Sweden: Land of Lakes and Castles
Sweden: Land of Lakes and Castles
6 Days Starting and ending in Stockholm
Visiting: Sweden
From:
$1132
$1081
Exclusive Tourhub Members Discount: -$51
NB: Prices correct on 21-May-2024 but subject to change.
Tour Overview
In central Sweden’s heartland lies Stockholm, the nation’s capital city spread across 14 islands, each providing a different perspective of the city. Not too far southwest of the capital is a different world, where royal palaces and castles are interspersed with pine forests, open green fields and vast lakes. Exploring this region by bike ensures a full immersion in the subtle landscapes of its archipelago and beyond. With a relaxed pace there is ample time to swim in the refreshing Baltic waters, hike trails in manor house grounds and visit towns of pretty wooden houses. Concluding in Stockholm, enjoy the city at handlebar level and gain an insight into its unique topography.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive Stockholm
Meals Included: B
On arrival in Stockholm, make your way to the joining hotel, with check in from 3pm. Often referred to as the ‘Venice of the North’, Stockholm is unquestionably a unique and beautiful city all year round, not only due to its location on 14 islands with its infinite presence of water, but also because of its combination of nature, colourful architecture and ancient history. You don't need to walk far to appreciate the impressive views stretching across the Baltic sea as it winds past the city walls. Stroll through 13th century Gamla Stan, Stockholm’s charming old town, where you cannot help but feel its medieval atmosphere as you wander through the cobblestone streets past narrow, colourful houses of yesteryear. There is so much to see in Stockholm, appealing to so many different interests, that you are sure to find something special within walking distance of your hotel.
Day 2 : Transfer To Stendörren Nature Reserve, Ride To Trosa (43Km/26.5Mi)
Meals Included: B
Today begins with a transfer from Stockholm hotel to Stendörren Nature Reserve, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful archipelagos in the world. Here you have the rest of the morning to hike across the many islands using their intriguing system of suspension bridges, or swim in the clean, refreshing Baltic waters. When you are ready continue your cycle along country lanes through the varied countryside; evergreen forests, meadows and lakes. You pass the impressive 17th century Nynäs Manor House where you can rest your legs, have some lunch and enjoy an optional guided tour or hike the trails in the manor house grounds. En route, you can also stop at Sandvik beach for a quick swim in the sea before you continue your journey on to the seaside town of Trosa. Trosa is visited by many Stockholmers in the summer months because of its unique location surrounded by both open landscape and another marvellous archipelago.
Day 3 : Explore Trosa Then Cycle Via The Royal Tullgarn Palace To Gnesta (46Km/28.5Mi)
Meals Included: B, D
The next morning you can choose to take a short break in Trosa before continuing your journey. Trosa is a charming 17th century town, known as 'the World's End' because of its location on the banks of the Baltic Sea, with endless views of the ocean all around. The little square, surrounded by old wooden houses, marks the centre of town and the walkway along the canal as it winds its way to the ocean is not to be missed. When you are ready, continue your cycle journey stopping first at the royal Tullgarn Palace, an 18th century palace located on the seashore with magnificent views of the Baltic waters. You can relax and enjoy lunch in the beautiful palace gardens. After lunch continue by bike and enjoy the Swedish countryside at its very best: pine forests, sparkling lakes and open green fields. Soon you arrive at the outskirts of Gnesta where you can enjoy the beautiful views from your grand farmhouse accommodation. Dinner is included.
Day 4 : Cycle The Shores Of Lake Klämmingen To Mariefred, Optional Canoeing* (54.5Km/33.8Mi)
Meals Included: B
This morning, you will cycle from Gnesta to Laxne along the shores of Lake Klämminge, where you'll have plenty of opportunities to stop and swim in the clear waters. You pass by the small village of Laxne where you can pause for refreshments. The next part of your journey back to Mariefred is through pine forests dotted with lakes glistening through the trees, and you can stop for a swim or stroll through the woods to further enjoy the surroundings. Continue to the charming village of Mariefred, founded in 1605 and famed for its narrow, winding streets and colourful, wooden houses, as well as being home to one of the most important and magnificent castles in the region, Gripsholm.
*Optional half day canoeing: over 4 lakes, approx 9km/5.5mi and 3.5hrs, in a 2-person open canoe. The paddling is easy and the scenery is very pretty. Your overall route is not altered - just your mode of transport. Then pick up your bikes and cycle to Mariefred. It's a great chance to get onto the lakes. The price is SEK450 pp (subject to change) and payable locally - please let us know if you'd like to book this activity.
Day 5 : Cycle The Shores Of Lake Mälaren Then Steamboat To Stockholm (32Km/20Mi Approx)
Meals Included: B
Today you have a free day to enjoy the area around Mariefred. Choose to cycle through green fields, forests and along the shores of Lake Mälaren to the isolated Taxinge Manor House. Taxinge is not only a beautiful manor house set in lovely surroundings but it is famous for its cakes. Plenty of time is allowed to marvel at the display. After your tea break, you can take a break from cycling and board the charming steam train from Taxinge, reminiscent of times gone by, and make your way back to the village of Mariefred. Instead, you may choose to put your bikes down and visit the impressive Gripsholm’s Castle and learn about Swedish royal history.
Later in the afternoon you leave Mariefred and board the steamboat* which takes you back to Stockholm where you spend the night in the heart of the city, within walking distance of all sights, restaurants and the charming old town.
* At times during May/September the steamboat will not be running. A transfer will be arranged instead of the boat trip if this is the case.
Day 6 : Cycle Stockholm's Ecopark, The First National Park To Be Located In A City
Meals Included: B
Today we include a self guided bicycle tour through Stockholm’s unique Ecopark - the world’s first National Park to be located within a bustling city. The Ecopark is 27 km2 / 16.7 mi2 and is a green oasis combining cultural heritage and natural features. Here you can cycle through ancient forests, visit palaces and bathe from waterside rocks. Animals such as foxes, badgers, marten, mink and deer roam freely and the greatest number of large oak trees in northern Europe are located right here, in the city centre. Your self guided tour takes you through this peaceful city hideaway and includes the Royal island of Djurgården where many of Stockholm’s best museums are located, the royal residence of Rosendal and its delightful gardens and café plus the picturesque canal running through the island. Not to be missed along the way is the Kaknäs Tower with its 30 floor high observation deck offering fantastic views across Stockholm city. Head north and you come to Haga Park and Palace - home to the crown princess family which lies alongside the beautiful Brunnsviken inlet. Further north and you can reach as far as Ulriksdal’s Palace with its well respected restaurant plus relaxing gardens and delightful views.
We also recommend a visit to Stockholm’s open air museum, Skansen, which is famous for its Nordic Zoo and living history exhibition; over the years about 150 historical buildings have been moved here from nearly every part of Sweden. Alongside Skansen is the always impressive Vasa Museum, The Vasa ship sank on its maiden voyage on 1628 and was salvaged from the depths of Stockholm’s harbour in 1961. Despite over 300 years lying at the bottom of the Baltic, the Vasa is extremely well preserved thanks to the Baltic’s brackish waters. Consider perhaps a boat trip to Drottningholm Palace, the official residence of the Royal family which is on UNESCO´s World Heritage list. It is the most well-preserved royal palace built in the 1600’s in Sweden. Alternatively, you may choose to take it easy and explore the trendy clothing and design shops that Stockholm is becoming increasingly renowned for. Tour arrangements conclude after breakfast. Ask us about extending your stay in Stockholm.
What's Included
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Accommodation
5 nights in guesthouses and hotels -
5 breakfasts, 1 dinner - Continental breakfasts are served and usually consist of breads, jams, cheese, often eggs and meats, coffee, tea and juices.
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5 nights in hotels and guesthouses on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities (1 night shared facilities)
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21 speed mountain bike with helmet, pannier, repair kit, lock and pump rental day 2-6
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Information pack including detailed trail routes in English and maps (one per room booked)
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Emergency hotline
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Full trip briefing
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Internal transfers on days 2 & 5
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Luggage transfers on day 2, 3 & 4
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Steamboat from Mariefred to Stockholm on day 5 (or a transfer if the steamboat is not running)
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Luggage transfers on day 2, 3 & 4, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess
What's Not Included
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Travel to and from Stockholm
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Meals and beverages other than those specified
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Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, souvenirs, laundry etc.
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Travel insurance
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Entrance fees and optional excursions such as canoeing
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Tour guide - this is a self guided trip
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Transfers other than those specified
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Meals not listed as included, drinks
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Travel insurance - mandatory
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Guide – this is a self guided cycling holiday
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A supplement will apply if you book a single rooms
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Transfers not listed included
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Excess Luggage
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Hotel taxes if applicable – payable directly to the hotel
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Handlebar phone holder – to follow the route more easily using the app / GPX files
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Items of a personal nature
Accommodation
5 nights in guesthouses and hotels
During the trip you will be accommodated in unique and characterful guesthouses and B&B's which are family run and often in spectacular locations. One night there will be shared bathrooms in the guesthouse. In Stockholm you stay in a centrally located boutique style hotel.
What You Carry
During the cycle day you will carry your daily requirements in the handlebar bag provided with the bike. You will need a small daypack to carry your lunch and waterproofs.
Grading
The cycle is graded moderate (3) grade with daily cycles of between 30 and 55km/18.5 to 34mi on flat to undulating terrain especially in Sormland. The cycling is on quiet country lanes, dirt tracks and some dedicated cycle paths. Also some busier roads are used to access towns and in Stockholm. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. You will need a reasonable level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure.
Reviews from travellers on this tour
1 Dates & Availability
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Tuesday - Sunday
May 28, 2024 - Jun 02, 2024Tuesday - Sunday
Jun 04, 2024 - Jun 09, 2024Tuesday - Sunday
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Sep 10, 2024 - Sep 15, 2024Tuesday - Sunday
Sep 17, 2024 - Sep 22, 2024Book with Confidence
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
UTracks allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform utracks, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
UTracks requires a minimum deposit of 150 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of utracks charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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