Bike Package with Sun, City, and Culture in Karlstad

In this exceptional bike package, immerse yourself in the picturesque archipelago landscapes surrounding Sweden's largest lake, savor the vibrant atmosphere of a summer city, and discover unique Värmland attractions over four delightful days. Enjoy a comfortable stay beside the Klarälven river, with easy access to an extensive network of bike trails and paths in central Karlstad. The package offers suggested daily excursions, while also allowing you to tailor your itinerary by selecting the tours that best suit your interests. Delight in a diverse mix of nature and culture themes, lively city breaks, and serene archipelago environments.

Karlstad, the largest city in Värmland, is renowned for its abundant sunshine and ever-present water features. Often called the "Sun City," it is situated on a delta created by the many branches of the Klarälven River. The southern city center borders the coast of Lake Vänern and the picturesque island of Hammarö, which extends into the northern parts of the archipelago. Karlstad boasts numerous traffic-free bike paths and serves as a nexus for two national cycling routes: the Unionsleden, leading to Moss in Norway, and the Vänerleden, encircling Lake Vänern. Additionally, the unique Klarälvsbanan bike trail offers 100 km of car-free cycling through the captivating Värmland landscape.

The price includes premium electric bikes or high-quality 7-speed bikes. As an option, it is also possible to book a box bike if you e.g. want to take more luggage, the dog or barbecue equipment on the bike ride. All day trips are available as a GPX file so you can navigate digitally with your mobile.

Day 1 - Arrival in Karlstad and the Beach Tour

hotelElite City Hotel Karlstad

directions_bike20 km

Check in at the centrally located Elite Stadshotel, nestled by the Klarälven river. Greet the famous "Sola i Karlstad" and enjoy the hotel's top-notch amenities or embark on an urban bike adventure. Your premium bike will be conveniently delivered to the hotel at your preferred time, along with a brief introduction to its features. Afterward, it's time to kick off the Beach Tour.

With favorable weather, this highly enjoyable bike ride offers numerous possibilities. Indulge in hours of beachside relaxation or take a short detour to visit a charming farm shop. From the hotel, you'll cycle along the Unionsleden/Vänerleden trails heading west towards the stunning Bomstadbaden, Vänern's very own Riviera. To reach Bomstad, simply follow a brief detour from the bike path.

Upon arrival, you'll discover a gorgeous sandy beach complete with sun loungers, where you can savor a delightful lunch and refreshing drinks at the nearby beachside restaurant. If you're up for more cycling, continue along the bike path to the quaint Liljenäs Farm, where you can unwind with coffee and a scrumptious ice cream waffle.

As you return to the hotel, a comfortable bed awaits you to rejuvenate, and perhaps treat yourself to a delectable dinner at a charming local restaurant.

Day 2 - Tour of Hammarö in Vänern

hotelElite City Hotel Karlstad

restaurantBreakfast

directions_bike26 km

Hammarö, a charming archipelago gem, is connected to the mainland by a quaint bridge near "Grandpa's Vein." From central Karlstad, you have multiple cycling options, including a traffic-free bike path or a village road featuring a wide shoulder for cyclists. The scenic route along the river takes you past a golf course and continues to the picturesque Lillängshamnen harbor. Here, you can enjoy a delightful lunch at Lillängshamnen's Fish Smokehouse, which boasts a lovely ambiance and serves delectable fish and seafood dishes.

On Hammarö, you'll find shorter hiking trails offering captivating views of the "inner sea" and inviting swimming spots. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Hammarö Art Gallery. The return bike ride to Karlstad leads you along a path that passes through extensive bird-rich nature reserves on the city's west side. Eventually, you'll arrive at the charming Button Town Café, nestled by the river within the serene Knappstad Forest. Accessible only by bike or foot, the café provides not only refreshments but also a full-service menu. If you prefer, you can take your bike on one of the boat buses traveling the river, with a stop conveniently located outside Button Town Café. Once back at the hotel, you can unwind after your delightful day of exploration.

Day 3 - Art and Culture

hotelElite City Hotel Karlstad

restaurantBreakfast

directions_bike56 km

After enjoying breakfast, you'll embark on the Klarälvsbanan, a unique, car-free bike path stretching 100 km from Hammarö to Uddeholm. Constructed on a former railway embankment, the Klarälvsbanan offers a smooth cycling experience with minimal inclines.

Setting off from Karlstad, you'll pedal north through the varied landscape, with Deje as your ultimate destination, covering a distance of 28 km. In Deje, you'll discover the Old Power Station, an exceptional spot for art lovers. Rustic settings merge with diverse art forms, and in recent years, the Old Power Station has attracted numerous esteemed artists to display their work. Savor lunch at this location, then unwind as you meander through the serene surroundings. Conclude your visit with a scrumptious treat before cycling back to Karlstad.

Day 4 - Short Art Tour Before Departure

restaurantBreakfast

directions_bike16 km

Karlstad is known for its vibrant art and cultural offerings, and a visit to the Lars Lerin Museum should not be missed. The esteemed Värmland artist and TV personality showcases a well-loved art exhibition at the historic Sandgrund dance palace, which has become Karlstad's top attraction. Next to the Lerin Museum is the Värmland Museum, one of Sweden's most frequented county museums. Enjoy refreshments at the museum cafe, and if time allows, pay a visit to Gustaf Fröding's birthplace and memorial estate, Alsters Manor. During high season, daily tours are available. Savor lunch in the picturesque manor park and embark on a short hike through the Alster River valley before it's time to journey home.