SEE & DO
Cycle on winding country roads in Northern Roslagen
Cycling along the winding country roads of Northern Roslagen is like cycling straight into a summer idyll. Amongst small villages and open fields, cycling adventures await for both body and soul.
We've followed cycling personality Ronny Jansson (@cyklarforlivet), who shares his absolute best hidden gems.
Ronny Jansson has become a familiar face on the roads through his commitment to cycling and charity. After a tough journey of rehabilitation, he is now back in the saddle, spreading the joy of movement under the banner ”Cycling for Life”. For Ronny, cycling is about more than just exercise – it's a way to celebrate life and discover the amazing local environment.
”Rastsjön is my little haven., says Ronny. ”When I want some time to myself, I head off early in the morning. No traffic, just forest and birdsong before arriving at a clear blue lake. A morning swim and then some freshly brewed coffee with a sandwich before cycling on.”
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Three paths to the same idyll
Whether you start in the historic Österbybruk, the nature-close Gimo or the cosy Alunda, you'll be treated to a varied tour through the Roslagen countryside. Here, the surface shifts between easy-rolling asphalt and charming gravel roads that invite a slower pace.
Three bike rides – the same winding country roads
From Alunda (approx. 16 km):
A gentle cycling tour, mostly on tarmac, where the landscape slowly opens up around you.
Start at the beautiful Alunda Church and roll out through the village. Cross Skyndelnvägen (684) and head towards Lyan. At the junction in Lyan, turn right towards Österbybruk (683) and continue for approximately 5 km past Olands Allmänning until you reach Ramhäll crossroads. Here, turn left towards the mines and follow the road until the sign for Rastsjöbadet appears.
See the route from Alunda on Google Maps
From Österbybruk (approx. 18 km):
From the history of the works to the open landscape.
Start from the town square and let your bicycle roll down Långgatan, which soon turns into Morkarlavägen. At road 292, turn left towards Alunda for just over 1 km before turning right onto the gravel road towards Ulsarby. Here you will leave the tarmac and continue through a peaceful landscape on smooth gravel roads. After a few kilometres, turn left towards Halvbygda until you reach Morkarlavägen (683) again. Turn right towards Morkarla Church and keep an eye out for the Flymyra sign, which will lead you further towards Rastsjön.
See the route from Österbybruk on Google Maps
From Gimo (approx. 23 km):
A peaceful walk through the woodland landscape, enjoying nature and the silence along the way.
Start at Gimo sports hall and cycle towards Gimodammen along Idrottsvägen. After approximately 1.5 km, the tarmac turns into gravel and the ride becomes more natural. Follow the gravel road for about 8 km through the forest, cross road 292 and continue following the signs towards Skarphärad. At Norbyvägen, turn left and continue to the crossroads in Morkarla Söderby where you keep right towards the church.
Hidden gems that add a golden touch to your trip
As you approach the Morkarla and Rastsjön areas, the visitor attractions become more concentrated. Ronny suggests several stops that will make the trip a real adventure:
RastsjöbadetThe obvious destination for your bike ride. A child-friendly oasis with crystal-clear water, a sandy beach, and jetties. Here you can lay out your picnic and enjoy the same tranquility that Ronny does on his morning rides.
The Jularbo Museum Rasten: Carry on a little further past the bathhouse and you'll reach the museum dedicated to accordion legend Carl Jularbo and his son Ebbe. A must-see for the culturally interested! Please note: pre-booking is required for visits.
Elins Happy Organic Cows Follow the gravel road further and you'll reach the farm in Morkarla. In the cosy milk shop, you can buy freshly produced milk, cream, eggs, honey, and *ostkaka* (cheesecake) – all produced directly on the farm. A perfect souvenir to pack in your bicycle basket!
Good to know before your bike ride
Underlag: The tours take place on mixed terrain. A bicycle with slightly wider tyres is recommended for best comfort on the winding gravel roads.
Please be aware: Cars, cyclists, and people share the roads, some of which are busier than others. These tours are suitable for adults with cycling experience.
Get more inspiration: Follow @cyklarforlivet on social media for more cycling joy from Ronny.