Railway walk along Old Drammen Line

A Practical Look at the Railway Walk Along Old Drammen Line

If you’re exploring Oslo and fancy a different kind of outdoor experience, the Railway walk along Old Drammen Line might just catch your interest. This tour appeals to those who enjoy gentle walks with a bit of a historical twist and some scenic views. While it doesn’t boast high-octane adventure, it offers a peaceful way to see the Norwegian countryside and perhaps get a feel for local rail history.

What’s great about this experience? First, the walk’s scenic setting really shines—passing through tunnels, alongside fjord views, and by former stations that have their own stories. Second, the flexibility of extending your walk from 6 to 10 kilometers without extra cost is a nice perk. However, one thing to consider is that the cost might seem a bit high for what’s essentially a scenic walk combined with train rides, especially if you’re traveling solo or on a tight budget.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate leisurely outings, enjoy light physical activity, and are curious about Norway’s railway history. It’s especially appealing if you’re in Oslo and want a day outside the city without committing to something too strenuous or lengthy.

Key Points

• Scenic route with views of Drammen fjord and passage through tunnels
• Flexible walking options for extending the trail at no extra charge
• Includes train rides, notably through Norway’s third-longest railway tunnel
• Private experience, so your group won’t be mixed with strangers
• Accessible near public transportation and with service animals permitted
• Book in advance, often 11 days ahead, for better availability and planning

Exploring the Railway Walk Along Old Drammen Line

This tour is marketed as a 4-hour experience based in Oslo, starting from TigerJernbanetorget. It involves a train journey to Spikkestad and then a walk along the historic Old Drammen Line Rail Trail, which is about 6 kilometers long. What makes it appealing, in our view, is the combination of train travel and scenic walking—a simple but effective way to enjoy Norway’s beautiful landscape without overexerting yourself.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at Spikkestad:
The journey kicks off at Spikkestad, where your group will gather near the old station building. Interestingly, this building has recently been used as a bar and restaurant, adding a bit of local charm to the starting point. From here, the trail begins, leading you into the countryside.

Passing through tunnels:
One of the highlights is crossing two railway tunnels, with the longer one being lit. These tunnels lend an atmospheric touch to the walk, and we love the way they add a hint of adventure, especially through the lit tunnel, which offers a safe, illuminated passage. As you emerge, you’ll be greeted with sweeping views of the fjord, a scenery that’s typical of Norway but especially striking from this vantage point.

The Gullaug halt:
After passing through the tunnels, you’ll arrive at Gullaug halt—a perfect spot to take a break. The platform here offers comfortable seating and a fantastic view of the fjord. The 15-minute stop is enough to stretch your legs and soak in the scenery, which, based on a review, is described as “a great view of the Drammen fjord from this spot.”

The train through Lieråsen Tunnel:
The trip continues with a train ride through Norway’s third-longest railway tunnel, the Lieråsen Tunnel. This 11-kilometer tunnel was once Norway’s longest until the Gardermoen Line opened in 1999. The ride through the tunnel adds a modern contrast to the historic trail and offers a different perspective of the landscape.

Optional extension:
If you’re feeling energetic, you can extend your walk from the usual 6 km up to 10 km, extending the trail to Old Lier Station at no extra cost. This flexibility is great if you want more time in nature or to explore a bit further.

What Travelers Say

The sole review available is quite positive, describing the walk as “a fairly easy 9 km hike that can be alternatively ended at around the 6th km.” The reviewer appreciated the knowledgeable and pleasant host and the picturesque trail, noting they would recommend it for those looking for a relaxed outdoor experience. This suggests that the walk is accessible for most fitness levels and offers enough scenic beauty to justify the trip.

Logistics and Practical Details

Start and end points are conveniently located near public transportation, making it easy to join the tour without needing a car. The activity is private, meaning your group will be the only participants, which typically makes for a more relaxed and flexible experience.

Cost-wise, at $144.39 per person, the experience is perhaps on the pricier side for a half-day outdoor activity, especially if you’re traveling alone or with a small group. But the price covers train tickets, guided walking, and the convenience of booking everything in one package.

Weather considerations are important. Since the experience requires good weather, cancellations due to poor conditions are possible, but you’ll get an alternative date or full refund if that happens. This is worth planning for if you’re visiting during a season with unpredictable weather.

Who Would Love This?

This walk will suit outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate scenic, relaxed outings. If you’re interested in Norway’s rail history, enjoy light hikes, or want a change from urban sightseeing, this could be a lovely choice. It’s particularly suitable if you’re traveling with friends or a partner who enjoys a peaceful day in nature with minimal effort.

Final Thoughts

The Railway walk along Old Drammen Line offers a gentle, scenic escape from Oslo’s hustle and bustle. It combines historical railway elements, impressive tunnels, and breathtaking fjord views—perfect for those who want a memorable yet laid-back outdoor experience.

While the price might seem a bit high if you’re just after a casual walk, the convenience of combining train travel with a scenic trail adds value. The private setting and flexible walk length make it adaptable to different fitness levels and interests.

If you’re someone who enjoys serene landscapes, light physical activity, and a touch of local history, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding. It’s best for travelers seeking a straightforward, well-organized outing that lets you enjoy Norway’s natural beauty without the need for strenuous effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While children who are comfortable with walking and train rides can enjoy this experience, it’s aimed at those who can handle a 6-10 km walk. There’s no specific mention of family-friendly features, but it’s generally suitable for active older children with an interest in scenery and trains.

Can I extend the walk?
Yes, the trail can be extended from 6 km up to 10 km at no extra charge, providing extra flexibility if you want a longer outdoor experience.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
The main stops are at Spikkestad, where the trail begins; Gullaug halt, for resting and viewing; and the train ride through the Lieråsen Tunnel. The walk passes through two tunnels, including one lit tunnel, and features views of the fjord.

Is transportation included?
The tour includes train travel from Oslo to Spikkestad and back, so transportation is part of the package, making it convenient to join without additional planning.

How long does the entire experience last?
Approximately 4 hours — which includes train rides, stops, and the walk itself. It’s a perfect morning or afternoon activity.

What is the price per person?
$144.39. Considering it covers train tickets, guided walking, and private arrangements, it’s a fair price for a relaxed, scenic day out.

What is the level of difficulty?
The walk is described as “fairly easy,” suitable for most fitness levels, especially since it’s primarily a leisurely walk with scenic pauses.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
The activity is accessible near public transportation, and service animals are allowed. However, specific accessibility details aren’t provided, so those with mobility concerns should inquire further.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and perhaps a camera to capture the views. Since the terrain is scenic but gentle, no specialized gear is necessary.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, which helps plan your trip with some peace of mind.

Taking all this into account, the Railway Walk along Old Drammen Line is best suited for travelers craving a relaxed, scenic outing with some historical charm—especially if you enjoy train journeys and fjord views. It’s not the most adrenaline-pumping activity, but for a peaceful day out in Norway’s natural landscape, it hits the spot nicely.