Cycling Finland and Turku Archipelago
Embark on a seamless cycling adventure that combines the historic charm of Finland’s oldest city with the captivating beauty of the archipelago. This unique region is home to around 20,000 islands, often considered the most picturesque of their kind. Immerse yourself in the distinctive archipelago lifestyle, surrounded by untouched nature and under the enchanting light of long Nordic summer nights.
Explore the islands, visit quaint villages and discover bustling marinas. Winding roads and ferries allow you to enjoy a loop tour that effortlessly combines city life and island exploration!
Tour Highlights
- Up to 9 ferry rides and nearly 30 islands visited
- Unspoilt nature and sea air
- Turku Castle and Ruissalo Island
- Lively Nauvo Marina
- Tranquility of Mossala on Houtskär Island
- Naantali Old Town and Naantali Spa Hotel
Day 1: Arrival in Turku,
Overnight in central Turku.
Day 2: Turku – Parainen – Nauvo Island (59 km)
Tour information meeting (in English) at the hotel and pick up rental bikes. Start the tour by cycling through beautiful Turku before continuing into the lush nature of the archipelago. Stop for a coffee break in the picturesque seaside town of Parainen and admire the view of its vast limestone quarry. Stop at Sattmark, a charming café and bistro located in a unique and authentic courtyard. The oldest part of the farm dates back to the 1790s! Overnight in a comfortable archipelago hotel in Nauvo, located right next to the lively marina with shops, restaurants and a sandy beach.
Day 3: Nauvo – Korppoo – Houtskär Island (54 - 56 km)
Island hopping with beautiful sea views: Embark on four ferry crossings and bridges that stretch from one island to the other. In June and July, daylight is virtually endless, so there is no need to rush. You can choose the main road across the island of Nauvo or take a detour via a gravel road (+ 2 km). Visit the medieval church in Korppoo, have lunch at a seaside restaurant in Houtskär. Overnight stay in modern and luxurious seaside cabins. Possibility to enjoy a Finnish sauna by the beach (book on site)! A late night sunset from the Mossala observation tower is not to be missed.
Day 4: Houtskär – Iniö – Taivassalo – Velkuanmaa (37 km)
Continue to enjoy the views of the archipelago by cycling to the inner islands of the region. The morning starts with a longer ferry ride and a few small cable ferries to briefly return to the mainland. Visit the marina of Petersen with its pretty sailing boats, a café and small shops. Possibility to make a short detour to the craft village of Kustavi (+ 1 km). Take the last three ferries before arriving at the picturesque island of Velkuanmaa. Overnight stay in an idyllic hotel. Possibility to book two different saunas on site.
Day 5: Velkuanmaa – Naantali (34 km + possibility to extend the circuit up to 50 km)
Back on the mainland. A few steeper climbs await you through peaceful countryside. If you want to extend your cycling day, visit Louhisaari Manor and discover how Finnish nobles lived from the 17th to the 19th century (+ 16 km). Head to the beautiful seaside town of Naantali, known as the summer residence of the President of Finland. Here you have time to explore the jewel of the Finnish archipelago, which offers a delightful mix of culture, architecture and captivating sights such as the Old Town with its cobbled streets and wooden houses with their shops and cafes. Have a drink or lunch at the seaside restaurants, embark on a boat trip or visit the President's summer house. End your day at the spa, at your accommodation.
Day 6: Naantali – Ruissalo – Turku (45 km)
Back to the city! After four days of island and sea views, it’s time for a change of scenery. Today’s stop takes you first to the island of Ruissalo, a charming destination that combines natural beauty with historical charm. Ruissalo’s oak forests are home to rare animal, fungi and plant species that can’t be seen anywhere else. The University of Turku Botanical Garden is located in the middle of the island and is a plant lover’s paradise. The island is home to idyllic villas built after the mid-19th century and offers sandy beaches, seaside cliffs and scenic spots like Saaronniemi. After a visit, lunch and coffee break in Ruissalo, cycle back to Turku via the bridges or take the Föli water bus across the river mouth.
Day 7: Turku
End of the tour after breakfast
