Tunnelvegen

Tunnelvegen, also known as "1000-meteren", is a historic mountain road connecting town Øvre Årdal to Tyin lake area in Norway. Built by hand in the early 1900s, it features 42 hairpin turns and offers stunning views of the surrounding fjords and mountains. Today, it's closed for cars, but it is a popular route for cyclists and hikers, providing a unique blend of cultural history and natural beauty.

In Årdal, the deep-rooted tradition of hydropower as an energy source is intertwined with a remarkable piece of engineering history. Early in the 20th century, as Norway embarked on extensive hydroelectric projects in the Tyin watershed, there arose a need for better connectivity between regions. To support this, work began on constructing the road that connected Årdal with Valdres—today known as Tunnelvegen. This road was built by hand using simple tools and machinery, navigating steep terrain and fjord landscapes in a pioneering era of civil engineering.

Historical Highlights:

• Hydroelectric Ambitions: The road was essential to facilitate the hydroelectric development in the Tyin watershed, one of Norway’s most significant early 20th-century energy projects. It enabled transportation of materials, workers, and resources necessary for building power stations that harnessed the power of waterfalls and rivers in the area.
• Engineering Feat: Constructed largely by hand, Tunnelvegen stands as a testament to the skill and perseverance of early 1900s road builders. They overcame harsh conditions and rugged landscapes without the advanced technology we have today, turning a challenging vision into reality.
• Connectivity and Impact: By linking Årdal with Valdres, Tunnelvegen not only served the industrial ambitions of its time but also opened up the region, fostering economic growth and cultural exchange. The road played a critical role in the development of local communities and the expansion of Norway's transportation network.

Today, Tunnelvegen is more than just an old functional route—it is considered a piece of road art. Its scenic path offers what many call the most beautiful bike ride in the country, attracting cyclists and history enthusiasts alike. The road stands as a living museum of early 20th-century engineering.