While Marstal stands for historic industrial charm and maritime history, Ærøskøbing is considered a fairytale town due to its particularly well-preserved townscape from the 17th and 18th centuries. To get to know both places without moving the boat, the bicycle is ideal.
- Route:17.5 km
- Difficulty: light
- Gradient: 50 m
- Pure journey time: 1 h20 min
Tip: If your legs are too tired for the return journey, simply hop on the island bus. It runs every hour from the harbour in Ærøskøbing to Marstal, is free of charge and also takes up to three bikes - but no e-bikes!
The tour starts in the marina of Marstal (1), where you can also hire bikes from the boat hire company "Sejlog Persenningsservice". To the Maritime Museum (2) is hardly worth the climb, but a visit to the quaint museum is a must. A narrow country road leads north to Ommel (3), a sleepy village with farmhouses and thatched roofs. From there we cycle south again to Kragnæs. Here a well-maintained track leads to the "Jettestuen" barrow (4). You can't go inside due to the risk of collapse, but it's still nice to look at.
This is followed by a firm sandy path by the water (5) along to Ærøskøbing (6) - almost as good as sailing! Once you arrive, it's time for refreshments. If you want to eat fish in a harbour atmosphere, we recommend the smokehouse. The "Mumm" is a more dignified, but also more expensive place to eat. Located in the pedestrian zone, this restaurant with its courtyard garden is very popular, so it's best to book in advance. If you like, cycle to the tip of the land in the north (7), where you can enjoy a wonderful swim on the west or east side, depending on the wind direction.
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Morten Strauch
Editor News & Panorama
