Cycling: The Ærø Route

From Ærøskøbing, the Nevrestien trail follows the coast with breathtaking views over the sea, then you pass through the villages of Kragenæs and Strandby, where time seems to stand still.

In Marstal, you can still experience a vibrant harbor with two shipyards, and at Erik Eriksen's Wooden Shipyard, wooden ships are still being built using traditional methods. Visit the Maritime Museum, where Carsten Jensen drew inspiration for the novel "We, the Drowned". Marstal's future is still maritime, and in the town, you can take a HF in maritime studies and later become a mate. The town is also a great place to take a break and have ice cream at Smageriet or buy some candies at the Island Candy Shop.

From Marstal, the journey goes via Rolpested to Drejet, where there is rich birdlife. On the way back, you can take a detour to Store Rise where Rise Brewery has a farm shop and café – and makes the best beers.

In Ærøskøbing, the route goes along cobbled streets flanked by fine half-timbered houses, and a great stop is the Old Merchant's House at the Square, where you can find all the good local products.

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