Cycling towards the summer – Cycling week 8.-17.5. in Nallikari 🚴♀️🌊
In May, Finland celebrates the national Cycling Week, which encourages Finns to get in the saddle and try cycling in everyday life, during free time, and while travelling. In 2026, Cycling Week will be celebrated from 8th–17th of May, with events, activities, and excursions taking place across the country.
The goal of Cycling Week is to increase cycling across all types of journeys, encourage reflection on personal mobility choices, and highlight the benefits of cycling for both wellbeing and the environment. The week also celebrates cycle tourism – and Cycle Tourism Day, held on Friday 16th May, highlights cycling as an experience-rich way to explore the surroundings.
Nallikari is a Welcome Cyclist-certified destination 🚲💚
Nallikari is officially part of the Welcome Cyclist network, which means that cyclists have been taken into special consideration. It is easy to arrive in Nallikari by bicycle, and even easier to stay and enjoy a longer visit.
“As a Welcome Cyclist destination, we offer cyclists, among other things, secure bicycle storage, the possibility to wash and service their bikes, information on local cycling routes and services, and flexible accommodation options right by the sea,” says Antti Romppanen, Environmental Manager at Nallikari Holiday Village.
“Nallikari is an excellent base during cycling trips. With the growing popularity of bikepacking, our guests have valued the diverse accommodation options, ranging from Apartment Hotel Aalto to basic cabins and tent sites. In rainy weather, and if availability allows, it is easy to upgrade from a tent site to indoor accommodation,” Romppanen continues.
Best cycling route tips in the Oulu region 🌿
Oulu is internationally known as an excellent cycling city. The Oulu region has over 600 kilometres of a wide-ranging and well-maintained cycling network, enabling smooth mobility throughout the year. Particularly well known are the Oulu “baana” routes; wide, fast, and fluent cycling “main routes” that make even longer journeys pleasant and safe. The routes run both through the city and in the middle of nature, seamlessly connecting the seaside, park areas, and nearby destinations.
High-quality infrastructure, smooth routes, and clear signage make Oulu a perfect destination for both beginner and more experienced cyclists, whether riding a city bike, touring bike, or electric bike.
1. Nallikari – Hietasaari: 5 km
This nature-oriented route starts from Nallikari beach and continues behind Spa Hotel Eden onto charming gravel paths. Along the route, visitors can enjoy seaside landscapes and birdwatching spots, cross the Mustasalmi bridge, and take a break at a campfire site. This year-round maintained route offers nature in the middle of the city.
Distance: approx. 5 km
Suitable for: those seeking a peaceful nature experience, also accessible without a bicycle.
2. Nallikari – Pikisaari – Oulu city centre – Ainola Park: 10 km
Hop on your bike and follow Cycling Main Route 12 towards Oulu city centre. Along the way, you can stop at Pikisaari, known for its old wooden houses, where a bohemian artistic atmosphere and exhibitions draw you in. From the city centre, it is a good idea to continue towards Ainola Park in the Hupisaaret area, which is the perfect place for a short break or a picnic. The riverside route then leads you comfortably back towards Nallikari, passing the former 2005 housing expo area in Toppilansaari and the new Vaakunakylä housing expo area from 2025.
Distance: approx. 4–6 km one way
Suitable for: everyone, including families
3. Nallikari – Koitelinkoski Rapids 30 km
Head a little further and experience the stunning Koitelinkoski Rapids in Kiiminki. The route follows the Kuusamontie road along a cycle path through varied landscapes and rewards you at the destination with rushing rapids, suspension bridges, and campfire sites. Koitelinkoski Rapids is a perfect excursion destination for a picnic break and enjoying nature. In the summer season, café Tunnelmatupa and an ice cream kiosk serve visitors. Opening hours should be checked directly from the café’s website.
Distance: approx. 15–20 km one way
Suitable for: cyclists seeking nature experiences
4. Nallikari – Hailuoto 120 km
A true cycling classic is a trip to Hailuoto. The journey includes cycling as well as the currently free ferry connection, which in itself makes the day an experience. Once on the island, visitors are greeted by stunning sandy beaches, lighthouses, and unique archipelago nature.
Distance: variable (cycling + ferry)
Suitable for: adventurous day-trippers
Make Nallikari the base for your cycling adventure 🌅
Combine cycling, seaside nature, and relaxing accommodation. At Nallikari, you can unwind comfortably at the end of the day, whether you choose a cottage, villa, caravan site, or hotel accommodation at Aalto right by the shoreline. The reception staff are happy to share more cycling tips for Oulu and various destinations in the Oulu region.
