Sandviken Camping

Context

The route started Friday afternoon from central Oslo toward Kongsberg. It was exactly the wrong time to leave the city, because everyone else was heading home from work.

The first part of the stage became stop-and-go traffic and long queue riding. Only after Kongsberg could I finally turn north onto smaller roads.

Route Character

The day’s objective was pure transport to Sandviken Camping near the top of Tinnsjø. At 164 km it should have been straightforward, but Friday traffic delayed the ride significantly.

After Kongsberg, the stage changed completely. Small winding and hilly roads finally delivered the rhythm I had been waiting for. Several stretches even felt mountain-like, and the scenery was outstanding.

Mid-corner on a small mountain road, I suddenly faced a large mountain ram with heavy curled horns. I had to brake hard to avoid an accident. After a tense stare-down, the animal stepped aside and I continued carefully.

Lessons

When I reached Sandviken Camping, the heat was intense and I needed something cold to drink. Reception informed me the campsite was alcohol-free, and the cabin initially looked worn and uninviting.

Inside, the cabin had an old-fashioned style that felt strangely familiar. After a video call with my parents, we realized it was the exact same cabin we had rented when I was a child. Almost nothing had changed.

I rode to the local shop and discreetly brought back a well-deserved cold beer.

What to Expect

After a tough workweek and a hot ride, I fell asleep easily, but woke up at 4:00 AM covered in tiny black bugs in my hair and on my body. A quick shower and an early pack-out became the real start of Day 2.

Day 1 is a clear reminder that timing, traffic, and accommodation conditions can shape the tone of a tour long before the major mountain passes begin.