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Andalsnes to Oslo bus and train logistics
We are looking to do a two-week trip in the fjords, and return from Andalsnes with our bikes to Oslo in early August. It looks as though, from Andalsnes to Dombas, there are only rail replacement busses until August 17, and these do not accept bikes. As of August 18, it appears as though the trains operate again, but it is not possible to reserve a bike spot on either the Andlasnes-Dombas leg or the Dombas-Oslo leg. Does anyone have know the answers to any of the following:
1. Is it normal to not be able to reserve bike spots (especially on a line where VY says it is mandatory)? It appears possible to reserve a spot departing from Trondheim on these same trips.
2. Are these Aug 18 trains are likely to have space for bikes without a reservation?
3. Are these Aug 18 trains are likely to be replaced by buses (that won’t accept bikes)?
4. Are there alternative transport options for this route that would transport the bikes as well?
Thanks for helping us figure this out!
Matt
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6 Replies
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https://www.sj.no/en/plan-your-journey/lugagge/bicycles/
You can contact us via:Chat: click on the chat bubble on our website Phone: (+47) 61 25 22 00E-mail: [email protected]
sj.no
You may bring bicycles aboard. On departures with seat reservation you need to book an add-on for your bike.
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1. Is it normal to not be able to reserve bike spots (especially on a line where VY says it is mandatory)? It appears possible to reserve a spot departing from Trondheim on these same trips. Oslo to Dombås, you can reserve a bike spot – contact customer service if you have an issue.
2. Are these Aug 18 trains are likely to have space for bikes without a reservation? – Can not answer that question. The rule is you have to fight to get your bike on when it’s busy. Don’t be polite.
3. Are these Aug 18 trains are likely to be replaced by buses (that won’t accept bikes)? Can not answer that question.
4. Are there alternative transport options for this route that would transport the bikes as well? Hiring a car or riding the 110km route.
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Recent personal experience with a bike on the Åndalsnes- Dombås route: You’re correct that it’s not possible to book a bike on this leg (make any other connecting reservations on a separate ticket so as to be able to book the bike on those trains). When I was there 28 June, there were 4 cyclists total waiting for the train. Train conductor told all of us that it was unlikely we would be able to board, due to expected heavy passenger load, lots of baggage, baby carriages, reasons, etc. We offered up removing wheels, etc. but received a very noncommittal reply. As I’m sure you’ve found, there are limited alternatives out of Åndalsnes that doesn’t involve the train or riding over Trollstigen (which was still closed while we were there). 5 min before departure, we were permitted to board with the bikes provided we could remove the wheels and all bags and stack the bikes on top of other luggage that was crammed in the vending machine area. Very stressful, but it all worked out for us. I completely agree with Matthew in that being forceful with the train staff and standing up for your rights is critical. In the end, how is a bike different than any other luggage others bring along?
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Thanks Ken, It’s remarkable that they prioritise people with large suitcases over cyclists. There should be a designated train compartment for bikes, especially since Trollstigen, Norway’s most famous cycling road, is next door. You would have thought they might have considered this.
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Even in a bicycle country like the Netherlands you pay a fee for bringing a bike along and can’t bring them in rush hour… yet it’s perfectly fine to bring three large suitcases (free of charge) and block the aisle :’)…
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Thanks Matthew and Ken for your insights! We are looking at changing our route a bit to make it a coast + mountain loop out of Bergen instead to avoid this uncertainty, but we will be sure to be assertive on any train we hop on!
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