The Stockholm archipelago by bike
A cycling cruise through the Swedish islands
Duration
7 days and 6 nights
Level
Leisure
Departure date
From May 16th to September 12th
Trip type
Self-guided trip
Trip type
Travelling loop
Destination
Key features
- Stockholm, Sweden's green capital
- The granite islands of the archipelago
- Boat connections, a different view of the landscape
- Vaxholm, the “capital” of the archipelago
- The island of Runmarö and its wild paths
- Sandhamn, the setting for Swedish crime novels
The story behind the trip
Valentin Chapalain, travel advisor at Abicyclette Voyages, has been passionate about Scandinavia since he was 8 years old. Since 2010, he has undertaken numerous trips on foot and by bike in Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and as far as the North Cape… He has developed a detailed knowledge of Sweden’s regions and cities.
With his wealth of experience, he is delighted to help you organize your cycling trip in Sweden and share his most beautiful discoveries with you.
From island to island, cycle through the wild Stockholm archipelago
From the Swedish capital, set off on a journey through the Stockholm archipelago, dotted with more than 30,000 islands, islets, and reefs. You combine cycling and boat trips to immerse yourself in this setting of water and greenery.
Renowned for its beautiful landscapes, the Stockholm archipelago is the ideal destination for an active and rejuvenating vacation. From peninsulas to islands, you pedal amid unspoiled nature on peaceful small roads and dedicated, safe cycle paths. About 60% of the route is on paved roads. The remaining 40% is on gravel paths. The daily stages are well-balanced, ranging from 30 to 55 kilometers, leaving plenty of time for discoveries in this natural setting just a stone’s throw from the Swedish capital. The Stockholm archipelago is not entirely flat, so you need to pedal to reach your destination. Electric bikes are also available if you haven’t had time to prepare in advance.
Along Stockholm’s beautiful bike paths, you embark on a trip that combines bike and boat. Each day, your cycling itinerary is punctuated by ferry crossings that take you from island to island. You enjoy the most iconic islands of the Stockholm archipelago: Vaxön, Runmarö, Sandön, and Värmdö. The splendors of the archipelago can be observed from both the sea and the land.
With more than 30,000 islands and islets, the Stockholm archipelago is a unique place that celebrates the union of sea, rock, and vegetation. It boasts a multitude of beautiful features, including granite cliffs, sandy beaches, and coniferous forests. On each island, enjoy breathtaking views of the Baltic Sea stretching as far as the eye can see. It’s no surprise that National Geographic recently ranked the Stockholm archipelago among the 25 best places to travel.
Along the way, you’ll stop in charming villages. Vaxholm, often considered the “capital” of the archipelago, is well worth a visit. Stroll through its cobbled streets, visit its fortress, and stop at one of its cafés for a Swedish-style fika break. Gustavsberg, beautifully located on the waterfront, is the perfect place for lunch by the water, accompanied by homemade ice cream. A visit to its porcelain factory, founded in 1825, is informative. Fans of Swedish crime series and thrillers will recognize the bright setting of Murders in Sandhamn. During your island getaway, explore Sandhamn, the most famous village in the Stockholm archipelago. You fall in love with its red Falun-painted wooden cabins reflected in the harbor.
At the end of your trip, you return to Stockholm. Sweden’s green capital offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions. On the island of Djurgården, explore the world of ABBA or stroll through the Skansen open-air museum. Art lovers should head to the Moderna Museet on the island of Skeppsholmen. Explore the rich collections of Swedish and international art, with unique works by Picasso, Dali, and Warhol. Lose yourself in the trendy Södermalm district, known for its bohemian atmosphere. Along Monteliusvägen, enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Mälaren. Before heading back, take a stroll through the old town of Gamla Stan, flanked by picturesque colorful facades.
A journey combining nature and culture in an exceptional environment that delights visitors!
Itinerary
Leisure From STOCKHOLM to VAXHOLM 41km 400m 
Start your day with a tour of Djurgården Island, a green oasis that combines beauty and serenity in the heart of Stockholm. This protected area is a paradise for cyclists, who ride along the waterfront and through vast meadows and lush forests. The island is also renowned for its charming cafés, such as Rosendals Garden Café, and museums, such as the Wasa Museum and the Abba Museum.
Then, you cycle to Djursholm. There, you take a small local ferry (20 minutes) to the Bogesundslandet peninsula, where you cross the nature reserve on quiet, gravelly country roads before reaching the island of Vaxön via a bridge. You arrive at the picturesque village of Vaxholm, considered the capital of the archipelago. Spend the afternoon soaking up its charms.
Total cost for ferries (not included) on this day: approximately €4 per person. Bicycles are transported free of charge, subject to availability on the ferries.
From VAXHOLM to ILE DE FÅGELBROLANDET 39km 412m
Your journey begins with a short cruise (48 minutes) through the Stockholm archipelago to the village of Lillsved on the small island of Värmdö. This idyllic island offers beautiful nature and paths ideal for cycling. You cycle across the island heading south. You soon reach Siggesta Gård and its pleasant café. After Siggesta, you continue on wild trails. A detour to Bullandö Krog is recommended if you want to have lunch or enjoy some homemade ice cream by the sea.
From Fagerdala, you cycle along the canal to Strömma, where you cross the bridge. From there, it’s only a few kilometers to your hotel on the island of Fågelbrolandet.
Price of the Vaxholm – Lillsved ferry: approximately €8 per adult. Bicycles are transported free of charge, subject to availability.
FÅGELBROLANDET ISLAND, SANDHAMN AND RUNMARÖ LOOP 51km 555m
The day begins with a few kilometers of cycling before boarding the ferry to the idyllic island of Sandön, with its picturesque village of Sandhamn. Sandhamn is probably the most famous place in the Stockholm archipelago. As you leave the harbor, you find long sandy beaches offering magnificent views of the Baltic Sea. The perfect opportunity for a swim.
Then, you board the ferry that takes you to the island of Runmarö, one of the largest islands in the archipelago, with wonderful nature and beautiful cycling routes. Runmarö is a picturesque island with great floral splendor, boasting 27 different species of orchids. Don’t miss Telegrafberget, the highest hill on the island. This loop on the island of Runmarö is optional, and you can settle for 29 km if you don’t go there.
Return by ferry to the island of Fågelbrolandet.
Total price for ferries on day 4: if you only go to Sandhamn: approximately €18 per adult. If you also go to Runmarö, approximately €9 extra per adult. Bicycles are transported free of charge, subject to availability on the ferries.
From ILE DE FÅGELBROLANDET to SALTSJÖBADEN 55km 629m
Today, you leave the peaceful countryside of Fågelbrolandet and cycle westward. You soon arrive in Farstalandet, where you can visit the Artipelag modern art museum, before reaching the picturesque town of Gustavsberg, beautifully situated on the waterfront. Stop for lunch or a fika break. At the end of the route, you reach Saltsjöbaden via the Skuru bridge. Your hotel is located by the sea.
From SALTSJÖBADEN to STOCKHOLM 31km 337m
Leaving Saltsjöbaden by bike, you quickly enter the beautiful Erstaviken nature reserve. You ride along a gravel path that runs alongside Erstaviksbadet beach, a nice place for an early morning dip. You continue along paths through the Nacka nature reserve towards Stockholm. Cars and motor vehicles are prohibited throughout the Erstaviken and Nacka nature reserves. You cycle peacefully through enchanted forests, sparkling lakes, and rich wildlife.
The end of the stage to Stockholm is magnificent, along the water, passing through the central islands of Södermalm, Långholmen, and Kungsholmen. Stop at the top of the Västerbron bridge, where you can enjoy a magnificent view of the city of Stockholm, surrounded by water.
STOCKHOLM
Your cycling trip in Sweden ends after breakfast. To explore the Swedish capital in more depth, additional nights are available on request.
They travelled with us
Practical information
Comfort Range
Our quality standard at Abicyclette. This type of accommodation includes 2 and 3 stars hotels. Depending on the itinerary, you might spend some nights in approved guesthouses. You enjoy a double bedroom with private bathroom and toilet and adapted welcome for you and your bikes.
Starting from 1260€/participant in Self Guided option
See detailed prices
Essential Range
You want to enjoy your itinerary without anything fancy. Our ”essential” range offers a simple accommodation for a good night’s rest in a simple hotel, guesthouse, rest house or hostel.
Quote on request
Contact us
Privilege Range
Opt for total comfort in charming 3 and 4 star hotels which offer all the services you need and a special welcome for you and your bikes.
Quote on request
Contact us
Price includes
- Accommodation: 6 nights in a Double room
- 6 breakfasts
- Luggage transfer
- Phone assistance 7/7
- Application fee
- The routes described on the following media:
- Tracking app
- Route maps (pdf and in paper version)
- A descriptive road book in english or german (pdf and in paper version)
Price does not include
- Bike rental (see option)
- Breakfast on day 1
- Lunches
- Dinners not included in "Price includes"
- Drinks, tours and other personal expenses
- Ferry crossings (about 30 euros for the trip)
- Tourist taxes
A “homemade” stay made by a local partner specializing in Sweden:
- Routes selected with the Abicyclette team for their tourist & cycling interests, fully marked, removed from traffic
- Accommodation offered for the quality of their welcome, atmosphere, services and gastronomy
- A great flexibility of organization which adapts to your needs and desires: you leave on the date of your choice! We check accommodation availability to ensure your departure.
Local support :
- Telephone assistance 7 days a week from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. from the ABICYCLETTE VOYAGES team
- Local telephone assistance 7 days a week
- Luggage transfer service
A simplified route tracking:
- A tracking app with all your routes
- An English-language roadbook with useful addresses, tourist information, maps and a tour description.
And also:
- Rental of comfortable bikes, ideal for this route.
- The possibility of taking out a cancellation & multi-risk insurance to cover you in case of a problem or unforeseen event
We offer a high-end bike rental service. Our bikes are suited for road and gravel road long-distance cycling. Fully equipped and highly reliable, they are faithful travel companions.
Our rentals include a "breakage and theft guarantee" for peace of mind when travelling. Information and details from your advisor.
Touring BikeTouring bike. Brand : Cube or similar. 24 speeds. Disc brakes. Supplied equipment per bike
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Touring EbikeTouring E-bike. Brand : Cube or Scott or similar. Disc brakes. Supplied equipment per bike
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Getting here
Departure city : STOCKHOLM
Coming by car
- at more than 16h from PARIS
- at more than 16h from BRUXELLES
- at more than 16h from GENEVE
Coming by train
- Gare centrale de Stockholm - More than 12h from Paris
Coming by plane
- Aéroport de Stockholm-Arlanda
Bus (1h) and train (20 min) to get the city center. - Aéroport de Stockholm-Skavsta
Bus to get the city center (1h30).
Arrival city : STOCKHOLM
Coming by car
- at more than 16h from PARIS
- at more than 16h from BRUXELLES
- at more than 16h from GENEVE
Coming by train
- Gare centrale de Stockholm - More than 12h from Paris
Coming by plane
- Aéroport de Stockholm-Arlanda
Bus (1h) and train (20 min) to get the city center. - Aéroport de Stockholm-Skavsta
Bus to get the city center (1h30).
*Parking: Since many of our clients travel by train or plane, we do not include parking in our packages. In addition, many accommodations don’t have the capacity to park a vehicle for the duration of your cycling vacation. So if you’re planning to arrive by car, we suggest you check parking options when you make your reservation. If you reserve a parking space at the first or last accommodation of your stay, you must pay the accommodation provider on site.
* Abicyclette Voyages accompanies you on demand, including transportation solutions.
Recommended equipment
Bike
- Hybrid Bike or Touring Bike or Gravel Bike
- 18 to 30-speed transmission
- 26- to 29-inch wheels
- Tires: 35 to 42 section, reinforced against punctures
- Disc brakes recommended
- 2 bottle cages
- Bell
- Front and rear lighting
Clothing and equipment
- Helmet (supplied with bike rental unless otherwise specified locally)
- 1 bike mount for smartphone to use the mobile route planner application
- Suitable cycling clothing:
- bib, shorts or tights: elastic and breathable, to facilitate movement and wick away perspiration
- Breathable T-shirts, synthetic or merino wool
- Breathable windbreaker
- Thermal or fleece jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- 1 pair of sunglasses
- 1 pair of cycling shoes
- 1 backpack or 1 or 2 carrier bags (1 carrier bag supplied with bike rental)
- 1 or 2 water bottles (supplied with bike rental in France)
- 1 lock (supplied with bike rental)
- Technical details, recommended by the team for optimum comfort:
- 1 pair of gloves or mittens, depending on season and destination
- Padded bib (chamois)
- High-visibility vest or fluorescent belt
- Neck warmer and cap
Bike maintenance
- Emergency repair kit: 2 or 3 inner tubes, patches, pump, tire levers, multi-tools
- Maintenance kit: rag, oil, brake pads
Other
- A suitcase for your belongings carried in the vehicle (limited to one per person)
- Street clothes
- 1 pair of evening shoes
- Fleece jacket for the evening
- Toiletry bag
- Telephone and charger
Terms of payment and cancellation
The full terms and conditions of sale are available here: https://www.abicyclette-voyages.com/en/general-terms-and-conditions/
Booking and payment
- Departure more than 30 days before your booking: payment of a deposit of 30%, excluding insurance, at the time of booking. If you have taken out travel insurance, it must be paid in full at the time of booking to guarantee its validity.
- Departure within 30 days of your booking: payment of the total cost of your stay. Or payment of the balance of the holiday if you have already paid a deposit.
Cancellation of the Contract
You may cancel the Contract at any time before the start of the Tour, subject to payment of a cancellation fee. Any total or partial cancellation will incur the following costs per participant:
| Cancellation period | Fees |
| From the date of Booking to 60 days or more before departure or the 1st day of the programme | 5% of the total cost of the Tour (including options); a minimum of 100 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer |
| Between 59 and 30 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 10% of the total cost of the Tour (including options); a minimum of 120 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer
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| Between 29 and 10 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 30% of the total amount of the Tour (including options) a minimum of 150 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer |
| Between 9 and 7 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 45% of the total cost of the trip (including options) |
| Between 6 and 3 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 75% of the total cost of the trip (including options) |
| Less than 3 days to the day of departure or the 1st day of the programme | 100% of the total cost of the trip (including options) |
| No show on day of departure or 1st day of programme |
Custom made trips
You want a custom made cycling tour, or you’ve spotted one of our trips and would like to adapt it ? Tell us a bit about your project and we’ll help you prepare a trip that suits you best.
Starting from 1260€
Book your trip
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STOCKHOLM
Arrival in Stockholm. Take advantage of the late afternoon to explore the beautiful Swedish capital, especially its old town, Gamla Stan. And why not treat yourself to a boat trip to discover its string of islands before hitting the road for the next few days?