Ride: Gaustablikk High Mountain Pass
This is a route for anyone looking for one of the most accessible mountain adventures from Oslo. In addition to spectacular scenery—including one of Norway's most iconic peaks, Gaustatoppen—the trip takes you through two UNESCO World Heritage towns, offers the chance for an unforgettable bungee jump, and includes an important chapter of Norwegian history.
The route can be completed in a single day, but we recommend staying overnight. There are plenty of options, either in central Rjukan or by camping in the mountains.
The beginning of the journey out of Oslo—and the return trip—can be somewhat less exciting. Unless you are very creative with your route planning, you should expect a couple of hours on motorways. However, the mountain roads that follow make it well worth it.
Take the E18 to Drammen. From here, you can either follow the signs directly to Kongsberg via the E134 (exit after Drammensbrua), or take Road 283 towards Hokksund. The latter is the more scenic option and does not add much extra time.
Continue along the E134 through Notodden and on to Sauland—approximately a two-hour drive from Oslo. Notodden is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is well worth a short stop. There is also a lovely beach here if the weather and conditions invite a swim.
From Sauland, the route climbs into the mountains. Turn right towards Tuddal, and continue following the signs towards Rjukan. Along the way, you will pass Gaustatoppen, offering spectacular views when the weather is clear. A hiking trail leads from the roadside parking area all the way to the summit. The hike takes approximately two to three hours.
Continue down into Rjukan. At the bottom of the valley, turn left and drive for around 20 minutes to reach the Vemork Industrial Museum. This historic site played a central role in the Norwegian resistance during World War II and was the location of Germany's unsuccessful attempt to produce heavy water for its nuclear weapons programme.
The area is also home to Norway's most spectacular bungee jump, with jumps taking place into the gorge beneath Vemork Bridge.
From Rjukan, there are several options for the return journey.
The shortest option is to follow County Road 37 back towards Kongsberg, and then take the most direct route back to Oslo.
A more scenic alternative is to drive towards Atrå and Austbygdi. From here, you can either cross the mountains again and descend towards Veggli (the longest and most scenic option), or continue via Hovin, Ormemyr, and Jondalen (slightly shorter, but still a beautiful drive).
The full route involves just under six to nearly seven hours of driving, depending on which return option you choose. Please note that mountain weather and driving conditions can be challenging. Check the weather forecast and road conditions if you are travelling early or late in the season.