landscapes and low mountains, which are all within relatively short distances from the city centre.
Most of my routes range from 68 to 118 kilometres, so they should be manageable for moderately trained cyclists.
Cycling in Agder, which is the regional name for the area, offers the opportunity to visit the nationally famous “white coastal towns”, often regarded as Norway’s answer to the colourful Cinque Terre towns of Liguria, Italy. Cyclists can combine exploring these pretty buildings overlooking the coastal landscape with beautiful cycling around lesser-known inland lakes.
The city of Kristiansand
Kristiansand is a city that deserves to be visited, especially in the summer. It is often referred to as Norway’s gateway to Europe, and is Norway’s sixth-largest city.
It’s a destination known for its vibrant summer life and has also undergone an urban transformation over the past 30 years.
If you visit the city, then you will experience great cycling weather and a city that is bustling with activity.
Take the opportunity to stroll along the seaside promenade, ideally all the way from Aquarama in the east of the city centre to Kanalbyen at the far end.
Also, make sure to visit the harbour with the Kilden theatre and concert hall and the new Kunstsilo museum.
Part 2: Why should cyclists visit Kristiansand and Agder?
Kristiansand is located in the middle of Agder and is the capital of Sørlandet (the region’s tourist name rather than the county name Agder).
Kristiansand is primarily a coastal city, and it has a fantastic island paradise located on its doorstep. This includes the island of Odderøya within walking distance, and the island of Flekkerøya, which can be easily reached by bike.
The map below features some of the places mentioned in this article. Hover over the map pins to see the names of places.
Western Agder
To the west of Kristiansand, you’ll find the famous Lindesnes Lighthouse, Norway’s southernmost point and oldest lighthouse.
Here you will also find Mandal, which has a charming old town and some of the country’s finest beaches.
Closer to Kristiansand, you’ll find the old coastal harbour Nye Hellesand and Søgne, with spectacular coastal landscapes.
Eastern Agder
To the east of Kristiansand, you’ll find the white town of Lillesand and the protected Brekkestø, possibly Norway’s most beautiful little harbour from the old sailing ship days.
Further west is Grimstad, another charming southern town, which also houses the Ibsen Museum in Grimstad, dedicated to the world-renowned poet and playwright Henrik Ibsen.
For cyclists, however, this is primarily the hometown of Dag Otto Lauritzen and Thor Hushovd, both of whom have awards and bicycles mounted in glass frames at the town square!
To the northeast of Grimstad, there is a small region of rivers and lakes, including Oggevatn, which is about 300 metres above sea level and a cyclist’s paradise during the warmer months. This area is just within a 100-kilometre round-trip from Kristiansand.
Grimstad boat harbour (photo credit: Erik Duncan)
EuroVelo12 – the North Sea Cycle Route
Kristiansand is the starting point of the North Sea Route. This is a bike path through forests, heathlands, and open coastal landscapes.
The roads you find here are mostly paved, but there are also sections with gravel. Along the way, you will encounter both lesser-known inland fjords and archipelagos.
There are many small coastal towns along the route, so accommodation is never a problem. With the exception of the stretch from Flekkefjord to Hauge, the bike path is not particularly steep or demanding.
Looking for more information about EuroVelo routes? Don’t miss this in-depth article.
Sights of the North Sea route
Before Hauge, you can visit the two world-famous houses under the mountain at Hellern by Jøssingfjord.
When you reach Jæren, Rogaland’s coastal landscape, the scenery changes to long beaches combined with farmland. Some of Norway’s most famous visual artists discovered this distinctive landscape at the turn of the century and spent their summers here, trying to capture the unique light that only exists by the sea.
The North Sea Route before Stavanger passes through the two larger towns of Egersund and Sandnes. The road then continues north from Stavanger to the places of Skudeneshavn, Kopervik, and Haugesund. Each of these towns offers a wide range of activities and accommodation, easily accessible for cyclists.
Facilities for cyclists in Agder
Facilities for cyclists are good in Norway, but there are also some obvious weaknesses.
Most hotels are of good standard and will likely have storage rooms for your bike. You will be welcomed as a cyclist, and sports-loving Norwegians will probably also appreciate your contribution, even if you are not a cross-country skier or football player, which are primarily the ‘national sports’ in Norway.
However, Norway is not Spain, Germany, or France when it comes to the level of facilities. Roads outside city centres are rarely dedicated to cyclists, and signage is average.
Plan in advance
Outside the opening hours of sports shops, you will relatively rarely find bike repair shops ready to assist if something goes wrong.
And when it comes to reserving bikes on trains and buses, I recommend that you familiarise yourself with what different companies offer in terms of bike transport.
It’s advisable to reserve a bike spot on trains and buses early – don’t just show up “and hope for the best.”
A bike-friendly region
In the Agder counties, it is cheap, sometimes even free, to take a bike on the bus, as long as there is space or the bike is not unnecessarily in the way of other passengers.
The driver decides whether there is room for the bike on each departure.
On routes with little traffic, such as from Flekkefjord to Tonstad, it should be unproblematic to bring a bike. If you inform them in advance or are early, it should also be fine to take a bike on the bus from Hovden to Kristiansand.
On local trains, there is almost always space for a bike with a little planning.
Why is Agder good for a holiday?
All the coastal towns in the Sørlandet region have a lot of tourism tradition. Mass tourism arrived in Sørlandet in the 1930s, and today the Kristiansand area is considered Norway’s summer capital.
What’s special about Sørlandet, however, is that it is more well-known in Norway than abroad.
This is despite the fact that a boat trip along the coast, for example between Kristiansand and Lillesand (The Blindleia archipelago), is unique. And yes, you can bring your bike. As a foreign cyclist, you will often receive appreciative glances and be met with friendliness.
In the inland areas, which are much less densely populated, you can take a rest at local shops like “Joker”. These grocery shops often have long opening hours and also offer outdoor seating for cyclists. Local cyclists often gather here for a rest and a chat along the way.
Justøy Bridge Towards Brekkestø (photo credit: Erik Duncan)
What are the Norwegian people like?
Norwegians are modest people. Honesty and politeness are core values, and people expect each other to ask nicely if they want something.
On the other side, Norwegians tend to talk to each other in a direct way and appreciate honest and straightforward communication. Just something to be aware of when you are talking to the locals.
Part 3: An overview of Agder from a cyclist’s perspective
Let’s delve a little deeper into the region now, thinking specifically about a cycling holiday!
Terrain
Agder is the southernmost county in Norway. It consists of the Skagerrak coastline in the east, from Risør to Lindesnes, and further west along the North Sea coast to the mouth of Sireåna.
The southernmost point of the mainland is located at the tip of the Lindesnes peninsula. Inland, Agder is characterised by areas of forest, valleys, and heath, which in the north transition into high mountain areas.
The county borders to the northeast and east with Telemark, and to the northwest and west with Rogaland.
The recommended routes are, with the exception of Suleskarsvegen and the Color Line Tour, lowland routes up to 300 metres above sea level. It is recommended to cycle up to 80-120 kilometres, with an elevation gain of 800-1,500 metres. More on this below.
Are there any climbs in the region?
- The Mandal route has some challenging climbs from Nodeland to Øyslebø, and if you also choose the route option before Mandal from Holum to Hageland, you will encounter a really tough climb with up to an 8% gradient.
- The ride around Oggevatn features a well-known climb along Urdalsveien from Mollestad (where you can also find Norway’s oldest oak tree, 1,000 years old) to the low mountain plateau of Svaland. The Mollestad Oak.
- If you cycle the Suleskarvegen from Flekkefjord, you will experience a steep climb from the town centre of Tonstad (50 metres above sea level) up to the Suleskar plateau (1,050 metres above sea level).
Alternatives to Kristiansand for a cycling base
In addition to Kristiansand, it is primarily Grimstad that is often referred to as Norway’s cycling capital.
Grimstad is a great base for cycling, with opportunities for tours along the coast both westward (to Lillesand) and eastward (to Arendal or even Tvedestrand).
This, combined with beautiful heathland inland, makes for great round trips in the district. National Cycle Route 1, the Sørlandsruta, also passes through Grimstad.
Grimstad cycling facilities
At the tourist office, you can rent bikes. They have also published a brochure, “On a Bike in Grimstad”, which has gathered several great routes to make it easy to navigate. “Thor and Dag Otto’s Cycling Trails” are some of the routes you’ll find in this brochure; these are the favourite routes of Thor Hushovd and Dag Otto Lauritzen.
Thor Hushovd is one of the top riders of the past two decades, with a glittering collection of professional victories. The Norwegian was world road race champion in 2010 and won a total of ten stages of the Tour de France, as well as the points classification in both 2005 and 2009.
The square in front of the tourist office is called Thor Hushovd Square, and in the display here, you can view Hushovd and Lauritzen’s bikes and jerseys. Like its bigger sibling, Kristiansand, Grimstad has a charming summer life.
Grimstad Harbour and New Library Hall (photo credit: Erik Duncan)
Cycling roads and provisions
The quality of the local road network in Agder varies. But overall, the road standard has been greatly improved in recent years.
Although bike lanes are not the norm, several bike lanes have been developed in the areas around Kristiansand. For example, there is a bike lane along the entire 12-kilometre stretch from Lillesand to Birkeland. East of Kristiansand, there is now a bike lane all the way to the entrance of the Kjevik airport.
All the recommended bike routes have good asphalt quality, but it’s always a good idea to stay alert on downhill stretches. Even though the standard is good, cracks and holes may appear, similar to the standards in other Western European countries.
Treatment of cyclists
Cyclists are generally met generously in Norway, but feel free to set a goal of getting to know the locals. Show kindness and try to strike up a conversation – you will typically be met with friendliness in return.
Norway does not have a 1.5-metre distance rule like the one that has been introduced by law in Spain. Therefore, do not expect all motorists to be first-hand considerate, even though the average motorist in Norway is cautious.
Safety
There are often bike racks in the cities, and you will also find bike parking at most hotels.
Bike theft occurs, especially in the larger tourist towns in Agder. Exercise normal caution. Do not expect 24-hour bike repair shops.
Bike repair shops in Norway are often part of sports stores and follow their opening hours.
When cycling in Sørlandet, local roads are recommended over more trafficked regional roads. Since there are also tunnels, for example, there are three tunnels along the old E-18 road from Kristiansand to Lillesand, remember to have lights both front and rear on your bike.
What kind of cyclist is Agder best for?
The routes I recommend are primarily for road cycling, but there is nothing stopping you from also finding off-road routes or shorter recreational routes in the surrounding areas.
Unlike neighbouring countries such as Denmark and the Netherlands, Norway is primarily a country consisting of mountains and varying terrain.
The area around Kristiansand consists of rolling terrain, but also flatter valleys and low mountain plateaus.
I recommend my routes to cyclists who can easily cycle 80 kilometres in distance and 800 metres of elevation. This allows you to enjoy the ride and the scenery rather than dread what awaits around the next corner.
How about families?
There is nothing stopping families with cycling experience from cycling most of the routes I recommend. However, families are not my primary target group due to the challenges of the routes I recommend.
Part 4: What are the best cycling routes in Agder?
The Suleskarvegen cycle path (regional, northwest – extended from Fyresdal to Skien in Telemark and from Flekkefjord to Tonstad in Agder)
The Suleskarvegen cycle path is a three- to six-day route that offers some of the best cycling Norway has to offer!
You start by cycling from the old “Dutch town” Flekkefjord up to the inland village of Tonstad, following the road through the mountainous terrain of Sirdal up to the Suleskar plateau at 1,050 metres above sea level.
On the road from Tonstad to Ådneram, high up in the Vestheiane mountains of Setesdal, you might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the world’s southernmost wild reindeer population.
Then it’s back down to Brokke and the Setesdal village of Valle, before cycling back up over the Østheiane mountain ridge to Fyresdal (this is the end of the three-day alternative).
From here, you can follow several parts of the beautiful Telemark Canal all the way down to Skien. From the capital of Telemark, you can reach most places by train, whether you’re heading back to the Sørlandet (Agder) region or to Oslo. Ferries to Hirtshals (Denmark) depart daily from Larvik, just 30 kilometres away.
Alternative option
Many choose to start the journey from Sandnes instead of Flekkefjord, which is much closer to Stavanger. From here, you can cycle to the ferry terminal in Lauvvik, and take the Lysefjord ferry to Lysebotn.
From this point, on the ferry, you can see the world-famous Preikestolen hanging several hundred metres above the fjord. From Lysebotn, you cycle steeply up to Ådneram or Suleskar for an overnight stay, before heading down to Valle.
This alternative requires moderate to very good fitness, with high demands for bike lights due to some cycling through tunnels from Lysebotn.
More information
Discover more about the Suleskarvegen cycle path here.
The Lake Ogge cycle loop (local, northeastward)
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The Lake Ogge cycle loop (Oggevatn rundt) is one of the most classic cycling routes in the Vennesla and Kristiansand area.
The tour begins in Kristiansand, following the bike path eastwards along Varoddbroa, continuing to Hamresanden beach and the village of Tveit. The route then majestically winds along the Tovdalselva and Rugsland. Tovdalselva is a famous salmon river, and if you’re lucky, you may see ripples in the water from the fish.
From Mollestadeika, the route follows the road up to Svaland, a tough climb over several kilometres. At the top, you reach the low mountain plateau at 200 metres above sea level.
The return leg
At this point, the road is relatively flat, but sometimes rolling, heading inland toward Oggevatn. When you reach Oggevatn, the route follows the right shore for about 10 kilometres, occasionally offering views over the lake.
Finally, the local road meets the low-traffic county road 405 toward Vegusdal. You then turn 180 degrees and cycle via Vatnestraum (a favourite spot with a Joker grocery store with a rest stop) back through Vennesla and county road 452 to Kristiansand.
The entire route is just over 100 kilometres with 1,000 metres of elevation. Once back in Kristiansand, a stop at Rådhuskafeen is recommended, where you can enjoy refreshments with a view over the Otra river.
This is a bike-friendly local café, with west-facing outdoor tables and a relaxing atmosphere. Local cyclists often meet here after Saturday rides.
More information
Learn more about the Lake Ogge route here.
Lake Ogge panorama (photo credit: Erik Duncan)
The Mandal loop (local, westward)
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Mandalsruta is somewhat longer than the Lake Ogge cycle loop. But the route offers beautiful coastal sections, especially along the stretch from Mandal to Søgne, back to the city.
This route is quite hilly, with 115 kilometres and 1,583 metres of elevation gain, so it also requires a bit more from you as a cyclist.
After 26 kilometres, you’ve already completed three steep climbs, but after this point until your arrival in Mandal (58 kilometres), it mostly goes downhill. Here, a stop at the local bakery, Edgars Bakeri, in the cobblestone-paved town centre is recommended.
If you’re a fan of swimming, nothing stops you from visiting Norway’s most beautiful small beach, Storebanken. You can also make a stop on the pedestrian bridge in the town to enjoy the bustling boat life and Ræga, a huge orange plastic ball created for the new construction to celebrate the role of the shrimp in Southern Norway.
From here, the route heads homeward through the archipelago via the old trading post Tregde, following the coast to Tangvall. From Tangvall, you can either continue along the coast to Voiebyen or take the road back to Brennåsen before returning to Kristiansand.
More information
Discover more about the attractions in Mandal and Lindesnes here.
The Lillesand loop / The Grimstad loop (local, eastward)
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These two routes are identical in places. However, they differ in that the shorter Lillesand route, at 82 kilometres (1,107 metres of elevation), turns north on County Road 402 to Birkeland, while the longer Grimstad route, at 135 kilometres, turns onto County Road 404 to Herefoss. With 1,778 metres of elevation, it presents a significantly tougher challenge than the shorter alternative.
The highest point of the latter is 204 metres above sea level along Opplandveien at Høyhei. However, both routes are very nice alternatives, featuring coastal landscapes, farmland, and salmon rivers outside of Kristiansand.
There are great spots for a break in both Lillesand and Grimstad. In Lillesand, Lillis Gelato Cafe is recommended for authentic Italian ice cream. Geheb Bakery, just a stone’s throw away, also has outdoor seating. In Grimstad, Sabrura Sticks and Sushi offers the best outdoor seating by the sea, while Central Bakery tempts with baked goods in the old town.
If you are in Grimstad, make sure to visit the display case where the bikes of Hushovd and Lauritzen are exhibited.
Cyclists in Lillesand (photo credit: Erik Duncan)
The Svaland loop (two alternatives)
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The two alternative Svaland routes start in Kristiansand, then follow the road east over the Varodd Bridge, via Hamresanden towards Tveit and Birkeland.
Both routes follow the beautiful Tovdalselva River, then make a steep left turn up towards Svaland. Instead of turning into Svaland, the first option (62 kilometres, 799 metres of elevation) follows County Road 35 before it meets Venneslavegen (County Road 45), which leads down towards Vennesla and Kvarstein, ultimately ending up in Kristiansand.
The second route (60 kilometres, 881 metres of elevation) goes over Svaland, which is 310 metres above sea level, then follows the road down to Erkleiv and Bjåvann Golf Course, continuing towards Ålefjær and Kristiansand.
The option via Erkleiv is very winding and steep, but it is also a surprisingly beautiful, untouched area so close to Kristiansand.
At Svaland, on a beautiful day, you can see Telemark cattle. It is Norway’s oldest breed of cattle and has been seen as a national symbol. Today, however, it is considered an endangered species.
More information
- Read more about Svaland and its cattle.
- Or visit the Svaland Facebook group for more local insights.
Tovdal river near Rugsland (photo credit: Erik Duncan)
Part 5: Things you should know before a cycling holiday in Norway
Practicalities of cycling in Kristiansand
When is the best time for cyclists to visit?
As a general rule, it is best to visit Agder between May and September to make the most of the weather.
The summer months of July and August are the warmest, and temperatures up to 23-24 degrees are not uncommon, although the average is around 20 degrees.
Top tip! Temperatures tend to be more stable the further east you go in Agder, as cities like Mandal, Farsund, and Flekkefjord are often exposed to winds from the North Sea.
What is the best accommodation for cyclists in Kristiansand and Agder?
Remember to double-check bike storage arrangements (and any other services you need) before booking your accommodation as policies often change and they may charge for storage.
There isn’t any accommodation in Kristiansand that is specifically dedicated to cyclists. But cyclists are generally very welcome.
When in Kristiansand during the summer, it is recommended to stay in the city centre. There are also alternatives outside the city, including campsites and other apartment options, but you might miss out on what the city has to offer.
In the summer, there is a lot to see and do. It is recommended to book a room early, as the city’s hotels are usually very busy during this time.
Kristiansand hotels
- The Clarion Hotel Ernst dates back to 1858 and offers individually designed rooms in the city centre.
- The Scandic Hotel Bystranda is located by the small Bystranda beach, just an 8-minute walk from Kristiansand’s most popular shopping street, Markensgate. It offers free WiFi, a restaurant, and a hotel bar. It’s also adjacent to Aquarama, which has both outdoor and indoor swimming pools with saunas.
- The newly-renovated Radisson Blu Caledonien Hotel is located a 3-minute walk from the pedestrian street Markens. The hotel has soundproofed rooms that offer views of the city or the Skagerrak.
Grimstad hotels
- The Clarion Collection® Hotel Grimstad is ideally located in the heart of Grimstad. It’s only a short walk to Grimstad’s shops, restaurants, and cultural life, and the hotel is surrounded by white houses, charming narrow streets, and cosy alleys.
Lillesand hotels
- The small and historic Hotel Norge is located right in the heart of Lillesand. Just by the harbour area and the guest dock, and within immediate proximity to the pedestrian street, shops, and restaurants. In the summer, this is where the action is.
Boats in Lillesand harbour (photo credit: Erik Duncan)
Are there places for bike hire/bike shops in Agder?
Prices, services and bike brands often change. Please let us know if anything is incorrect.
Bike rental in Norway, especially for road bikes, can be a bit challenging as it is not as common as in other European countries. As a general rule, it’s recommended to bring your own bike where possible. However, there are alternatives.
Hyggelo is a website in Norway dedicated to rentals, including bicycles, directly from private individuals. Based on experience, you can find quality bikes of all standards and types here.
In Kristiansand, there is an active bike repair shop and retail outlet called Pedalen. The Pedalen bike workshop in Kristiansand is part of the Church City Mission. The bike workshop provides service and repairs and sells new/used bikes. It also has its own cycling team, which participates in the annual Color Line Tour. They also offer rental options.
Kristiansand Sykkelsenter in Grim is another place with excellent service, which may also be able to assist with rentals.
Unaas Cycling, located outside the city centre, is another option that offers top service and well-known bike brands.
How to get to Kristiansand?
The easiest option for getting to Kristiansand is to use Kjevik, the region’s airport. KLM flies here with about three daily routes from Amsterdam. In addition, SAS flies here from Oslo and Copenhagen. A cheaper alternative for many is to fly to Torp Sandefjord and take a bus or train from there instead.
Go Ahead Nordic has train departures to and from Kristiansand train station, which is located in the city centre by the harbour.
Here, you will also find the bus station with many bus departures to both Oslo and Stavanger. There are bus departures to local and regional destinations too. In the same area, you will find the ferry terminal, with daily departures to Hirtshals for both the Color Line and Fjordline.
There are taxis in the area, including maxi-taxis with space for bicycles, but taxis in Norway are very expensive and not recommended. The exception is standard trips to and from the airport. Agder Taxi has a fixed price to Kjevik.
Highway code and travel information
As ever, it’s a good idea to check current travel information before you book and travel. For UK visitors, the UK government travel information pages for Norway are here.
You should also read and follow Norway’s highway code.
Tips for riding in the Agder region
What are the key cycling events in Agder?
The Color Line Tour is the main Agder cycling event, and it will be held in 2025 for the 39th time!
This spectacular tour race is 210 kilometres long and runs from Kristiansand to Hovden, at the top of Setesdal. As the name of the race suggests, the start is from the centre of Kristiansand via Color Line’s terminal in Kristiansand, and then to Hovden town centre, 800 metres above sea level.
The fastest team to have cycled the current route is Team Kjekkas. In 2021, they finished with a time of 4:44:52. However, participants typically take an average of 7 hours to complete the 210 kilometres. The race is organised as an open tour race with wave starts. Time waves are available for individual riders who wish to participate.
Accommodation and logistics
There is an option to either book accommodation in Hovden or reserve a seat on a shuttle bus back to Kristiansand after the race, including space for the bike.
The race is primarily an annual challenge, offering the opportunity to cycle through the beautiful Setesdal with several hundred other cyclists.
It is one of the few cycling races in Norway with a consistent presence of international riders, including a regular group from Hamburg who annually make the trip to Kristiansand via Denmark.
- See more about the Color Line Tour.
- Or check out the Color Line Tour’s Facebook page.
Do I need to train beforehand?
If you’re planning on riding the routes described in this guide – particularly those around Oggevatn, Mandal, or the Suleskarvegen – some prior training is a good idea.
These are not extreme routes, but they do involve climbing and sustained time in the saddle. A typical day might include 1,000 to 1,500 metres of elevation gain.
Aim to be comfortable riding 80–120 kilometres in one go, with some hill work included in your training rides. You’ll enjoy the experience more if you’ve prepared.
What should I pack?
Bring your standard road cycling kit and don’t forget the basics: front and rear lights (essential for tunnels), spare tubes, a multitool, and a lightweight waterproof jacket. Norway’s weather can change quickly, even in summer, particularly inland or at higher elevations. So it’s always worth being prepared.
Reflective gear is recommended for visibility, especially on overcast days or forested roads.
While there’s no need to overpack, a power bank is useful for longer days without stops, and a small lock can come in handy in towns and outside cafés.
Looking for more packing information? Don’t miss this handy, in-depth guide.
Marina café in Grimstad (photo credit: Erik Duncan)
Are there maps or books that can help?
I recommend a couple of resources that are worth looking into before you ride. One is the Suleskarvegen leaflet, which outlines one of the best Southern Norway cycling routes over the mountains between Setesdal and Rogaland.
Another excellent source is “Sørnorske hjulgleder” (Southern Norwegian Wheel Delights) by Knut Bjoraa – a Norwegian cycling guide that includes seven themed rides, each accompanied by an overview map.
While the guide is in Norwegian, the maps and visuals make it accessible to non-Norwegian speakers, and it’s a great way to discover more regional cycling gems.
What about road safety and local rules?
Norway’s roads are generally in good condition, especially on recommended cycling routes, but it’s worth knowing that not all roads have shoulders or bike lanes.
Most Norwegian drivers are considerate, but it’s best to avoid high-traffic regional roads when possible. Reflective clothing and working lights are required if you’re cycling in low light or through tunnels.
The Norwegian Highway Code applies to cyclists too – ride on the right, obey all traffic signs, and indicate clearly when turning. Helmets are not legally required when you’re cycling in Norway, but are strongly recommended.
Is it easy to get food and water while riding?
Yes, especially in the southern coastal region. You’ll find plenty of grocery stores, petrol stations, and cafés in the towns and villages along the way.
Norway’s “Joker” convenience stores are often social hubs in rural areas, with friendly staff, outdoor seating, and long opening hours.
Tap water is clean and drinkable everywhere, and you can fill up your bottles at public taps, restrooms, or any café or petrol station along the route. It’s always smart to carry a couple of snacks and a full bottle, especially on quieter inland rides.
What kind of food should I try?
Saltwater cod, freshwater trout, and shrimp are regional staples, especially in the summer months. If you’re near the coast, don’t miss the chance to sample fresh shellfish or smoked fish sold at local harbours.
Local bakeries (like Edgars Bakeri in Mandal or Geheb in Lillesand) are perfect for sweet treats and post-ride snacks.
From convenience stores, look out for locally made cheeses, Norwegian-style waffles, and fruit juices. Many cyclists also swear by chocolate-covered Kvikk Lunsj bars – Norway’s answer to the KitKat.
Grimstad’s tempting bakery treats (photo credit: Erik Duncan)
Do I need to learn any Norwegian?
Not at all – English is widely spoken across the Agder region, particularly among younger people and in the hospitality industry. That said, learning a few key words goes a long way. A simple “hei” (hello) or “takk” (thank you) is always appreciated and often rewarded with a smile.
For those interested in Norwegian culture and behaviour, I recommend “The Social Guidebook to Norway” – a light-hearted but accurate illustrated guide to how Norwegians think, act, and interact. It’s a good read on the flight over and offers helpful insights into local etiquette and humour.
Is a car necessary for a cycling trip in Agder?
Not really. The region is well-connected by train, bus, and ferry, and many of the best cycling routes can be accessed directly from Kristiansand, Grimstad, or Lillesand.
If you plan to ride linear routes or transfer between regions, public transport can help you bridge gaps, just make sure to check bike rules in advance and reserve where needed.
What’s next?
A huge thank you to Erik for all of his detailed local knowledge on this beautiful region in Norway!
Looking for more inspiration? Don’t miss:
- Read more about cycling in Norway
- Check out our guide to cycling Hamar, situated on Norway’s largest lake
- Plan more Norway cycling holidays with our guide to the best European cycling routes
- Or read about cycling in Finland, another northern European beauty
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Looking for an organised cycling trip?
If you want someone to help you plan and book your cycling holiday, fill out this form. We aren’t a tour operator/agent but we work with lots of people who are and will do our best to put you in touch with someone that can help (within 24 hours where possible)!Based in Kristiansand, Norway, Erik Duncan has spent the past two decades on two wheels, devoting holidays and warm-weather weekends to cycling. Each summer, he undertakes a two-week tour across Central Europe, mixing classics with new discoveries, from the Romantic Road to the Mosel Bike Route. In spring and autumn, he gravitates to Girona and other Spanish cycling hotspots.
From mid-May to mid-September, he explores Kristiansand’s coast-and-low-mountain playground, riding both renowned and hidden routes within easy reach of the city centre. Most of his routes range from 68 to 118 kilometres, manageable for moderately trained riders. Wider Agder adds detours to the famous “white coastal towns” and quiet inland lakes.
Last Reviewed: 23 October 2025
First Published: 18 August 2025
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