Sweden: Archipelago Cycle

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.

Today begins with a welcome briefing and transfer from your accommodation in Stockholm to Tyresö Palace (40mins). Here you have time to stroll through the impressive gardens or across to the nearby small islands. You start the cycle along quiet country lanes to Tyresta National Park. Tyresta is a protected area with trees dating back 400 years, sparkling lakes, and a wealth of wildlife including deer and moose. You can choose to hike the trails or take a refreshing dip in one of the many refreshing lakes. Take some free time to enjoy the peace and tranquility of Stockholm’s only national park. You then take your bikes and cycle again through fields and woods until you reach the idyllic village of Dalarö, your first taste of the wonderful archipelago. Explore the picturesque narrow streets of colourful wooden houses, swim at the white beaches of Schweizerdalen or pay a visit to the beautiful 15th century church. Continue a few kms to Smådalarö Gård and your hotel.

This morning you cycle back to Dalarö enjoying some time to explore the village and walk up to its lookout with extensive views of the archipelago. After lunch you take the boat and head out amongst the southern part of the archipelago made up of 24,000 islands. Stretching some 80km/50mi east of Stockholm into the Baltic sea, it formed during the last ice age and is considered one of the world’s natural wonders. Stretching 14km/8.5mi long and 6km/3.7mi wide, your first stop is the pretty island of Ornö. This island remains undiscovered by large scale tourism. You then have the chance to visit the four corners of the island on two wheels, and enjoy its unique nature, both woodland and open landscape, plus opportunities to swim from the smooth rocks as well as visit historical landmarks en route, such as the wooden church dating from 1885. Don’t miss a walk up to Ornö’s viewpoint on Telegrafberget, the southern archipelago’s highest point. After a stop at the local Ornö Museum to learn about local life on Ornö over a cup of coffee you then take the early evening boat from Ornö onwards to the holiday island of Utö. Boat trip: Dalarö - Ornö, 30 mins (included) & Ornö - Utö, 50 mins (not included)

Today you are free to enjoy the island of Utö, famous for its Nature Reserve, exceptional beaches and history. Cycle the length of the island, crossing over a little bridge to the isolated island of Ålö with its white sand beaches and a charming fish restaurant. Extra activities include sea kayaking and hiking along many trails through forests and open country, stopping to enjoy the smooth waterside rocks and hidden beaches. In Utö village, you can visit the museum and Gruvbyn mine, which was in operation as early as the 1100s. The village buzzes with life in the summer months and has shops selling interesting local products and a good selection of restaurants and cafes. Accommodation Utö.

This morning, you can head up to the windmill built in 1791 to enjoy one of Utö’s best views. You also have time to explore Utö nature reserve either by bike or by foot along a beautiful coastal trail. As well as wonderful sea views you will pass sandy beaches and smooth rocks perfect for sunbathing or enjoying a picnic lunch in the fresh sea air. In the afternoon board the boat and enjoy the trip passing island after island as you journey back to the buzz of Stockholm city. Make sure to enjoy the views of Stockholm as you enter the city centre. Optional hiking 8-13km/4.9-8mi Boat journey Utö-Stockholm 4hrs

Today enjoy a self guided cycle tour through Stockholm’s unique Royal National City Park – the world’s first National Park to be located within a bustling city. Here you can cycle through ancient forests, visit palaces, and bathe from waterside rocks. Foxes, badgers, marten, mink and deer roam freely and the greatest number of large oak trees in northern Europe are located here in the city centre. This tour includes the Royal Island of Djurgården where many of Stockholm’s best museums are located, the royal residence of Rosendal and its delightful gardens plus the picturesque canal running through the island. Head north and you come to Haga Park and Palace which lies alongside the beautiful Brunnsviken inlet. Further north is the Ulriksdal’s Palace with a well respected restaurant, 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.