7 Cycling Tours & Destinations in Finland

Cycling is a viral activity in Finland, especially during the summer months. The country offers numerous bike routes, from paved city streets to picturesque rural byways. Moreover, extensive networks of cycling routes connect various parts of the country.

Read along to find some of Finland's most popular and scenic cycling destinations.

Listed below are some of the best routes for cycling in Finland:

1. Saimaa Archipelago Route

The Saimaa Archipelago Route is one of Finland's most popular and traditional cycling destinations. There are several sites along the path of the cycling trail that cyclists can explore. It also provides breathtaking scenery of lakes. For geology enthusiasts, this route offers the experience of cycling along the marginal formations of Salpausselkä.

• Distance: 154 km
• Route: Lappeenranta to Taipalsaari, Ruokolahti, Imatra, Joutseno and back to Lappeenranta
• Activities: Ferry rides, skiing, bowling
• Best Time: June to August

2. Kymijoki Rapids Cycle Route

The Kymijoki Rapids Cycle Route is the most popular choice among the urban population of Finland. Cyclists can explore nature at its best while cycling through this trail. There are six free-flowing waterfalls along the route.

Besides, there are also various sites like the Fishing Lodge and the Kyminlinna Fortress that people can explore. This route also has cafes for riders to stop and grab a bite.

• Distance: 24.9 km
• Route: Starting from Maritime Centre Vellamo, Tornatorintie 99, ending in Kotka
• Activities: Fishing, walking by the beach
• Best Time: August to September

3. Salpa Line Cycling Route

This cycling route trails along the Salpa Line, a fortification system constructed back in the day. It is a natural splendor that allows people to peek into the beauty of the countryside of Finland. Cycling on this route will help you learn more about the rural sides of the country.

• Distance: 72 km
• Route: Starts and ends at Ekenäs
• Activities: Disc golf, skiing, bowling
• Best Time: October

4. Turku Archipelago

Island-hopping around the Turku archipelago is one of the most popular activities among cyclists in Finland. This archipelago consists of over 20000 islands. Apart from the islands, there are several sites for cyclists to explore on their paths. Cyclists can go solo or join adventure groups to trail the path of this majestic archipelago.

• Distance: 250 km
• Route: Starts and ends at Turku
• Activities: Private tours, photography
• Best Time: June to September

5. The King’s Road

The flat routes of the King’s Road region make it a suitable cycling destination in Finland. This trail is the oldest tourist route in the country. Cyclists can explore several historical and cultural aspects along their path. They can explore several villages and historic towns and find local artists and craftsmen in the region.

• Distance: 330 km
• Route:  Starting from Svartå to Lohja and further to Siuntio
• Activities: Hiking, campfire, adventure tours
• Best Time: September to October

6. Häme

This cycling route is on the northern part of the King's Road. It is one of the most beautiful cycling trails in the country, offering a vast range of sites to be explored. Historic sites, prehistoric grave markings and mediaeval churches are along the trail.

This cycling route is also a treat for nature lovers as there are numerous lakes on the path and several rare species of plants.

• Distance: 175 km
• Route: Starting from Eerikkilän Sport & Outdoor Resort parking area, Kurjenniemi bridge, Villa Erik nature centre, Häme Ox Road to Liesjärvi
• Activities: Berry picking,
• Best Time: June to August

7. The Iron Curtain Trail

The Iron Curtain Trail is a long path running across 20 countries. In Finland, it runs across the westernmost part of the country along the Russian border. There are several sites that cyclists can explore along the path.

These include the Winter War Museum or towns like Lake Saimaa, Savolinna, etc. People can also spot animals like bears, reindeer, loose and the rare Saimaa ringed seal on their path.

• Distance: 10400 km
• Route: Barents Sea to Black Sea Coast
• Activities: Animal watching, e-bike tours
• Best Time: April to November

Thus, cycling is a popular activity in Finland. Before trailing a path, cyclists must carry the essential supplies and may also keep a GPS device handy. This will help them keep track of their location. If you are visiting Finland and enjoy cycling, these cycling destinations in Finland should be on your bucket list.