For the third instalment of a series dedicated to this extensive cycling network, we highlight the EuroVelo 3, also known as the Pilgrims Route or La Scandibérique. Starting in Norway, it’s a 5,100km-long cycling journey winding through Sweden, Denmark, Germany, Belgium, France and culminating in Spain. Along the way, cyclists will traverse ancient roads, see monumental fjords and pass some of the most revered religious buildings in Europe. As it’s quite a commitment completing the entire route, we’ve broken this journey down to a shorter version, starting in Trondheim, Norway and finishing in Hamburg, Germany.
Norway
Cycling past midnight-blue fjords is a cinematic experience
The Norwegian section of EuroVelo 3 (from Trondheim to Oslo) takes you through 643km of terrain that’s varied enough to keep your cycling stamina at full capacity – from rural, mountainous sections with midnight-blue fjord lakes to the waterways of Trondheim, a city founded by Vikings. Signage is limited on this part of the route so to avoid any unwanted divergences, we’d advise contacting the local tourist office or Cycling Norway before you set off.
Trondheim
The Nidarosdomen Cathedral is a combination of Romanesque and Gothic styles
The EuroVelo 3 officially starts in Trondheim, located on the eponymous fjord. Most visitors to the city come on a pilgrimage to see the ornamented grey Romanesque and Gothic facade of Nidarosdomen Cathedral, which was built upon the burial site of St. Olav, a former Norwegian king who became a patron saint of the nation (and who reigned from 1015 to 1028). In summer, visitors can also climb the 172 steps to the top of the cathedral tower – a good warm-up for your cycling tour ahead. Get a good night’s sleep before you get going at Thon Hotel Nidaros (Gildevangen).
Oslo
Gaze out over the Oslo fjords
Oslo is your last city stop in Norway before crossing the border to Sweden. After passing through the Dovrefjell mountain range, the towns of Lillehammer and Hamar, and now the city of Oslo, this is a great opportunity to rest your legs and take some time to recoup. Lounge in one of the many parks throughout the city or wander through Astrup Fearnley Museet, a museum of modern art. Stay at the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel.
Sweden
Snake along Sweden's western coast through golden fields
The Swedish route will be a welcome relief in terms of navigation, as from now on you can expect to follow well-marked cycling paths. The trail also merges here with the EuroVelo 12 trail (North Sea Cycle Route), snaking along the west coast of Sweden. Another bonus of arriving on this section is the flat terrain, providing welcome respite from the inclines of Sweden’s mountains, and instead cruising beaches and peaceful meadows.
Göteborg (Gothenburg)
Stop by the towering Masthuggskyrkan atop a hill in Gothenburg
As you cross the border between Norway and Sweden, your efforts will be rewarded with the scenery changing once again. Here, the Bohuslän landscape emerges as your backdrop – meaning reflective, calm seas beside dunes and grassy countryside – until you hit the last of the Swedish leg in Göteborg. Make your first stop to see Masthuggskyrkan (Masthugg Church), built in 1914 and showcasing a style of Nordic architecture that reflects the historic shipping culture of Viking Gothenburg. Enjoy the panorama of the city from the church, by climbing up its 60 metre-high tower. Once you’ve toured the town, stay by the port at Hotel Opera. The next leg of the journey swaps land for sea, with a ferry from Göteborg to Frederikshavn, Denmark.
Denmark
Glide through Thy National Park and eventually arrive in Viborg
Once you’ve caught the ferry over to Frederikshavn, you’ll be following the old Ochsenweg (oxen road) as you make your way down to the small town of Padborg. The old oxen road has been used by farmers transporting cattle, marching soldiers, merchants and pilgrims since ancient times – not only is this a well-trodden route but it also takes you away from busy roads along a more scenic route of marshland, forests, meadows and rivers.
Viborg
Viborg is a city of churches, so cycle through its quiet streets in search of them
Along the oxen road, stop into Viborg, one of the largest cities on the Danish part of the route. If your schedule allows for it, a tour of the city’s wealth of churches will no doubt impress. There’s Viborg Cathedral, a symbol of the city that was built in the 1100s and still contains its original crypt – the rest of the building having been damaged by fire and rebuilt over the years. Soendermarks Church is also worth a visit, with an abstract exterior and inside, a large seashell featuring as the baptismal font. After a day of sightseeing, stay at Motel Viborg before moving on to Germany.
Germany
Arriving in Germany, you'll make your way towards industrial Hamburg
Starting in Flensburg, this leg of the journey sees cyclists travel the final 168km to Hamburg, where our suggested section of the EuroVelo3 ends. For those seeking the extended route through Germany, you’ll continue cycling through Flensburg and finish in Aachen before crossing the border to Belgium. Expect well-signposted bike trails that will guide you through the country.
Hamburg
St. Michael's Church is an impressive sight and Hamburg's most famous church
Enjoy your celebratory cycle into the northern German port city of Hamburg, the final destination on this particular adventure. Once settled, do as pilgrims have done since 1255 and visit St. James' Church, where you’ll find treasures including three medieval altars dating back to 1500, exquisite stained-glass windows and the largest Baroque organ in northern Germany. Another church worth visiting here is St. Michael's Church; from the large, bronze statue standing at its entrance (depicting an archangel defeating the devil) to its ostentatious interior (featuring five organs, a 20 metre-high altar and detailed, gold furnishings), it’s quite a sight to see. Call it a day at Ruby Lotti Hotel Hamburg and enjoy a well-deserved rest.
