The best cycling routes around Österplana vall och heds naturreservat
4.7
(76)
427
riders
22
rides
Touring cycling routes around Österplana vall och heds naturreservat traverse a unique alvar landscape on the Kinnekulle limestone plateau in Västergötland, Sweden. This region features thin soil over limestone bedrock, with exposed slabs and a dramatic "red limestone cleft" marking its eastern boundary, where waterfalls like Martorpsfallet cascade. The terrain varies to include grazed pastures, deciduous and coniferous forests, and moist meadows, offering diverse cycling environments. The area is integrated into the larger Kinnekulle natural region, providing an established network…
Last updated: August 22, 2026
4.3
(3)
16
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
51
riders
42.1km
03:48
500m
500m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(2)
49
riders
46.7km
03:59
450m
450m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.4
(16)
59
riders
67.1km
04:30
380m
380m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Unbelievable that people still lived like this in 1900... one can hardly imagine it
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The church was built towards the end of the 15th century. From 1677 to 1695, extensive reconstruction took place, including the construction of a steeple in the west and the addition of transepts to the north and south. In 1849, a fire destroyed the tower, the outer roof, and the western nave and transept vaults. From 1849 to 1853, the church was restored, largely giving it its present appearance.
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At 9 a.m., 12 p.m., 3 p.m., and 6 p.m., the bells of the Old Town Hall will play various melodies. The melodies played are "Klanger" by Birger Telander of Lidköping at 9 a.m., a 16th-century melody researched by Telander at 12 p.m., "Rådhusmelodi" by Telander at 3 p.m., and "Norna," a nine-note melody by cantor Otto Andersson of Rackeby at 6 p.m.
1
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rugged quarry with quite high, steep edges.
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In November, mainly Christmas handicrafts are sold here and a visit is absolutely worthwhile :)
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The oldest part of the church with the tower dates from the 12th century. From 1723 to 1733, two large cross arms were added and the nave was turned 90 degrees, so that the old choir is now a side chapel and the tower houses the entrance hall. Magnificent ceiling paintings from this period characterize the interior of the church. In the old choir there is a baptismal font by Master Othelric from the first half of the 12th century. Other notable inventories include several medieval wooden sculptures, including a Madonna from 1200, as well as the late Baroque altar and pulpit. Source: Wikipedia
9
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shelter with toilet and barbecue area. you can pitch a tent. On the edge of a hiking trail. No passage at night.
1
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Österplana vall och heds naturreservat?
There are over 25 touring cycling routes around Österplana vall och heds naturreservat. These routes offer a variety of experiences, with 5 easy, 14 moderate, and 6 difficult options to choose from.
What kind of landscapes will I encounter while touring cycling in the area?
You'll experience a unique and diverse landscape. The routes traverse the distinctive alvar landscape with thin soil over limestone bedrock, as well as lush deciduous and wild coniferous forests, and moist meadows. A dramatic feature is the 'red limestone cleft' on the eastern boundary, where you can find picturesque waterfalls.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Österplana vall och heds naturreservat?
Yes, many routes are designed as loops. For example, the Utsiktstornet Gift Shop – Hällekis Lighthouse loop from Stora Salens naturreservat is a moderate 15.6 km circular route offering views towards the lighthouse and observation tower. Another popular option is the Kinnekulle Observation Tower – Kinnekulle Observation Tower loop from Skagens naturreservat, an 12.9 km moderate path that circles the Kinnekulle plateau.
What do other cyclists say about touring cycling in Österplana vall och heds naturreservat?
The routes in Österplana vall och heds naturreservat are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 60 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the unique alvar landscape, and the well-integrated network of trails within the larger Kinnekulle area.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling options?
While specific family-designated routes aren't detailed, the area offers 5 easy touring cycling routes that could be suitable for families. Additionally, the broader Kinnekulle area includes an 'easy to cycle' 33 km 'Kinnekulle bike roundtour' that largely follows low-traffic country roads and gravel paths, which might be a good option for families.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to look out for?
Keep an eye out for the dramatic 'red limestone cleft' and its waterfalls, such as Martorpsfallet and Bratteforsfallet. The unique alvar landscape itself is a significant natural feature, supporting rare flora like orchids and the incredibly rare Arenaria gothica. The Kinnekulle Observation Tower is also a prominent landmark offering panoramic views.
What are the regulations for cycling within Österplana vall och heds naturreservat?
Cycling is permitted only on constructed roads and on the designated Kinnekulleleden trail within the reserve. It's important to remember that in shared areas, hikers always have priority. Camping is not allowed within the reserve.
Can I find longer touring cycling routes for a full day out?
Absolutely. For a longer ride, consider the Old Town Hall, Lidköping – Hällekis Säteri loop from Hällekis, a moderate 65.8 km route. Another option is the Mariestad Guest Harbor – Mariestad Guest Harbor loop from Hällekis, which covers 64.4 km and is also rated as moderate.
Is there a particularly challenging touring cycling route for experienced riders?
Yes, for a more challenging experience, the Hällekis Lighthouse – Hällekis Säteri loop from Hällekis is a difficult 46.7 km trail that leads through varied landscapes and typically takes nearly 4 hours to complete.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Österplana vall och heds naturreservat?
The spring and summer months are generally ideal. In spring, you can witness spectacular mass blooming displays of orchids, particularly near Österplana church. The varied landscapes are beautiful throughout the warmer seasons, offering pleasant conditions for cycling.
Are there any specific trails that are part of a larger network?
Yes, the area is integrated into the larger Kinnekulle natural region. The Kinnekulleleden trail, a 48-kilometer circular trail, traverses parts of the reserve and other scenic areas around Kinnekulle, providing a well-established network for touring cyclists.
Most popular routes around Österplana vall och heds naturreservat
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