Dresin cykling on Flekkefjordbanen
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| Flekkefjord station,fasade west, the station was torn down in 1970. |
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From 1904 to 1990 the Flekkefjord Railroad was of utmost importance to the well being of the town. It was the link between the main railroad betweeen Stavanger and Oslo. However, times changed over the years, and during the 80's it was decided that several of these sidelines should be closed. So on New Years Eve 1990, the last train left Flekkefjord bound for Sira.
The trains may be gone, but the railroad is still here, 17 kms and 17 tunnels, winding its way from the center of Flekkefjord to to Sira through a scenic landscape. The "Friends of Flekkefjord Railroad" is a group of volunteers who work to preserve the railroad and make it into a living museum through active use. Biking on the railroad on specially constructed bikes (dresins) used by workmen to inspect the line, has become a popular activity, especially for families with children. Do not miss this unique experience.
Dresins are for hire every day in June and July at 12noon or 4pm, Saturdays and Sundays only at 12noon. A reservation is normally not needed. The rest of the year a reservation is recommended. Reservation can be made by calling the indicated phone number below.
A roundtrip to end of the tracks will normally take 4 hours. Each dresin holds 3 people, where two of them must supply the power. We recommend that you bring a warm sweater or similar piece of clothing for each person and one powerful flashlight for each dresin as the many tunnels are cold and totally dark. Cyckling helmets are also compulsory, but can be hired from us.
Booking and information:
tel.: +47 976 57 933
Price: NOK 250,- per bike
"Friends of Flekkefjordbanen"
The organization was formed in 1995 to preserve the railroad and its history as the truly unique cultural memorial it is. The composition of the railroad, its many hand driven tunnels and the unique stonework makes this railroad especially unique in Norwegian railroad history. Our goal has from day one been to preserve the railroad through active use of it. Cyckling on the track has become a very popular activity and more than 2 500 people takes the 34 km tour every year. It is truly a railroad experience extraordinare! |