Cycling vacation in the Finnish Archipelago

Planet

A cycle tour is an ecological choice as such. The tour starts by train from Helsinki, the archipelago part takes place by bicycle and you take public ferries from island to island and back to Helsinki or to your next destination.
You will see unique archipelago nature all around you while cycling through the islands. There are nature trails and places with beautiful archipelago views if you need a break from the saddle.
On Kökar island you have a chance to visit one very isolated island called Kallskär with a unique rock formation created during the ice age in addition to the cultural sights. You will also visit the Seili island, involved in a range of biodiversity protection programs, including Natura 2000 and the Shore Conservation Program. Seili owned by the Archipelago Research Institute, Centre for Environmental Research of the University of Turku.
On Åland, you will stay at Boarding House Stalldalen, which has got a Green Key certification. Actually the whole Stalldalen village has got it including the Gastro Pub Stallhagen.
The Baltic sea is very vulnerable due to its low salt content. Therefore we pay attention to selecting the most environmentally friendly ferry line owned by local shareholders on Åland island taking you back to the mainland.

People

All accommodation on this tour are small private hotels either with an interesting history, unique location or both. Seili island for example is known for its history as home to Finland’s best-known leper hospital and mental asylum in the 1600s and 1700s. Seili church and surrounding graveyard still remind of the destinies of Seili’s patients. A private, guided tour on the island is included. Källskär again is the oasis created by the Swedish Lord Göran Åkerhielm. Despite the rough ground and the exposed situation of the island, a harbour, several houses and a magnificent garden have been constructed here. A guided visit to Kallsköär is included. Boarding House Stalldalen has been renovated in an old mental hospital building from1930's with interior worth seeing, food cooked by your host worth tasting and nature to be experienced.
You will get tips on small local restaurants to stop for lunch and taste pure acrhipelago food.