Summary
Book with Sweden by Bike
Photos
Practical Info
Join us on a wonderful cycling adventure along the Göta Canal, from the shores of Lake Vänern to the Baltic Sea. Over the course of seven days, you’ll discover Sweden’s “blue ribbon” and one of Europe’s most beloved cycling routes. Here you’ll find sparkling waters, historic locks, charming small towns, and a vibrant boating culture. You’ll cycle at your own pace and have plenty of time to stop at cafés, attractions, and beautiful spots along the way.
The trip offers more than just the Göta Canal. You’ll cycle through the forests of Tiveden, pass Lake Viken, and circle the northern part of Lake Vättern with its beautiful views. Along the way, you’ll discover exciting places like the Forsvik Locks, Karlsborg Fortress, and the Berg Locks. A charming boat ride across Lake Asplången adds another memorable experience before you reach Söderköping and the canal’s outlet into the Baltic Sea.
During the trip, you’ll stay at hand-picked hotels and boutique accommodations, with delicious dinners included on several evenings. Your luggage will be transported between accommodations so you can enjoy the cycling without having to pack and unpack. This is a trip for those who want to combine nature, culture, and history with comfortable accommodations and the freedom to discover Sweden from the saddle of a bike.
Your cycling adventure begins at Norrqvarn, beautifully situated right next to the Göta Canal. Here, the boats glide slowly by, and the peaceful setting invites you to start your journey on a relaxing note. After check-in, there’s plenty of time to explore the surroundings and enjoy the atmosphere along the canal.
If you’d like to get started cycling today, we recommend a short trip to Sjötorp, where the Göta Canal meets Lake Vänern. Along the way, you’ll pass locks, boats, and small cafés before the vast lake spreads out before you. It’s a wonderful first taste of the canal’s charm and a perfect warm-up for the cycling stages ahead.
After breakfast, a wonderful day of cycling awaits along the Göta Canal, which has been named Europe’s best cycling route. For the first few mil, you’ll follow the tranquil canal, where boats glide by and the gravel path winds its way through old oak trees, locks, and charming lock keeper’s houses. Here, it’s easy to find your own rhythm and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
At Tåtorp, you’ll reach Lake Viken and leave the canal behind to continue on quiet country roads through a beautiful landscape of forests and sparkling water. The lake’s tranquil coves and scenic surroundings make this part of the stage a nice contrast to the cycling along the canal.
Today's destination is Karlsborg on Lake Vättern, where you'll check in at Hotell Von Boij and later enjoy a delicious dinner. Be sure to take the opportunity to stroll along the harbor or visit the impressive Karlsborg Fortress, which was built to protect Sweden’s government and gold reserves in times of unrest. An exciting way to end a fulfilling day of cycling.
After breakfast, the cycling adventure continues toward Forsvik, where you’ll find the Göta Canal’s oldest and highest lock. Here, you’ll be greeted by an impressive historic setting and get to experience the power of the water as it flows through the lock. An exciting stop along the way!
From there, the roads wind their way through a beautiful landscape of sparkling lakes and deep forests. You’ll cycle near Tiveden National Park, known for its enchanting old-growth forest, dramatic rock formations, and crystal-clear lakes. Be sure to stop at Vita Sand, a lovely swimming spot with light-colored sand and inviting water.
Today's destination is the charming little town of Askersund, where you'll check in at Garvaregården, a personal and culturally historic B&B. A warm welcome awaits you here before it’s time for dinner at a local restaurant. Feel free to end the day with an evening stroll through the city’s charming neighborhoods and along the beautiful harbor.
Today’s cycling stage begins with a ride through the rolling countryside of Bergslagen toward Zinkgruvan, where mining has a long history dating back to the mid-1800s. Here you’ll get a glimpse into Sweden’s industrial history, and during the summer you can visit the small mining museum.
After Zinkgruvan, a lovely stretch of road awaits, where the road slopes downward and the forest gradually opens up. Through the trees, you can catch glimpses of Lake Vättern’s blue waters, and the bike ride offers beautiful views, winding roads, and a wonderful sense of freedom.
Once you arrive in Motala, check in at Hotell Nostalgi, beautifully situated by the harbor. Here you’ll once again experience the lively atmosphere of the Göta Canal, with boats docking and people strolling along the quay. Enjoy the summer evening by the water before a delicious dinner awaits you at the hotel.
Today, the Göta Canal is once again at the heart of this cycling adventure. You’ll ride along quiet country roads through beautiful countryside with calm waters, lush greenery, and charming towns where time seems to have stood still. Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the canal’s special atmosphere.
One of today’s highlights is the Berg Locks, with their impressive lock staircase where boats are slowly guided between different water levels. Here, you can sit down at a café, watch the boats go by, and admire this historic structure before continuing your bike ride toward Linköping.
In Linköping, you’ll find a delightful blend of history and city life. You’ll check in at the charming "Faulty Towers" hotel, centrally located near the city’s restaurants, parks, and attractions. Be sure to take a stroll along the Stångån River or explore the city’s cozy neighborhoods before enjoying a delicious dinner.
The final day of cycling on this trip begins in Linköping, but you’ll soon be back out in the open cultural landscape. You’ll cycle toward Norsholm and then continue along the Göta Canal, with the atmosphere increasingly taking on the feel of the archipelago.
A little extra adventure awaits you at Lake Asplången. Here, you’ll take the small boat that transports cyclists across the lake. The trip is short but very charming and makes the journey unique. The boat is also part of the official trail. You’ve already received your ticket.
The final stretch toward Söderköping is lush and easy to cycle. In this picturesque little town, you’ll check in at Söderköping Brunn, where you can purchase admission to their lovely spa. Many people choose to bike the last few kilometers to Mem, where the Göta Canal meets the sea. It’s a beautiful ending to a long and memorable adventure.
After a delicious breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to Söderköping and wrap up your cycling adventure. Over the past week, you’ve followed the Göta Canal from Lake Vänern to the Baltic Sea, cycled through beautiful landscapes, and discovered charming small towns, historic sites, and impressive locks.
You'll return home with wonderful memories of a cycling trip filled with nature, culture, and experiences along Sweden's Blue Ribbon.
Travel
Booking Information
Confirmation and invoice are sent directly from the local tour operator. No payment is made to Sweden by Bike.
Registration fee:
15 % of the total amount is payable within 10 days of receiving your confirmation.
Final payment:
The remaining amount must be paid at least 30 days before the start of the trip (the registration fee is deducted from the final amount).
If you need to cancel, the following applies:
More than 30 days before departure:
You only pay the registration fee (15 % of the trip price).
30-21 days before departure:
40 % of the price of the trip will be charged.
20-15 days before departure:
60 % of the price of the trip will be charged.
14-8 days before departure:
80 % of the price of the trip will be charged.
7 days or less before departure:
No refund will be given.
