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Cycle routes in the Vaasa Region

Here we present 12 suggestions on cycle routes, that you can choose from when visiting Vaasa. The length of the routes is from 5.3 kilometers to almost 100 kilometers. The shorter routes take you from the center of Vaasa to the city’s surroundings, while the longest ones take you a long way out into the countryside or to the archipelago. You choose whether you want to cycle the entire route, or perhaps combine some routes. In the rout description you find links that shows a map of the route on trailmap.fi, in some cases also a link to Google maps.

The numbers in the white circles along the routes on the trailmap page, are kilometer markers ie. between number 1 and 2 it is one kilometer, between number 2 and 3 one kilometer, etc.

Vaasa’s beautiful shores

Route: Vaasa city centre – the City Bay (Kaupunginselkä) – Risö – Vaasa city centre 23 km
Link to Trailmap

A route in the vicinity of Vasa city where cyclists can experience a mix of lively waterfront promenade, lush parks, and serene forest landscapes along the Southern City Bay (Eteläinen kaupunginselkä).

To see and experience along the rout

A bike ride from Vasa city center to Risö, in the end of the Southern City Bay. The beginning of the promenade is lively, with its terraces, marina, and people strolling or enjoying picnics in the parks.

As you reach Suvilahti, the route offers scenic views and leafy green areas where city dwellers began building villas on the shores of the bays Emäntälahti and Schäferinlahti in the late 19th century. The area is now known as Kuparisaari and Suvilahti. Today, not many of the villas remain, but here you can learn more about where they are and were located.

The final destination, Risö, is a calm and peaceful place with denser forest areas and more untouched nature. Here, you can take the opportunity to visit the bird tower at Ryövärinkari, though the boardwalks to the tower are not intended for bicycles. At the bird tower, there is a resting area with a fireplace. At the mouth of Tuovila creek, there is another bird tower that can be reached by bike. On Risö, you can cycle a loop and then return to the city center either via the same route or by choosing to return along the bike paths through Suvilahti and Hietalahti.

Meteorite crater and countryside (39 km)

This cycling route offers a varied and scenic journey, where you can experience coastal environments, historical villages, and open landscapes—a rich and diverse experience of the region around Vaasa.

Route: Top Camping Vaasa – Söderfjärden – Solf – Top Camping Vaasa. If you want, you can add a tour around Öjberget, which extends the route by about 7 kilometers. For the route around Öjberget shown here on the Trailmap, a mountain bike is recommended. On Öjberget, there is information about shorter routes that can be cycled with a regular bicycle.

Link to Trailmap | Link to Google Maps (without Öjberget)

To see and experience along the rout

The start at Vaskiluoto offers a mix of industrial and maritime atmosphere. The bridges connecting Vaskiluoto with the rest of the city provide expansive views over the water and towards Vaasa city center.

When you reach Sundom, the landscape changes to a more small-scale and nature-oriented area. Sundom is a charming village with well-preserved old houses and farms, surrounded by meadows and forests. The roads here are quiet and lined with greenery, providing a peaceful cycling experience.

At Söderfjärden, cyclists are treated to a magnificent view over extensive farmland, known for its unique circular shape, formed by a meteorite impact millions of years ago. Here, the landscape is open and flat, offering an unobstructed view over the vast agricultural fields. Make a stop at the Meteoria Söderfjärden visitor center. In the autumn, large flocks of cranes can often be seen resting here during their migration.

On the way back, you pass through Solf village, with traditional red cottages and rolling fields. The village is known for the Stundars open-air museum and cultural center, which offers a unique insight into Ostrobothnian life from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. There are over 60 historic buildings, including a farmhouse, craft cottages, and a school, all authentically furnished. Visitors can experience traditional crafts, participate in workshops and events, and enjoy a historical environment that brings the region’s cultural heritage and history to life.

Vaasa’s history and local nature (28 km)

This bike tour from Vaasa city center via Old Vaasa to Pilvilampi is a wonderful experience for both body and soul, combining history and scenic views.

Route: Vaasa city centre – Old Vaasa – Pilvilampi – Vaasa city centre
Link to Trailmap | Link to Google Maps

To see and experience along the rout

A cycling tour from Vaasa city center to lake Pilvilampi via Old Vaasa offers a delightful mix of nature and history. The tour starts in the heart of Vaasa, where you can admire the city’s historic buildings and bustling center. You cycle out of the city center through the residential areas of Hietalahti and Korkeamäki, eventually reaching Old Vasa, a place rich in history. The Ruin Park, featuring the ruins of Saint Mary’s Church and Wasa Trivial School, reminds visitors of the city’s early days and the great fire that completely destroyed the town in 1852. Here, you can learn more about Old Vasa and its attractions.

From Old Vasa, the route continues through Pappilanmäki, where you can stop by at Alkula Manor, dating back to the 18th century. There is much to see and discover for those interested in architectural history and cultural vegetation.

Continue cycling through the districts of Haapaniemi and Ristinummi towards Lake Pilvilampi. The recreational area around Pilvilampi is about 800 hectares in size, offering ski and cycling trails in the winter and marked hiking and cycling trails in summer. This area is a peaceful place, perfect for taking a break during the bike tour, for instance at the “Närvänmutka” barbecue area.

Activities and attractions close to nature (15 km)

This cycling route offers a perfect blend of culture, art, nature, play areas, and recreation, making it interesting even for younger cyclists.

Route: Vaasa city centre – Edvin’s path – Metsäkallio – Vaasa city centre. Edvin’s Path is 1.35 km of this route, and Skogsberget’s fitness trail is 2.5 km. If you only want to cycle along paved roads, you can choose to exclude these two.

Link to Trailmap | Link to Google Maps (without Metsäkallio)

To see and experience along the rout

Discover a diverse cycling route that takes you from central Vaasa through some of the city’s most interesting and scenic spots. Begin your adventure at the Vaasa Car and Motor Museum, where you can admire an impressive collection of classic cars and engines. Then continue to Edvin’s Path, a unique art and nature trail filled with imaginative sculptures by the local artist Edvin Hevonkoski.

Next, head to Metsäkallio Exercise Track, an ideal place for those who want to combine cycling with a nature experience. Here, you can enjoy the fresh forest air while riding on well-maintained paths. After the forest trail, stop by Bock’s Corner Brewery to quench your thirst before cycling onward. Finally, reach the Onkilahti Bay Activity Area, a dynamic area with a large play and activity park, beautifully situated by the water.

This cycling route offers a perfect mix of culture, art, nature, and recreation, making it an unforgettable experience for all cycling enthusiasts.

River landscape, fertile plains and rye whiskey (98 km)

This route takes you along the scenic River Kyrönjoki, through the charming villages of Vähäkyrö and Isokyrö, all the way to the renowned Kyrö Distillery. Along the way, you can pause at a summer cafe by the river and acquaint yourself with old traditions.

Route: Vaasa – Vähäkyrö – along river Kyrönjoki – Isokyrö – Vaasa. Link to Trailmap

To see and experience along the rout

River Kyrönjoki, flowing through the flat Ostrobothnian landscape with its extensive grain fields and large traditional farmhouses, offers a peaceful and beautiful cycling experience.

As you pass through Vähäkyrö, you can enjoy the picturesque Finnish countryside and small village roads that lead you deeper into the region’s rich culture and history. In the summer, you can visit the Tinsmith Museum. The tinsmith tradition in Vähäkyrö dates back to the 18th century.

Continue onward to Isokyrö, a place with medieval origins, known for the majestic Isokyrö Old Church and the memorial for the Battle of Napue. The crown jewel of this journey is reaching the Kyrö Distillery, located in an old dairy building. This award-winning distillery is famous for its high-quality rye products, particularly its gin and whiskey. A visit at the distillery offers not only an insight into the production process but also a chance to taste their exquisite beverages.

This cycling route combines scenic cycling with cultural and culinary experiences, making it a perfect choice for the adventurous cyclist.

Life is supposed to be easy – Just like in Strömsö (24 km)

Strömsö is located in Västervik, about 10 kilometers from Vasa city center. The park area is always open to visitors, and on summer days, you can, for example, cycle there with the whole family.

Route: Top Camping Vaasa – Strömsö – Gerbyn nature trail – Top Camping Vaasa
Link to Trailmap | Link to Google Map

Villa Strömsö

To see and experience along the rout

A perfect cycling excursion for the whole family. The tour takes you through Palosaari, where you can stop for a visit at the Vaasa Maritime Museum. Then you cycle on through Isolahti, and on a warm summer day, you can take the opportunity to swim at the beach. Continue cycling through Gerby to Västervik and Strömsö.

Strömsö is a lifestyle television program that has become very popular. The first episode aired in 2002, and millions of Finns are familiar with the program, which is also shown in Sweden and Norway.

The idyllic villa that serves as the filming location is real and is situated in Västervik, Vaasa. The villa was built in 1852, and you can visit it either on guided tours or during group visits that are booked separately. Nearby, there is a beach, and the area is popular among both locals and tourists.

On the way back to the city center, the route passes Gerby-hill, with its lookout tower and exercise stairs. On the way home, you can also take the opportunity to check out the activity park in Onkilahti.

Unique World Heritage Nature in Kvarken Archipelago (89 km)

Before reaching the unique World Heritage archipelago, you pass the idyllic villages of Singsby, Jungsund, and Grönvik and cross the majestic Replot Bridge, which connects the mainland with the archipelago.

Route: Vaasa – Replot – Björköby – Vaasa. Link to Trailmap | Link to Google Map

To see and experience along the rout

The unique Kvarken Archipelago is Finland’s only natural UNESCO World Heritage site. Together with the High Coast, the shallow Kvarken Archipelago is the best place in the world to experience and understand the land uplift phenomenon caused by the last Ice Age.

You will first cycle through the picturesque villages of Singsby, Jungsund, and Grönvik. Along these smaller roads, you can enjoy a traditional village setting with red-painted cottages and lush surroundings.

After about 20 km, you will reach the impressive Replot Bridge, which is 1,045 meters long and whose pylons rise 82.5 meters above sea level. Here, you can enjoy expansive views over the sea and the surrounding archipelago, an experience that leaves a lasting impression.

You will then cycle through the village of Replot, where you can take a look at the picturesque church from 1781. The journey continues towards Björköby, where the archipelago’s natural beauty truly comes into its own.

Finally, you will reach Svedjehamn, where red boathouses follow the De Geer moraines and frame the unique harbor environment. The remains of the former harbor can be found at Bodback, which can be reached via the Bodvattnet Nature Trail. Bodback is also visible from the 20-meter high lookout tower Saltkaret, from which you can enjoy the view over the unique land uplift landscape.

Residential and Industrial areas in Vaasa (6 km)

This tour through some of Vaasa’s northeastern districts offers a glimpse into both the present and history of residential and industrial development.

Route: Vaasa city centre – Korsnäståget – Ämmänmäki – Vaasa city centre
Link to Trailmap | Link to Google Map

To see and experience along the rout

The route passes through Strömberg Park (you can also cycle through the area), a business park designed based on Alvar Aalto’s idea of placing factory buildings freely in the mixed forest according to the terrain’s topography. The area was originally built by the electrical industry company Strömberg, but today it is primarily owned by ABB.

Continue cycling through the districts of Melaniemi, Ristinummi, Teeriniemi and Purola, each with its own character. Along the way, you will also pass two of Vasa’s frisbee golf courses, located in the Arboretum and Ristinummi. The last district before you return to the city center is Klemettilä, where new residential buildings are continuously being constructed. Previously, the area was best known as a business and commercial area.

History and future (41 km)

The significant number of high-tech companies in the Vaasa region makes the area an excellent place to establish new businesses, and Vaasa has been classified as Finland’s most innovative energy cluster.

Route: Vaasa Inner harbour – Old Vaasa – Höstvesi – Veikars – Vaasa city centre. Link to Trailmap

To see and experience along the rout

Following Vaasa’s beautiful waterfront promenade, you cycle towards the Old Harbor and then to Runsor with Vaasa Airport Park, where many of the high-tech and international companies in the energy cluster are located. In addition to Airport Park, Kungsgården and Risö are other important areas in Runsor. As early as the 16th century, King Gustav Vasa founded Kungsgården, which served as the army’s provisions storage and model farm for farmers in Ostrobothnia. Today, Kungsgården hosts a Swedish-language vocational institute.

As you continue cycling towards Höstvesi, Vaasa Airport is on your right, and nearby is Laajametsä, where Vaasa’s newest business park is under construction.

Höstvesi, on the other hand, is a rural district with old buildings situated along the old highway from Vaasa to Vähäkyrö. The road rises after the low-lying farmland of Grundfjärden up to the rocky knoll with the village. On either side of the road, the historically valuable cottages of Högbacken sit on narrow, rocky plots.

The route continues towards Veikars in Korsholm, from where you cycle back towards Vaasa city center through the recreational area of Pilvilampi and the eastern suburbs.

Read more about Energy Vaasa – The Nordic Hub For Energy Technology

The Green Surroundings of Vasa City Center (6 km)

Explore the lush green areas surrounding Vaasa city center on this delightful cycling route. This tour offers a perfect blend of nature and urban environments, showcasing the beauty and tranquility of Vaasa’s nearby green spaces.

Route: Vaasa travel centre – Hietalahti – Southern City Bay – Vaasa travel centre.
Link to Trailmap | Link to Google Map

To see and experience along the rout

Enjoy the beautiful rose gardens in Rytilaakso Park and play a round of disc golf. Continue on to the Brage Open-Air Museum, where you can experience life in Vaasa during previous centuries. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the cultural history of the region with its buildings and exhibitions.

Hietalahti Park is the next stop, a peaceful spot perfect for a picnic. Take the opportunity to visit the beautiful Villa Sandviken and learn about its history. When the sun is shining, Kustaanlinna Beach is an ideal place for a swim. Right next to the beach is Kustaanlinna Park. Cycle on to Lehmus Park, also known as park “Kruununmakasiininpuisto”. This charming park is an excellent place to relax and admire the beautiful linden trees.

The next stop is Park Kalaranta, a tranquil spot near the water. At Kalaranta (Fishing harbour), you’ll find FisketsHus, featuring fine restaurants and delicious food. At Park Hovioikeudenpuisto, you can admire the majestic building of Vaasa Court of Appeal, as well as the park’s beautiful plantings and historical atmosphere.

For art lovers, Tikanoja Art Museum is a must-visit. This art gallery offers a fine collection of both Finnish and international art.

Along the route, you’ll also find Church Park and the Vaasa main Lutheran Church, an impressive building with its architecture and history. Conclude your tour by exploring Vaasa city center, where you’ll find a wide range of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Onkilahti and Palosaari in Vaasa (7 km)

This bike tour offers a delightful mix of culture, history, and beautiful views. Although the route is relatively short, there’s no shortage of sights and activities along the way. Enjoy the bike ride and experience all that Vaasa has to offer!

Route: Inner harbour – Onkilahti – Mansikkasaari – Inner harbour
Link to Trailmap | Link to Google Map

To see and experience along the rout

Start your journey at the Inner Harbor with a visit to the Kuntsi Museum of Modern Art. Not far from Kuntsi, you’ll find the Ostrobothnian Museum, where you can delve deep into the region’s history and cultural heritage. Continue biking to Onkilahti Activity Park, a perfect spot for an active break. The park features a skate park, playground, and outdoor gym. Onkilahti also offers a scenic cycling path along the water, where you can enjoy beautiful views and fresh air as you continue your ride towards Palosaari.

Proceed to the University of Vaasa and its campus in Palosaari. The university is known for its modern architecture and beautiful surroundings. Salmipuisto Park is a green oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for a relaxing break. Here, you can take a stroll and enjoy the natural setting.

Explore the Vaasa Maritime Museum and learn more about the city’s maritime history. The museum has a rich collection of artifacts and exhibits that highlight the importance of shipping to Vaasa. On a sunny day, it’s worth stopping at Mansikkasaari Beach. This popular beach is perfect for a refreshing swim or some relaxation by the sea before biking back to the Inner Harbor where your journey began.

New and Old Residential Areas and Shopping (11 km)

The older neighborhoods of Hemstrand and Dragnäsbäck, with their charming homes and atmospheric courtyards, offer a place to live close to the city center and the extensive shopping options at Kivihaka, Metsäkallio, Länsiniitty, and Koskisuo are among the newest residential areas in Vaasa.

Route: Vaasa city centre – Kivihaka – Pukinkulma – Vaasa city centre
Link to Trailmap | Link to Google Map

 

To see and experience along the rout

Start your journey in Vaasa city center and head towards Tiklas Park, a lush oasis perfect for a picnic or a quiet moment in nature. Continue to Kotiranta, a residential area known for its beautiful houses and pleasant atmosphere. Here, you can cycle through peaceful streets and enjoy the cozy, homely feel. Next, you’ll reach Metsäkallio, an area that offers both residential options and scenic surroundings. Continue on to Kivihaka, a bustling area with both shopping and recreation opportunities. It’s a great spot to stop for a coffee or visit a local shop.

The next stop is Koskisuo, a charming district that combines modern architecture with nature-close living. Cycle through the tranquil streets and experience the harmonious environment. Länsiniitty is a green and peaceful neighborhood, perfect for visiting during a bike ride. Enjoy the open spaces and fresh air as you explore the area.

Take a well-deserved break at Bock’s Corner Brewery, a popular brewery known for its local beers and friendly atmosphere. Here, you can learn about the brewing process and perhaps taste some of their specialties. Make one last stop at Onkilahti Activity Park, a perfect place for an active end to your day. There’s something for everyone here, including Vaasa Skatepark, playgrounds, and an outdoor gym.

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