Jostedal Valley
The Jostedal Valley descends South-Southsoutheast from the Jostedalsbreen glacier toward the Gaupnefjord. The terrain follows a glacial drainage pattern where high-altitude meltwater transitions into the Jostedola River, cutting through the Precambrian gneiss of the valley floor. Historically, this descent served as a critical path for transporting mountain-sourced goods down to the Sognefjord for maritime distribution. The 13th-century Jostedal Church marks the lower valley’s historical center, where the environment shifts from rugged alpine rock to arable land shaped by centuries of river sediment.
The cycling profile is defined by a continuous descent that mirrors the river’s southward flow. The downhill trajectory features high-velocity sections as the road drops from the glacier’s edge toward sea level. The route lacks the tight hairpins found in the French Alps, instead focusing on high-speed stability through long, sweeping curves and open straights. These sections have been utilized in professional competition during the Tour of Norway to test aerodynamic efficiency and peloton positioning. The high-fidelity tarmac and surrounding glacial scenery provide a technical environment for maintaining momentum and speed against the valley’s characteristic wind exposure.
Region: Vestland fylke
City: Luster
Distance: 32.77 km
Elevation Gain: 96 m
Elevation Loss: 347 m
Difficulty: 123 (Easy)
FIETS Index: 0.21 FIETS
Avg Grade: -0.83 %
Max cat climb: 5
Min elevation: 4 m
Max elevation: 263 m
Ride Category: Flat