The Mjølkevegen, or Milky Way, is a 155-mile (250km) cycling route in southern Norway, extending from Vinstra in the north to Gol in the south. This route, which skirts the edges of Jotunheimen national park, was initially established after the second world war to facilitate milk transport from mountain farms to towns.
In recent years, the Mjølkevegen has become a favoured destination for gravel cyclists, who typically use drop-bar bikes on unpaved roads and trails. The route offers a multi-day adventure, with riders often averaging around 45 miles (75km) daily and experiencing approximately 1,500 metres (4,900ft) of ascent.
The journey includes passing through areas with traditional inns, such as Ruten Fjellstue, and offers views of the Jotunheimen mountains. Cyclists can also encounter features like the M/B Bitihorn passenger ferry on Lake Bygdin, which has been in service for over a century, and historic stave churches, such as the one at Øye.
While the roads are largely traffic-free, cyclists are advised to be aware of sheep. The weather on the Mjølkevegen, which sits between 800–1,300 metres above sea level, can change rapidly, presenting varied conditions for riders.