Touring on a bicycle doesn’t need to be high-tech and it doesn’t need to be difficult. You don’t have to be a seasoned cyclist or even particularly fit, though of course the better shape you’re in, the easier it will be. Leisurely trips can include just a few hours of cycling per day leaving the rest of your time free for sightseeing or other activities, but it’s just as easy to challenge yourself with consecutive full days of riding. On average, a tourer with a fully loaded bicycle will travel 15km per hour, though this of course will depend on the terrain among other factors.

Finland features a number of marked national cycle routes, which can be recognised by their brown and white signs, in addition to ubiquitous local routes. Most cities and other busy areas have off-road, paved bicycle paths, which means that contending with traffic is a rarity. But perhaps the best perk is the eternal light of the Finnish summer, which eliminates the usual time constraints and makes clanking around a dark campsite a thing of the past.

Local and long distance transport within Finland is generally bike friendly. Space allowing, coaches, trains, and ferries usually offer facilities for cyclists though it is always advisable to book ahead when possible.

Cycle touring is a wonderfully unique way to slow down, appreciate scenery, and really get to know an area whilst respecting the environment. Cyclists tend to be more accessible than other breeds of tourists, so it is not uncommon for curious locals and other bikers to strike up conversation and, if you’re lucky, offer tips. Yes, even in Finland.