Early Bird SaleFinal DaysSave On 2026
3
moderate
Activities
  • self guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 6 nights in small hotels and guesthouses
Meals
  • 2 Dinners
  • 6 Breakfasts

ON SALE

£1430 GBP

7 Days£1358GBP

View Inclusions

Overview

Trip Code: CFI

Trip highlights

  • Island hopping on the main islands by bike
  • Enjoying the culture and cuisine of the harbour villages
  • Exploring Finland's oldest city and former capital
  • Staying in character and charming accommodation

The Turku Archipelago is one of Finland’s most breathtaking natural wonders — a chain of some 20,000 islands stretching out into the Baltic Sea from the historic city of Turku in the southwest. Exploring this magical region by bike is both easy and rewarding, thanks to the excellent network of local ferries linking the islands. Picture yourself cycling quiet country lanes through rural Finland, pausing at traditional harbour villages, and enjoying the fresh sea air and wholesome Finnish cuisine. Along the way, you’ll discover tranquil forests, sweeping sea views, and the charm of the inner islands. Your journey begins and ends in Turku, Finland’s oldest city, where a leisurely ride reveals its medieval castle, cathedral, and scenic riverside paths. This is island-hopping with a difference, enjoy the unique pleasure of hopping between the small islands off Finland's southwest coast.

Countries:

Finland

Starting Point:

Turku

Finishing Point:

Turku

Itinerary

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Make your own way to Turku, a lively harbour city on Finland’s south-west coast, where long summer evenings bring the streets to life. Discover its medieval heritage at the grand Turku Castle and the imposing cathedral, before wandering along the Aura River, lined with cosy cafés, vibrant bars, and inviting restaurants. Overnight stay in the heart of Turku, within easy reach of the city’s highlights.

Meals:  Nil

This morning, collect your bicycles and follow the cycle paths heading south-east out of the city, kept clear of traffic by a fine system of bike lanes. Soon you reach the edge of the archipelago, where a short ferry ride brings you across to the island of Nauvo located in the heart of the archipelago community. Known for its lively marina, sandy beaches, and traditional wooden houses, you can stroll along the waterfront, explore local shops and cafés, or simply enjoy the sea views. Overnight stay by the coast on Nauvo.

Meals:  B

Today’s ride offers a choice of routes as you weave your way across a series of small islands before reaching Houtskär. This tranquil island is known for its traditional wooden villages, unspoilt nature, and rich maritime heritage. Surrounded by sheltered bays and rocky shores, Houtskär is also home to one of the archipelago’s most charming wooden churches, dating back to the 18th century. Tonight, you’ll enjoy an excellent dinner at your hotel’s highly regarded restaurant, which is renowned for showcasing fresh local ingredients and regional specialities.

Meals:  B,D

Today begins with a leisurely ferry crossing between two of the largest islands in the archipelago, Houtskär and Korpo. The cycling distance between your overnight hotels is around 20km, though there are many options to extend the ride if you’d like to explore further. Korpo is a lively island with a strong cultural identity, known for its mix of coastal landscapes, pine forests, and a charming village centre. In summer, its small harbour, craft shops, and cafés come alive with local life, while the historic grey-stone church adds a glimpse into the island’s long history. This evening, enjoy a five-course tasting menu featuring regional produce in the hotel’s excellent restaurant. Overnight stay on Korpo island.

Meals:  B,D

Return to Nauvo and from here, take the ferry north back to the mainland and cycle through Rymättylä before reaching Naantali. This idyllic seaside town has long been known as a spa and holiday destination, first established around its 15th-century convent and later developed into a popular retreat for Finnish high society. Today, Naantali charms visitors with its cobbled streets, colourful wooden houses, and lively harbour lined with cafés and sailing boats. In the long light of summer evenings, the waterfront is a wonderful place to stroll and soak up the atmosphere. Your overnight stay is in the Old Town, with plenty of inviting restaurants close at hand for dinner.

Meals:  B

This morning you can either lingering in Naantali or return early to Turku, as the ride today is relatively short. In Naantali, options include a harbour boat trip or exploring the Convent Church and nearby nature trails. On arrival back in Turku, return your bicycles and take the afternoon to discover more of Finland’s oldest city. You might like to tour the medieval Turku Castle, climb the cathedral tower, visit one of the city’s excellent museums such as the Aboa Vetus & Ars Nova, or stroll along the Aura River to see the historic sailing ships moored there. For a more relaxing option, enjoy shopping for local crafts or sampling regional delicacies in the city’s markets. Overnight stay in central Turku.

Meals:  B

Trip arrangements conclude after breakfast.

Meals:  B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.

Inclusions

What's included

  • 6 breakfasts, 2 dinners (a 3 course dinner and a 5 course tasting menu)
  • 6 nights accommodation in small hotels and guesthouses on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • All necessary ferry fees
  • Information pack with digital route details (GPS Tracks) plus map and leaflet including ferry timings (one set per room)
  • Emergency hotline
  • 24 speed bike hire including helmet, repair kit, phone attachment and 2 panniers (18-22litres) to carry your gear for the trip (e-bike available - supplement applies)
  • Main luggage storage during the trip. You carry your gear for the week in the panniers provided. Optional daily luggage transfer is available - supplement applies - must be pre-booked and pre-paid.

  • Travel to and from Turku
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • Guide - this is a self guided cycle
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Entrance fees
  • Unscheduled transfers required during the trip
  • Luggage transfers (your daily needs are carried in panniers provided). Daily luggage transfers are available - must be pre-booked and pre-paid. Minimum 2 pieces
  • Items of a personal nature

Accommodation

Small Hotels and Guesthouses

We include a mix of small hotels and guesthouses, all featuring private ensuite facilities. These properties are carefully chosen for their charm, comfort, and proximity to the cycling route. Highlights include stays in the historic heart of Turku, boutique hotels on the archipelago islands, and a cozy guesthouse in Naantali's old town. Each offers a unique atmosphere reflecting the character and hospitality of the Turku region.

Bike information

24 Speed Bike

You will be provided with a 24-speed hybrid bicycle, typically fitted with 26-inch tyres. These sturdy bikes are designed for comfort and durability, making them well-suited to the gravel roads along your route. Each bike comes equipped with two spacious panniers (18–22 litres each) for carrying your belongings, as well as a phone mount for navigation. A helmet, lock, pump are also included. In the event of a puncture, it’s expected that you’ll carry out the repair yourself. A puncture repair kit is included with your equipment to help you quickly get back on the road.

Electric Bike

Electric bikes (e-bikes) are designed to make cycling more accessible by providing a pedal-assisted ‘boost’. This extra support allows riders of varying fitness levels to enjoy cycling together and makes longer distances or more challenging routes easier to manage. Please note that e-bikes are heavier than standard bicycles and can reach higher speeds, so they are best suited to confident riders.

Suitability

moderate

3

GRADE 3 - The trip requires a good level of fitness to fully participate in the cycling, with daily cycle distances from 17 to 57km (10.5 to 35.5mi) per day. It is generally easy, but with occasional rolling sections and 2 days of cycling over 50km/31mi. During the cycle you will share the roads with other vehicles, although usually the island traffic is quiet. Nevertheless you should be comfortable riding on roads with passing traffic.

Departure dates


Priceper person from

£1358GBP

Options & Supplements*
  • E-bike supplemenetGBP£190
  • Optional luggage transfers - per piece (min 3 pieces)GBP£230
  • Optional luggage transfers - per piece (min 2 pieces)GBP£310
  • Single supplementGBP£670
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews

Why travel with us

Personal Experience

We've been walking and cycling the planet for over four decades and are passionate about delivering exceptional service. Combined, we’ve travelled to virtually every corner of Europe, and are eager to share the many benefits of travelling on foot or by bike.

Great Value & Quality

Our well priced trips offer great value for money. Included in your package are comprehensive route notes, maps & guide books along with bag transfers and locally run accommodation. We take the stress out of organising your holiday.

Self-Guided Specialists

We have been operating active self guided holidays since 1973. We handle all the necessary logistics so that you can relax and explore your destination at your own pace. Many of our tours depart daily, giving you even greater flexibility.