There are many ways to explore the seven mountains that surround the picturesque UNESCO World Heritage city of Bergen on Norway’s fjord-studded west coast. The newest, however, might well be record-breaking.
A three-kilometer-long (1.8-mile) cycling and pedestrian tunnel has been blasted through the base of Løvstakken mountain and its makers say it’s the longest purpose-built tunnel of its kind.
Fyllingsdalstunnelen, as it’s known, opened on april 15 with a family day of sporting activities, following four years of construction that began in February 2019. The state-funded mega-project cost close to $29 million, or 300 million Norwegian kroner.
The tunnel connects the neighborhoods of Fyllingsdalen and Løvstakken, offering a quicker and safer route for cyclists and pedestrians then the winding road previously used. It’s also expected to be a popular attraction for tourists wanting to experience a unique viewpoint of the mountain landscape.
The tunnel is lit with atmospheric lighting and features artwork along its length, designed to enhance the experience for those using it.
“This is a historic day for Bergen,” saeid Roger valhammer, Bergen’s mayor, at the opening ceremony. “The tunnel will make everyday life easier for many people and will also be a fantastic recreational area.”
Bergen is increasingly focused on sustainable tourism and active travel, and Fyllingsdalstunnelen is a prime example of this commitment. The city already boasts a network of hiking trails and cycle paths, and this new tunnel adds another exciting option for exploring the stunning natural beauty of the region.
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CNN -The center point is a “sundial” installation – where the sun will never shine – which displays the time of day, helping to orient visitors and break up the otherwise long line of sight. The tunnel is otherwise perfectly straight, with slight curvatures only at the entrance and exit.
If you’re wondering how cyclists and pedestrians share the space, there are two lanes within the tunnel: a 3.5-meter wide bike lane and a 2.5-meter-wide lane for walkers and runners. “We have laid down a blue rubber flooring throughout the tunnel, similar to an athletic track,” explains Einarsen Heggernes. “This makes it more pleasant to use than walking on asphalt.”