Bergen Line

Route overview

The Bergen Line, known in Norwegian as Bergensbanen, is a standard gauge railway line that runs between Bergen on the west coast of Norway and Oslo, the capital. It is approximately 470 kilometres long and is operated by Vy, the state-owned passenger transport company. The line traverses some of the most rugged and sparsely populated terrain in Northern Europe, crossing the Hardangervidda plateau, a vast mountain expanse that reaches over 1,200 metres above sea level. The route passes through numerous tunnels and over many bridges, and it connects several towns and villages along the way. The Bergen Line is notable for being one of the highest mainline railways in Europe, with its highest point at Finse station, 1,222 metres above sea level. The journey typically takes around six to seven hours, depending on the service. The line is an important transport link for both passengers and freight, and it is also a popular tourist attraction due to its spectacular scenery. The railway is electrified at 15 kV 16.7 Hz AC and is mostly single-track, with passing loops at stations.

History of the line

The construction of the Bergen Line was a major engineering undertaking that began in the late 19th century. The first section, from Bergen to Voss, opened in 1883 as a narrow gauge line, but it was later converted to standard gauge. The full line to Oslo was completed in 1909 after years of difficult work in harsh mountain conditions. The project required the building of numerous tunnels, including the 5,311-metre Gravehalsen tunnel, and the line was electrified in the 1950s. The Bergen Line played a crucial role in connecting the western coast of Norway with the eastern interior, facilitating trade and travel. Over the years, the line has been upgraded with new tunnels and signalling systems to improve safety and capacity. The most significant recent improvement was the opening of the Finse tunnel in 1993, which replaced a section that was often closed due to snow. Today, the Bergen Line remains a vital part of Norway’s railway network and a symbol of national engineering achievement.

Landscape and scenery

The Bergen Line is renowned for its diverse and dramatic landscapes. From Bergen, the line passes through lush valleys and along fjords before ascending into the mountains. The Hardangervidda plateau offers a stark, treeless environment with snow-capped peaks and glaciers visible in the distance. The section between Myrdal and Finse is particularly spectacular, with the line running close to the Hardangerjøkulen glacier. In contrast, the eastern part of the route descends through forested areas and agricultural land towards Oslo. The scenery changes with the seasons: in winter, the mountains are covered in snow, while in summer, the valleys are green and wildflowers bloom. The line also passes by several waterfalls, including the Kjosfossen waterfall, which is a popular stop on the Flåm Railway, a branch line that connects to the Bergen Line at Myrdal. The combination of fjords, mountains, and forests makes the Bergen Line one of the most scenic railway journeys in Europe.

Key stations and cities

The Bergen Line serves several important stations and cities. Bergen station is the western terminus, located in the heart of the city and serving as a hub for regional and long-distance trains. Voss is a major intermediate station and a popular destination for outdoor activities. Myrdal is a small station high in the mountains where passengers can transfer to the famous Flåm Railway, a steep branch line that descends to the Aurlandsfjord. Finse is the highest station on the line, at 1,222 metres, and is accessible only by train or bicycle, making it a starting point for hiking and skiing. Geilo is a well-known ski resort town, and Gol and Hønefoss are other notable stops. The eastern terminus is Oslo Central Station, the largest railway station in Norway, which offers connections to other parts of the country and international services. The line also passes through Drammen, a major city on the way to Oslo. These stations and cities provide access to a range of cultural and natural attractions.

Rolling stock and service

Passenger services on the Bergen Line are operated by Vy using a fleet of electric multiple units and locomotives. The primary trains used are the NSB Class 73, which are electric multiple units capable of speeds up to 210 km/h, although on this line they typically run at lower speeds due to the terrain. These trains offer standard and first-class seating, a café, and luggage storage. There are also night trains with sleeping compartments, providing an overnight option between Bergen and Oslo. The service frequency varies, with several departures per day in each direction. The journey takes approximately 6.5 to 7.5 hours. In addition to passenger services, the line is used for freight transport, primarily carrying goods between the west coast and eastern Norway. The trains are equipped to handle the challenging winter conditions, including snow and ice, which can affect operations. The Bergen Line is also used by the Flåm Railway, a tourist train that runs from Myrdal to Flåm, but this is a separate operation.

Technical facts and engineering

The Bergen Line is a standard gauge railway, with a track gauge of 1,435 mm. It is electrified at 15 kV 16.7 Hz AC, which is the standard for Norwegian railways. The line is mostly single-track, with passing loops at stations to allow trains to pass each other. The maximum gradient is 2.5%, and the minimum curve radius is 250 metres. The highest point is at Finse, 1,222 metres above sea level, making it the highest station on the Norwegian railway network. The line includes numerous tunnels and bridges, the longest tunnel being the Finse tunnel at 10,300 metres, which was opened in 1993. The line also features snow sheds and other structures to protect against avalanches and heavy snowfall. The engineering challenges of building and maintaining the line in such a harsh environment are significant, and the railway requires constant monitoring and maintenance. The Bergen Line is considered a masterpiece of railway engineering and has been proposed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Frequently asked questions

How long does the journey take? The journey between Bergen and Oslo typically takes between 6.5 and 7.5 hours, depending on the service and any delays. Is the line scenic? Yes, the Bergen Line is famous for its spectacular scenery, including mountains, fjords, and glaciers. It is often cited as one of the most beautiful railway journeys in the world. Can I travel at night? Yes, there are night trains with sleeping compartments available, offering an overnight option. Is the line electrified? Yes, the entire line is electrified at 15 kV 16.7 Hz AC. Are there any branch lines? Yes, the most notable is the Flåm Railway, which branches off at Myrdal and descends to Flåm. The Bergen Line is a vital transport link and a popular tourist attraction, offering a unique way to experience the Norwegian landscape.