Mariefred short break
A 2-day cycle tour enjoying picture-perfect Sörmland countryside, lakeside villages and impressive castles and cathedrals.
A steamboat journey takes you to the countryside in Sörmland boasting meadows, forests and lakeside trails. Cycle past hilltop views of Lake Mälaren and onto Taxinge manor with its enviable cake buffet until you reach charming Mariefred, a lakeside idyll of colourful wooden houses dominated by imposing Gripsholm castle. Back on the cycle trail you make your way through open countryside to Strängnäs, a lively harbour village with historic centre and dramatic cathedral dominating its skyline.
Sit back and enjoy the countryside and lake views on board the historic steamboat as you gently journey across lake Mälaren back to the buzz of Stockholm city.
Itinerary
Day 1: Stockholm → Sandviken → Överenhörna → Taxinge manor → Mariefred
Steamboat from Stockholm to Sandviken (alt. Enhörna*) in Sörmland
Cycle from Sandviken (alt. Enhörna*) to Mariefred via Lurberget view point Överenhörna church & museum, and Taxinge manor house
This morning you take the steamboat from central Stockholm and head out onto beautiful Lake Mälaren. First stop on the boat, Sandviken, is where your cycle journey begins. Pedal along country lanes taking you through a changing landscape of open fields, sleepy hamlets, scattered barns and deep forests. Pass Lurberget with its mile-wide views over Mälaren's water and islands and charming Överenhörna church and folk museum.
Your efforts will be rewarded at Taxinge Manor, not only because of its delightful waterside location but also because of its buffet with over 65 homemade cakes. After your cake break it's time to start the final part of your trip to Mariefred. You have a number of choices from Taxinge manor, either cycle along lake Mälaren enjoying views of Gripsholm Castle along the way, or take the historic steam train or steamboat back to Mariefred if you feel like a rest from the saddle.**
Arrive at Mariefred and enjoy the summertime bustle or off-season calm of this charming seaside village. Founded in 1605 and famed for its narrow, winding streets and colourful, wooden houses it is home to one of the most important and magnificent castles in the region, Gripsholm Castle.
*approx 10 km less cycling if you get off the steamboat at Enhörna instead of Sandviken
**depends on timetables, which differ throughout the year
Accommodation: Mariefred
Cycling Distance: 35-46 km
Boat trip: Stockholm → Sandviken (Enhörna), 1 hr 50 mins
Day 2: Mariefred → Strängnäs → Mariefred → Stockholm
Cycle from Mariefred to Strängnäs following Näckrosleden cycle trail
Sightseeing in Strängnäs. Cycle from Strängnäs to Mariefred
Steamboat from Mariefred to Stockholm
Today's cycle tour takes you from Mariefred along the Näckrosleden cycle trail, winding its way along small country lanes and dirt tracks through open countryside with far-stretching views. Your destination today is Strängnäs, a busy harbour town with a historic centre and its recognisable windmill perched above the old town centre. Wander the quaint streets, enjoy a tea break in one of the many charming cafes and take a stroll along the coastal promenade. And don't miss a visit to Strängnäs' highlight; its impressive 13th century cathedral, standing proud in the heart of Strängnäs.
Back on the bikes and you make your way back to Mariefred in time to visit Gripsholm castle, Hjorthagen nature reserve and a self-guided walking tour of the charming village centre. Then it's time to board the steamboat S/S Mariefred and enjoy the gentle voyage back to Stockholm, passing Taxinge manor and Enhörna peninsula bringing back fond memories of your cycle day on the Sörmland trails.
Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 44 km
Boat trip: Mariefred → Stockholm, 3 hr 30 mins
Accommodation in Mariefred
Charming bed and breakfast with spacious rooms centrally located in Mariefred just moments from the central square, church and Gripsholm Castle. Three double rooms & one suite. Kitchenette & private facilities. Breakfast served at local cafe.
INCLUDED
Skomakargården B&B
Charming bed and breakfast in old typical wooden house from the early 1800's just moments from the central square, church and Gripsholm's Castle. Four double rooms located around a delightful courtyard.
Extra cost: SEK 175 per person/night
UPGRADE
Gripsholms Värdshus
Gripsholms Inn dates back to 1609 and through the centuries the exclusive hotel has been the choice of kings and queens. Here you will find a rich cultural environment and beautiful surroundings. Located opposite the impressive Gripsholm Castle.
Extra cost: SEK 350 per person/night
Level
Each cycle day is approximately 40 km on undulating terrain.
Note that you do not have the whole day to complete the cycles. On day 1 the steamboat leaves you at Sandviken at 11.50. On day 2 the steamboat leaves Mariefred at 16.30. The cycle route is however easy with gently undulating terrain and therefore we estimate about 3-4 hrs cycling each day without stops.
Note that on day 1 you are able to get off the steamboat at Enhörna saving about 10 km cycling. You are also able to take the steam train or steamboat from Taxinge manor to Mariefred saving about 13 km but this will be dependent on timetables which are more limited off-season.
Dates 2024
This trip is available Saturdays in June: 1 June, 8 June, 15 June & 29 June
This trip is available Saturdays & Wednesdays in July & August: 6 July - 7 August
This trip is available Saturdays in August: 10 August, 17 August, 24 August & 31 August
Price 2024
SEK 2,130 per person
Price Includes
Detailed route notes and maps & GPX tracks (2 days)
Steamboat Stockholm/Sandviken (Day 1)
B&B x 1 night
Breakfast x 1
Steamboat Mariefred/Stockholm (Day 2)
Optional extras
Bike rental
Mountain bikes and hybrid bikes are suitable for this trip - see our bike rental for prices
20% reduction on all our bikes if rented for our tours