Biking with Vikings

Embark on a three-day cycling trip through the beautiful and open agricultural landscape around Enköping, one of Sweden's oldest cities. Here, small roads wind through nature, many of them dating back to the Viking Age. You'll pass rune stones, burial grounds and some of Sweden's earliest Christian churches.

Along the way you will encounter history up close: the rune carvers Balle and Livsten have left their mark in impressive memorials, and on the heights of Vånsjöåsen lie the graves of ancestors. The rune stone in the picture was carved by the rune carver Fot in the mid-11th century. In the medieval churches of Härkeberga and Härnevi you will find colorful paintings and glimpses of people's lives and beliefs hundreds of years ago.

The tour is suitable for those who want to cycle at a leisurely pace on low-traffic small roads and at the same time take part in Scandinavia's early history. The flat landscape makes cycling easy, and along the route charming cafés and local farm shops await. You stay two nights at the cozy Jädra Gårdshotell, a short bike ride from Enköping, which means you only need to bring light daypack. A comfortable and adventurous trip for those who want to combine culture, nature and relaxation.

Day 1 - In the footsteps of kings and Vikings

Jädra Gårdshotell, Enköping

33 km

The day begins with cycling along winding small roads through the beautiful cultural landscape of Uppland. Soon you reach a historic ford from the Viking Age and continue along the ancient Eriksgatan, the medieval coronation road on which the kings traveled to be recognized by the people.

Along the way you will pass several rune stones with fascinating stories, as well as well-preserved medieval churches where history is written in the walls. The pace is leisurely and the roads are quiet, giving you plenty of time to take in both nature and culture.

In the evening, a classic Swedish smorgasbord awaits - a tasty end to the day. Then you check into your cozy room at Jädra Gårdshotell, where comfortable beds guarantee a good night's sleep before the next day's experiences.

Day 2 - Runes, paintings and views for miles

Jädra Gårdshotell, Enköping

40 km

After breakfast, you'll cycle through the open, gently rolling countryside. From the heights you are offered beautiful views of fields and meadows - a perfect backdrop to today's historical experiences. You'll pass several rune stones and reach an impressive burial mound that testifies to the site's ancient importance.

During the day, you'll also stop at a well-stocked farm shop, a great opportunity to sample and buy local delicacies. In the medieval churches, you'll be greeted by colorful frescoes by artist Albertus Pictor, full of symbolism and details that give insight into the life and beliefs of the time.

When evening comes, you return to Jädra Gårdshotell, where your comfortable room and comfy bed await after another eventful day.

Day 3 - Urban roots and rural life in times gone by

Breakfast

33 km

The final day takes you into Enköping for a closer look at some of the town's oldest traces. You'll explore places where the town's history goes back to the Middle Ages, and beyond. You'll get a sense of Enköping's role as a hub in the Mälardalen region back in Viking times.

You'll also visit a well-preserved 18th-century farmhouse that gives a vivid picture of rural life in the past. During the day you will also have time for more rune stones and another church with colorful paintings, as always rich in details and stories.

After a final bike ride through the timeless landscape, it's time to round off your journey, filled with history, views and memorable encounters with the past.