The best traffic-free bike rides around Ridö-Sundbyholmsarkipelagen

There are 7 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes in the Ridö-Sundbyholmsarkipelagen region. These routes offer a range of distances and difficulties, allowing you to explore the area's unique landscapes without vehicle interference.

The routes around Ridö-Sundbyholmsarkipelagen generally feature varied terrain. You'll find routes like the Badelunda – Grytahögen loop from Stockholm-Västerås Airport which is rated as easy, covering 38.9 km with moderate elevation gain. Other routes, such as the Skerike Golf Club loop from Västerås Central, are more challenging, spanning over 142 km with significant elevation changes, suitable for experienced cyclists.

Yes, there are easy routes suitable for families. For instance, the Badelunda – Grytahögen loop from Stockholm-Västerås Airport is rated as easy, offering a pleasant 38.9 km ride. The car-free nature of Ridön itself, accessible by ferry, also provides a safe environment for bike tours, though specific paved routes within the island may vary.

The Ridö-Sundbyholmsarkipelagen region is a nature reserve rich in biodiversity. You can expect to cycle through noble deciduous forests, open pastures, and deep coniferous woodlands. The area is home to diverse flora, including mistletoe and various southern deciduous forest plants, and a wide array of bird species. Keep an eye out for mammals like moose, wild boar, and deer, and evidence of beaver activity.

While cycling, you might encounter historical sites such as Munkkällan (Monk's Spring) and Lybäcks sten, a stone with historical water level markings. On Ridön, the largest island, there are ancient relics and a nature and culture trail that delves into the area's history. Aggarön also features a 17th-century fruit orchard. These points of interest add a cultural dimension to your ride.

Access to the islands, particularly Ridön, is primarily by boat. Ferry services are available from Västerås to Ridön from early spring to late autumn. This allows you to bring your bicycle and enjoy the unique car-free environment of the island, which is ideal for bike tours without vehicle traffic.

On Ridön, the largest island, you can find cafes and a hostel, providing amenities for a break or an overnight stay. While specific cafes or restaurants directly on all routes are not detailed, the presence of such facilities on the main island suggests options for refreshment and accommodation within the archipelago.

The best time to cycle in Ridö-Sundbyholmsarkipelagen is generally from early spring to late autumn, aligning with the ferry service schedule to the islands. During these seasons, the weather is more favorable, and the natural beauty of the archipelago, with its rich flora and fauna, is at its peak.

For routes starting near urban centers, such as those originating from Västerås Central or Stockholm-Västerås Airport, parking facilities are typically available. For accessing the islands, you would generally park at the ferry departure points in Västerås. Always check local parking regulations and availability before your trip.

The komoot community rates the cycling experience in Ridö-Sundbyholmsarkipelagen highly, with an average score of 4.58 stars. Reviewers often praise the opportunity to cycle through diverse natural landscapes, the quietness of the car-free sections, and the blend of scenic beauty with historical points of interest.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Eskilstuna nedre kanal – Krusgårdsberget loop from Skäret and the Landsberga Gård Café loop from Västerås Central, offering convenient circular journeys through the region.