Cycling: Svanninge Bakker route

From Faaborg, cycle up towards the town of Svanninge, and if the town seems familiar, it's probably because Fritz and Anna Syberg have lived there and found their subjects in the area.

Follow the road into Svanninge Bakker at Brahesvej 14. From here, it goes uphill, along gravel paths for the next kilometer, but the nature and the views are worth all the effort. The landscape alternates between pastures and small forests, as well as a single golf course.

At Sollerup, you will come back onto an asphalt road. Take a detour to Arreskov Lake, which is Funen's largest. Here, among others, bitterns, sea eagles, and marsh harriers breed.

In Korinth, you can take a detour to Ringe on a disused railway (17 km), which is now a bike and riding path, or cycle around Brahetrolleborg Castle. On the way back to Faaborg, there is an outstanding view over Faaborg and the Little Belt.

The tour goes through the cozy town of Diernæs. From Diernæs, there is a bike path for most of the way to Faaborg. Make a stop at Kaleko watermill, which has roots dating back to the 1600s. End the tour at Faaborg Museum and see the paintings of Funen artists from the area, including “Evening Play in Svanninge Bakker” by Fritz Syberg.

Buy the guidebook: 17 Cycling Tours around the South Funen Archipelago and see more tours (available at the tourist offices in the South Funen Archipelago and at BikeØhav: http://www.bike-ohav.dk/BUY.html