Planning on cycling in Norway? The lakeside town of Hamar and its peaceful surrounding landscapes are well worth considering.
Hamar is probably not somewhere you are that familiar with! It is certainly not a classic Norway cycling holiday destination. But this town sits on the shores of Norway’s largest lake, Lake Mjøsa. It’s also surrounded by some great rural cycling routes that are within easy reach of the capital, Oslo.
Local cyclist and architect Geir Egilsson has been based in Hamar since 2000 and has a particular passion for gravel and road cycling.
This guide shares Geir’s favourite Hamar cycling routes and why he believes this under-the-radar region is a great option for cyclists looking to experience Norwegian nature.
Sound good? Get ready to cycle Southern Norway…
Location of Hamar
Hamar is a town located in the southeast of Norway. It sits about an hour’s train ride north of Norway’s capital, Oslo.
The town is in the centre of the region Innlandet and has approximately 30,000 inhabitants.
Conveniently, it is easily accessible by several means of transport. Both Norway’s main railway and main north to south road pass through Hamar.
The town is also only 45 minutes away from Oslo Airport Gardermoen by train. Most regional trains have space for bicycles, even if you can’t book it in advance. More on that below.
See our map below featuring some of the places mentioned in this article. Hover over the map pins to see the place names.
Why should cyclists visit Hamar?
The beautiful lakeside town of Hamar is not a famous cycling destination, but it makes a lovely base for cyclists. Adventure is easily within reach of the town.
Lake Mjøsa
Hamar is located on the shores of Norway’s largest lake, Lake Mjøsa.
This beautiful and vast lake is approximately 100 kilometres (62 miles) long and wonderful to cycle alongside. Or why not enjoy swimming after a long day in the saddle? There is the possibility to combine a dip in the lake with a visit to a local sauna at Badstua på Torp.
Top tip! For a unique experience of the lake, you can take a memorable boat trip on the world’s oldest paddle steamer, the Skibladner. This charming old boat was first launched in 1856. Bikes are also welcome on board.
Rich history
Though the modern city of Hamar wasn’t established until 1849, the history of Hamar goes much further back!
Just east of today’s Hamar, on the farm Åker, there was a religious centre and seat of power around the year 400 AD. From around 1000 AD, several important medieval towns in Norway were growing on the shores of the lake near where the town exists today. This turned into a diocese with a cathedral standing tall on a rock by the lake.
This town had its peak around the 12th century, and after years of decay, the church was finally destroyed in a war with the Swedes in 1567. The ruins of the cathedral were eventually rediscovered in the 19th century.
Domkirkeodden (Anno Museum)
In 1998 the ruins of the cathedral were saved by a new glass cathedral built around it.
This is now part of the Anno Museum, which also includes another piece of great architecture built around the bishop’s castle. These two masterpieces of architecture from Lund+Slaatto and Sverre Fehn, are well worth a visit and visually impressive, especially for fellow architects like myself.
The museum park runs along the shores of the Lake Mjøsa. At the westernmost end of the park, you’ll also find the Norweigan Railway Museum which has an old steam train running in the summer months. You’ll even find one of the world’s oldest locomotives here, built by Robert Stephenson & Co in Newcastle Upon Tyne in 1861.
Atlungstad Brenneri
You can visit Norway’s original craft distillery in Hamar.
Located on the shores of Lake Mjøsa in Stange, it produces the famous Scandinavian drink aquavit. The distillery is now a listed building with a restaurant and you can enjoy guided tours.
Munch-senteret
Do you love art? The Munch-senteret celebrates the life of of Edvard Munch. Best known for his world-famous ‘The Scream’ painting, Edvard was born in the Hamar region and spent his much of his childhood here.
Quiet rural routes
From Hamar you have quick access to a wide range of rural, scenic routes in all directions. This includes options on low-traffic roads, gravel tracks and off-road trails.
Each route is surrounded by farms, fields and forests; they’re also never far from the beautiful Lake Mjøsa and a quiet beach.
See below for my favourite local day rides and what you can expect.
National long distance cycle route
Did you know one of EuroVelo’s best long-distance cycling routes passes through Hamar? The EuroVelo 3 is also known as the Pilgrim’s Route and is one of the country’s National Cycle Routes that enable cyclists to bike across Norway.
This route is popular with bike tourers and starts up in Trondheim. In total it takes in huge 5,600 kilometres, finally finishing in Santiago de Compostela in Spain. The latter stages of the route are better known as the Camino de Santiago.
In Norway, the route follows the trails walked by the Norwegian King Olav. In the 11th century he was instrumental in converting the country to Christianity.
Close-knit cycling culture
Every Tuesday morning at 6 am Hamar hosts the Dawn Patrol, a 44 kilometre social ride that takes cyclists out of the town. The ride starts from the roundabout by the crossroads between Grønnegata, Stangevegen and Strandgata (between the station buildings and the bus terminal).
It runs from May to September to make the most of the better weather. There is always post-ride coffee and cinnamon buns at Café Gravdahl from 7.30 am. It’s a great start to the day. More updated info on the Hamar Dawn Patrol can be found on their Instagram page or Strava.

Cycling on the historical Pilgrims Path (photo credit: Geir Egilsson)
Overview of the Hamar region (from a cyclist’s perspective)
Terrain of Hamar
The landscapes directly around the town of Hamar are characterised by rolling hills and farmland. This stretches for around 10-15 kilometres. Beyond this lies peaceful forests and marshland.
The climbs are often long but not steep. On a typical bike ride around Hamar you can expect to climb on average 100 metres for every 10 kilometres ridden.
Lake Mjøsa is around 118 and 123 metres above sea level. The hills around Hamar rise to between 200 and 600 metres. Further north you can expect a little more elevation with the plains rising up to 700 to 1000 metres.
Cycling infrastructure
There is little dedicated cycle infrastructure in the region. There is a lot of shared paths with pedestrians in the town and these shared paths outside of the town tend to be used more by cyclists.
Cycle routes are generally on these pathways or low-traffic roads, and mostly on asphalt. The exception is the EuroVelo route and Mjøstråkk (around the lake). These often lead you on to a gravel path, and not always with a hard surface.
Top tip! There are dedicated signs for cycle routes. These are in dark red.
Road conditions and rules
The main roads are generally paved with asphalt, though you will sometimes find the asphalt changes to gravel along the route.
Gravel roads are common in the region. These are typically roads with little traffic.
Be aware! The quality of the surface, both on asphalt and gravel, can be varied. Winter and spring are a challenge for the roads; the harsh winters bring frost and melting snow which can break these surfaces down. This also means that the roads are repaved quite often.
The normal speed limit in towns is between 30 km/hour and 50 km/hour. In the countryside, the normal speed on the roads is 80 km/h.
Cyclists are generally well-treated in traffic, especially in cities and towns. But most cyclists here know that there is always a chance that you’ll meet the odd aggressive driver too. So always be aware.
What kind of cyclist is Hamar for?
Hamar is ideal for road and gravel riders. Mountain bikes are also well suited to this region. Bike touring is also very popular.
Families might find it challenging that so many routes are shared with cars, but there are a few family options near Hamar.
One of them is to follow the roads and tracks along the lake to the west of Hamar, to Fiskerhytta (The Fishermen’s Cabin); this route takes you just 8 kilometres from the city centre. This is usually open daily in summer and on weekends, with small meals and snacks available at the cabin.
As mentioned above, there are rolling hills and some long slopes to climb. However, you don’t need to be an athlete to ride these comfortably. You can just adjust the pace to your preference.
The best cycling routes from Hamar
All metrics in this article are approximate.
As mentioned previously, there are some great day rides from Hamar, offering various insights into the local landscapes. Below are some of my favourites.
Another great option to consider is the Mjøstråkk route. This place-to-place journey around Lake Mjøsa spans approximately 240 kilometres. You can find out more about it here.
Stange Vestbygd, Tangen and Romedal – Easy
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Discover the Tuscany of the North
The classic Hamar route includes Stange Vestbygd, which has been described as the ‘Tuscany of the North’. The ride explores the fields and landscapes of some of Norway’s best agricultural areas. The picturesque scenery starts just outside Hamar. You take on this longer route, or for a shorter loop, check this out.
Along the way, there are many old farms where you can stop for refreshments. This includes coffee, and delicious fresh strawberries (depending on the time of year).
Top tip! A post-ride meal at Atlungstad is worth considering. This is an old distillery known for its aquavit, a typical Norwegian spirit made from potatoes and often flavoured with caraway.

A typical farm in the hills surrounding Hamar (photo credit: Geir Egilsson)
Rokosjøen – Easy/Moderate
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Explore wild forests and lakes
Head east from Hamar towards Løten and Rokosjøen. Not long after the village Løten you leave the farmland and head into the forest. This dense forest is part of the Taiga (also known as the Boreal forest) that covers much of Norway and Scandinavia.
Every summer some wolves and bears pass through here. These forests are also home to moose and lynx. However, it is more likely that you will spot a highland cow, sheep or horses. Encounters with larger animals are extremely rare and I’ve never heard of a cyclist coming across any. If you do come across any, I’d suggest making noises to make yourself known and retreat away slowly. Or avoid this ride if you are concerned!
After a long stretch, you’ll find Rokosjøen Camping, located beside a lovely peaceful lake. Ring the bell there and ask for waffles and coffee.

The expansive forests not far from Hamar (photo credit: Geir Egilsson)
Helgøya and Nes – Moderate
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Ride to an island in the middle of Lake Mjøsa
This route explores the Island Helgøya, found in the middle of the lake Mjøsa, and the Nes peninsula. On the way, you pass through the little town Brumunddal, home to the tallest timber building in the world – Mjøstårnet.
This ride brings some climbs and long descents. This also means a variety of views in different directions along the way. You’ll find places to fill up in Brumunddal and Tingnes. In mid-summer the farm café Skafferiet is also a great option and is found on the outmost part of the island Helgøya.

Looking out at Helgøya island (photo credit: Geir Egilsson)
Cycling events in Hamar
Just south of Hamar there is a yearly road race, held in September.
The Gylne Gutuer translates as ‘Golden Alleys’. It’s a one-day race that’s part of the UCI Europe Tour. It offers cyclists the chance to race on country roads in Stange. It’s also a great event to watch.
Where to stay in Hamar (for cyclists)
Remember to double-check accommodation bike storage arrangements (and any other services you need) before booking as policies often change.
There are only a handful of hotels to choose from in Hamar. See the options below.
Be aware! If the hotel doesn’t offer a safe place for you to park your bike overnight, there is secure bike parking located in a pavilion to the west of the train station. You’ll need the app called Bane Nor Parkering to use the secured part of it. All the information needed is found outside by the entrance of the bike parking.
Hotel Victoria
Located 80 metres from the train station. This is Hamar’s oldest hotel. The hotel has great views of Lake Mjøsa.
Hotel Scandic
Located within 10 minutes’ walking distance of the train station. Has a garage providing secure bike storage. You can also hire bikes from the hotel.
Hotel Astoria
You can park your bike in the hotel’s secure courtyard.
Vikingskipet Hotell & Vandrerhjem Hostel
Located just three kilometres outside of Hamar. Cyclists can choose between either hotel or hostel-style accommodation, depending on budget and comfort needs. Both are certified as Cyclist Welcome establishments and come with secure, lockable bike storage.
More information for Vikingskipet Hotell
More information for Vandrerhjem Hostel
Innlandet region
Outside of Hamar and in the wider region there are more hotels to choose from.

Moody landscapes of Hedmarken (photo credit: Geir Egilsson)
Bike shops in Hamar
Prices, services and bike brands often change. Please let us know if anything is incorrect.
There are several bike shops offering bike hire located within the town of Hamar and the surrounding region.
Depending on the type of cycling you are interested in; some will suit your needs better than others. Here’s a breakdown:
Leisure bike hire options
Tourist Information
Hamarregionen tourist office, Strandgata 45, 2317 Hamar
Bjerknes B&B
Not located in Hamar, but bikes can be brought to the town.
Bjerknes Bed & Breakfast, Kråkvålvegen 98, 2092 Minnesund, Norge
Infoteket
Electric bike rental available.
Tingnesvegen 796, 2350 Nes-Hedmark
Bike shops with workshops
Sykkel og Fritid
Aslaks Bolts Gate 42, Hamar
Sport1 Superstore Hamar
Ringgata 53, Hamar
XXL Sport Hamar
Kårtorpvegen 1, 2320 Furnes
Other options to consider
Sport1 CC Hamar
Vangsvegen 62, Hamar
NRP Sport
This sports shop in Brumunddal also specialises in cycling.
Brugata 19, 2380 Brumunddal

Geir’s preferred mode of transport in and around Hamar is a gravel bike (photo credit: Geir Egilsson)
Best time of year to visit Hamar
Mid-May to mid-September is the best period for cyclists to visit Hamar. Temperatures a typically pleasant with some lovely sunny days.
The winter months come with lots of snow and ice and so are best avoided.
The autumn period from September and even into October can offer some beautiful, colourful, rides.
Beware! Mornings in this region can be chilly. This means we can often see temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius, even in mid-summer. But with the sun rarely setting in summer (known as the midnight sun), it usually heats up quite quickly.
See below for more useful tips on what kind of weather you can expect in Hamar.

Golden fields and quiet roads (photo credit: Geir Egilsson)
Tips for riding in Hamar (and surrounds)
Water and food
You can drink water from the tap anywhere in Norway.
There is a supermarket around every corner in this region. You’ll find many places to refuel, with coffees, drinks and snacks at open farm cafes, and in most of the small villages along the way.
In Hamar, there is a food court called Matkvartalet. You can eat local food here, or enjoy meals from any corner of the world. There is also a microbrewery and a coffee company located here.
Norway also has some good bakeries around. In Hamar try Kringla in Torggata 11. Bakeriet i Brumunddal also has shops in both Hamar and Brumunddal.
Some great places for coffee are Larsen in Strandgata 53 and Café Gravdahl in Torggata 32.

Coffee and scones at Larsen (photo credit: Geir Egilsson)
Local dishes to try
Looking at the local of restaurants you would think most Norwegians mostly eat pizza. But if you want to taste local food, look for a traditional restaurant and ask for the following:
- Fårikål: The national dish of Norway. It’s a traditional dish that’s basically a lamb and cabbage stew.
- Rakfisk: A fish dish, usually made with trout or char. The fish is fermented for several months and usually has a strong smell. This is eaten raw.
- Pultost: A spreadable cheese that’s usually eaten with bread.
As for drink, Aquavit is a classic Scandinavian spirit. Watch out: it’s typically 40% alcohol.
Weather and seasons
When you are cycling in Norway, you’ll need to be prepared for all kinds of weather.
We have a saying in Norway that is quite appropriate: there is no such thing as bad weather, just get dressed for it. So make sure you check the weather forecast and pack accordingly.
See more packing essentials here.
Typically, the Hamar region is known to have a stable climate. Typically, through June, July and August, even rainy days stay mild. In April, May, September and October, the temperatures might drop far below 10 degrees Celsius. From November to March, you can expect frost and snowy conditions. However, in recent years weather patterns seem to have changed and often don’t fit these norms. Don’t be surprised if the day starts with sun and ends in pouring rain, or the opposite.
If you dare to venture here in winter, don’t forget your spikes and lights.
Top tip! Spikes, or studded tyres, make you a lot safer on roads with ice and snow. Winter roads in Hamar can get quite slippery, especially when the snow falls, melts, and then freezes again. This ice might stay for months between December and March. The spikes can also give you some support if you ever get to try cycling on the lake, which freezes some winters.
But be careful, as it’s not always safe, even if it seems so. Talk with local people about the conditions, and don’t take any risks.

Late summer is a lovely time to visit Hamar (photo credit: Geir Egilsson)
Infrastructure and road safety
As there is little dedicated infrastructure for cyclists, you are allowed to use both the road and the pavement.
But riding among pedestrians means that you are obliged to show them respect, so don’t pass at high speed, and give a signal if you can. This always seems to make them happier.
When you cross a road from a pavement or cycling path, you should give way to other traffic, unless there is a sign saying otherwise.
If you’re cycling on a street (typically located in villages and towns) or a road (found on the outskirts of these villages and towns and in the countryside), you are supposed to act as expected from cars. Just be sure to make yourself visible in any situation.
Top tip! Very often drivers give you more rights than you have, which is very nice. But it can be a little confusing when everyone is standing still around the crossroads.
Tunnels
Though there are few tunnels around Hamar, be aware that many of the roads around Norway lead to a tunnel at some point.
Sometimes there is a route around, but often it’s the only way. If the tunnel is long and dark, do consider getting through with a bus, or hitch a lift with someone. See this website for information about cycling in tunnels in Norway.
Other useful information for biking in Norway
- To get tips for cycling around the Lake Mjøsa, visit here
- Hamar commune (the municipality) has some information and maps about cycling in Hamar
- This page also has some good Hamar route tips.
- You can also find some additional route ideas here.

Blissfully quiet country roads (photo credit: Geir Egilsson)
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.
Anyone planning on cycling in Norway should also read and follow Norway’s highway code.
Getting to Hamar
Hamar is easy to get to by public transportation.
Oslo Airport Gardermoen is just 45 minutes by train from Hamar.
Oslo has daily trains to both Gothenburg and Stockholm, connecting Norway to the rest of Europe.
Hamar is just a little more than an hour by train from Oslo. Hamar is also well connected by train with Lillehammer, Røros and Trondheim. There are also connections to Åndalsnes on the dramatic west coast, as well as Bodø, the last station before Lofoten.
Top tip! Bikes are allowed on trains. On the regional trains you don’t need to book in advance, and they allow bikes as long as there is enough space. On long distance trains like Oslo to Trondheim, you’ll need to book in advance, both for yourself and your bike.

Norway’s cultural capital, Oslo, is just over an hour away by train from Hamar
A huge thank you to Geir Egilsson for sharing these great insights into cycling in Hamar and surrounding landscapes. We hope it has provided some useful information to help you plan your Norway cycling tour.
Have you found Geir’s Norway cycling routes inspiring? Drop us a comment and let us know! Perhaps you have been lucky enough to ride Norway’s beautiful fjords, coastal landscapes or majestic mountains? We’d love to hear from you, if so.
Looking for more cycling trips in remote and wild destinations? Don’t miss these articles…
- The Saimaa cycle tour
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- Vancouver to Prince Rupert
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