This journey started as a quick conversation between Carwyn and I about my trip and visiting him in Malmö on my way. My first visit since 2018. I was initially going to take the train, the only way to get to Malmö from København. You are not allowed to cycle over the bridge. But since Carwyn and his partner Vernita had a boat, the conversation turned to a more adventurous way to cross.
As you’re being ridiculous and biking round the World, I feel I should be ridiculous and sail you across an international border.
Carwyn Jones, June 2022.
The day started with a short cycle past the Airport in København toward Dragør, a small coastal town and harbour. This little town is tucked out of the way and overshadowed by its larger capital neighbour.
The harbour boasts beautiful views of the Øresund bridge and on a good day maybe a bit of Sweden. A little cycle around, outside of the main street will highlight many old style buildings and a quietness which is only found on the coast. Unfortunately disturbed by the rather violent seagulls!
The sail…
I had a half day to rest whilst waiting for Carwyn and friend Ester to sail from Malmö to pick me up. Ester had already travelled from København before setting sail to pick me up and would have to make the return journey as well. Commitment and a big thank you for making this part of the journey possible.
After Carwyn arrived, we had a quick lunch, around 3ish. Ester went off to explore Dragør whilst Carwyn and I loaded the bike and gear on to the boat. About an hour later and no damage to the wood work we had the bike loaded and were ready to set sail. Ropes away and we manoeuvre out of the harbour. Sails up and we are off.
The train takes 30 minutes and sailing would take 3 hours. This is slower travel; although trains are not exactly fast travel. Taking the wheel we had loads of time to relax, chat and have a beer or two. I can’t even remember what we chatted about but the three hours passed quickly and gave Carwyn and I a chance to mess about with my new DSLR. The results you can see in this blog.
All good times come to an end and we make harbour as dusk settles. Once we have sorted out the boat, we continue to chat, drink beer and tea. We finally leave and cycle towards Carwyn’s home, dropping Ester off at the train station.
Southern Sweden, how I wish I had more time…
Unfortunately I wish I had more to say about Southern Sweden but deadlines keep me moving and my time here is short. I was honestly expecting it to be a bit industrial but it was far from it. Two days hard riding reveal lots of nature and lots of wild camping spots alongside plenty of shelters available for anyone to use.
Wanting more I reach Karlskrona and an overnight ferry to Gdynia, Poland.