The best traffic-free bike rides around Vallaskogen

There are nearly 80 dedicated road cycling routes around Vallaskogen that focus on minimizing traffic, offering a diverse range of options for cyclists. These include 17 easy routes, 52 moderate routes, and 7 more challenging rides.

While Vallaskogen itself has varied terrain including gravel paths, the surrounding area offers dedicated road cycling routes. These routes often feature paved surfaces, providing smooth riding conditions. You'll find a mix of flat sections and gentle inclines, with elevation gains typically ranging from around 90 meters for shorter loops to over 480 meters for longer excursions.

Yes, many of the routes are suitable for families looking for a relaxed ride away from heavy traffic. Routes like the Swedish Air Force Museum loop from Linköping, at just over 28 km with minimal elevation, are great options for an enjoyable family outing.

The routes around Vallaskogen offer a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. You can cycle past the historic open-air museum of Gamla Linköping and the Valla Gård estate. Further afield, some routes may lead you towards impressive sites like Bergs Slussar (Berg Locks) on the Göta Canal, where you can observe boats navigating the lock system. While the canal paths are often gravel, the locks themselves are a picturesque stop.

Absolutely. Most of the routes around Vallaskogen are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Pedestrian and Bicycle Tunnel loop from Linköping is a moderate 25 km circular route, perfect for exploring the area without retracing your steps.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 86 ratings. Reviewers often praise the serene environment, the blend of natural and historical sights, and the availability of routes that allow for peaceful cycling away from urban traffic.

Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, there are longer, moderate routes available. The St. Lars Church, Linköping – Linköping Cathedral loop from Linköping is a substantial 77 km ride, and for an even longer adventure, consider The Motala Ström in Borensberg – Motala Harbor and Canal Park loop from Linköping C, which spans over 106 km.

Beginners will find several easy routes perfect for getting started. The Swedish Air Force Museum – Rydskogen Motionscentrum loop from Linköping is an easy 29.9 km ride with manageable elevation, providing a great introduction to road cycling in the region.

Given Vallaskogen's proximity to Linköping city, there are various parking options available in and around the city that can serve as convenient starting points for these routes. Many routes begin from Linköping itself, where public parking facilities are common.

While Vallaskogen itself is a nature reserve, the surrounding areas, especially near Gamla Linköping and within Linköping city, offer numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Cyclists can easily find places to refuel and relax before or after their rides, or even incorporate a stop into a longer route.

The spring, summer, and early autumn months (roughly April to October) generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling around Vallaskogen. During these times, the weather is milder, the natural landscapes are vibrant, and daylight hours are longer, making for an enjoyable experience. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear for colder temperatures and potential snow or ice.