Swedish cash in hand, it’s time for country number 2. But time for a quick look back on Norway.

“Given it’s great distances, hilly terrain and narrow roads. Norway is not suited to extensive bicycle touring” says my guide book. I agree, but seeing Norway is without doubt the best way, the only way to truly appreciate it.

I’ve a love/hate relationship with the country. I’ve cursed the uphills, embraced the downhills and even come to hate the these to, knowing that they bring an inevitable uphill.

Norway will probably be the country I look back on with the most fondness. I have received countless acts of kindness that I probably don’t deserve from strangers. Dozens of handshakes and hundreds of waves from the Dutch and German motor-homes that seem to fill the roads.

Sweden will be remembered for it’s nothingness. The early part’s of Lapland were very similar to Norway with huge snow covered mountains and clear lakes. After 2 day’s riding I finally came to my first town Kiruna, which was a welcome relief. The next town after this Gallivere was a further 150km away. I saw more elk/reindeer than people.

I crossed the Arctic Circle once again only this time the temperature was 27 degrees. Quite a contrast to the last time. It was the turn of the Latvians to mob me this time and they assured me that they have cheap beer. Something to look forward to.

Sweden will mostly be remembered for 3 things. Tree’s, Volvo’s and mosquitoes never in my life have I seen so many, the mosquitoes a particular annoyance. I rode 300 miles ( nearly the length of England as the crow flies) and only passed 2 towns.

I spent a rest day in Tornio/Haparanda which is essentially one big town but one half Swedish the other half Finnish and a time difference of 1 hour. Particularly useful for when the shops close in Finland as they are still open for an hour in Sweden if you need them, as I did.