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Road cycling routes
Sweden
Östergötland

Motala Ström

The best road cycling routes around the Motala Ström

4.6

(86)

2,310

riders

150

rides

Road cycling around the Motala Ström offers diverse landscapes, combining historical waterways with scenic lake views. The region is characterized by the Motala Ström river, the Göta Canal with its impressive lock systems, and the expansive Lake Vättern. Terrain generally features flat sections along the canal and river, interspersed with gentle ascents and descents, providing varied experiences for road cyclists.

Best road cycling routes around the Motala Ström

  • The most popular road cycling route is Göta canal 2 – From…

Last updated: July 5, 2026

5

riders

#1.

Göta canal 2 – From Motala to Söderköping

98.1km

10:05

460m

540m

Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

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Hard

Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Easy
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Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate

Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Easy

Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Easy

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate

Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Easy

Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Easy

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate
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Popular around Motala Ström

Cycling Sweden’s Blue Ribbon – Göta Canal Trail

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Cycling Collection by

Francesco | Cyclo Ergo Sum

Tips from the Community

Nicholas Rrr
June 24, 2026, 15% Incline

Brutal climb. The steepest in all Östergötland I guess.

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Worth to visit in high season when boats are cruising the canal.

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From this point you can get a glimpse over the coast.

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Rydskogen Motionscentrum is the main starting point for the forest’s network of exercise trails. From here, well-marked paths lead through Rydskogen’s mixed woodland, making it a popular spot for walking, running, and outdoor workouts. The center also provides practical facilities such as toilets, changing rooms, and showers.

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In Borensberg, the Göta Canal meets the Motala Ström, creating a picturesque setting where water and history intertwine. This is one of the few sections of the canal without a lock, as the natural flow of the river carries boats gently onward. The spot is particularly charming, with the old lock keeper’s cottage, small bridges, and cafés giving it the feel of a living postcard. Long a gathering place for travelers and locals, Borensberg highlights the harmony between the canal’s engineering and the surrounding landscape. Today, it remains a beloved stop for cyclists, boaters, and visitors exploring the heart of Östergötland.

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With a little luck you will see a ship passing through the lock

Translated by Google

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Impressive moated castle; worth a visit.

Translated by Google

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A cozy cafe from which you can see everything.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many road cycling routes are available around the Motala Ström?

There are over 150 road cycling routes available around the Motala Ström, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging options to explore the region's diverse landscapes.

What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in the Motala Ström region?

The Motala Ström region offers varied terrain for road cyclists. You can expect mostly flat sections along the Göta Canal and the Motala Ström river, ideal for relaxed rides. However, some routes also feature gentle ascents and descents, providing a more dynamic experience. Surfaces are typically asphalt, with some routes incorporating well-maintained gravel sections.

Are there any easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Motala Ström?

Yes, the Motala Ström area has over 60 easy road cycling routes, perfect for beginners or families. An excellent option is the Vätternrundan in Motala – Motala Harbor and Canal Park loop from Ljungsbro, which offers scenic views of Lake Vättern and passes through Motala's charming harbor and canal park.

What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see while road cycling in the Motala Ström area?

The region is rich in historical and natural attractions. You can cycle past the impressive Bergs Slussar, Göta Canal, and the monumental Carl Johans Lock Staircase. The Motala Ström river itself features captivating waterfalls in Norrköping's historic Industrial Landscape. Additionally, you can find the Vätternrundan Monument in Motala, celebrating the famous cycling event.

Are there any circular road cycling routes in the Motala Ström region?

Yes, many routes in the Motala Ström region are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the View of Lake Roxen – Carl Johan Lock Staircase loop from Ljungsbro is a popular circular route that takes you through the area around the impressive lock staircase.

What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Motala Ström?

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 70 reviews. Cyclists often praise the unique combination of historical waterways like the Göta Canal, the scenic beauty of Lake Vättern, and the well-maintained paths that offer a mix of flat sections and gentle climbs.

Can I find routes that follow the Göta Canal?

Absolutely. The Göta Canal is a central feature of the region's cycling landscape. A prime example is the Göta canal 2 – From Motala to Söderköping, a longer route that showcases the canal's engineering marvels and picturesque towns along its banks.

Are there any routes that offer views of Lake Vättern?

Yes, Motala is situated on Lake Vättern, offering stunning views. The Vätternrundan in Motala – Motala Harbor and Canal Park loop from Motala C provides excellent vistas of Sweden's second-largest lake, passing through Motala's vibrant harbor and canal park.

What is the best time of year for road cycling in Motala Ström?

The best time for road cycling in Motala Ström is generally from spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is milder, and the natural landscapes, including the Göta Canal and Lake Vättern, are at their most inviting. The region is also known for the Vätternrundan, a major cycling event that takes place in June.

Are there any routes that pass through charming towns or villages?

Many routes in the Motala Ström region will take you through charming towns and villages. For instance, the Ljungskile Church – Motala Ström in Borensberg loop from Sockenmarken passes through Borensberg, a picturesque town along the Göta Canal known for its charming wooden houses and cafes, offering a perfect spot for a cycling break.

Are there any longer, more challenging road cycling routes for experienced cyclists?

Yes, for experienced cyclists looking for a challenge, the Motala Ström region offers several longer routes. The Göta canal 2 – From Motala to Söderköping, at over 98 km, is classified as difficult and provides a substantial ride along the historic waterway with varied elevation.

Where can I find information about parking for road cycling routes in Motala Ström?

While specific parking details for every route are best checked on individual komoot tour pages, many routes in the Motala Ström area, especially those starting from towns like Motala or Ljungsbro, offer accessible parking options. Look for routes that begin near urban centers or designated recreational areas for convenient parking.

Most popular routes around the Motala Ström

Traffic-free bike rides around the Motala Ström

Most popular attractions around the Motala Ström

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