Vejen - Viborg
THE VIKING CENTURY RIDE 160 KM
Are you up for a century-ride with a fascinating mix of physical challenges, historical sights and attractions and breath-taking scenery at every turn of the pedals? The 160 kilometer route from Vejen to Viborg is both challenging, historic and beautiful.
You need to bring out your inner Viking to overcome this 160 km challenge and its climbs of up to 10%.
The 160 km route from Vejen to Viborg equates to riding a century (100 miles) and passes through the beautiful landscape with rolling cornfields, beech forests, hills, lakes and idyllic villages.
Your inner Viking will be nurtured along the way. Not least when you ride through Jelling, a stronghold of famous Viking kings in the tenth century. As you pass within touching distance of King Harald Bluetooth’s famous rune stone, you can almost imagine Viking horns growing out of your helmet.
While the hardships of this demanding gran fondo will definitely put you to the test, the route also offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the ride. Four places along the way, you roll through one of our feed stations, famous not only for their great food but also for their even better atmosphere.
Starting address: Vejen Idrætscenter, Petersmindevej 1, 6600 Vejen, Denmark
Route profile and highlights
Route highlights
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Here we go! You're off on the 160 kilometer route along the Ancient Road, Hærvejen. The Massif Central of Denmark also known as Vejle Ådal lays just ahead with loads of climbing, so we recommend that you quickly get those legs up to speed.
With an average gradient of 8,2 % over 550 meter the Mur de Refsgårde feels almost like riding into a wall. This is where the hilly terrain of Vejle Ådal really challenges you, but luckily it isn't far until the next feed station in Ødsted.
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You will ride straight through one of the most important and most remakable spots in Danish history. The "Kongernes Jelling" is known as the home of the Viking Kings with the famous Jelling Monuments. It's also part of the UNESCO World Heritage.
The 2nd feed station of the day in Nørre Snede is a milestone and a highlight for many riders. You are more than halfway, but some of the toughest climbs lay just ahead. You have to taste this feed stations almost legendary soup.
You can really feel your legs at this point, but right before the 3rd feed station, another challenging climb await. Col du Funder rises at a more steady average gradient of 4 %.
You are so close to the finish, but the route has one final sting in its tail. Alpe d'Dollerup is a serious challenge at this point, but once you reach the top, you can almost see the finish.
Congratulations - you made it! Soak up the atmosphere as your ride the red carpet through the old city center ultimately finishing in the race village for a big celebration.