Cycling with children in Valdres — the complete family guide
The best family-friendly cycling routes in Valdres for children. Flat railway trail, lake loops and short nature paths — with practical tips on age, equipment and breaks.
Valdres is one of Norway's best destinations for family cycling. Flat trails, little traffic and spectacular scenery make the region ideal for children of all ages — from pushchair to their own handlebars.
Which cycling routes in Valdres are suitable for children?
The three best children's routes in Valdres are Valdresbanen sykkelvei (12 km flat railway trail), Fløafjorden family loop (22 km around the lake) and the Slidrefjorden loop (18 km along the water). All have minimal traffic, little elevation gain and good signage.
Route 1: Valdresbanen sykkelvei — the perfect starter route
Valdresbanen is built on the disused railway line between Fagernes and Leira and is the most family-friendly cycling route in Valdres.
Facts:
- Distance: 12 km (one way) or 24 km return
- Elevation: almost flat (railway gradient, max 2%)
- Surface: tarmac cycle path
- Traffic: car-free, cyclists and pedestrians only
- Suitable for: from age 6 on their own bike, pushchair/child seat from infancy
What you'll see along the way:
- Tunnels from the railway era (with lighting inside)
- Views over the Valdres valley and Randsfjorden
- Rest stops with tables and benches
- Bridges over streams and rivers
Recommended: Start in Fagernes, cycle to Leira (12 km), have lunch and take the bus back (Valdresekspressen stops in Leira). Or cycle return for older children.
Route 2: Fløafjorden family loop — water all the way
One of Valdres' most beautiful flat loops, along the shores of Fløafjorden with swimming spots along the way.
Facts:
- Distance: 22.5 km (full loop) or 10 km (short version north side)
- Elevation: 180 hm total — spread over the whole loop
- Surface: mix of tarmac and gravel road
- Traffic: very little, especially on the north side
- Suitable for: from age 8 (full loop), from age 6 (short version)
Highlights:
- Swimming at Fløafjorden (sandy beach and flat entry)
- Fishing at the outlet
- Farm on the north side selling ice cream and fruit in summer
Short version (10 km): Start in Leira, north along the lake to Bøvra, return the same way. Total 80 hm.
Route 3: Slidrefjorden loop — lake idyll
Flat loop along Slidrefjorden in Øystre Slidre — the best known of the Valdres lakes.
Facts:
- Distance: 18 km
- Elevation: 120 hm
- Surface: tarmac
- Traffic: very little
- Suitable for: from age 7 on their own bike
Stops: Slidre church (medieval church with a view), Reinli Stave Church (5 km detour — worth it for history enthusiasts), and a picnic area at the lakeside.
Age and equipment
Helmet: Mandatory for children under 15. Fit check matters — the helmet should sit flat, not tilt backwards.
Tips for a successful family cycling trip
What should you bring on a family cycling trip with children?
Bring more food and water than you think you need — children underestimate their hunger. Have a clear plan for breaks (every 30–45 min). Pack plasters and sun cream. For trailers: check tyre pressure, and bring a rain cover.
Plan for half the expected distance. Children are unpredictable — what "should" take 2 hours often takes 3.5.
Food strategy: Start with a good breakfast. Keep a small snack supply (raisins, nuts, biscuits) ready in your pocket — not packed away in the saddle bag. Grapes and orange segments are popular break food.
Purposeful breaks: Stop at a stream, bridge or landmark. "We're cycling to that red barn" works better than "3 km to go".
Rain plan: Keep waterproofs for everyone easily accessible. Children cool down quickly when they stop in the wind.
Puncture readiness: Children's bikes puncture easily. Bring a pump and a patch kit.
Bike hire with children's options
Fagernes Sportssenter: Children's bikes (20" and 24"), cycle trailers and tag-a-longs. Call ahead to check availability. Beitostølen Helsesportsenter: Focuses on e-bikes and adult bikes, but can help with children's referrals.
SykkelValdres updates family routes regularly. Tips about new child-friendly trails are warmly received via the contact form.