A large part of the signposted route runs along busy roads, some of which are busier at weekends (local recreation area!). Side roads and cycle paths are in good condition, but some are not tarmac. Many short ramps add up to noticeable metres in altitude at the end. The route is largely signposted as "Skärgårdens Ringväg". Around 33 of the 233 kilometres are ferry passages.
Stages
Day 1: Turku - Nagu, approx. 64 km
Initially alongside the main road on separate cycle paths. The first ferry follows behind Pargas, then the cycle path ends. Before Nagu, we followed the quiet alternative route in a southward detour.
Day 2: Nagu - Mossala, approx. 55 km
For the first few kilometres after Nagu (last big supermarket for the time being!) there is a beautiful dirt road. Tip on Houtskär, the island after the Galtby ferry: In Träsk, follow the signs on the left to the "Borgberg" viewpoint (3 km).
Day 3: Mossala - Iniö, approx. 10 km
For logistical reasons, there was no alternative to this short stage on the quietest roads.
Day 4: Iniö - Turku, approx. 81 km
Get up early! The first ferry leaves Iniö at 6.30 a.m., at 9.15 a.m. the only reasonable ferry departs from Hakkenpää, 25 km away. That's manageable. From Naantali onwards, the traffic becomes noticeably heavier. It is advisable to avoid the main road there (with the help of our GPS track).
Travelling time
The right travel time is essential: important ferries only run from 1 June to 31 August, and many accommodations are also closed. In the high season (early July to mid-August), hotel reservations are highly recommended.
Accommodation tips
Iniö: Villa Högbo
The owners have transformed the former town hall into a cosy bed and breakfast with great dedication. Double room/F from 90 euros.
www.airbnb.com
Mossala: Mossala Island Resort
Wooden cottages from 60 euros, a nice restaurant, hire boats, a sandy beach and a frisbee golf course. Wonderfully laid-back.
www.saaristonlomakeskus.fi
Food and drink
Food in Finland is expensive - but also good. That's why the tourism experts in Turku, a city blessed with restaurants, offer a "food walk": With a voucher booklet for 44 euros, you choose 5 out of 9 participating restaurants and are served a small meal at each before moving on.
www.visitturku.fi
Info
Comprehensive route tips in English: www.saaristonrengastie.fi
The complete article was published in Trekkingbike issue 2/2017. You can download the issue in the Trekkingbike app (iTunes and Google Play ) or in the DK-Shop order.
