After completing the necessary preparations, I embarked on a new adventure. Despite having travelled this road numerous times before, I was determined to explore as many new paths as possible and experience the thrill of the unknown. While I typically embark on one or two extended motorcycle trips per summer, this was my first long trip of the year. Due to a fortunate turn of events, it occurred during the early autumn months, and I was uncertain whether or not I would be able to take another lengthy excursion before the season’s end.

Before setting out, I had roughed out a general itinerary and identified a few potential stopping points. However, as is often the case with my travels, I left without a clear understanding of the exact route I would take. Instead, I was content to let the journey unfold and allow the trip’s events to guide my decisions. This approach has resulted in numerous memorable experiences and unexpected adventures.

For the first part of my journey, I made stops only to refuel my motorcycle and take a brief coffee break at a familiar café. Despite the drizzly weather, I remained warm while riding, thanks to the unseasonably high air temperature. Although the temperature would occasionally drop during heavy rain or fog, I was well-prepared with the proper base and mid-layers to keep me comfortable.

Travelling light, I packed only the essential gear. Since I planned to stay overnight at cheap hotels and campsites in cabins, I decided not to bring any camping gear. While this type of travel is ideal for shorter trips, longer excursions in Nordic countries can be quite expensive, with high hotel prices. As such, camping at a campsite is the most practical option, as it is inexpensive, and you still have access to showers and indoor facilities.

The first leg of my journey covered roughly 270 km from my home to the Vaasa-Umeå ferry. The ferry journey took four hours and crossed the sea between Finland and Sweden. Upon arriving at the port, I joined a few other motorcyclists, and we patiently waited to board the ferry. After a short wait, we were directed onto the ferry, where an employee showed us where to park our motorcycles. Since no storms or rough seas were expected, I didn’t feel the need to tighten the moorings to the limit. We spent the next four hours comfortably eating and planning the remainder of our trip. I decided to ride another 130 km from the port of entry in Umeå before spending the night in a hotel. Eventually, I arrived in the small Swedish Lapland town of Storuman, where I spent a peaceful night at the Luspen hotel.

The next leg of my journey took me through the town of Umeå and out into the countryside, where I enjoyed the scenic beauty of the forest areas and small villages. Although it rained intermittently throughout the day, I remained undeterred and pressed on. After several hours of riding, I eventually arrived in the small Swedish Lapland town of Storuman, where I spent a peaceful night at the Luspen hotel.