On Gravel Roads in John Bauer's Magical Forests

How about putting your hands on the handlebars and cycling through a painting by John Bauer? This is the perfect cycling package for those who appreciate fairytale vibes, fresh air, nature, and comfortable accommodation. At Bauergården, you'll live in comfort, savor well-crafted meals, and cycle on charming gravel roads amidst the enchanting forest.

The talented fairytale artist, John Bauer, described the area where his family lived in vivid detail: "We have long hills, vast forests, and cliffs and mounds. But we also have bright birch groves, meadows, and rich fields. And then the air from Vättern and the wide horizon.".

This cycling package is a genuine nature experience. After a day's ride, you can relax in your room and perhaps enjoy a sauna. If you want to work out, there's also an outdoor gym and an opportunity for a swim.

Day 1 - Bike Through Enchanted Lakes in the Land of the Trolls

hotelBauergården, Bunn

restaurantPicnic lunch and dinner

directions_bikeAbout 32 km

Day one offers a wonderful ride along secluded gravel roads through enchanted forests. You'll pass by beautiful lakes, historic villages, and open landscapes. Start by cycling up to the village of Åsen along a peaceful gravel road. The first three kilometers are slightly uphill, then it levels out for a while before rising again. After a few kilometers, you'll reach the top and then it's a descent for the next 18 km.

Take a break and explore the cultural reserve of Åsen by Haurida, where time stood still since 1900. Then it's on to the beautiful Ramsjön, which you'll circle at its northern end. Stop here and enjoy the beautiful light. You can also take a detour to the Råbyskogen Nature Reserve and enjoy your packed lunch. After 24 km, you'll get back on a gravel road and cycle through real enchanted forests again. During the day, you'll cross the beautiful Bauer Trail several times, which you may want to explore another day. With only a few kilometers left, a magical descent awaits you and you'll find yourself at the gates of Bauergården once again, ready for a refreshing or warming after-bike drink.

Day 2 - Apple Tour with a Coffee Aroma

hotelBauergården, Bunn

restaurantBreakfast, picnic lunch and dinner

directions_bikeAbout 61 km

This day offers an exciting cycling adventure through dark forests, open landscapes, beautiful lakes, and with fantastic views of Lake Vättern. The route is perfect for those who enjoy cycling on gravel roads. After a few kilometers, you can stop at the Åsen village and study life as it was lived 120 years ago. The enjoyable gravel continues for 15 km until you reach the beautiful Ramsjön. Here, you'll cycle a few kilometers on asphalt, and it may be good to refuel because soon, there is a tough uphill on gravel. Once at the top, the road becomes narrower and narrower before turning into a small path. You'll have to lead the bike for about 100 meters, but the route choice is for the best of the tour. There is a beautiful shelter by the small lake, perfect for a coffee break.

Then, you'll cycle up to the heights above Vättern and see the lake appear occasionally along the way. After 37 km, you'll have the very best view of Lake Vättern with Landsjön in the foreground. Now you have Kaxholmen below your feet, and while you enjoy the view, there is time for refueling. Stop for a coffee or lunch at Rudenstams. If you want more coffee and cake, Gårdsrosteriet is well worth a visit and offers free coffee for cyclists! After the break, there is a little bit of easy asphalt for a while. You'll cycle on to Skärstad church at the northern shore of Landsjön.

The roads lead past countless farms, all with their unique charm. After 59 km, you'll pass Flättinge Gårdscafé. Stop and enjoy! Then, it's not far back to Bauergården, where dinner awaits.

Day 3 - Breakfast and Departure

restaurantBreakfast

After two days exploring the gravel roads of the enchanted forest, it's time for departure. Check-out is at 11:00 am. You'll be taking with you countless beautiful memories, an even stronger stamina, and the knowledge that you're warmly welcomed to return.