The best traffic-free bike rides around Norra Lunsen

There are over 70 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Norra Lunsen, offering a wide range of distances and difficulties. You'll find everything from shorter, easy rides to longer, more challenging excursions.

The routes primarily follow paved, low-traffic roads in the scenic countryside surrounding Norra Lunsen. While the nature reserve itself is characterized by forests and wetlands, the cycling routes offer varied scenery including paths along the Fyris River and journeys towards historic sites like Gamla Uppsala. Expect moderate elevation changes, with routes like the Scenic Country Road – Cycle path loop from Knivsta featuring around 388 meters of ascent.

Yes, there are 11 easy routes perfect for beginners or families looking for a relaxed ride. A great option is the Uppsala Cathedral – Uppsala Castle loop from Vårdsätra, which is just over 20 km long with minimal elevation, making it very accessible.

Absolutely. Many routes in the area combine natural beauty with cultural sights. For instance, the View of the Manor House – Linné’s Hammarby loop from Knivsta takes you past historic manor houses and the former home of Carl Linnaeus. The broader Uppsala region is rich in history, offering views of iconic landmarks like Uppsala Cathedral and Uppsala Castle.

Yes, most of the routes listed are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Uppsala Castle – View of the Manor House loop from Valsätrakyrkan, which offers a substantial ride of over 56 km, and the Linné's Hammarby – Royal Mounds of Gamla Uppsala loop from Knivsta, a longer 84 km option.

Uppsala is a cycling-friendly city with good infrastructure, making it easy to access routes. Many routes start from towns like Knivsta or within Uppsala itself, where parking facilities are available. Public transport, particularly trains to Uppsala or Knivsta, can also be a convenient way to reach starting points, often allowing bikes on board during off-peak hours.

While Norra Lunsen itself is primarily suited for hiking and mountain biking due to its wild forest and trail networks, you can certainly road cycle to its periphery. Many no-traffic routes will bring you close to the reserve, allowing you to then switch to exploring its interior on foot or with a mountain bike if you've brought one. The Lunsentorpet croft within the reserve offers a basic but authentic wilderness experience for rest.

The spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling around Norra Lunsen. During these seasons, the weather is milder, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

The routes often pass through or near smaller towns and villages where you can find cafes, restaurants, or local shops for refreshments. For example, routes starting from Knivsta or Uppsala will have ample options. Planning your route in advance can help you identify suitable stops.

While cycling on paved roads, you might encounter common wildlife such as deer, hares, and various bird species, especially in the quieter, more rural sections. The Norra Lunsen nature reserve itself is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including moose, forest hares, and birds like the hazel grouse and goldcrest, so if you venture into the reserve on foot, your chances of spotting them increase.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 117 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the low-traffic roads, the varied and beautiful countryside, and the accessibility of routes from Uppsala and surrounding towns. The combination of natural scenery and historic landmarks is also frequently highlighted.