SÖDERKÖPING -

VADSTENA BY BIKE

Rent a bike and travel for four days along the canal through varied landscapes, including boat transfers across the lakes. Several times a day you can rest in a cool church, experience the calm and echoes of history, and perhaps feel part of something greater. Cycling along the Göta Canal is never dull, as you pass boats, locks, and historic sights.

In the Middle Ages, one third of Sweden’s population undertook a pilgrimage. Today this tradition is coming back to life in Sweden — in new ways, yet rooted in old spirit. Travel in the footsteps of Saint Birgitta. The journey begins in Söderköping, and upon arrival in Vadstena you receive a diploma confirming your pilgrimage.

Pilgrim Cycling along the Göta Canal – An Inner and Outer Journey

Would you like to be a pioneer and try this year’s new experience? Combine cycling along the Göta Canal cycle route with the pilgrimage trail St. Birgitta Ways to Vadstena. Then this Pilgrim Cycling package is for you.

Day 1: Söderköping – Norsholm

18 km easy cycling along the canal (+ bike ferry)

Söderköping is a perfect starting point for pilgrim cycling, with many accommodation and dining options. Visit St. Laurenti Church, where a pilgrim corner invites reflection. Stamp your pilgrim passport here before cycling along the canal’s old towpath to Norsholm. At Lake Asplången (after approx. 12 km), take a seasonal bike ferry to Norsholm. Check in at your pre-booked accommodation.

Day 2: Norsholm – Vreta Kloster / Berg Locks

47 km varied cycling with some hills

The route follows small roads south of Lake Roxen through forests and farmland, passing several charming churches ideal for breaks. In Linköping, visit the impressive Cathedral, cool and peaceful in summer, with a pilgrim corner for stamping your passport. Continue to Vreta Kloster and Berg Locks, where you’ll find accommodation and restaurants. Don’t miss Vreta Abbey Church.

(Shorter option: take the boat across Lake Roxen from Norsholm directly to Berg Locks — 45 minutes, bike included.)

Day 3: Vreta Kloster / Berg Locks – Motala

40 km easy cycling along the canal and country roads

Vreta Abbey Church offers a short morning prayer inspired by the time of Saint Birgitta. All are welcome. Visit the famous lock staircase at Berg before cycling toward Borensberg. Near Borensberg, stop at the charming café and lodging Glasbruket — perfect for lunch and a swim in the river Motala Ström. Continue toward Motala, preferably along the southern shore of Lake Boren to visit Birgitta’s Headland, where Saint Birgitta once lived. Pause, reflect, perhaps take a swim. Along the way, you also pass Ekebyborna Church, which she frequently visited.

Before reaching Motala, you pass the monument to Baltzar von Platen, founder of the Göta Canal — where tradition says you tip your hat in respect. Check in at your accommodation in Motala, perhaps Mallboden Hostel, and explore the charming harbor.

Day 4: Motala – Vadstena

18 km easy cycling along a bike path

The final stage is short, allowing time to explore the charming summer town of Vadstena. Visit Vadstena Pilgrims Center to receive your diploma for cycling from Söderköping to Vadstena. Meet other pilgrims arriving by foot or bike.

Then visit the Abbey Church, where Saint Birgitta’s relics rest — the historic goal of pilgrims since the 14th century. Consider joining a prayer service to conclude your pilgrimage.

Vadstena offers a wide range of accommodations, from simple pilgrim dormitories to the Klosterhotel’s elegant rooms — or stay at the Birgittine Sisters’ guesthouse. The Abbey Museum keeps Saint Birgitta’s memory alive and displays the chest that carried her relics from Rome in the 14th century.

From Vadstena, public transport connections are easily available.