A compact city center with nature all around in the north of Norway
The route winds its way along the wharf, passing close to the sea. The gravel road around Sydspissen is very pleasant – be careful when cycling, as this is a very popular walking path. In Telegrafbukta, the view of the mountains in the distance is fabulous and there are both nice grassy areas and a sandy beach – although be warned – the water temperatures are low. Close by you will also find the Folkeparken Outdoor Museum with its old buildings.
The route winds its way along the wharf, passing close to the sea. The gravel road around Sydspissen is very pleasant - be careful when cycling, as this is a very popular walking path. In Telegrafbukta, the view of the mountains in the distance is fabulous and there are both nice grassy areas and a sandy beach - although be warned - the water temperatures are low. Close by you will also find the Folkeparken Outdoor Museum with its old buildings.
The next stop is Tromsø Museum, worth a visit with its large collection of Sami and Northern Norwegian culture. Now the route follows the track called “lysløypa” – it leads you to Prestvannet, which is a very popular outdoor area for the people of Tromsø. Feel free to cycle around the water to take in the bird life and the quiet atmosphere. Here you also have a great view towards the mountain Tromsdalstinden.
The trail continues north, it´s a little hilly, but mostly easy cycling. Watch out for road crossings with some traffic. The new Tromsøbadet is approximately in the middle of the island and here you can swim both inside and outside in cold and warm water while you have a view of the mountains on Kvaløya. Or maybe you want to try swimming in Langvannet or Rundvannet? You will also find shelters along the route where you can enjoy a packed lunch. If you're lucky, you may also see reindeers in a fenced area along the trail.
As you turn south again, you get back on paved roads and pass through the university campus. A visit to the Northern Lights Planetarium will let you experience the Aurora Borealis in the large dome-shaped cinema hall. A visit to the arctic-alpine botanical garden shows what grows and thrives this far north. The cozy path down to the garden is suitable for cycling, but please pay attention to pedestrians. And at one point, the bicycle should be wheeled because a high edge. It is also possible to take the cycle path around instead, if you prefer.
The last section towards the city runs along Stakkevollveien on the east side of the island. It is safest to cycle on the wide pavement to avoid the traffic. Back in the center of Tromsø, there are many museums, eateries and famous pubs that are worth visiting. Skansen and the Polar Museum are located on the way into the city centre. If you feel like it, a visit to the sauna Pust at the harbour can be refreshing.
You cycle mainly on mainly on bike lanes and pathways, but some cycling in traffic. The island is hilly, so for those who want a little help on the slopes, an electric bike is perfectly fine. The trip starts in the center om Tromsø, and there you can rent a bicycle if you don't have your own.
Distance: 23 km roundtrip
Time: 2-3 hours cycling
Surface: 65 % gravel, 35 % asphalt
Safety: Mainly paths and bikelanes, but some crossing and cycling in traffic shorter distances
Difficulty: Medium
This tour can be done on northbound ships.
In the city center of Tromsø you find Tromsø Outdoor. They have more than 200 bikes in various types an bike equipment for rent. In the summer they have a workshop for bike...
Tråkk Bicycle Workshop can repair all types of bicycles, new and old. You will meet Simon, Mari and their team. And the two shop dogs - Buddy and Lola.