World’s Longest Purpose-Built Cycling Tunnel Opens in Norway
Bergen, Norway – Cyclists in Norway now have a new route to take, thanks to the opening of the Fyllingsdalstunnelen, the world’s longest purpose-built cycling tunnel. The 2.9-kilometer (1.8-mile) tunnel, located in Bergen, opened to the public on March 29, 2024, offering a dedicated, weather-protected passageway for cyclists and pedestrians.
The tunnel’s creation stemmed from the construction of Bergen’s second Bybanen tram line, which launched in November 2022. As the tram line required a parallel evacuation tunnel through the mountain, developers opted to repurpose it as a multipurpose route for cyclists and walkers. This provides a safe and efficient option to a hilly and often challenging road route, significantly improving accessibility for commuters and recreational riders alike.
Bergen, norway’s second-largest city and a major port, is well-connected to the capital Oslo via the 496-kilometer Bergensbanen railway. The railway line is famed for its scenic route across the Hardangervidda plateau – a landscape that famously served as a backdrop for battle scenes in “Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back.”
While the Fyllingsdalstunnelen claims the title of longest purpose-built cycling tunnel, the 3.6-kilometer Snoqualmie Tunnel in Washington state, USA, currently holds the record for the longest overall cycling tunnel. Originally a train tunnel, Snoqualmie Tunnel is now part of the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail, accommodating cyclists, runners, and walkers.
The opening of the Fyllingsdalstunnelen underscores a growing global trend towards prioritizing cycling infrastructure. Recent CNN Travel rankings highlighted ten of the world’s most bike-pleasant cities,including six in Europe. Cities like Copenhagen (with 385 kilometers of bike lanes), Strasbourg (offering 24/7 bike-sharing), and Bern (featuring exhilarating downhill trails) demonstrate a commitment to creating safe and accessible cycling environments.
