Stockholm and Sörmland by Bike: Among Lakes and Castles
Cycling Through Sweden’s Garden of Eden
© Valkird
Duration
8 days and 7 nights
Level
Fit
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
- Lake Mälaren, Sweden’s third-largest lake
- Drottningholm Palace, a royal residence, and Gripsholm Castle
- The picturesque lakeside town of Mariefred
- Trosa, a charming seaside resort on the Baltic Sea
- Wild and peaceful trails
- Boat crossings included
The story behind the trip
Valentin Chapalain, a travel consultant at Abicyclette Voyages, has been passionate about Scandinavia since he was 8 years old. Since 2010, he has undertaken numerous journeys on foot and by bike through Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, all the way to the North Cape… He has developed an in-depth knowledge of Sweden’s regions and cities.
Drawing on his wealth of experience, he is delighted to help you plan your cycling trip in Sweden and share his most memorable discoveries with you.
Through Sweden’s enchanting lakes, forests, and castles
From Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, you set off on a cycling tour to explore the Sörmland region, one of Sweden’s most beautiful areas, dubbed the “Swedish Garden of Eden” by author Selma Lagerlöf. Cycle past majestic lakes, hidden forests, royal castles, and stately mansions, taking in a picture-perfect view of Sweden. Without a doubt, this is one of our favorite trips!
The trip begins in Stockholm. Sweden’s lush, green capital stretches across a string of islands and islets in the Baltic Sea. With its history, culture, and entertainment, Stockholm has much to offer travelers. On the island of Djurgården, explore the world of the famous band ABBA or stroll through the Skansen open-air museum. You can also wander through the old town, Gamla Stan, lined with picturesque, colorful facades. The Stockholm archipelago, with its 30,000 islands, a true call to adventure just a stone’s throw from the capital, is well worth a boat trip before setting off on a bike ride along the trails of Sörmland.
You leave Stockholm via beautiful bike paths. Situated on the southern shores of Lake Mälaren, the country’s third-largest lake, Sörmland boasts a wealth of natural beauty: vast lakes, deep forests, lush meadows, wild islands, and the rugged coastline of the Baltic Sea. This region is described as Sweden’s southernmost wilderness. With its varied terrain, it’s perfect for cycling adventures along quiet trails and picturesque country roads.
Along the way, you can visit a myriad of castles, allowing you to combine immersion in Swedish nature with the discovery of the Scandinavian kingdom’s cultural and historical treasures. The mix of bike paths in the Swedish capital and greenways (50%) and small country roads (50%) in Sörmland adds variety to this trip through Sweden. You stop in several charming towns and villages. Perched on the shores of Lake Mälaren, Mariefred is home to one of Sweden’s most famous castles: Gripsholm Castle. This castle offers a lesson in Swedish history spanning the centuries. Our itinerary takes you to Drottningholm Palace, the official private residence of the Swedish royal family. In addition to these iconic landmarks, the route is dotted with intimate castles and manor houses tucked away in the countryside.
At the end of your stay, enjoy a change of scenery. Head to the Baltic Sea coast for a well-deserved swim. Despite the latitude, the water isn’t that cold. If you don’t succumb to the call of the water, you can always rent a kayak to explore the canals and the sheltered bay of Trosa. A charming seaside resort, Trosa is brimming with beauty. It’s easy to fall in love with its warm-colored wooden cottages and its quaint little church, painted entirely red.
After a week of cycling among lakes, forests, and castles in this wild yet culturally rich setting, return to Stockholm. It’s the perfect opportunity to toast the end of your cycling adventure at one of the capital’s finest spots!
Itinerary
Fit From STOCKHOLM to SÖDERTÄLJE 59km 629m 
Today’s stage takes you outside Stockholm, the capital of Sweden. Traveling along small roads and greenways, you follow an ancient trade route dating back to the Viking Age. After 15 kilometers, Drottningholm Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a perfect opportunity to take a break. As Sweden’s best-preserved 17th-century royal palace, it exemplifies the European royal architecture of that era. The royal family moved there in 1981. Today, it serves as the royal couple’s permanent residence. The rooms in the south wing are reserved for the royal couple. However, the palace and park remain open to the public. You then cycle to the island of Ekerö, which you reach via a ferry. Nature and historical heritage will make your time on the island memorable. Finally, continue on to the city of Södertälje, world-famous for its Scania trucks. Overnight in Södertälje.
From SÖDERTÄLJE to MARIEFRED 42km 494m
You leave Södertälje and cycle along small, rolling roads toward Mariefred, an idyllic little Swedish town nestled on the shores of Lake Mälaren. Mariefred is best known for Gripsholm Castle, nestled on a small island facing the lake. Rebuilt in the 16th century at the behest of King Gustav Vasa, it is an elegant red-brick building flanked by three towers. Gripsholm Castle houses the Swedish State’s national portrait collection, which includes more than 4,000 works, allowing visitors to trace the development of portraiture. It is also home to one of the best-preserved 18th-century theaters in Europe. Overnight stay on the shores of Lake Mälaren in Mariefred.
MARIEFRED, SELAÖN ISLAND LOOP 63km 710m
You’re setting off on a lovely loop around Sweden’s largest lake island: Selaön.
Just before reaching Selaön, the village of Stallarholmen is the perfect spot to stop for a morning “fika” break. In Sweden, the “fika” break is an institution. It refers to a social moment with colleagues or friends to enjoy a hot drink accompanied by a sweet treat.
On the island, passing through the hamlets of Eknäs and Fjällsta, you cycle along small gravel paths to Mälsåker Castle. The castle is one of Sweden’s most beautiful Baroque castles. Note: opening hours are limited! The castle once belonged to the von Färsen family. The most famous member of this family is undoubtedly Axel von Fersen, who is said to have been Marie Antoinette’s
lover. On the way back, take the Näckrosleden bike path, known as the “water lily trail.”
From MARIEFRED to GNESTA 43km 493m
From Mariefred, cycle toward the village of Gnesta. The stage is short but enjoyable. The route is hilly. A few climbs offer beautiful panoramic views of a lake or the countryside. At the end of the stage, on the shores of Lake Frösjön, Södertuna Castle invites you to learn more about its history. Take the opportunity to stroll through its magnificent gardens overlooking Lake Frösjön. Spend the night at the Södertuna Castle Hotel.
From GNESTA to TROSA 41km 440m
Set off on a pleasant and varied stage toward the village of Trosa. Art exhibitions, shops, castles, manor houses, and wild landscapes. Today’s route also offers several opportunities for swimming. The stage ends in the picturesque town of Trosa, known for its narrow streets, red
houses, and magnificent views of the Baltic Sea and its string of islets. Overnight in Trosa
From TROSA to STOCKHOLM 55km 550m
From the small village of Trosa, head toward Stockholm. Along the way, you pass through the island of Mörkö.
From Mörkö, take a short ferry ride and continue on to Tumba. From Tumba, take the train to Stockholm. We recommend getting off the train at Södermalm, visiting this charming part of Stockholm, and cycling the last few kilometers to your hotel.
Overnight in the Swedish capital.
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 1490€/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: 7 nights in a Double room
- 7 breakfasts
- Luggage transfer
- Phone assistance 7/7
- Application fee
- Boat crossings durant the trip
- 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"
- Taxes
- Drinks, tours and other personal expenses
- Train ticket from Tumba to Stockholm (Day 7, to be picked up locally, 5 euros)
A “homemade” stay made by a local partner specializing in Sweden:
- Routes selected in collaboration with the Abicyclette Voyages team for their tourist and cycling appeal, fully mapped out, and away from traffic
- Accommodations chosen for the quality of their hospitality, atmosphere, services, and cuisine
- Great flexibility in planning to suit your needs and preferences: you can depart on the date of your choice! We verify accommodation availability to ensure your trip goes ahead.
Local support:
- 7-day-a-week phone support from 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM from the ABICYCLETTE VOYAGES team
- Local phone support 7 days a week
- A luggage transfer service
Easy route tracking:
- A tracking app with all your itineraries
- A travel guide in English featuring all useful addresses, tourist information, maps, and a description of the route.
And also:
- Rental of comfortable bikes, ideal for this route.
- The option to purchase cancellation and comprehensive insurance to cover you in case of problems or unforeseen events
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
- Electrical plug adapter (compliant with local standards)
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 1490€
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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?