This epic tour is the ultimate challenge for adventurous cyclists. The journey spans two countries - Sweden and Norway - and takes you from the Gulf of Bothnia in the east to the Norwegian Sea in the west, and back again. You'll be cycling fairly long day-long stages along lonely stretches between communities, and you'll need to be able to cope with unforeseen events on your own. But if you choose to cycle the full 1200 kilometers, you're in for an experience you won't soon forget.
Follow tranquil river valleys, cycle along beautiful lakes and past dramatic fjords. You'll cycle through dense forests, across wetlands, past snow-capped mountains and even cross the Arctic Circle. During the summer solstice, you'll also experience 24 hours of daylight, giving the journey an almost surreal atmosphere.
The route follows the same track as the annual Midnight Sun Randonneé, a cycling event that takes place in mid-June where participants tackle the route in 3-4 days. For a more leisurely ride, we suggest splitting the trip into 15 day stages, with overnight stops along the way. Of course, you can tailor your own itinerary based on your own pace and preferences.
Anyone who cycles at least 1,000 km of the trail in the same year and crosses the Arctic Circle will have the opportunity to buy a special edition of Midnight Sun Randonnée sweater.
However, be prepared to occasionally share the road with car traffic, as parts of the route follow major roads. However, the majority of the journey is on paved roads with low traffic. This adventure is as challenging as it is rewarding, a unique chance to experience the breathtaking scenery of Scandinavia.
Midnight sun in Mo i Rana between June 9 and July 4.
The easiest way to travel to Umeå by bike (in a bike bag) is to fly. Airlines SAS, Norwegian and BRA have regular domestic flights to Umeå from Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö. From Stockholm Arlanda the flight takes about 50 minutes.
For those who prefer to take their own car, it is possible to drive all the way to Umeå. The roads are well signposted. Drive at your own pace, enjoy the journey and have nature as your companion all the way.
