Scandinavia is a haven for cycling enthusiasts, offering stunning landscapes, well-maintained paths, and scenic routes that take you through lush forests, charming villages, and along the serene coastlines. Whether you’re looking for an easy ride through picturesque countryside or a challenging adventure through rugged terrain, Sweden and Denmark have some of the best cycling routes in Europe. Here’s a guide to the top cycling routes in both countries.
Sweden:
1. Kattegattleden (West Coast Cycle Route)
- Distance: 390 km (243 miles)
- Location: Varberg to Helsingborg, along Sweden’s western coast
- Why Cycle Here: Kattegattleden is Sweden’s first National Cycle Route, offering cyclists stunning views of the sea, charming fishing villages, and beautiful beaches. This relatively flat route is perfect for cyclists of all levels, with plenty of opportunities to stop at coastal towns and enjoy Swedish coastal culture.
- Highlights:
- Coastal views and sandy beaches, particularly around Halmstad and Ängelholm.
- The lively town of Varberg with its historic fortress and spa resorts.
- Cyclists can enjoy seafood delicacies at quaint harbors.
- Insider Tip: The route has well-marked signs, and the infrastructure along the way is excellent with bike-friendly accommodations and services.
2. The Swedish Cykelspår (Cycle Tracks in Skåne)
- Distance: Varies by route, but Skåne offers over 2,000 km of cycling tracks.
- Location: Skåne County, Southern Sweden
- Why Cycle Here: Known for its gentle terrain, Skåne County is perfect for cycling at any pace. The region boasts a variety of cycling routes that take you through countryside landscapes, coastal towns, and medieval villages. Many routes also connect with the larger European cycling network.
- Highlights:
- The Skåneleden Trail, a 1,200 km-long path, offers parts that are bike-accessible.
- The Österlen region with its picturesque coastal villages and art galleries.
- The historic town of Ystad, where you can explore cobblestone streets and old buildings.
- Insider Tip: Skåne is renowned for its food culture, so make sure to stop at local farms and cafés to taste fresh, regional produce.
3. The Siljan Cycle Route
- Distance: 270 km (168 miles)
- Location: Dalarna County, Central Sweden
- Why Cycle Here: The Siljan Cycle Route takes cyclists through the heart of Sweden’s lake district, offering a beautiful combination of forests, lakes, and small villages. This route is great for those who enjoy cycling in nature and want to explore rural Sweden.
- Highlights:
- Lake Siljan, the largest lake in the region, surrounded by scenic forests.
- The picturesque village of Rättvik with its famous wooden church.
- Beautiful landscapes and wildlife, ideal for photography.
- Insider Tip: The route includes challenging sections, so it’s better suited for experienced cyclists or those looking for a bit of a challenge.
4. Gotland Island Cycling Tour
- Distance: Varies, typically around 200 km (124 miles) for a full circuit
- Location: Gotland Island, off the coast of Sweden
- Why Cycle Here: Gotland offers a unique cycling experience with its medieval charm, cobbled streets, and coastal beauty. The island is mostly flat, with scenic views of the Baltic Sea and rural landscapes. It’s perfect for cyclists looking for a mix of culture, history, and nature.
- Highlights:
- The medieval town of Visby, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- The island’s unique limestone formations and windmills.
- Seaside routes that offer incredible views of the Baltic Sea.
- Insider Tip: Gotland is great for a leisurely cycling trip. Rent a bike from one of the local shops and explore the island at your own pace.
5. The Göta Canal Cycling Route
- Distance: 190 km (118 miles)
- Location: From Sjötorp to Mem, passing through Örebro and Linköping
- Why Cycle Here: One of Sweden’s most iconic cycling routes, this trail follows the historic Göta Canal, which was once a key trade route in Sweden. Cyclists will pass through lush green landscapes, small villages, and charming lakes. The route is relatively flat, making it perfect for beginners and families.
- Highlights:
- The Göta Canal, known for its locks, historic buildings, and tranquil waters.
- The town of Linköping, with its medieval architecture and modern attractions.
- Several scenic cafés and traditional Swedish houses along the route.
- Insider Tip: The route is popular in summer, so it’s best to book accommodations in advance, especially in smaller towns.
Denmark:
1. The North Sea Cycle Route
- Distance: 550 km (342 miles)
- Location: Jutland Peninsula, Denmark
- Why Cycle Here: This route forms part of the North Sea Cycle Route, one of the longest signposted cycling routes in the world. It runs along Denmark’s western coast, offering riders spectacular coastal views, beaches, and windmills. This route is perfect for those who enjoy a strong sea breeze and coastal landscapes.
- Highlights:
- The sandy beaches of the North Sea coast.
- The historic Kattegat region and its charming fishing villages.
- The island of Mors, known for its natural beauty and unique geology.
- Insider Tip: Be prepared for strong winds along the coast, especially in the spring and fall months.
2. The Baltic Sea Route
- Distance: 600 km (373 miles)
- Location: Zealand Island, Denmark
- Why Cycle Here: This route takes you around Zealand Island, Denmark’s most populous island, offering a mix of bustling cities, charming towns, and coastal beauty. The Baltic Sea Route provides an excellent opportunity to explore Denmark’s history and natural beauty.
- Highlights:
- The vibrant city of Copenhagen, with its parks and waterfront.
- The medieval Roskilde, known for its Viking Ship Museum and cathedral.
- Coastal views of the Øresund Strait and the Swedish coast.
- Insider Tip: The route passes many historical landmarks, so take your time to explore the cultural heritage of the towns along the way.
3. The West Coast Cycle Route
- Distance: 200 km (124 miles)
- Location: Jutland Peninsula, Denmark
- Why Cycle Here: This route follows Denmark’s western coastline, offering expansive views of the North Sea. The landscape is diverse, with sandy beaches, dunes, and coastal forests. It’s a flat and easy route, making it suitable for cyclists of all levels.
- Highlights:
- The wide sandy beaches of Blåvand and Hvide Sande.
- The town of Esbjerg, Denmark’s fifth-largest city with a lively cultural scene.
- The scenic coastal nature reserves of Vadehavet National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Insider Tip: The West Coast Cycle Route is well-marked and has good bike facilities along the way, making it a comfortable ride.
4. The Limfjord Cycle Route
- Distance: 600 km (373 miles)
- Location: Northern Jutland, Denmark
- Why Cycle Here: The Limfjord Route offers a journey through Denmark’s scenic countryside, following the waters of the Limfjord and passing through several picturesque towns. The route is less traveled, offering a peaceful ride with opportunities for birdwatching and exploring charming small towns.
- Highlights:
- The Limfjord, with its peaceful waters and rich birdlife.
- The historic town of Aalborg, known for its museums and old town.
- Cyclists can explore Denmark’s Viking history and ancient monuments.
- Insider Tip: This route is great for a slower pace, where you can enjoy nature and rural Denmark at its best.
5. The Island of Funen Cycle Route
- Distance: 225 km (140 miles)
- Location: Funen Island, Denmark
- Why Cycle Here: Funen Island, also known as “The Garden of Denmark,” is perfect for cycling enthusiasts looking to enjoy rolling hills, quaint villages, and fertile farmland. The route offers a mix of countryside views, coastal scenery, and charming towns, making it ideal for cyclists who appreciate both nature and culture.
- Highlights:
- The city of Odense, birthplace of Hans Christian Andersen.
- The tranquil coastlines and lush forests around Faaborg.
- Beautiful countryside and small villages.
- Insider Tip: Funen is great for a leisurely cycling trip, with plenty of opportunities for picnicking and enjoying local produce.
Conclusion
Both Sweden and Denmark offer a wide range of cycling routes suited for different levels of cyclists, from scenic coastal paths to historic routes and peaceful countryside trails. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or someone looking to enjoy a relaxing ride through beautiful landscapes, these routes provide some of the most breathtaking cycling experiences in Scandinavia.
