the world's biggest recreational cycling event

Our best tips for a great Vätternrundan

1. Train smart – and slowly increase

There’s something special about going around a lake. A special challenge. We meet Andreas Andersson from Vätternrundan, who explains how it all began and gives his top tips for taking part in the big cycling festival.

Vätternrundan

On a blustery day in March, we meet Andreas who works with Vätternrundan. He tells us how it all started.

"We have to go back half a century, and a little more. Doctor Sten-Otto Liljedahl wanted to improve public health in Sweden, starting with himself. With the help of – and with – good friends, he started to cycle and was convinced that more people would appreciate this type of exercise. Two years later, in 1964, he set off to cycle a lap around Vättern. What he didn't know was that the same route was going to become the world's biggest recreational cycling event. With his first trip fresh in his mind, he decided to do it again. This time in better shape and with more cyclists. In 1966, the first official Vätternrundan took place, with 370 participants. And then things happened fast. Three years later, the number of participants had almost doubled, and now every summer around 20,000 cyclists are at the starting point ready to take on the race.

A full week of cycling

Since the start, more races have also been added and a whole week of cycling events is now held annually in June. Here, even the youngest can take part in the Minivättern. Cykelveckan attracts 36,000 participants from all corners of the world who take on one of the various races: the Half Vättern, Women’s Vättern or 100 km Vätternrundan – all passing through beautiful countryside and over the scenic peak of Omberg. Find out more about the different races at vatternrundan.se.

"Many people start by cycling 100 km, then try out to 150 km and finally 315 km," says Andreas.

Discover Vättern from the saddle all year round

Vättern is so much more than just Vätternrundan. More and more people are discovering the charm of getting close to the beautiful landscape around Vättern. We recommend a bike that can handle both gravel and asphalt roads for the best cycling experience. Take your time and swim in crystal-clear waters, and discover historic destinations and high-quality dining along the way.

book your cycle package here:

There are many training programmes for Vätternrundan, but one recommendation is that you should have cycled 1000 km before getting ready for the start signal. Most important is that you have continuity in your training – and that you are used to cycling long distances. Do longer, calmer workouts at the weekend, and short, intensive ones during the week.

2. Invest in the right gear

A bell, brakes and an approved cycle helmet are obvious essentials. If you have a pair of cycling shorts with padding and braces, and a pair of gloves, your cycling will definitely be more comfortable.

3. Get tips online!

There are many different websites, podcasts and Facebook groups sharing everything from tips to inspiration and guides. Check out vatternrundan.se and cykla.se and don't miss the podcast and Facebook group Hjälp! Jag ska cykla Vättern! (in Swedish)

4. Don't forget to enjoy the experience

Don’t set any time goal if you're riding one of the races for the first time. No one knows how the weather or the race will be. The most important thing is the experience! Why not take a dip in Vättern along the way or stop for a break to enjoy the fantastic scenery?