visitvattern.com
Fun and culture around Lake Vättern
Diversity at Ösjönäs
Poetry is life in concentrate
Lake Vättern is surrounded by forests
Hökensås – Sweden’s far north in miniature
Writers around Lake Vättern – in the writers’ footsteps
Visingsö – the centre of the country and the famous oak forest
Discover the gems of Lake Vättern – with curiosity and a motorhome
Writers around Lake Vättern – in the writers’ footsteps
A number of well-known writers have lived next to Lake Vättern, gaining inspiration from the light, the water and the location. Read about them and their writer’s homes, which are worth a visit.
Pages 6–7
Visingsö – the centre of the country and the famous oak forest
We tell the story of the time when Visingsö was the centre of power, and of the dramatic journey that created one of Sweden’s largest oak forests.
Pages 8–9
Lake Vättern is surrounded by forests
With the forests that border Vättern, you could pretty much call it a forest lake. Deep forests that created tales of bandits, trolls and giants.
Pages 10–11
Discover the gems of Vättern – with curiosity and a motorhome
We know that taking a trip around the lake is a popular thing to do. In this article, we give those travelling by motorhome some extra special tips – though, of course, anyone travelling by car or on a day excursion could make use of them, too.
Pages 12–15
Poetry is life in concentrate
In a personal interview, the Speaker of the Swedish Parliament, Andreas Norlén, shares his best tips about Lake Vättern, and talks about his relationship with poetry and what it was like to grow up close to Vättern.
Pages 16–17
Hökensås – Sweden’s far north in miniature
The dreamy forest area of Hökensås attracts more and more people. We talk about the living countryside and its multipurpose use companies, and how the association Skogens Mångbruk sees the forest as an arena to create the attractive countryside of the future.
Page 42
Fun and culture around Lake Vättern!
Visit artist studios, craft shops or grand fortresses and castles. Pages 44–45
Diversity at Ösjönäs
We meet the entrepreneur Jessica Sannö, who has chosen to live and work in Tiveden. She explains what the place means and what she is doing to develop, preserve and pass it on to the next generation.
Pages 46–47
Askersund 18-19
Motala 22-23
Vadstena 26-27
Mjölby 30-31
Ödeshög 34-35
Gränna/Visingsö and Jönköping/Huskvarna 38-39
Habo 50-51
Tidaholm 52-53
Hjo 54-55
Tibro 58-59
Karlsborg 60-61
Production: Wettersaga AB, Ödeshög
Tel.: 0768-95 50 36
info@runtvattern.se · www.runtvattern.se
Editorial and advertising: Åse Wännerstam, Susanne Pripp
Editor & Layout: 0390 Communications, Gränna
Cover photo: Carl Schnell, CS Kommunikationsbyrå AB
Printing: Mittmedia Print 2025
Circulation: 70,000 copies
Publisher: Åse Wännerstam
The water is what unites all of us who live and work around Lake Vättern. And we love our area. Did you know that the name Vättern means ‘water’, and that Sweden's second largest lake is also a giant drinking water reservoir?
In this year’s edition of the magazine that you are holding in your hand, we focus a little more closely on the culture and the forests around the lake. We will delve into the forests that surround the lake and that have been of great importance to the development of Lake Vättern. We understand this not least because Visingsö was once the centre of Sweden. Read about the dramatic journey of the oaks and the important cultural heritage that they represent.
We visit entrepreneur Jessica Sannö at Ösjönäs in Tiveden, who explains about the importance of diversity on a farm and in a forest. She has been awarded the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation’s Forest Prize for her work.
There is something special about the light around Lake Vättern. Perhaps this was what attracted the people who produced the rock carvings at Hästholmen? What we do know is that it has attracted many artists and writers who have chosen to settle next to the lake. We travel in the writers’ footsteps and hear why they chose to live here. Many people will no doubt recognise the Speaker of the Swedish Parliament, Andreas Norlén. We appreciate that he found time for an interview. He has lived a large part of his life around Lake Vättern, and in the article we find out some of his personal tips as well as learning more about his passion for poetry.
After all, we want to inspire people to make many long visits to our beloved Lake Vättern. We know that travelling around the lake is something that both we who live here and those who visit us like to do. We are seeing more and more people coming here in their motorhomes, so we are devoting a little bit more attention to this in two spreads. Of course, the suggestions apply equally to anyone coming by car or on a day excursion. Perhaps you are interested in culture? We’ve designed a fun culture trip for you. This will make it worth experiencing Lake Vättern in all seasons.
More information can be found on our website: Here you will find bookable packages, our best tips and the easiest ways to get here. To get to know us Vättern residents a bit more, I recommend that you read the page ‘ Våra berättelser och möten’ (Our Stories and meetings – in Swedish only). There, we alternate between interviews and historical flashbacks and experiences. Imagine if you become one of the many people who visited us and then chose to stay!
Thanks to all our colleagues and partners who make this possible. Many of us have come together to achieve this and we hope readers and visitors appreciate our efforts. Welcome to Vättern!
Åse Wännerstam
1. Brahehus
2. Gränna and Visingsö
3. The Rosenlund Rose Garden
4. Habo Church
5. The wooden town of Hjo
6. Karlsborg Fortress
7. Tiveden
8. The North Vättern archipelago
9. The Göta Canal
10. Varamobadet
11. Vadstena Castle and Abbey Church
12. Omberg and Tåkern
Lake surface: 1,912 km2
Length: 135 km
Width: 31 km
Deepest point: 128 m
If you have not been here before, we will give you our best suggestions as to places not to be missed as you travel around the lake. Of course, there is an endless list of other things to see and experience, and we often hear our visitors say ‘If only I’d known there was so much to see here, I’d have stayed longer’. So why not do this? Stay longer, or come back and experience more.
2. Gränna and Visingsö. Make sure you do not miss the Gränna peppermint rock (candy sticks), or Andrée’s Balloon Expedition at the Grenna Museum. Take the ferry to the jewel of Lake Vättern, Visingsö. Experience the island by bicycle, or take a ride on the popular horse-drawn carriages known as ‘remmalag’.
from here.
an
9. The Göta Canal. One of Sweden’s largest constructions and most popular destinations. Go on your own boat, hop aboard one of the passenger boats, or book one of the many cycling packages along the canal.
With the camp site as a base, you have experiences for a whole week within reach of one of the largest tourist regions.
Choo-choo train ”Rödingen”. Children’s stages at the camp. Trips to Vadstena for city walks and visits to the Toy Museum. Shopping and evening tours.
Pub with à la carte menu. Full rights. Large screen TV. Open: 18:00 to 23:00. Please try our self-caught crayfish.
Service
Our latest news include a paddle track, cable car and pump track. We have also continued to build new cottages with high standard and renovated our oldest service house. The restaurant, whose outdoor seating is glazed in, has been expanded with a boardwalk along the water’s edge. Something happens almost every night in July in the restaurant – quizzes, live music, troubadours, etc.
Welcome to a wonderful stay at Vadstena Camping!
Folke Dahlberg was born in 1912 at Klockaregården in Askersund. For most of his active life, he lived the life of a hermit on the islands of Lilla and Stora Röknen, as well as Kyrkogårdsön, on Lake Vättern.
At the end of the 1920s, he moved to Stockholm to study at what is now the University of Arts, Crafts and Design (Konstfack). Folke was an anxious soul and lived a nomadic life. After abandoning his studies, he spent almost a year on Mallorca. In 1936, he made his way back to the Vättern region, arguing:
‘I find there is only one region that means anything to me. That is home, Lake Vättern, Tiveden.’
For two years, he rented a room with the Allvin brothers on the island of Lilla Röknen before living with the Ring family on Stora Röknen for a few more years. In the summer of 1942, Folke began to build a cabin and studio on the eastern side of the island (Ängberget), which was ready a year later. He lived there for most of the year until 1946, when the Armed Forces evicted everyone. Winters on the island were too cold, so usually he would spend them living in Askersund.
He also made a number of journeys and met Kristina Sahlberg. They married in 1942 and had two children. The family moved around extensively, and Folke spent a lot of time alone. In 1951, he rented the forester’s residence on Kyrkogårdsö and the family moved to Mariestad. Many of his books were written on this island. In 1960, the family moved to Sjötorp, and in the same year he received the Övralid Prize.
His literary debut came in 1948 with the book Cartesiansk Dykare (Cartesian Diver). His best-known works are the so-called landscape books, depictions of Lake Vättern, Tiveden and the Göta Canal with a culturalhistorical slant.
They are some of the most distinguished works of Swedish literature and have reached a wide audience. The books show Folke’s warmth and humour, often going into rich detail and making their points elegantly. This is in stark contrast to the frigid seriousness reflected in his art and lyrical poetry. All his life, he alternated between his art and writing, illustrating his own books.
He managed twelve books, including a selection of poems, before he drowned off the peninsula of Vanäs at the age of just 54. He and a good friend of his were together en route from Karlsborg to Vadstena on the evening of 28 August 1966. His book, Havet Slutet (The sea – the end), was published on the following day.
Verner von Heidenstam lived almost his entire life close to Lake Vättern. He was born on the Olshammar farm, where he spent many summers while growing up. His father was absent, and it is said that lack of love during his childhood was behind his need to be at the centre of things. In his autobiography, När kastanjerna blommade (When the Chestnut Trees Blossomed), he described his memories of Olshammar.
On completing his education, Verner travelled around the Middle East. He attended art school in both Rome and Paris. At the same time, he began writing and had his first book, Vallfart och vandringsår (Pilgrimage: The Wander Years), published in 1888. It was well received by the cultural critics and is regarded as a portal to the Nineties. His most famous works are the historical novels Karolinerna (The Charles Men), Folkungaträdet (The Tree of the Folkungs) and Heliga Birgittas pilgrimsfärd (Saint Birgitta’s Pilgrimage).
He became one of the most prominent celebrities and cultural figures in Sweden. He wanted to be seen and sought affirmation, although he was not entirely comfortable about what was published about him. His appearance – with his cowlicks and moustaches – was an important part of both his success with women and his celebrity status. His profile became somewhat of a trademark and could be found on front pages of magazines, on postcards and in book advertisements, on alcoholic beverages and parlour games.
His first marriage, to Emilia Uggla, lasted for twelve years, although he had a number of extramarital relationships. One of his lovers, Ellen, gave birth to his son Nils, who only met his father once. Olga Wiberg became his second wife at the age of 19. Their relationship ended after six years, and in the same year he married 17-year-old Greta Sjöberg. He was 42 years old at the time and the couple moved into Naddö outside Vadstena. Greta also acted as hostess at his 50th birthday party in 1909. The celebrations were so grandiose that critical voices were raised in the press, and Verner’s popularity as a public figure waned. By the time he was elected to the Swedish Academy in 1912 and received the Nobel Prize in 1916, he was living a more unobtrusive life.
Verner met the Dane, Kate Bang, who was his junior by 33 years. The couple lived in Denmark for a long time, although they were often on travels. In 1923, Heidenstam bought the Övralid estate near Motala and erected an imposing house based on his own drawings. As the years passed, he was afflicted by progressive dementia and his ‘friends’ took care to ensure that Övralid became a museum. Following his death in 1940, it was not considered an option for Kate – as an unmarried woman, and a Dane – to continue living there, and so she was manoeuvred out. In her place, Heidenstam’s first wife, Emilia, was brought in as a more suitable ‘widow’.
At the age of 60, Ellen Key moved to Omberg, where in 1910 she built her house, Strand, next to Lake Vättern. She had been living in Italy for ten years or so, and the building was a cross between an Italian villa and a Swedish manor. She lived here until her death in 1926.
Her father, Emil Key, went personally bankrupt and was forced to sell the Sundsholm farm in Västervik. This was a source of great sorrow to Ellen, who had wanted to buy back her childhood home. Following her time in Italy, she was looking for an area rich in culture, with sweeping views and with the water nearby. She found all of this at Lake Vättern. It was her friend Prince Eugen who brought the plot to her attention. During the sixteen years in which Ellen lived at Strand, she received frequent visits from the cultural elite of the time. Four thousand names signed her visitors’ book. Her close friend, Verner von Heidenstam, was also a frequently seen guest. Certainly she was an inspiration to him when he later built Övralid. Ellen remained unmarried and had no children of her own. Her dogs, two St Bernards called Wild and Gull, filled much of that void. She said herself that the dogs were not brought up but rather loved up. In her will, she described how Strand was to become a place of rest for hard-working women. They should be able to come to unwind, in both body and soul. Even today, Strand remains available for holders of annual scholarships to come and stay.
In many ways, Ellen was a visionary and a feminist champion, fighting for female suffrage and women’s rights. She was an opinion-former from an early stage, receiving acclaim and criticism alike. She was 72 years old when she first gained the right to vote. She was surrounded by a circle of the radical writers and dramatists of the time, and was one of the most influential authors of the 1880s. Her most famous work was ‘Barnets århundrade’ (The Century of the Child), published in 1900. It was quickly translated into 13 languages and gained great importance for child rearing and school systems far beyond Sweden’s borders. For 20 years, she ran a co-educational school along with Anna Whitlock. As an educator, she became a pioneer with her emphasis on children’s rights and opportunities to be allowed to develop according to their own potential. She influenced contemporary educators, such as Maria Montessori.
Her book, ‘Skönhet för alla’ (Beauty for All), also had a great influence on the new Nordic style, in which Ellen as well as Carl and Karin Larsson had been innovators. She turned many interior design concepts into reality in her home.
Today, rooms are available for hire and there is a café and restaurant. Guided tours of St Birgitta’s Church and Verner von Heidenstam’s shrine are available to book. Verner was born on 6 July 1859 in the northeastern gable room on the lower storey. The room has been preserved with furniture from the period. Here you will find an original doorframe used by von Heidenstam’s family to measure his height. Verner’s height is marked from the age of four to twenty-one. There is a Marieberg tile stove in the room, moved from Naddö where the poet lived during his heyday at the start of the 20th century. Next to this is St Birgitta’s Church, including the chestnut tree that was here when Verner lived here.
St Birgitta’s Church is named after Birgitta of Vadstena, St Birgitta (Bridget) of Sweden, whose spouse Ulf Gudmarsson owned Olshammar in the 1320s. At that time, Olshammar was a large estate and brickworks. In keeping with tradition, Birgitta built a chapel on the site of the current church. Here, too, you will find the Birgitta stone, immediately to the south of the church. Birgitta would use this step to mount her horse before riding over Lake Vättern to Vadstena. If you examine the stone closely, you will find her footprints on it, while the key to her cellar is said to lie beneath the stone.
On the estate, St Birgitta’s Church became Verner von Heidenstam’s playground. He created his ‘Lajsputta’ fairyland, and always played the role of the king. He carved the ‘centre of the earth’ in a brick inside the church.
This was Verner von Heidenstam’s home for his final 15 years. He designed the house himself, and it is said to be a cross between an Italian villa and a Swedish manor. A bishop’s castle. In the summer months, there are tours every hour led by knowledgeable guides who will tell you about his life. The surroundings are stunning, with a number of excellent walking paths and magnificent views. The nearby ‘grandfather’s cottage’ serves light lunches and home-baked pastries. On 6 July each year, the Övralid Prize is awarded at Heidenstam’s grave. The prize is awarded to authors, essayists or researchers with a humanistic focus. The prize money is SEK 300,000. In the evening, the recipient of the prize and the governing body of the Foundation eat a traditional dinner. The menu never varies: Heidenstam’s standing birthday menu, Vättern char, chicken and strawberries with whipped cream.
‘The books built the house,’ is a quote from Ellen Key. She was not a rich woman; instead, she accumulated her money through work and wanted to create a place of rest at Strand for female manual labourers. This became a reality, and on her death she bequeathed her estate to the Ellen Key Strand Foundation, with instructions to run the home of rest according to her instructions. These assets form the basis of the Foundation’s finances today. Her home, Strand, is located at Omberg, midway between Vadstena and Ödeshög. The house was built in 1911 and is a mixture of Ellen Key’s many sources of inspiration: art nouveau, Italy and the Swedish manor.
Strand is open for guided tours from 1 May until the end of September. In accordance with Ellen’s will, Strand is also home to resident scholarship holders during the summer period. Close to this is Ombergs Turisthotell, which is famous for its fabulous cuisine. A walk along the Ellen Key trail at Omberg provides fine views over Lake Vättern and the plains. In spring, Ellen’s favourite flower, Hepatica blooms abundantly here, while a carpet of Ramson covers the beech forest floor.
Lake Vättern puts on dramatic shows in the autumn, and Omberg offers beautiful views and vibrant colours.
TEXT: LARS KLINGSTRÖM
Today, as you see Visingsö looming in Lake Vättern, it is hard to imagine that the island held a central place in the country in the 12th and 13th centuries. However, it was from the castle at Näs, strategically located in the middle of Sweden of the time, that the kings ruled.
It is sometimes said that Visingsö has had four periods of greatness. The first was during the Iron Age, from the 6th century BC up to and including Viking times. The people who lived on the island at that time have left traces in the form of one of the largest burial sites in the country.
The second period of greatness occurred during the early Middle Ages. On the southern tip of the island can be found the remains of Näs fortress, Sweden’s oldest royal castle. It was built in the mid-12th century and, for just over a century, served as the main seat of Swedish royal power. At the time, the House of Sverker of Östergötland and the House of Erik of Västergötland were involved in a fight for control of the country. Four kings died at Näs. The builder of the castle, Karl Sverkersson, was murdered in 1167, while the other three died of natural causes, the last being Magnus Ladulås in 1290.
A third period of greatness began in the mid-16th century when Per Brahe the Elder was awarded Visingsö as a countship. However, it was in the 17th century under his son, Per Brahe the Younger, that Visingsö flourished. The countship grew and came to include both the eastern and the western sides of Lake Vättern, a total of around fifty parishes. Visingsborg Castle was extended to become one of the grandest in the country.
The countship ceased to exist at the end of the 17th century. The castle remained and, in 1715–1719, housed
several thousand Russian prisoners of war. It was never established whether it was one of these who caused the fire that broke out and totally destroyed the castle in 1718.
Following this, life on the island reverted to its naturally slow pace until, some way into the 19th century, things began to happen again. Some gentlemen from Stockholm turned up and acquired land from the farmers. A boatload of oak plants was landed on the island to cover the country’s future requirements for timber for
shipbuilding. Soon, too, they began planting the exotic mulberry tree for the purpose of producing Swedish silk. Neither project proved a success. However, the stories about them are interesting.
Nowadays, most indications are that Visingsö is in the midst of its fifth period of greatness. More and more tourists are attracted by the island’s charm, and that very special feeling of glancing towards Gränna and getting the sense of almost being in another country.
TEXT: LARS KLINGSTRÖM
Just before Christmas in 1831, the first oak plants were placed in the soil on Visingsö following a perilous journey from Stockholm. It was an investment for the future that was meant to meet the national fleet’s needs for shipbuilding timber.
Ever since the Middle Ages, Sweden’s oaks had been protected by a so-called royal superior right. This meant that they were the property of the crown no matter where they were growing. There were severe penalties for unauthorised felling.
The reason for the superior right was that oak was the best form of wood for shipbuilding. The reign of Gustav Vasa saw a very dramatic increase in shipbuilding and, at the end of the 18th century, there was a shortage of suitable oak trees in Sweden.
The fleet was concerned and commissioned the nobleman Johan Aron af Borneman to find out how much oak was available in Sweden. For six years, he travelled around before confirming that the situation was just as bad as had been feared. The oaks that he did find would be far short of what was needed for future requirements. In his report, he proposed that the royal oak superior right should be abolished and special oak plantations established. He proposed a number of sites, but the reason why Visingsö was chosen was that the head of the recently formed Forest Institute, Israel Adolf Ström, had discovered that the oak tree matures there 20–30 years earlier than elsewhere.
Another factor in Visingsö’s favour was that the Göta Canal was about to be completed and would offer good transport opportunities. From a defence perspective, too, the location on an island in the middle of a lake far inland was considered a major advantage.
In early October 1831, almost 50,000 plants were taken up at the nursery at Djurgården in Stockholm. Half of these were oak. The others were made up of spruce, beech and larch, which would be placed between the oaks to allow them to grow straight and tall.
The plants were packed into 113 wooden crates, which were then loaded onto a vessel that would take them on the first stage to Norrköping. They were forced
to take that route as the Göta Canal was not yet quite finished. From Norrköping, the plants were taken by horse-drawn carts to Norsholm on Lake Roxen, where the sailing sloop Nordstjernan, piloted by skipper G.A. Rosendahl, was waiting. Then it was a short sail across Roxen to Berg and its long flight of locks. Nordstjernan was then hauled onto the new canal to Motala, where they set sail and headed southwards on Lake Vättern. It was now the end of October and the weather was breezy, with unfavourable winds. They therefore laid up in Vadstena to wait for better weather. And so the weeks passed.
In Visingsö, they began to suspect something was amiss when the vessel had not appeared by mid-November. Finally, some people were sent to find out what had become of it. Both the western and eastern shores of Lake Vättern were searched before the vessel was finally found, having run aground at Järnevid not far from Vadstena.
From the Maritime Declaration that then followed, it became apparent that skipper Rosendahl and his sloop had been fairly close to Visingsö as early as on 7 November, but had been forced to run back downwind to Hästholmen, some miles north of the island. During one of the attempts to get through, they hit a severe storm on 14 November. On the return journey, in north-westerly snow showers, the skipper was unable to turn the Nordstjernan against the wind, which resulted in the vessel running aground immediately outside the town. By this time, he had for three weeks been making repeated attempts to reach Visingsö.
Almost all of the iced-up crates of frozen plants could be brought ashore. They were covered in straw while awaiting onward transportation using a different vessel. Finally, they reached Visingsö at the start of December.
As soon as the thaw set in, planting began. On the day before Christmas Eve 1831, things were finished. By this stage, 47,000 plants had been placed in the soil. In the 1830s, the state bought further land from the Visingsö farmers. Over time, around 300,000 trees were planted, and the farmers’ initially positive attitude to the new forest was replaced by concern about being completely driven from the island. However, that concern proved unfounded. By the 1850s, it was already clear that the warships of the future would not be built from oak. In 1860, the Swedish Parliament decided that no more oak trees would be planted on Visingsö.
Since the project was wound down, the oak trees have continued to be managed, albeit now for more traditional purposes. Today, responsibility for the oak forest on Visingsö lies with the National Property Board of Sweden.
By 1975, the oak trees were more than 140 years old and ready for use in shipbuilding. In a letter from the Swedish National Forest Enterprise (Domänverket) to the Chief of Navy that attracted a good deal of attention, the following offer was made: ‘Well, Admiral, the oak trees are now ready for delivery’
By now, the Navy’s interest in the oak trees had long since faded. However, the oak timber from Visingsö is much sought after and has been used, among other things, for wooden flooring in public buildings in Stockholm and for the Swedish embassy in Pretoria. In addition, on one occasion it was actually used for its original purpose: When the replica of the East Indiaman the ‘Götheborg’ was built at the end of the 1990s.
TEXT: Lars Klingström
There is good reason to call Lake Vättern a forest lake, surrounded as it is by forests. Tiveden and Tylöskogen in the north, Holaveden and Hökensås in the south. All have their own distinctive features and history, making them exciting to explore when persuading them to reveal their secrets.
Tiveden is the result of events when the Earth was still young. The crust broke up into large platforms, forming a so-called fault that stretches from Lake Vänern all the way to the Baltic Sea. At the same time, a huge north-south crack appeared that would gradually become Lake Vättern. Over the course of millions of years, the rocks that then emerged have eroded away. Ice ages have come and gone. Inland ice has polished and moved things around, ground rock into sand and broken large blocks away. Everything has been left all over the place in the geological jumble called moraine.
In this part of Sweden, the final remains of the ice melted around 11,000 years ago. Gradually, the forest became established in the exposed fields. In what was to become Tiveden, it was both rich in boulders and stony.
For this reason, Tiveden became a desolate and almost impenetrable border between the cultivated land to the north and south, between Götaland and Svealand. And, like all forests of this kind, Tiveden came to be surrounded by stories of its dangers – that there were trolls, evil forces and highwaymen here. The latter was definitely the case. In former times, it was not unusual for people who had, for various reasons, been ostracised from society to move into the forest, where they would survive by theft and robbery.
In the 16th and 17th centuries, settlements began to appear here and there in Tiveden. There were Finns who were offered exemption from tax by the Swedish crown in return for settling in deserted forests, including Tiveden.
The Finns were skilled at slash-and-burn agriculture and could cultivate grain on even the most barren forest land. The forest was the very thing they needed for the form of cultivation that they employed. Slashand-burn land produced good yields, but only for a few years. At the same time, therefore, new land needed to be burned at all times to ensure there were new areas of slash-and-burn to use for cultivation. However, the slash-and-burn Finns soon received some competition. In the mid-17th century, several ironworks were established in and around Tiveden. The ore was obtained from Bergslagen, where a shortage of forest had arisen. In winter, the forest reeked of charcoal smoke from the many stacks. The charcoal-burning period lasted until the end of the 19th century, which saw the dawn of modern forestry. Tiveden is therefore far from being a primeval forest. However, there are parts of the national park that do resemble natural forest, and Stenkällan at its core offers a breathtaking demonstration of the power of nature.
Holaveden, located between Vättern and Lake Sommen, has an abrupt northern border with the plains of Östergötland. To the south, Holaveden merges at some point on a level with Huskvarna with Småland’s unnamed forests. Holaveden has a firmly rooted reputation for being virtually impenetrable. Nowadays, when travelling off the main roads it is not difficult to understand why. The roads are both meandering and hilly. There are plenty of forest-clad
hills, with lakes, mosses and cultivated land between them. For anyone who is not in a hurry, it can be an experience almost like travelling in time to move around this old-fashioned landscape, so different when compared to the huge agricultural units of the Östergötland plains and the forest-enclosed straight lines of Småland. The cultivation plots edge forward in irregular shapes around the villages and farms, where the forest is persuaded to give way.
However, the Holaveden forest of today has little in common with the natural forests of the past. As everywhere else in Sweden, it bears the stamp of several hundred years of human activities. The forest gained commercial value in the mid-19th century when the so-called ‘timber front’ reached Sweden. Its greatest effect was on the forests of the far north of Sweden, which were virtually emptied of their largest and most valuable trees. However, in southern Sweden, too, the forests were subsumed into the system of cultivation known as the even-aged stand system that still predominates today. In the nature reserves and primeval forest reserve at Holaveden, however, it is still possible to gain a glimpse of what the original forest, little influenced by people, might have looked like.
Hökensås is a forest area that stretches along the western side of Lake Vättern between Jönköping in the south and Lake Viken in the north. The countryside here is very varied, with eskers, small hills and deep hollows created by the inland ice. Hökensås was mentioned in the medieval Västgöta Law as ‘Waeterskogar’, and here the farmers at Visingsö and Falbygden were granted royal permission to collect building timber and wood. When the replica of the East Indiaman the ‘Götheborg’ was built in the 1990s, it was at Hökensås where they finally found the stout pine trees needed for the ship’s masts.
Tylöskogen, to the east of Vättern in the north, is less well known than its ‘siblings’ Tiveden and Kolmården within the same geological fault. However, its historical role is significant. The bedrock here is rich in minerals, which led at an early stage to the establishment of a number of mines and cabins. Access to ore and forest in the same area was, of course, ideal for iron production in former times. In Tylöskogen, mining districts grew up at Lerbäck, Godegård and Hällestad. They were formed by farmers who came together and, besides agriculture, also engaged in mining. Today, the iron industry in Tylöskogen has long since closed down, but 1,400 metres into the bedrock zinc, lead and copper are still mined at Zinkgruvan, just over 10 km southeast of Askersund.
His iconic illus-
Holaveden and Tiveden share the final element of their names with a number of forests in Sweden. ‘Veden’ originates from the Old Swedish ‘vidher’ – the same word that survives today as ‘ved’ and in the English word ‘wood’.
The first element of Tiveden has previously been linked to the god Týr, but this has now been called into question. More likely, it refers to the forest being divided in two. This assumption is supported by the fact that, on many historical maps, Tiveden was marked as two forests – Stora Tiveden and Lilla Tiveden. Holaveden’s name is easier to interpret. The first element is the Old Swedish ‘hol’, which means depth. To the people of the time, the forest must have appeared almost interminably deep.
‘Holaveden’ is the original and historically correct spelling, but in the 1950s what was then the National Land Survey Board (Lantmäteristyrelsen) changed the spelling to ‘Hålaveden’. The decision was backed up by rules stating that Swedish placenames should be spelled as they are pronounced. However, as Holaveden is not a town, we can safely continue spelling Holaveden with an ‘o’. This is also the most common spelling. A Google search gives a result of 12,600 to 1,420 in favour of ‘Holaveden’.
Despite their reputations as virtually impenetrable border forests, Holaveden and Tiveden have on several occasions been forced to surrender to enemy forces. In 1520, the Danish armies advanced on both sides of Lake Vättern, leading to the fall of the capital and the infamous Stockholm Bloodbath.
The last occasion was in the winter of 1567, when despite heavy losses a Danish army under Daniel Rantzau advanced through Holaveden and meticulously burned down farms and towns throughout Östergötland. On today’s maps, on the old western route in Holaveden you will find geographical names such as Fäktahål, Hästafällan and Skansebacken, which in Swedish are reminders of former strife.
in the
Among
and Trolls has forever since represented in a way an ideal image of what a real forest should look like: Mystical, with moss-clad boulders and tall, straight trunks disappearing into the dark gloom. And this despite the fact that this in no way resembles the natural forests that, so the debate emphasises, it is most worth striving for. Paradoxically enough, Bauer’s forest, with its even stout trunks, more closely resembles one of the despised production forests of today.
Discover the gems of Lake Vättern – with curiosity and a motorhome!
With your motorhome ready to go and Lake Vättern as your destination, a trip full of charm, taste experiences and unforgettable vistas awaits. The advantage of a tour is that you can decide where to start and stop. Follow us around Sweden’s second-largest lake –an adventure that offers everything from abbeys to peppermint rock and magical sunsets.
We begin our journey in Jönköping, the largest town or city on Lake Vättern and one that offers a fabulous city pulse. There are many fine restaurants close to the water with lake views. Just a stone’s throw from the centre lie the shores of Lake Vättern, where the long sandy beach makes the lake almost feel like a sea. Those with an interest in culture might wish to visit the Match Museum (Tändsticksmuseet) or the Jönköping County Museum with its fine exhibition of the works of the artist John Bauer. Don’t miss a visit to the Rosenlund Rose Garden, with its 550 different varieties of rose and magnificent view towards Lake Vättern.
A few minutes’ drive takes us to Jönköping’s twin town, Huskvarna. The town has put itself – and Sweden – on the map through its industrial traditions. A visit to the Husqvarna Museum is a journey in time over more than 300 years, with the focus on the trademark and the factory. The surroundings of the museum are beautiful. There is great drama on ‘Fallens Dag’ – the ‘Day of the Falls’ –when the thunderous masses of water are switched on.
We opt for the back roads and take the old ‘Riksettan’ road northwards. Here, we find ourselves in unbelievably beautiful, undulating countryside in Äppledalen, Sweden’s answer to Tuscany. The road takes us past Rudenstam’s extensive apple cultivation and farm shop. A place to buy their own and other local delicacies. We warmly recommend an overnight stop at Bauergården, which has invested heavily in the motorhome guest and offers pitches, a popular restaurant, sauna and swimming in Lake Bunn.
Continuing through undulating countryside along the old Riksettan road, we reach the village of Röttle, an old mill environment with picturesque little red houses and a dramatic waterfall. Gränna and Visingsö then await us.
The motorhome campsites at Gränna Harbour and Gästplats Gränna are well-known and much visited. From the harbour, the ferry takes you to Visingsö Island. Take your motorhome (a site is available), or discover Visingsö by bicycle. Treat yourself to a ride on a horsedrawn carriage and admire the magnificent oak trees.
Once back on the mainland, don’t forget to visit the Grenna Museum and the highly interesting and exciting exhibition about the polar explorer and engineer, Andrée. For those seeking a slightly quieter location at Vättern, we recommend Getingaryds Camping a few kilometres north of Gränna.
We now continue along the tourist route (brown signposts) up towards Omberg and Tåkern. Don’t miss the chance to drive to Café Kleven with its magnificent views over Lake Vättern and the island of Visingsö. By all means stop awhile for a coffee and cake.
The tourist route up to Ödeshög offers a number of fine views and stopping places. You will then drive into the small community of Ödeshög. Here you will find many delightful traders. Make sure you don’t miss ‘Annelies Delikatesser och Underkläder’, which has become known for its rather unusual name (‘Annelie’s Delicatessen and Underwear’) along with that personal service that is a feature of many of the traders in the ‘village’.
Immediately to the north, you can stay overnight in the small community of Hästholmen. Here, Västergården has invested in some excellent campsites. The magical sunsets and proximity to the water come at no additional price. Recharge your batteries for tomorrow’s exertions with Vätterhästen’s famous schnitzel or Vättern char. For really fine dining, book a table at Ombergs Turisthotell, which is famed for its good food.
There is an abundance of nature and culture in the area. The Omberg Ecopark is visited by hundreds of thousands of walkers annually. Don’t miss a visit to writer Ellen Key’s home, or take a walk up to the highest point, Hjässan, with its fantastic views over four provinces. You can also drive north over Omberg. Don’t forget to stop at Västra Väggar, with its dramatic drop.
Borghamn Strand lies in the northern part of Omberg and offers a campsite next to the shores of Lake Vättern, a café, restaurant and an opportunity for therapeutic relaxation in a sauna and hot tub.
We head for Vadstena and notice how the landscape flattens out as it transitions into the Östgöta plains. Just to the east lies the bird lake Tåkern. Here you will find campsites and Naturum, with the Princess Estelle fairytale trail. There are several hiking trails, each one unique in its own way, in the reedy surroundings that attract birds and people alike. Our road takes us into Väderstad for a cracking coffee stop at Väderstad Centralkonditori. Don’t miss the Vättern crayfish at Marcus Kräftan, or visit the charming Byggnadsvårdskompaniet architectural salvage shop.
We continue our round trip as we head for the medieval town of Skänninge, one of Sweden’s oldest towns. Here, they keep the story of Birger Jarl and the House of Bjälbo alive. Via Skänningesbästa you will find out about both events and cosy small town shopping.
The distinctive silhouette of Vadstena looms, with Vadstena Castle and Abbey Church as landmarks. Right next to the castle, next to the water and the moat, can be found the town’s most popular campsite and guest marina, which can be booked via Boka Vadstena. In summer, the area offers a nostalgic festival every Wednesday evening. Get to know Vadstena’s history and join one of the knowledgeable Vadstena Guides , or visit the Abbey Museum.
By all means stay for a day or two. There is a lot to experience in the medieval heart of the town, with its cosy shops along the cobblestone street. Pause in the area of the Abbey, which has much to offer. The Vadstena Academy offers world-class opera. In 2025, the town will mark its tradition with real highlights. It will not go unnoticed! On the outskirts is the ShakespeareFactory, with everything from popular music to theatre and opera performances in the old factory premises.
Most people know Vättern for its major cycling race, Vätternrundan, which will be 60 years old this year. If you visit Motala on 13–14 June, you are in for a real festival experience. The town is the ‘capital’ of the Göta Canal. Feel free to explore the canal by bicycle. The trails were nominated as the finest cycling trails in Europe. Mallbodens Café – a fabulous watering hole – is where you will find the most delicious waffles. Opposite lies Lokverkstan, where Motala Verkstad once began. Nowadays, it hosts a number of popular concerts. The marina offers cosy restaurants, and don’t forget a visit to the Motala Motor Museum, which is open all year round. Svecia Travels offers historical guided tours for those wanting to know more about Motala.
A little to the north of Motala, with wonderful views over Lake Vättern, lies Verner von Heidenstam’s Övralid, which is 100 years old this year. And, for the feeling of travelling back to a bygone age, we also recommend a visit to Medevi Brunn, which also offers motorhome pitches in unique spa surroundings. Stjernsund Castle, just south of Askersund, is one of Sweden’s most beautiful, located on a headland with water on three sides. Inside, the castle houses a rare and well-preserved collection of interiors from the 1850s, when the House of Bernadotte owned the castle.
Outside Askersund, Sweden’s most secret archipelago lies hidden, including Harge Uddar. Many have no idea that there are around 250 islets, rocks and skerries in this part of northern Lake Vättern. You can book a guided trip both on foot and by kayak through Norra Vätterns naturvägledning. Harge Bad & Camping offers a fine combination of camping and motorhome pitches in fabulous natural surroundings.
Askersund is that convivial small town in the northern part of Vättern, with a tempting well-organised and popular pitch next to the harbour. Start with coffee at Garvaregården and stroll along the cobblestone streets. Make sure that you don’t miss the delightful delicatessen Le Magasin du Port, or the famous toyshop Johans Leksaksbod, which has something for every child up to the age of 100 and beyond.
The trip now moves southwards, along road 49. This is where Tiveden begins, a paradise for those wishing to walk and cycle. This is Sweden’s southernmost wilderness and national park. For those seeking to stay overnight, Tivedens Camping and Ösjönäs offer fine service and surroundings. Why not book a table at ‘Krogen mitt i skogen’, which guarantees an exceptional culinary experience.
We make a detour to Forsvik. We have now returned to the Göta Canal, though this time on the western side of Lake Vättern. Visit the charming Kanalbutiken 5 knop shop, next to the oldest and highest lock on the canal. Here you will find a superb motorhome site, offering a ringside seat for the spectacle of the boats entering to use the lock. Excellent service is available from 24sju butiken, open around the clock. We recommend a visit to the interesting Forsvik Mill museum. This shows the story of the mill and its extensive production, and the people who worked here. SMOFA sets up a theatre or musical performance at the mill. Don’t miss this year’s Pirates around Vättern – a fastpaced experience.
You will find a cosy place to stop off for lunch at Bistro Rödesund, a popular location for the residents of Karlsborg. Why not take part in their music quiz? Karlsborg Camping is in beautiful natural surroundings between
Lakes Vättern and Bottensjön and offers excellent pitches –or why not switch one night and stay in a tree stump? Fine summer evenings can be spent enjoying a sing-along next to the canal. Karlsborg Fortress is inevitably on our to-do list, but there is more to see and experience here. The fortress is a community in its own right and you are welcome through both the barrier gate and the large portal. Here you will find the Karlsborgs Soldathem café, Karlsborg Fortress Museum and Vanäs lighthouse. Each year on 6 June, one of the largest celebrations of Sweden’s National Day takes place at K3. Don’t miss the newly opened Mission Rooms or the guided tours that take you to places that are otherwise out of bounds.
If you continue on road 49, you will arrive at the furniture town of Tibro. If you have children with you, we recommend a visit to the Mini Zoo or Rankås recreation area. Our next stop is Hjo, one of Sweden’s wooden towns and classified as being of national significance. Stampens Kvarn has both a restaurant and motorhome pitches, and provides the perfect starting point from which to discover the town. Walk along the valley of the River Hjo and into the cobblestone streets, buy sweets at Delicatezza Bianca, enjoy an ice cream in the harbour and explore the town’s cosy small shops. Guldkroksbadet is a fabulous
stop-off point if you wish to cool down in the clear waters of Lake Vättern. Right next to this you will find Hotell Bellevue, which serves a today’s special all year round. Don’t forget to enjoy the stunning wooden villas in the town park, all with different names such as Villa Eira, which today houses a hostel. The harbour area pulsates with life. Many people shop for the much sought-after smoked Vättern Char and Wrångebäcksosten cheese, which is produced at Almnäs Bruk. The S/S Trafik, a steamer and working life museum from the 19th century, departs from the harbour.
Immediately to the south of Hjo is a fine motorhome site at Gate Bison, a farm with a herd of bison. It is possible to join a bison safari on a tractor with a ranger to get up close to the mighty animals. The 24sju shops at Gate and Korsberga offer two convenient places to buy provisions.
For anyone interested in cars, we recommend a visit to Tidaholm Museum, where you will also find Barnens hus (the Children’s House) with its inspiring and playful surroundings.
Between Tidaholm and Habo you will find the recreation area of Hökensås, which is a paradise for the angler, nature lover and family. In certain places, the nature is as close to wilderness as it is possible to get, with excellent hiking trails and lakes for fishing.
Driving out towards the south, we choose the meandering back roads through an undulating landscape. It is perfect if you can time it with the blooming of the rapeseed, when it is like driving in a bright yellow sea of flowers that never seems to end. The journey may perhaps take you to Habo Church, which was a centre to which seven paths led. This is one of Sweden’s most unique wooden churches, with its colourful interiors that resemble a Renaissance palace.
There is yet another fine motorhome site outside Habo: The View Sweden. Here, a lot has been invested in motorhome owners and the site offers incredibly good views over Lake Vättern. And, as the final icing on the cake, we suggest Tabergstoppen. When Carl von Linné saw Taberg, he supposedly exclaimed: ‘The miracle of Småland.’ The panoramic view from the top is dizzyingly beautiful and summarises your experiences during your trip around Vättern as, on a clear day, you can see for a long way to the north.
Why not finish off with a guided tour inside the mountain with the Taberg Guides?
TEXT: ÅSE WÄNNERstAM
He’s the lad from Ödeshög who wanted to be a circus director, but instead ended up with the highest office in the land after the King: the Speaker of the Swedish Parliament, Andreas Norlén.
Andreas has lived close to or next to Lake Vättern for almost his entire life. I had an opportunity to speak to him about his upbringing and his relationship with the Vättern area.
‘I grew up in Ödeshög as my mother is from there. While I was born in Bromma, we moved to Ödeshög and Hästholmen when I was three. It’s a small municipality where everyone knows everyone, but it’s a good place to grow up in and very safe. I’ve many memories of that time. Everything from riding a snowracer down Omberg to my ninth grade finishing dinner at Ombergs Turisthotell. Of course, it’s a real area for culture, with the Alvastra Abbey ruins, the Rökstenen runestone, Lake Tåkern and Omberg mountain. Naturally, visiting the highest summit on Omberg, Hjässan, and counting the church towers was part of it. ‘A hundred white church towers hold watch on the plains,’ he quickly recites from the Östgöta anthem, ‘Så grann står Östergyllen’.
This brings us onto the cultural prize from the Ingeborg and Folke Löf memorial fund. The prize is awarded to people who have contributed in various ways within artistic fields and with a connection with Ödeshög. Last year, Andreas received it for his newly-published book: ‘The Speaker’s Guide to Swedish Poetry’. Were you aware of the prize beforehand?
‘Oh yes, it is a well-known prize, and I feel both honoured and humbled to have become one of the prize winners. Unfortunately, I was unable to be present in person when the prize was handed out, but I was able to be there via a digital link. I then read Image of the Madonna in Heda* by Heidenstam, which I felt fitted the context well.’
I don’t think it has escaped anyone’s attention that poetry is close to your heart, but what led you to compile the book?
‘I received a call from the publisher, who had picked up on the fact that I often use poems in my speeches in Parliament, and on my official visit to Finland where I read the twenty-eight verse long poem about Sven Dufva av Runeberg. The publisher asked me whether I was interested in compiling a hundred poems by as many authors, which I was happy to do. So, along with my wife Helena I came up with the selection for the book in 2023. It’s intended as a good starting point for lowering the access threshold to poetry.’
Before our conversation, I had read and listened to several interviews and discovered that Andreas grew up in a family of business people. At the age of six, he had wanted to be a circus director. Perhaps it was the idea of being an entertainer that appealed to him, and turned out to be an access route to the office that he now holds?
His mother owns several newspapers and there are several businesspeople in his family. Working hard and doing his duty have always been part of his life. As is having belief in himself. His interest in politics followed him from his days around the breakfast table, as his mother was involved in it. For a while, he worked at his mother’s newspaper company, which published the free newspapers Söndags- och Fredagskuriren as well as the weekly Länstidningen Östergötland. Andreas wrote his own column. In 1995, the family moved to Motala, where he became very involved in local politics.
I can see that Motala is very close to his heart, and that he got to know the municipality very well during the almost twenty years he lived and worked there. Which places would you like to share with me for those who visit Motala?
‘Varamon, with its sandy beach stretching for almost ten kilometres, is a real gem. As you know, Motala as a town really has a lot of links to water, with Lake Vättern, the Göta Canal and the Motala Ström river system. Then, too, I have a very special relationship with Håleberget, where I proposed to my wife. To my great joy, she said yes. However, she was a bit curious about the large, ungainly bag that I was dragging along with me. I blamed it on the need for us to have some water for our forest trip, but in fact it contained long stem roses, which I produced when I proposed.’
Are there a few places around Lake Vättern that you would recommend, and what is the best way to experience Vättern?
‘Above all, in the sun and with some swimming – and why not a boat trip? It’s about living with the lake. But also the fantastic countryside around, such as Omberg. I’ve visited all the municipalities privately with my family on several occasions. I think Askersund is a little gem, with its harbour area and its square. Hjo is charming, and you mustn’t miss Karlsborg Fortress. It’s an exciting, historical place – not just because of our defence history. Give a thought to the history of the region as a whole – life in the abbey in the Middle Ages, or the Rökstenen runestone from the Viking Age. Of course, I mustn’t forget Jönköping – I studied at college there for two years. I’ve visited Jönköping City and the A6 shopping centre several times. Jönköping is a fabulous city.’
As Speaker of the Swedish Parliament, you have a very good insight into and influence on our democracy. What challenges do you see for Sweden in the coming years?
‘There are a number of major issues for Parliament to discuss in the future. The security situation, gang criminology, climate issues and economic policy. We live in fairly worrying times and are much affected by the world around us.’
Time is running out for our conversation, but I do know that one of Andreas’ interests is collecting mugs. So, if there were to be a mug about Lake Vättern, what motif should it contain? The answer comes quickly: ‘Vättern: a lake for everyone.’
*) Image of the Madonna in Heda is a poem by the Swedish author Verner von Heidenstam. It was published in 1915 in the collection of poems, ‘Nya dikter’ (New poems). It depicts a conversation between a sculpture of the Virgin Mary and a non-believing visitor.
Heidenstam was inspired by the sculpture of Mary in Heda. According to Ellen Key, Heidenstam had found the sculpture covered in dust and tucked away in the garret of the church. The kings who, according to the poem, had kissed the foot of the sculpture were from the Houses of Sverker and Bjälbo, who were resident in the surrounding area in the Middle Ages. The sculpture tells its story and then asks the visitor to leave, but the visitor asks to be told of the properties that enabled the creation of the sculpture.
Image of the Madonna in Heda by Verner von Heidenstam
"Eight hundred Christmas nights I saw them turn on their lights.
Children, listen to what I am telling you! Kings kissed my foot.
I sit forgotten. Dust envelops me. Don't ask me what you love, not about gold and not about name.
Go, denier!
Only to him who believes, miracles happen.”
When I heard from the red of the picture lips of wood such heavy words, a ray flew on the wall and I prayed:
"Give me the golden heart instead, give a drop of the good, loving humility, which, forgotten and nameless, sired and sat you with a crown and a dowry high and stern on the queen's chair. Teach me to revere and sing the whole big, bright world, which stands filled with the buzz of wings, meadows and mountains and wonderful, nobly wise human deeds. It has faith, for which much is sacred.”
The Speaker’s ten recommendations:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
1. The town’s side streets, beachside walks & the Mini-train
Stroll through the town and enjoy the peaceful small town charm. The oldest houses in the town tell their stories on plaques on corner boards and, if you wish, town guides will take you behind the planks and bring the stories to life.
The beachside walk embraces the town and its beautiful green spaces. There is room here for activities, play and swimming, and the mini-train chugs past on its journeys between the harbour and the heritage centre. Nor should you miss the walk along the footbridge to the town’s own island, Borgmästareholmen, with its historic buildings and rocking boats. Wonderful small town life, pure and simple!
2. Tiveden and a string of paths
Wilderness, rift valleys and forest paths. You will find a wide range of trails in varying natural landscapes in and around Askersund. In Tiveden National Park, you can experience an enchanting wilderness among caves, forest lakes and impressive thrust sheets. Fagertärn is the forest lake from which the red water lilies originate, while Dovrasjödalen, with its character of a wilderness and long narrow lakes in a rift valley, is yet another of the many fine destinations for short or long hikes.
3. Stjernsund Castle
With well-preserved interiors from the 1850s, the castle is ranked as one of the best-preserved in Sweden since the time when it was owned by the Royal House of Bernadotte. There are interesting guided tours of the state apartment, servants’ basement and Billiard Wing, as well as a fine exhibition about the ‘Singer Prince’, Gustaf. Have coffee and refreshments in the castle café with its beautiful views of the lake and visit the castle shop for a stylish selection of gift items. The castle park is open all year round.
VisitAskersund
Tourist Information
Tel.: 0583-810 88 info@visitaskersund.se www.visitaskersund.se
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram
VisitAskersund Infopoints
• Best Western Hotel Norra Vättern
• Garvaregården Hotel B&B Café
• Kulturhuset Sjöängen (Culture Centre)
• Olshammarsgården
• Hotel PerOlofGården
Welcome to a magical winter in Askersund!
Advent is full of atmospheric Christmas markets, both in the town and in the surrounding country. A great way to get into the Christmas mood is to take a trip around the Christmas markets on the meandering country roads. The wooden town of Askersund is transformed by Christmas decorations, and festivities and the Christmas peace just follow on one after the other. The atmospheric Advent period begins with a traditional ‘window display Sunday’, with the shops open for extended hours for a relaxed shopping trip that is best started and rounded off by the fine aroma of a coffee and pastry at one of the town’s delightful cafés.There are fabulous Christmas concerts at the Sjöängen Culture Centre and in Askersund’s churches, while the St Lucia celebrations feature both concerts and Lucia processions through the town’s side streets. The Christmas tables are laid and offer festive opportunities to give each other some time and thought.
You will find the entire Christmas programme at: visitaskersund.se/juliaskersund
For events all year round, scan our adjacent QR code.
A historical journey right into the present at the Mining Museum next to the old mine shaft at Zinkgruvan will fascinate people of all ages. Check out the model of the gigantic underground mine. See the machinery and exhibitions, and take a ride on the mine train. Meet miners, who will tell you about working life in the different areas of the mine.
The Run of Mine, a unique running competition where part of the race is run underground, will be held on 6 September. For those wishing to take things a little more sedately, the Mariedammsleden Trail is a popular hiking trail in a historic mining area that starts at the Trehörning blast furnace.
Art Tour, Car & Bike and Antique Markets Children’s Week, Journey of Food, Lerbäcksmarken and the Askersund markets Lakeside Pride, the Bonnafesten Festival and sparkling performances in spring and autumn at the Sjöängen Culture Centre. Lerbäck Theatre, with its thrilling whodunnits and exuberant farces combined with excellent dinners, as well as summer theatre on idyllic open-air stages. The events calendar at visitaskersund.se is filled every year with hundreds of marvellous events and there is something here for everyone, all year round. Living should be good!
Homemade gelato at Askersunsglass, dining experience at Krogensomintefinns or a bite to eat on the harbour’s outdoor dining terraces. A nice coffee at one of the town’s cosy cafés or Vättern char at ancient Olshammarsgården. Try out the menu at the stylish Hotel Montagne or the miners’ snack bars at Zinkgruvan – each with its own style and charm. And the shelves of the farm shops are bursting with local food products. Welcome to a journey of discovery for the taste buds. Find your favourites!
7.
Stroll around small shops and meet dedicated traders. Take a trip in the countryside to farm shops, department stores and garden centres offering a hand-picked, local range. Here you can meet small-scale shop owners who choose their range of products with care. Like the good neighbours they are, they will complement and recommend each other, while the shelves offer a unique range of products. Crafts and homemade products are on offer here, as well as repair services etc. Small town shopping at its best! All shops are at www.smastadsshopping.se
8.
Join us on guided walks close to the archipelago, all with the aroma of boiled coffee and outdoor food. Glide silently forth in elegant wooden canoes on mystical forest lakes, feel secure among the islands of the Northern Vättern archipelago or join Tiveden’s guides in the wilderness of the national park. Follow in the footsteps of a guide and turn your experience into an unforgettable adventure! Find your guide experience at visitaskersund.se/ gora/aktiv
‘Gruvrundan’ by the archipelago is the cycling trail that connects the mining story with beautiful areas of countryside. ‘Cycle to Tiveden’ is three trails of varying nature that will take you from the railway station at Hallsberg, via Askersund and deep into Tiveden’s forests. ‘Åmmelången runt’ and ‘Laxsjörundan’ start in Askersund and take you via circular loops into the beautiful countryside. If you didn’t bring your bike with you, Experitur Rental offers a wide range of different kinds of bike. You will find all cycling trails at bergslagencycling.se
A wonderful stage performance combined with a fine dinner. Walks near the beach and fabulous shopping in small town shops offering that personal service. And then a lovely bed. We make things easy for you by combining our gems into fabulous packages for you to enjoy. Check out our current packages at visitaskersund.se/paket
Do you also like to look at beautiful boats? Eric Nordevall II is Sweden’s only paddle-steamer, recreated from a vessel that sank in Lake Vättern in 1856. This replica, built at the shipyard at Forsvik, has Askersund as its home port – a lovely place to meet all boat enthusiasts. For more information, visit www.ericnordevall.se
Norströmsg. 1 Hamnmagasinet, Askersund Opening hours at www.madamenature.se · Telephone 0046 70 231 99 59
Garvaregården
Hotel, B&B and Café in Askersund
An old-fashioned hotel and B&B with an accompanying café in a historic and cozy environment in one of Askersund’s oldest buildings down by the harbor. The rooms are in an old-fashioned style with private shower and toilet. Enjoy breakfast in the courtyard or the café. Open year-round.
Sundsgatan 4, Askersund · 0583-104 45 info@cafegarvaregarden.com · www.cafegarvaregarden.com
Övralid:
Östergötland’s seaside town is also the capital of the Göta Canal – a title of which we are enormously proud. Here you will find the Göta Canal’s main office, magnificently located in the harbour, while the section of canal from there to the locks at Borenshult is a really pretty one. Here the canal passes close to fantastic buildings and historic houses, including the old Motala Workshop area, where the atmosphere of a bygone age still lingers in the air.
Motala Workshop is the cradle of Swedish industrial engineering and began in 1822 as a repair workshop for the canal construction. Here there is also the beautiful, renovated Lokverkstan, which has enjoyed success in recent years as a concert venue, where major Swedish artists have appeared as guests.
On the other side of Lake Boren, the canal then continues from Borensberg harbour to the locks at Berg. Make sure to visit Borensberg, the little seaside town by the Göta Canal. In Motala, we like swimming – all year round! Here there are 170 lakes and ten municipal swimming areas. The jewel in the crown is Varamobaden, a beach several kilometres long that is the largest freshwater swimming area in the Nordic Region. Thanks to the sheltered bay, Lake Vättern’s clean, clear water and the shallow sandy beach, Varamobaden is not only child-friendly but also a mecca for water sports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing and standup paddleboarding.
Motala Harbour is a real meeting place during the high season. Here, canal boat enthusiasts, visitors and residents of Motala meet, and there are kiosks selling various items and a number of restaurants with magnificent views over Lake Vättern. The Motala Motor Museum is also located in the harbour area. With its collection spread
over 2,400 square metres, it is Sweden’s most visited motor museum and fabulously nostalgic.
For anyone with the urge to take a boat trip, there is the option to travel on M/S Kung Sverker. The trip will take you either on the Göta Canal to Borensberg or out onto Lake Vättern.
However, you do not need to be either on or in the water to discover Motala’s varied nature. Several sections of Östgötaleden – a 1,500 km hiking trail through Östgötland – can be found here. Getting around on two wheels is easy, too, in the cycling town of Motala, with many rides in the countryside offering the opportunity to discover new places. Here, naturkartan.se/motala is the best help.
June sees the popular festival of the Vätternrundan cycling week, where around 36,000 cyclists from all over the world descend on Motala to cycle some of the routes.
In other words, for the curious-minded there is a lot to discover in Motala, whether you are interested in cultural history or just looking for new hidden gems. The Nobel prize winner Verner von Heidenstam’s Övralid, Medevi Brunn and the Swedish China Museum in Godegård are some of the places where history is still alive and where the environment offers a fantastic experience.
So welcome to Motala, The Lake City of East Sweden!
Tourist Information
Motala Visitor Service Visiting address: Motala Harbour
Tel.: 0141-101 205
upplev@motala.se · www.motalasjostad.se
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram
Scan the QR code for our Event Calendar:
InfoPoints in Motala municipality:
• Best Western Motala Stadshotell
• Motala Library
• Borensberg Library
• Brunneby Cider Factory
• Charlottenborg Manor House
• Hotell Carl Friman
• Hotell Östermalm
• Kaffeteriet
• Lindgården Crazy Golf
• Fornåsa Flea Market
• Mallboden Café & Hostel
• Medevi ProSalus/Medevisalvan
• Motala Motor Museum/Hotell Nostalgi
• Rapps Foto
• Service centre Motala municipality
• Swedish Broadcasting Museum
• Övralid
• Återvinningen Second Hand
• Svecia Travels
• Tjällmo Ice cream making and food crafts
To understand the magnitude of Vätternrundan, we need to turn back time – six decades, to be precise.
It began with an idea, a vision of better public health, and a doctor by the name of Sten-Otto Liljedahl. He decided to start with himself and inspired friends to take up cycling. Together with bicycle dealer Ewart Rydell, he set out on a 300 km ride around Lake Vättern in 1964, unaware that he had just laid the foundation for one of the world’s largest recreational cycling races.
Two years later, in 1966, a total of 344 cyclists gathered in Motala for the first official edition of Vätternrundan. Would it be a success or a fiasco? Was it a recreational race, or was it pure and utter madness?
Opinions differed, but the originators were convinced: with the right attitude and 400–500 km of training in the legs, it was perfectly possible to complete the course. It turned out that they were right. Just three years later, participation had increased almost sixfold, and today the Swedish classic Vätternrundan attracts tens of thousands of cyclists annually from all over the world.
The next chapter of this distinguished story will be written over the weekend before midsummer, when Vätternrundan celebrates its 60th running. Find out how you can be part of the cycling and family festival at vatternrundan.se
The Göta Canal cycling trail has been nominated as Europe’s best cycling trail at the prestigious Fiets en Wandelbeurs trade show in Utrecht, Netherlands. The award is a major recognition for cycling tourism in Sweden and confirms the Göta Canal’s position as one of Europe’s premier destinations for cycling experiences.
The cycling trail along the Göta Canal offers a unique combination of nature, culture and history, stretching for over 200 km between Sjötorp on Lake Vänern and Mem on the Baltic Sea. With its traffic-free towpath, scenic landscapes and historic surroundings, the path has become a favourite among Swedish and international cyclists alike.
We have put together a great cycling package for you, combining the best the canal has to offer. Cycle between Motala and Borensberg along Lake Boren. In Borensberg, you will hop aboard the M/S Kung Sverker and travel on the Göta Canal back to Motala, where a final evening awaits you in the canal’s ‘capital’.
Scan the QR code for information:
– where history and the present go hand-in-hand
You can’t quite put your finger on it. But there is a special, almost magical atmosphere in Vadstena. Perhaps it’s the medieval architecture, the presence of Lake Vättern, the stunning Östgöta plains, or the pride of the locals that creates it. This unique atmosphere has the power to bring both tranquillity and energy at the same time. People have known for centuries that this is a place for both recreation and inspiration. Vadstena has always been a place to marvel at, visit, return to, enjoy, and even settle in. Here, we have gathered our best tips – a warm welcome!
Explore Vadstena, where culture thrives all year round. Enjoy unique events like Vadstena Konstrunda on the second weekend of September, where local artists showcase their works. Vadstena-Akademien’s high-quality opera productions and Shakespearefabriken’s modern interpretations of William Shakespeare’s plays put the town on the cultural map. At Vadstena Nya Teater, theatre, delicious food, and engaging music come together throughout the year.
Vadstena is also a centre for bobbin lacemaking, where traditions are kept alive through fascinating events. In summer, you can visit both Vadstena Spetsmuseum, lace museum and Gottfrid Larsson-gården, home to more than 100 of the sculptor’s works. At Vadstena Folkets Park, sculpture and culture come together in various events. Here, you’ll find Skulpturparken, open all year round, and in summer, dancing takes place at Krogaränga. During this time, you can also take the museum train or cycle a rail bike along Sweden’s oldest preserved narrow-gauge railway.
From May to September, Wednesdays bring Nostalgiafton by the castle, featuring classic cars, motorcycles, and live music. Year-round galleries, a glassworks, performances, and concerts fill the town with artistic diversity –a dream for any culture lover.
In 2025, we highlight the rich history of bobbin lace in Vadstena while exploring its modern expressions and future possibilities. Through exciting exhibitions, guided tours, and events, you’ll have the chance to experience this unique craft tradition up close. Visit our website and event calendar to learn more about everything happening and find activities that suit you!
Vadstena InfoCenter
Open all year round
Visiting address Storgatan 28
010-234 73 70 info@vadstena.se
More information about local services, accommodation, culinary experiences and activities can be found on the Vadstena InfoCenter website, vadstenaguiden.se
For more inspiration, follow us on social media @vadstenaguiden
Events calendar:
Vadstena invites history enthusiasts on a captivating journey through time. The town centre looks like something from a medieval fairytale, with picturesque alleys and squares adorned by historic buildings from bygone eras. Vadstena was granted its town privileges as early as 1400, and at its heart stands the whitewashed town hall Rådhuset, proudly overlooking the square that shares its name.
The square remains the natural gathering place for both locals and visitors, bustling with charming restaurants and unique shops. This is the starting point for many of the guided city tours offered by knowledgeable local guides. Here, you will also find Vadstena Stadsmuseum, where you can learn about the town’s past inhabitants and get a glimpse into daily life in old Vadstena.
The monastery area, built according to Saint Birgitta’s visions, and the majestic Vadstena Slott can be explored year-round, either independently or with a guide. The park next to the castle features a playground with a castle of its own, where only imagination sets the limits.
Just outside town lies Aska, where significant archaeological finds suggest it was a royal power centre as early as the Viking Age. In Vadstena, the charm of the past and the energy of the present blend in perfect harmony. Events and concerts, unique shops, restaurants, and cafés keep Vadstena vibrant all year round.
nature lover
Surrounded by stunning nature, with Lake Vättern on one side and open plains on the other, Vadstena is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Vättern invites visitors to paddle, swim, and fish, while in August, the area around the castle comes alive with laughter and crayfish fishing.
The golden plains of Östergötland, from rapeseed to ripened grain, create a visual feast, and the region is home to numerous farm shops. A trip to the legendary Omberg offers breathtaking views, scenic picnic spots, and spiritual experiences. In winter, the ski slope opens, bringing joy to visitors of all ages.
At the northern foot of the mountain lies the village Borghamn, where the stone used in constructing Göta kanal was quarried. It’s a great starting point for exploring Omberg, with accommodation, shops, and restaurants nearby.
Tåkern attracts birdwatchers from all over the world, and a visit to Naturum is a must. A naturum is a visitor center that provides knowledge and inspiration about nature, serving as a gateway to exploring a specific natural area. Here, you can learn about Tåkern’s unique ecosystem, its rich birdlife, and the conservation efforts that protect this valuable wetland. Children can let loose at Naturleken and explore Sweden’s unique landscape along Prinsessan Estelles farytale path. Another tip is to rent a bike and head to the exciting ARKNAT wind shelter at Svälinge, where you can spot cranes gathering in spring and autumn.
Vadstena has been attracting pilgrims and visitors for centuries. Many walk in the footsteps of Saint Birgitta along St. Birgitta Ways. Winding through deep forests, over hills, and across open plains, the pilgrimage routes lead to this historic gem. Along the way, medieval churches, cosy eateries, and charming farm shops await discovery.
Upon arrival, many visit Pilgrimscentrum to share their experiences or enjoy a meal. When the snow melts and the spring sun appears, Klosterträdgården is the perfect place to admire the unique beauty of the monastery lilies. In May, the old orchard is in full bloom, and the herb garden offers a glimpse into the medicinal plants cultivated by the monks in medieval times.
At Vadstena Klosterkyrka, also known as the blue church, you can take part in the rich prayer life, enjoy beautiful music, or simply admire its splendour. Sancta Birgitta Klostermuseum, housed in the Folkungaätten Palace, offers a variety of guided tours, and children can embark on Lilla Pilgrimsrundan
Vadstena is not just a destination – it is a journey of healing for both body and soul.
A warm welcome to all, young and old, to Vadstena – a place where history comes to life.
In
In the abbey area you are surrounded by medieval buildings and gardens. This is a place where you can see opera, sleep, eat, relax and experience historical times in the Sancta Birgitta Abbey Museum’s exhibitions with it’s 13th century palace. It is also a place for pilgrimage, since the 15th century. Visit the Vadstena Abbey Church, built in accordance with Saint Birgitta’s vision. The Abbey Church collects three stars in Guide Michelin sightseeing book.
Midsummer eve 8.00-17.00
Midsummer Day 9.00-17.00 www.svenskakyrkan.se/vadstena
A room with a view in the middle of history! Stay at hostel Vadstena folkhögskola, one of the most affordable accommodations in Vadstena. Placed in the Monetary area, by the shore of Lake Vättern and close to the inner city. Enjoy the peaceful feeling!
www.vadstenafolkhogskola.se bokning@vadstenafolkhogskola.se Phone +46 143-15704
Summer at the Klosterhotel
www.klosterhotel.se
Klosterområdet Vadstena Tfn 0143-130 00 hotel@klosterhotel.se Enjoy great food, drinks and relaxation by the waters of lake Vättern Summer at the Klosterhotel
VADSTENA OLD THEATRE
200 YEARS
BIRTHDAY PARTY JUNE 25
DEN STARKARE (1990) JULY 24– AUGUST 9
TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM APRIL 1 VADSTENA-AKADEMIEN.ORG
A treasure chest of history, scenic views and charming towns. Explore our beautiful countryside, discover exciting historic locations and allow yourself to be seduced by the unique character of each town. Come and experience a place full of warmth and welcome!
Mjölby – the mill village that grew into a vibrant town with something for everyone! Here you will find a mix of beautiful countryside and the pulse of the town, with the Svartån River stretching through green spaces and the urban environment alike. Discover the idyllic heritage centre on a small islet in the middle of the river, where you can immerse yourself in the town’s history while enjoying the scenic surroundings. Visit cosy cafés, local restaurants and shops. You will find activities for all ages and interests, with everything from beautiful nature, outdoor stages and a swimming pool with an outdoor pool. This town is of ideal size and offers a perfect balance of calm and vibrance, and thanks to the railway and the proximity of the E4 it is easy to get here.
Outside the town centre you will find Skogssjön, a child-friendly open air outdoor facility offering camping, exercise and outdoor recreation. For walkers, there are a number of trails to explore, including the Ice Age Trail, where you can experience the mighty traces and formations left by the inland ice – an area of national interest for research and education. Why not end the day with a
Between forest and plain, and only three minutes from the E4, lies the cosy town of Väderstad. Visitors travel from far and wide for a coffee and cake at the well-known cafeteria Centralkonditoriet, or perhaps for lunch at Centralkrogen, or to shop in the wellstocked building maintenance shop and enjoy delicacies, shellfish, art and interior design. Authentic craftsmanship, good tastes and second-hand items can usually be
Tourist information, Mjölby Municipality
Tel.: 010-234 50 00
E-mail: turistbyran@mjolby.se www.visitmjolby.se
found on the tiny market square. A small town with a lot to offer!
The Åsabackarna nature reserve lies not far from Väderstad. Pack the picnic basket and take yourself on a fabulous walk among the small hills and stunning views. The inland ice has left a clear mark, with impressive ridges, morainic streams and outwash plains. Pasqueflowers bloom in spring, and in summer the common rockrose shines on the hillsides.
Skänninge, one of Sweden’s oldest towns, attracts people through its historic charm and picturesque surroundings. Thanks to Östgötapendeln, getting here is easy. Around the square you will find cute shops and the Town Hall, which houses a town museum and the Church of our Lady from 1300. Stroll around the cobbled streets, edged in hollyhock, in old Skänninge and explore the idyllic museum farms. For a somewhat longer walk, you can visit the ruins of the hospital or the ruins of St Ingrid’s Abbey. The Abbey was the first Dominican abbey in Sweden for women.
If you fancy a dip, head for the artificial lake Månsjön. Jump off the diving tower, play beach volleyball, have a barbecue and stroll around the small forest – all in beautiful surroundings with wide green spaces.
Mantorp – full of power
You will find speed and action at Mantorp – the place with horse power! Here you will find both motor sport and equestrian sport, which attract large attendances and put the town on the map. At Mantorps Hästsportsarena (Mantorp Equestrian Sports Arena), you will find equestrian sports, pleasant surroundings and exciting events. Since it started in 1969, Mantorp Park has been one of Sweden’s leading motor racing tracks. Each year, a large number of events are held, some of which are among the biggest in Sweden and Europe.
Follow the history from the time when Birger Jarl gathered important meetings in Skänninge before he founded our capital city, and up to the successful businesses and shops of the town today.
Our town is vibrant with small pleasant shops and flourishing activities well worth a visit, as well as the Our Lady Church in the center where the echoes of history can be felt around your ears.
Visit the museums in the town hall and in the old town which showcase Skänninge’s cultural treasures.
The feeling of bygone times still lives on in the old town center!
Visit our homepage! Read more about our activities and events! www.skanningesbasta.se
www.sebroschyr.se/BlackertLantbruk/MailView
Locally fished from nearby lakes!
Fresh fish from sea and lake according to season.
Welcome to our fishmarket at Torget
Stora torget 4, Ödeshög · www.fiskevard.net
Opening hours: Call 076-8270361, or see FB
around Omberg
Open studios every year in May during Ascension Weekend Thursday 29th of May - 1:st of June in 2025 at 11 - 17
–Underhållning hela dagen Servering
Lördag 7 juli kl 10–17 www.hedamarknad.se
Book our popular guided bus tour featuring a lighthearted mix of historical facts, myths, and exciting stories.
You can choose whether the tour takes place entirely on the bus or includes stops along the way.
Some highlights we visit are Naturum Tåkern, the Rök Runestone, Alvastra Monastery Ruins and Omberg. We offer guided tours all year round.
history | nature | culture
For booking and questions: +46 (0)768-95 50 36 · www.wettersaga.se
Welcome to Ödeshög, where nature's beauty unfolds with each season. Rolling fields meet ancient forests, revealing unique flora and fauna. Spring's wildflowers give way to summer's bird songs, and autumn's hues reflect in Lake Vättern. We offer diverse outdoor activities, from kayaking along rugged shorelines to hiking panoramic trails. Dive into crystal-clear waters, or explore nature reserves for thrilling wildlife. Winter brings snow-covered trails, perfect for skiing. Here adventure and tranquility are best friends. Each season offers a unique connection to nature, creating lasting memories. All this makes Ödeshög a nature lover's paradise.
Omberg – A destination for every season
Experience thrilling ziplines through ancient forests, scenic kayaking on Lake Vättern, and challenging mountain biking. Indulge in local cuisine and award-winning wine at Särtshöga Vineyard, one of the world’s northernmost wineries. The top-tier Omberg Golf Resort offers a picturesque course for leisure, overlooking the lake. Immerse yourself in history and legends, exploring Alvastra Abbey ruins and the Rökstenen runestone. Discover Omberg's magic with guided tours and hiking packages from Wettersaga, Woods & Waters, and Ombergs Turisthotell. Ombergs Turisthotell provides charming rooms and renowned cuisine, highly rated in the White Guide. Savor local dishes crafted from fresh ingredients, reflecting the region's culinary heritage. Omberg offers a unique blend of outdoor activities, historical exploration, and gastronomic delights. Every visit reveals a new layer of its multifaceted charm, inviting you to explore further.
Just imagine walking a trail where serene beauty invites exploration. Along the Östgötaleden Trail, the signature hike reveals breathtaking lake and forest views through diverse ecosystems. Explore Ödeshög's 16 distinct nature reserves, from mystical primeval forests to limestone marshes. Visit Naturum Tåkern at Lake Tåkern, an enriching experience for families with interactive exhibitions showcasing the environment's secrets. Birdwatching towers offer unparalleled views of the lake's residents. Accessible barbecue facilities allow for tasty picnics. This architectural masterpiece makes nature inviting to all, ensuring everyone experiencing this unique habitat.
Visit Ödeshög
Tourist Information
Visiting address, summer season: Hästholmen harbour
Tel.: 0144-351 67
Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @visitodeshog tourism@odeshog.se www.visitodeshog.se
Along ancient paths, where history and spirituality walk side-by-side you find Scandinavia's most beautiful pilgrim trails. Birgittaleden, Franciskusleden, and Klosterleden, weave through landscapes rich in narratives and this captivating route, stretching from Jönköping, via the charming towns of Gränna and Ödeshög, to the historic city of Vadstena, offers a breathtaking journey through time. Along the way, discover historic landmarks like the Alvastra Abbey Ruins, where echoes of monastic life still resonate. Explore Eriksgata, a route once travelled by Swedish kings, and the tranquil beauty of Ellen Key's Strand, reflecting the serenity of the region. Narbäck & Holkaberg offer glimpses into the area's ancient past, where nature and history blend seamlessly. Each site plays a vital role in Sweden's history, inviting you to connect with the past on a profound level. The trails themselves are more than just paths; they are corridors to another era, where every step tells a story.
From leisurely rides along scenic trails to thrilling mountain biking at Omberg and Skönatorpet, we offer cycling adventures for everyone. Train for major races like Vätternrundan or enjoy a relaxing ride through the Östgöta plains. Find your perfect cycling experience here – there is a route which suits all two-wheelers wishes.
Experience the captivating charm of Hästholmen harbour, where stunning Vättern views and vibrant summer activity intertwine. Guests arrive here by all means of transport, including by foot, indulging in culinary delights at Vätterhästen, 31:ans Glass och Kök, and Hélènes Café & Bistro. Explore Omberg's wonders by kayak, enjoy fishing, and discover art and ancient rock carvings. Witness the unforgettable sunset from the lighthouse. At Vätternrummet museum (next door to the Tourism Office), uncover the poignant story of the SS Per Brahe and the artists John and Ester Bauer.
Uncover all hidden gems along the scenic Östgöta plain. From farm shops and pick-your-own fields to artisan studios and unique boutiques, our countryside offers a delightful shopping experience. In the centre of Ödeshög there are a variety of shops offering everything from locally produced delicacies, second hand bargains and home knitting to freshly caught fish from Vättern. Lysings Konditori is the perfect spot for anyone with a desire for something sweet with a bakery nationally known for its fabulous selection of gluten-free products. A little closer to the E4 pay a visit to Narr chocolate factory and the Skattegården Handelshus, both welcoming visitors all year round with an incredible range of products.
Stay connected with us for seasonal highlights and event listings via Instagram and Facebook @visitodeshog
Klubbgatan 5, 599 31 Ödeshög Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9-18, Sat 9-13 Welcome!
Just a stone’s throw from Hästholmens harbour is Hästholmens Västergård, which offers up to 20 camping pitches. Here you live both close to nature and in an unbeatable location for discovering everything exciting around Hästholmen and Ödeshög. Welcome to us at Hästholmens Västergård!
Tel: 076-09 14 210 Email: frida.wilen@icloud.com
Farm shop and greenhouse at Hamngatan 35 in Hästholmen. Plants and vegetables from our own cultivation. Locally sourced and delicious goods. Opening hours on FB: Hagabergs Trädgård
Well-furnished, clean, and spacious! Towels and bed linens Breakfast with homegrown vegetables Outdoor seating area, parking in front of the house WELCOME TO BOOK!
Joanna: 076-199 60 09 · Andrzej: 070-771 47 44 Grännavägen 6, Ödeshög
Welcome to Vätterhästen Café & Restaurant. Originally built in 1896 as Hästholmen’s Railway Hotel, with a restaurant since 1898. In 1963, it was changed to Vätterhästen, and that was when the legendary Schnitzel was introduced on the menu.
Vätterhästen Café & Restaurang, Hamngatan 18, Hästholmen, Ödeshög
Gränna is a Swedish idyll with charming old wooden houses, cobblestone streets and beautiful surroundings. The town was founded by Per Brahe the Younger in 1652, and was the first town in Sweden to be founded by the Count with town privileges. Gränna is world famous thanks to its tasty peppermint rock – and S A Andrée's ill-fated polar expedition by gas balloon.
For nature lovers, Gränna is a miniature paradise. Here you can find peaceful nature reserves, enjoyable hiking trails and magical forests. Discover the surroundings that inspired John Bauer with Trolska boat trips. Grännaberget offers fantastic views of the town and Vättern.
In and around Gränna there are rich traces of the noble Brahe family. Röttle By is an industrial village founded by Count Per Brahe in the 17th century. Brahehus is Per Brahe the Younger’s pleasure palace and was built in 1638. Perched on the mountain ridge next to the motorway, the ruins of the castle are one of Sweden’s most visited ancient remains.
From successful peppermint rock to failed balloon expedition
Thanks to Amalia Erikson, Gränna is now the peppermint rock capital of Sweden. At the Grenna Museum you can meet Amalia and other historically important people. Polarcenter at Grenna Museum features the country’s largest collection of polar exploration history objects. The crowning glory of the museum are objects from S A Andrée’s polar expedition.
The production of Authentic Gränna Rock was started at Gränna in 1859 by the then poor widow Amalia Erikson, who later became a successful entrepreneur. Today, there are numerous shops in Gränna where you can watch the production process.
According to legend, Visingsö Island was formed when Vist the Giant threw a tuft of grass into Lake Vättern to give his beloved something to step on. That 'tuft of grass' is as vibrant today as it was a thousand years ago. It is a place with exciting historic remains, Sweden’s largest oak forest and an entertaining treasure hunt.
From Gränna harbour there are frequent ferry crossings to the island of Visingsö, the pearl of Lake Vättern. Once there, you can choose to get around the island by bicycle or horse-drawn carriage – the popular ‘remmalagen’. The proximity of the water makes it easy to go kayaking or swimming. If you are happiest on land, the Stall Roempke riding centre offers hacks and riding lessons. Another adventure is the treasure hunt, where the map will guide you to five stops where you get clues that help you finally open the treasure chest. In 2025, the popular Tournament returns, with a medieval market and jousting.
Several ruins of castles and fortresses in this countship bear witness to a former landscape of power. Visingsö Fortress in Näs is the ruins of Sweden’s oldest royal castle, from the 12th century. From the 17th century, the powerful Brahe family lived in the resplendent Visingborg Castle. Today, all that remains is a ruin. The Brahe Church was built in the 17th century on the foundations of the medieval Ströja Church. Today, the church is the finest example in the county of the splendour of the age of Sweden as a great power, with a range of art treasures and exciting stories.
Tourist Information
Destination Jönköping info@destinationjonkoping.se 0771-211,300 www.jkpg.com
InfoPoints: • GAL, Green Active Lifestyle Nordic AB • Persgården • Tempelgården • BauerGården
Jönköping & Huskvarna – interwoven with a rich history
The giant Vist stands in Huskvarna, looking out over Lake Vättern. Here you breathe the impressive history of the Husqvarna factory. A stone’s throw from here you will find one of the country’s oldest cities, Jönköping, with its magnificent nature, a long sandy beach close to the town, a rich restaurant scene, a fascinating history of match production and John Bauer’s fabulous art.
Jönköping shares its heart with three lakes. With just over 140,000 inhabitants, it is the only major town or city on Lake Vättern. Here it bubbles with life all year round. In the city centre you will find cosy side streets, museums, libraries, shops, restaurants, hotels and a university with students from all over the world. The proximity to nature is one of the main advantages of both Jönköping and Huskvarna. Here you will find pleasant cycling trails, well-trodden forest paths and silent nature reserves. High up in Jönköping, with a fantastic view of the city, is Stadsparken, with the largest playground in Jönköping, animal pens, minigolf, barbecue areas and a unique bird museum.
Jönköping’s central location in southern Sweden makes it a natural focal point for culture, sports, meetings and outdoor activities. It is one of the country’s most widely used event cities, organising national and international sporting events such as IRONMAN 70.3 Jönköping. Exactly as last year, the Mountain Bike Youth European Championships will be held in Huskvarna and Jönköping.
Looking for art that breaks boundaries and smashes the rules? If so, you should visit Österängens Konsthall. Would you like to see John Bauer’s magical art, with its trolls, elves and gnomes? Then the Jönköping County Museum is the place for you.
There are only three match museums in the entire world and one of these is Tändsticksmuseet (Match Museum) in Jönköping. In the beautiful wooden building from 1848, you can find out more about the history of matches. At Tändsticksområdet (the ‘matchstick area’), you can also see other 19th century buildings, shop in local shops and enjoy good food and drink.
The history of the Husqvarna factory began in 1689 with the production of muskets and other weapons for the Swedish armed forces. The Husqvarna Museum contains most of the items produced by the factory: sewing machines, stoves, ovens, bicycles, motorbikes, chainsaws, lawnmowers and household appliances. Right next to the museum is Slottsvillan, a building constructed in 1895 as the home of Husqvarna’s Director Wilhelm Tham, his wife and their nine children. Today Slottsvillan is run as a hotel. Opposite the museum and Slottsvillan, you will find Smedbyn. In the 18th century, the small red buildings were used as smiths’ workshops and later as housing for the workers at the Husqvarna gun factory. Today they house handicraft workshops, cafés and galleries.
Many celebrities have performed at Huskvarna Folkets Park. Since 1925, the park has been a meeting place for music, culture, festivals, theatre, trade fairs, meetings and other events.
Tourist Information
Destination Jönköping
info@destinationjonkoping.se 0771-211,300 www.jkpg.com
InfoPoints:
• Tändsticksmuseet (Match Museum)
• Elite Stora Hotel
• Villa Björkhagen
• BW Sure City Hotell Jönköping
•
•
•
TEXT: Ellen Nystedt, for the association Skogens mångbruk, PHOTO: Emelie Ritter
In the extensive forested area of Hökensås, which spreads out between the urban areas of Habo, Hjo, Tidaholm and Mullsjö, you will find a unique combination of nature, cultural history and that feeling of togetherness that comes with small businesses. In sparse, sandy pine forests between shimmering forest lakes, there is space for adventures and relaxation alike, with every corner of the forest offering some form of experience.
Sweden’s far north in miniature
Pine heaths and kettle holes formed by the inland ice swathed by white reindeer moss. Yes, Hökensås really does live up to its nickname – Sweden’s far north in miniature. Those spending time in the silent forests can hear the call of the wildcat in the spring, see the capercaillie sitting high atop a pine, eat chanterelles to their heart’s content and experience rare, vulnerable species such as deep-root clubmoss and the orange terracotta hedgehog fungus. At Falk’s Grave, the forest’s history and dry sand have created optimal conditions for the signature species, the scaly tooth fungus and bitter tooth fungus.
All over the country, the business concepts of multpurpose use are sprouting forth. Here, there are whisperings and a positive desire to create a good lifestyle for the future. As with the climate, the forest landscape of the countryside is undergoing change. As no-one knows what the future will look like, some people are taking defensive action while others are curious and welcoming change. More and more people are appreciating locally produced and unique products from the forest, the forest’s biodiversity and the ability to reduce climate issues, as well as the forest as a place for recreation. Given this, it is of little surprise that the number of forest owners and companies who can see opportunities to use the forest as an arena for fresh and updated business ideas is increasing by the day.
Dreamy forest landscapes like those around Hökensås are attracting people who want to live in the countryside, while also appealing to visitors prepared to pay for everything from café visits, local ingredients, craftsmanship for their
homes and guided experiences. Beautiful Hökensås has, for many years, been a reason to travel for visitors, thus making it double the resource for small entrepreneurs, who are able to offer services both to each other and to tourists. Through this multipurpose use, various industries become entwined together, helping to create a living countryside where residents support each other, nature and their guests. The association Skogens Mångbruk sees the forest as an arena to create the attractive countryside of the future.
On the ‘Mångbrukets Mångfald’ (The Diversity of Multipurpose Use) project, we are working to show how commercial development and knowledge of biodiversity can go hand-in-hand irrespective of the business being run. During 2025, companies in Örebro and Östergötland will be able to receive skills support and take part in activities. Companies around southern Lake Vättern can receive support and networking via the Skogens Kraft 2.0 project.
Taking a walk through Hökensås is like being transported through a living museum, with every corner of the forest telling a story or offering a nature experience. The nature reserve, with its pine forests and tranquil lakes that reflect the sky, is one of the most unique landscapes in southern Sweden. Here, you will share your peace of mind and joie de vivre with rare fungi, freshwater pearl mussels and the call of the nightjar on summer nights. While the mystical Falk’s Grave offers an exhilarating, almost fairytale-like, atmosphere.
In Hökensås and its surroundings, you can really breathe out and allow the forest to embrace you. There are good opportunities for those seeking adventure. From a zipline and guided forest swimming to fishing trips and cycling trails, there is something here for everyone.
invitation
Hökensås
Whether you are looking for peace, activities to raise your pulse rate or taste experiences from the forest larder, Hökensås is an area where all these come together. Here you will have the chance to discover the forest’s various treasures, meet impassioned entrepreneurs and create memories for life.
Welcome to Hökensås – where diversity and opportunities meet!
• Commercial multipurpose forest use: Small businesses and forest owners enhance the various values of the forest through crafts, food, refinement, tourism, services and more besides.
• Multipurpose use can help enhance biodiversity through variation, more robust ecosystems and carbon sequestration.
• The Skogens Mångbruk Association: www.skogensmangbruk.se
• Project Skogens Kraft: www.skogenskraft.se
Text: Harald Zander, adapted for music: Eva Dahrén 9 July 2014, edited 27 September 2024
Since time immemorial, your waves have been rolling sometimes untamedly powerful, manly wild sometimes shaped into landscapes, with small hills to a ripple on the surface of the gentle evening breeze. Then when women and men along islands and beaches lingered by your dynamism. When young people are lured from their alleys attracted to spring skies and magical Vättervik.
You have hummed your song for many generations for the baby in the cradle, for the young with sting For the people of the countryside, during long working days, in fields and fields with plows and spades. Roaring winds and capricious waves has wreaked havoc – caused tears and sorrow, But set hearts on fire, lit the flames of love. Played bridal waltz in hut and castle.
Your blue heights, framing your beauty, adds shine to your surface, azure blue and green The morning sun brightens your peculiar mirage and sunset makes you even more beautiful. And from the mountain in Gränna we can now see the evening purple still in the waves' beating. And on Visingsö the night sky is visible to both, Sweet summer night becomes a new day.
May you still in centuries that come and go with your eternal magic power and great enchantment, Summon people to still find all the beauty and joy that resides within you. So, let them be fascinated by your power, to see the silver of the moonlight street, Although they may be attracted by the hustle of time –let them see the beauty – We pray!
Born 31 July 1905 at Stenstorp, Västergötland. Came to Visingsö aged five months as a foster child of Anna and Edvard Zander, Tunnerstad, Visingsö.
Worked as a medical orderly in the military at Eksjö in the 1930s/1940s after moving to Karlskoga in 1939 in civilian service as a medical orderly/factory official at Nobelkrut, later Bofors i Karlskoga, where he also worked for the Red Cross and civil defence service.
Come and explore the historic charm of the manor and our awardwinning rosegarden. Here culture and nature meet in perfect harmony. Book a guided tour with one of our manorguides and enjoy homemade pasteries among fragrant flowers at Café Stallgården.
Experience our exciting historical walking theatre, where you, as a visitor, can come along on a journey through the fascinating history of the area – everything told through live theatre.
Read more and book: jonkoping.se/rosenlundsherrgård
Married Sylvia Svensson, two daughters. Died on 26 August 1973 in Karlskoga. Buried in Karlskoga, though his gravstone has been moved to Kumlaby churchyard, Visingsö. jonkoping.se
Two new books highlighting Jönköping have been published.
In ‘Till fots genom Jönköping’ (On foot through Jönköping), the reader is taken on various circular routes that provide a guide to the sights, scenic areas and central parts of the town. The routes include everything from easy ones in an urban environment to more challenging longer ones in the forest.
In the book ‘Jönköping i fokus’ (Jönköping in focus), the reader is inspired by the pictures themselves. Photographer De Luca Babbaro will leave no-one unmoved as he depicts everything from town silhouettes to the power of a waterfall.
A world of cultural experiences awaits you around Lake Vättern!
Visit artist studios, craft shops or grand fortresses and castles. Be inspired by festivals and art tours, or take a walk along pilgrim trails to the medieval churches. Each part of Lake Vättern offers a unique meeting with art, music and history. Let the special light of the lake touch your heart.
The year is 1650. Visingsö/Hjo/Forsvik. In a time of folklore and mystical beings, pirate captain Kapar-August has received a letter of marque from Queen Christina, calling for him to ship prisoners across Lake Vättern, from Askersund, Vadstena, Jönköping, Hjo and Forsvik to Pehr Brahe’s Visingsö. However, it is much more enjoyable – and, above all, profitable – for the pirates to plunder and capture the population around the lake.
The show, Piraterna på Vättern (The Pirates of Vättern) is based on real events and has its premiere on 19 July at the Forsvik Mill Theatre. The award-winning author and director Kolja Schallenberg will be responsible for the story and direction.
Oddbjörn’s lavatory opens on 3 May. Borghamn Strand is a designated building and cultural heritage area and Vadstena’s only industrial cultural heritage site. Borghamn’s Museum of Working Life tells the story of the hard life at the quarry, and during the day there will be a guest in the form of the history professor, Kalle Bäck. He will explain about the lavatory and its role as a social forum through the ages. There is much interest, with many having an affinity for lavatories, he explains. Kalle Bäck is fascinated by the role of the lavatory in confidential conversations.
This is what Taberg has been called – by Carl von Linné, among others. Last year saw the successful premiere of the long tour of the Taberg mine. This is a more demanding trip and takes an hour and a half. Minimum age: 10 years. The tour starts outside the mountain, with a number of stops before entering the mine. Here, we follow the mine passages and the iron road through the mountain, then down a 20-metre spiral staircase into the old show mine. Perhaps you will meet the Lady of the Mine?
Throughout the entire summer, the Rosenlund Rose Garden is a joy to wander through. The early-flowering roses are out from May until midsummer. The most magnificent display of flowers occurs in July, when many of the climbing roses and the old-fashioned shrub roses are in bloom.
In the summer of 2025, visitors will be given a unique chance to step back in history and experience the town’s past as never before. Rosenlund Manor will then become the scene of a major investment in historical travelling theatre, with the public taken on a journey to 18th century Jönköping.
Public art is an important part of a community’s story. The role of art is to embellish, create identity, show what is important at the time, and to ask questions and – from time to time – provide answers. Public spaces belong to everyone, and this is where understanding and the attractiveness of a place is created. There are several fine examples of this in the furniture town of Tibro. Tour suggestion: take the family and search for works of art in the public spaces around Vättern!
The area around Omberg, with its beautiful nature, is brimming with culture, and many cultural workers belong to the association known as ‘Omkultur’. Several artists and craftspeople receive visitors throughout the year. During the Art Tour, all doors are open, so make sure that you come to see the artists’ working environment. They all have something exciting to offer you as a visitor. ‘Art around Mount Omberg’ takes place over the Ascension Day weekend every year. The premiere was in 2000. That is now 25 years ago. Art tours around Lake Vättern are organised from May until September. There are more tips in the adjacent list.
On 16–17 August, Visingsö will be sent back to the Middle Ages. Watch Sweden’s best knights put on a show and stroll around a medieval market with activities for the entire family, all against a background of the stunning Lake Vättern and the 16th century castle ruins of the Brahe counts. Adjacent to the castle ruins of Wisingsborg, at the old harbour on the stunning island of Visingsö, you are invited to a medieval market and Tournament.
The party is definitely coming to Motala this year. The Vätternrundan cycling race is 60 years old, which will be evident all year round but particularly during cycling week in June.
Övralid, Verner Von Heidenstam’s home, celebrates its 100th year. Find out more about Övralid and the writer on page 6. The Motala Motor Museum is 30 years old and will be celebrating with both events and offers all year round. To all of those celebrating an anniversary this year, we say: hip-hip-hooray!
1. Stjernsund Castle, Askersund
2. Karlsborg Fortress, Karlsborg
3. Rosenlund Manor and Rose Garden, Jönköping
4. Vadstena Castle, Vadstena
5. Medevi Brunn, Motala
6. Sjöängen Culture Centre, Askersund
7. Shakespeare Factory, Vadstena
8. Vadstena Academy, Vadstena
9. Smofa, Forsvik
10. Visingsö Tournament, Visingsö
11. Övralid, Motala
12. Motala Motor Museum, Motala
13. Saint Birgitta Abbey Museum, Vadstena
14. Ellen Key’s Strand, Ödeshög
15. Borghamn Strand
– museum of working life, Vadstena
16. Taberg Mine, Jönköping
17. Grenna Museum, Gränna
18. Jönköping County Museum, Jönköping
19. Match Museum, Jönköping.
20. Husqvarna Museum, Huskvarna
21. Trafik Steamer
– museum of working life, Hjo
22. Forsvik Mill, Forsvik
23. Karlsborg Fortress Museum, Karlsborg
24. Tidaholm Museum, Tidaholm
Art around Mount Omberg (May)
Norra Vättern Art Tour (May)
Hjo Art Tour (Whitsuntide weekend)
Heda old-fashioned market (July)
Woodworking and craft fair at Hjo (July)
Visingsö Art Tour (August)
Mjölby Art Tour (August)
Södra Vätterbygden Art Tour (September)
Vadstena Art Tour (September)
Konstnatten (Art Night) Falköping-Tidaholm (September)
Text: Åse Wännerstam
Ösjönäs lies surrounded by the Tiveden National Park. Here, Jessica and Klas Sannö have been running their business since 2004. I call Jessica, who was in the middle of changing a tyre on the car, and ask her how she ended up at Ösjönäs.
She explains that she and Klas returned to Sweden after a few intense years with various groups in Africa. In the summer of 1997, they took their bicycles and visited Tiveden. By pure chance, they stayed overnight at the Stora Trehörningen lake.
‘The lake was perfectly calm, and the peace and silence was a physical experience. Only the divers were calling. It felt so pure; so wild and yet so welcoming. Like coming home.’
Five years later, the farm next to the lake went on sale and the business at Ösjönäs began to grow. It really is a place for everyone. One in two guests come with their company, and one in two come with their family. The weekdays are filled with conferences, and every weekend families and relatives book themselves in. Jessica, who has four children of her own and is very aware of the challenges when everyone is staying together, believes that you need to have a fabulous weekend whether you are 5, 15 or 75 years of age.
From Ösjönäs, it is easy to discover the national park from the water. Either in a canoe in the case of the youngest and their parents, or on your own in a kayak for those a little older. It is also possible to take the car, for example to Vitsand, where you can easily go down to the water using a walker and meet the others there for a shared lunch. Being able to take things at your own pace and according to your own ability is much appreciated. You can experience the national park on horseback, MTB, on foot or by sedately taking the car to meet up at a place of your choice.
Enjoying a fine dinner and rounding off the day in the sauna or hot tub creates a great sense of fellowship.
Working on sustainability is important to Jessica, and in 2024 she was awarded the Swedish Society for Nature Conservation’s Forest Prize for her work on developing forestry that is closer to nature. She works in an advisory capacity internationally, nationally, regionally and locally. I ask Jessica to explain a little more about their method of working:
‘A forest for all species is a fine thing to visit – an important reason for visiting. But it is also valuable to live and work in. All of us living in the countryside do so precisely so that we can be close to nature. The forest here may be our business idea and place of work, but it is also our home and our passion. At Ösjönäs, we choose to set aside part of our turnover and give it back in the form of ecological yield. We get the most use out of land that is close to us, which we can show to our visitors. So it depends on our neighbours wanting to sell some land to us. We’ve bought 50 hectares, which we’re now developing. A half of this is open land on which we have restored pasture and a biological diversity project. We demonstrate both uneven-aged management and natural forestry, where the forest is seen as a complex system that will become resistant to storms, attack damage, etc. Multipurpose forest use can take on many different appearances. This could be anything from uneven-aged management forestry methods, forest pasture or nature tourism. Put simply, we live with and in the forest.
Many forest owners’ associations and forestry training courses visit us for study. Ösjönäs is a fantastic place and we are happy to demonstrate it and inspire others to do similar work. It is important for us not to look on the planet as a resource to exploit as effectively as possible but rather to see it as something that we are part of. After all, humankind is just one of nine million species, and that should make us a little more humble.
‘All I do is take people out into nature. It’s something anyone can do.’
I also think that what I bring is the fact that I’m not a forester, ecologist, legal specialist or economist. All I do is take people out into nature. It’s something anyone can do. Being among nature brings us a bit closer to ourselves, without becoming egocentric. It makes us feel that we are alive and getting closer to what we really are. It makes it easier to gain a different perspective on what’s important, and it means we don’t lose our foothold in an otherwise digital world where everything is revolving at a fast pace.’
During Jessica’s almost twenty years at Ösjönäs, it also recently came to light that she was a distant relative of the Forest Finns who came to Tiveden in the 16th and 17th centuries to cultivate new land.
‘A lot of the open country we see today was the country that the Finns cleared and started to cultivate. It puts everything into perspective. We have been such a short time in the landscape, which was once created by the inland ice. I own this place and want to do all I can to improve it and keep it for future generations,’ Jessica explains.
She goes a little quiet and then says:
‘But what really worries me is that we take so much for granted. Take Lake Vättern, for example. If we don’t have clean water, we don’t have anything else, either. That should be our first priority. Even so, decisions are made at national level to increase discharges and increase the activities of the Armed Forces, which in the long term risks leading to a deterioration in water quality. We should increase Lake Vättern’s defences – that feels more pressing than defending ourselves against war.’
We continue talking for a while longer and, once we have hung up, I reflect on my own brief time on the planet. What do I wish to bequeath to future generations, and how can I get involved in helping ensure that the place where I live and work becomes that little bit better? Perhaps my contribution is the work on the magazine that you are now holding in your hand, which I hope will inspire you as a visitor or a resident to help preserve the fabulous environment that we have around Lake Vättern. After all, we are all part of something bigger.
When people think of Lake Vättern they often see a cold, clear and large body of water. But Lake Vättern is more than just that. On the beachfront, where the land and water meet, there is a lot going on – all year round. Going out onto Vättern can be a challenge, but the shores are often accessible and there are a lot of exciting things to discover here. Many types of environment are created here where the land and lake meet, providing a home to a varied flora and fauna. If you wish to go on an exciting journey of discovery – with your children, perhaps – you could try out the different beaches. Each one has its own peculiarities, with different animals and plants to discover.
Historically, shores were important sites for fishing, both as a source of extra income and for food. When darkness fell, local fishermen would go out and pick crayfish by hand using the light from a lantern. When the whitefish and vendace were in shallow waters, they would seize the opportunity to crowd them together and catch them using nets called ‘seines’. But fish were not the only attraction. People play and swim in the shore zone, and items lost in the lake often collect here. Who knows what you might find here? Perhaps the primitive river lamprey?
In many places, the shores are stony and flushed clean, more reminiscent of rivers in the far north of Sweden than southern Swedish lakes. If you are looking for bugs, you have the chance to find really rare species such as the large stonefly. It lives hidden among the stones for several years before suddenly creeping up onto land, developing wings and flying away.
The future for the large stonefly and other inhabitants of the shores is uncertain now that a new invasive alien species has found its way to Lake Vättern. The species is known as the ‘killer shrimp’ and, as its name suggests, it is a ruthless predator that kills all other bugs until it is (almost) the only one remaining. However, with a body length of 1–2 centimetres, it is no major threat to us bathers.
The nature around Lake Vättern is magnificent. Lake Vättern was formed in huge fault lines in the bedrock several hundred million years ago, and in places the lake is extremely deep and surrounded by high mountains. There are spectacular views over Lake Vättern from the East Vättern Scarp Landscape or Omberg that go on for miles. Why not try fishing from the rocks? Perhaps you might bag yourself a salmon?
The sun’s light penetrates deeply into the clear waters of Lake Vättern. Meadows of underwater plants spread out to form important environments for many species of fish and their young. If you snorkel around here you may encounter, among other things, Vättern’s ‘mini-char’, the common minnow, and the glacial relic, the bullhead. And, if you make sure that you stay still you can get up close with them. Lake Vättern’s underwater meadows are the reason why the entire lake is worthy of protection from a European perspective (Natura-2000).
Sand has gathered in many places, offering sunbathing and swimming opportunities. Around Lake Vättern there are around 30 places to swim (more if you count the secret ones), offering crystal-clear water. But it is not just people that are drawn to the shore. Here, too, you can search for a number of typical species of bird as they hunt for food on the edge of the shore, such as the colourful oystercatcher.
When winter arrives and the ice forms – particularly in the northern part of Vättern – you can skate among the islands and perhaps see shoals of fish swimming beneath you. On the shoreline, the waves become artists, creating stunning ice sculptures. Unfortunately, as a result of climate change it is becoming ever rarer for the ice to form.
The shores constitute only a small part of Lake Vättern, but they are important for the flora and fauna of the lake as well as for people. Here there is a wide range of different environments, and a wealth of species that are important to the rest of the life in the lake.
The shores are popular places, for both people and animals, and are therefore particularly vulnerable. It is also particularly important to be careful what you do here. Development, littering and discharges can cause great damage and destroy an important environment for a long time.
We need help in protecting Lake Vättern’s shores and we need to think of the impact we have on the shores when we visit them. As they say: ‘Leave nothing but footprints’.
Due to its unique characteristics, Lake Vättern also faces some tough challenges in the future. Do you want to know more about Lake Vättern’s health and how we measure it? Or are you just going fishing?
Also visit:
• vattern.org (In Swedish only)
General information produced by the Lake Vättern Society of Water Conservation and the County Administrative Boards around Vättern.
• vätternliv.se (In Swedish only)
A portal about Lake Vättern, its ecosystem, environmental conditions and challenges. There is also the ‘Information bank’, where you can also find fun puzzles for children of all ages.
• svenskafiskeregler.se (In Swedish only) Here you can find out which fishing rules apply to recreational fishing in Swedish coastal areas and the country’s five largest lakes.
NOTE: There are invasive alien species in Lake Vättern. Empty, wash and dry all equipment before moving it to or from Lake Vättern.
At Habo and its surroundings, there are traces of people from thousands of years ago. Some signs are easily seen, while others need a bit more searching for. From somewhat more recent times, there is a lot that tells of a rich industrial history. Thanks to the streams that feed Lake Vättern, which provided power to many workshops, Habo has a long tradition of manufacturing companies.
In Habo, there are plenty of historic remains that tell the story of the area. Some of these, along with the County Museum, have been chosen for inclusion among our ‘Hidden gems with a story’.
Our ‘hidden gems with a story’ have been chosen as they tell something about what life was like a hundred or a thousand years ago. Most lie close to roads and good parking spaces, so why not take a tour around our local history?
You will find all the information on our website and on the nature map via the QR codes in the information box at the bottom of the page.
‘Don’t be in such a rush, dear friends. Nothing will be happening until I get there,’ the pinioned Jonas Falk is said to have shouted from the prisoner’s cart to the crowds that were making their way to the place of execution at Svedmon to witness his beheading.
Jonas Falk, born at Tranemaden in Habo and a tailor by trade, was executed on 19 November 1855 at the age of 27 after a year in prison. He was known as a smalltime criminal and was planning with his stepfather Anders Frid to commit a postal robbery at Tunarp in the parish of Sandhem. During the robbery, Falk shot the postman, who later died, while Frid knocked the cartman unconscious. The spoils amounted to 2,000 riksdaler.
They fled to Stockholm but were uncovered when Frid confessed under interrogation. At the trial, they were both sentenced to death for robbery and murder, but Frid’s sentence was commuted to life imprisonment. Falk, who was redeemed in prison, was executed in public at Svedmon.
Falk’s grave is marked by an iron cross and is surrounded by legends, including ones about fresh flowers and ghosts.
The grave is registered as ancient monument L1972:5047.
Tourist Information Library, Jönköpingsvägen 2, Habo Tel.: 036-442 81 11 turistinfo@habokommun.se upplev.habokommun.se
More information about our
The church is one of the country’s most remarkable and mightiest wooden churches. It is an unusually magnificent rural church, with an interior that is richly decorated with paintings.
The history of Habo Church in brief: Prior to the extension of the railway in the 1860s and the development of the urban area, Habo was the centre of the parish. The rectory from 1827 and the old parish hall still remain, close to the church. Habo parish had a wooden church as far back as the Middle Ages, with a stone-built vestry that is still preserved. The church was built in 1680 and took its present form in 1723. It was then that the unique roof was created, elevated in the middle, as well as the altarpiece and pulpit. The altarpiece contains a clock with a dial and striking mechanism, while the pulpit is decorated with figures of Jesus and the Twelve Apostles. The paintings in the interior of the church have been well preserved since they were put in place at the start of the 1740s and have never been repainted since. Unusually, the church has both a tower and a belfry. The belfry gained its present form in 1760 and houses three bells. The church tower, built in 1723, has never had any bells. In the summer months, the roadside church is open and the Church of Sweden serves coffee in the Parish Hall.
People full of initiative can pretty much be the hallmark of a local community. This also applies to a large extent to the areas around Brandstorp, where the von Essen family has made a particularly clear impression.
Brandstorp Heritage Centre and the story of the wooden tent in brief:
Hans von Essen spent the summers of his childhood at Alvasjö, where the family lived a life close to nature. In 1872, they built the unique wooden tent – an octagonal building with no heating that can be found today in the Heritage Centre. The tent contained sleeping cabins for the children, a central table for meals and simple furnishings. Clothes made of burlap and mattresses filled with ferns further emphasised the Spartan lifestyle. The wooden tent was exhibited at the World Exhibition in Paris in 1878 and was restored by the Folklore Society in the 1990s.
Hans von Essen’s father, Henrik, was an early initiator at the Vulcan match factory. The Heritage Centre includes a number of buildings, including a smithy, country shop, boathouse and schoolhouse. Among the highlights are Vättern’s maritime collections, considered to be unique in their extent.
The Heritage Centre today Today, the Folklore Society runs the operation of the centre in order to continue telling the story of the history of the area. During the summer months, the Heritage Centre opens up its delicious café. The Heritage Centre lies around 25 km north of Habo.
– a small town with great personality and endless possibilities!
Tourist Information
Tidaholm Tourist Information
Visiting address: Vulcans Väg 5
Tel.: 0502-606208
turistbyran@tidaholm.se • tidaholm.se/turist
Follow us on Instagram (visittidaholm)
InfoPoints:
• First Camp Hökensås-Tidaholm
• Hellidens slott
• Tidaholms stadsbibliotek
• Turbinen Tidaholm – Stone oven bakery, café & restaurant
• AMT Radio, TV and Video
• Mjölk
• Sågaretorpet
Tidaholm is a town steeped in culture and history. Visit the Lithographic Academy, Sweden’s only museum and gallery dedicated to lithographic art, and experience the magic behind a unique craft. From Tidaholm Museum you can embark on a historical city tour that bring the town’s industrial heritage to life.
For families, Barnens Hus is a favourite – a place full of play and learning for the children and adults alike. Don’t miss Kulturhelg Tidaholm, Tidaholm’s annual Culture Weekend where art, music, food and crafts fill the town square and its surroundings. And keep your ears open – the Swedish Blacksmithing Championship is making a grand return to the historic smithy!
Discover the forests of Tidaholm – where nature and history come together. In the Ekedalen nature reserve, you can walk in the impressive von Essen beech forest, planted in the 1870s. Feel the echoes of history and let yourself be embraced by the tranquillity of the woods. Or visit the Hökensås nature reserve, where pine forests and clear lakes create a feeling of a northern Swedish wilderness. History enthusiasts can explore the story of the forest at the Gälleberg Forest Museum.
In the heart of the town, at Hellidsberget, a diverse mixed forest unfolds – part of the municipality’s 800 hectares of woodland. Here, you can also explore running trails, ski tracks, MTB-trails, and an outdoor gym. Throughout the year, Tidaholm hosts everything from historical walks to thrilling ghost tours in the surrounding forests. Tidaholm’s forests are a sanctuary for both adventure and relaxation – perfect for the nature lover.
Savour the flavours of Tidaholm – a journey for both the palate and the heart. Explore farms and farm shops, where rural charm meets high-quality, locally produced goods. At Dimboboa, you can buy everything from vegetables to delicacies in a cosy, self-service farm shop. Or discover the treats of Per Bär, brimming with flavours and love from the forest and garden.
Every bite is not only a taste experience but a sustainable investment in Tidaholm’s unique soul.
Tidaholm is waiting for you – a charming small town where history, nature and flavours come together. Come and experience it for yourself!
Tourist Information
VISIT HJO – HJO TOURIST INFORMATION
Contact us: +46 (0)503-352 55, visithjo@hjo.se
Visit us: at Kulturkvarteret or digitally at www.visithjo.se
By mail: Bangatan 1 B, SE-544 30 Hjo
Follow us: Visit Hjo on Facebook and Instagram
Share us: hashtag #ilovehjo to be visible on our channels
Our authorised tourist information at Kulturkvarteret is open all year: For opening times, check out www.visithjo.se
In 1913, the architect Lars Kellman designed nine small buildings under the title ‘Hjo Strandbad’. Just over a hundred years later, the beach cabins remain an iconic part of Hjo’s townscape.
In one of these you will find the new Beach Cabin Sauna. Here you can enjoy a unique, relaxing sauna experience with a fabulous view over Lake Vättern and the harbour. The sauna is available during normal opening hours but can also be booked for private occasions. Perfect for a relaxing evening with family or friends.
The experience becomes even more memorable if you take a refreshing dip in the clear waters of Lake Vättern between sessions in the sauna. With a shared sauna, separate changing rooms and access to a shower and toilet in the harbour, everything is in place for a comfortable experience.
Learn more about the sauna here:
Högaliden’s new MTB arena is a must for anyone who loves adventure and speed. A recreational area immediately west of the town of Hjo that offers a variety of trails suitable for all levels, and you can also try out the longer MTB trails and the technical course. After the speed of a tour of the arena’s trails, you can relax in one of the area’s windbreaks or do some strength training in the outdoor gym.
Flow trail:
Lean into the cambered bends and experience gentle differences in height on this smooth trail.
Jump trail:
Perfect for those wishing to try out jumps of varying degrees of difficulty, surrounded by beautiful countryside.
Skills trail and skills zone: Here you can fine-tune your techniques and practice balance, jumps and obstacles.
The cycling arena is a place for training and play, whether you are a beginner or an experienced cyclist.
– a journey in time
No visit to Hjo is complete without a trip on the Trafik steamer, a floating museum of working life from 1892 and very much a living part of our history. On board the steamer, you will have the chance to see how a classic steam engine works and enjoy an unforgettable trip on the sparkling waters of Lake Vättern. Trips in summer go to Visingsö, Vadstena and Hästholmen. Shorter trips are also offered, as well as evening cruises with live music. Whatever you choose, this activity offers both relaxation and an insight into history.
Just south of Hjo at Gate, you will find Sweden’s largest bison farm, where you can take an exciting bison safari. During a safari, you will have the chance to get really close to the lives of these wild animals. Your guide will take you straight out among the animals, where you will find out about the animals and their lives. A fascinating adventure for children and adults alike, and an opportunity to experience something a little beyond the usual.
The Hjoån river valley divides the town of Hjo into two parts, north and south. A walk along the valley is a nature experience that you should allow yourself not just once, but many times and often. Knowing something about the impact that the river has had on the town and the history of the valley makes the walk even more interesting. Learn about the exciting underwater life in the river as well, and you are equipped for many rewarding walks in the 2,5 kilometres long and between 10 and 180 metres wide nature reserve.
Find out more about Hjoån and other outdoor activities on our website www.visithjo.se
In Hjo, you will find everything from local farm shops to cosy cafés and restaurants offering authentic tastes from the area. Don’t miss a visit to one of Hjo’s ice cream cafés or local breweries, or try the awardwinning Almnäs cheese. Combine this with lunch or dinner at one of the town’s restaurants, which serve dishes containing ingredients from the local area. In Hjo, the food is part of your experience!
In December, Hjo is transformed into a festive scene like something from A Christmas Carol. It is a time of Christmas peace and festivities. With Christmas concerts, a traditional Christmas market, an icy dip in Lake Vättern, Christmas tree safari and a convivial atmosphere in the town’s cafés, Hjo invites visitors to experience an unforgettable winter month.
Below, we take a closer look at some of the highlights in Hjo during December.
Start getting into the Christmas spirit with the annual Christmas market
Christmas in Hjo starts with the staging of the annual Christmas market. It takes place on the Saturday of the first weekend of Advent. Hjo is then transformed into a brightly coloured marketplace, where locally produced goods, horse and carriage rides, trips on the ‘Lok-Hjo-Motivet’ train and visits from Santa create a festive atmosphere. On the same day, brave cold water swimmers welcome the winter with the annual Christmas dip on the sandy beach of Guldkroksbadet. Watching the swimmers in their fancy dress as they jump into the icy waters of Lake Vättern is often a well-attended, popular element of the market day. Hjo Christmas Market is then followed by most of the other markets, concerts, Christmas buffets and all manner of festive elements throughout December.
Visit www.vastsverige.com/en/hjo to learn more about Hjo Christmas market and the magical moments that this charming little wooden town has to offer during Christmas month.
For events throughout the year, scan our QR code:
If you visit Habo. Feel
to stop by the little shop with a wide range of children’s clothing and items. A secondhand store with that extra touch, boasting both a cozy atmosphere and high-quality goods.
Vildungar is located in central Habo.
Forsvik has a history going back centuries, being one of Sweden’s earliest industrial locations. Here iron was forged, timber sawn, and grain milled, all with the help of water power. Visit us and experience how people, machinery, and local natural resources combined to make it one of the cradles of Swedish industrialisation.
welcome in around clock!
Wide range of food, beverages, sweets, and dairy.
Shopping and the scent of tar
Welcome to Kanalbutiken 5 knop in Forsvik
Clothing Interior decor Gifts
Souvenirs
Open May-September
For 14 years, Aktion Rädda Vättern has fought for Lake Vättern to have clean drinking water.
The protests include the defense’s shootings over Lake Vättern and a new mine at Gränna. It’s also leaking toxic PFAS chemicals from Karlsborg Airport to the waters of Lake Vättern. These chemicals are not broken down, are water soluble and especially dangerous for young children. They affect the immune system, are carcinogenic, etc. In all instances, we have protested and appealed. Now the decision lies with the government. The airport MUST be cleaned up.
Help us get a cleaner drinking water by becoming a member in AKTION RÄDDA VÄTTERN today!
www.aktionraddavattern.se
Enjoy a warm swim in Lake Örlen, walk among the dramatic landscapes at Rankås, or treat yourself to a coffee at one of our charming cafés.
Just a few kilometres from the centre, you will find Rankås, a highly regarded nature area with traces from the Ice Age. You are met here by a dramatic landscape and a wide range of running trails, walking trails and cycling trails of varying degrees of difficulty.
Rankås offers trails for both short walks and longer hikes. Follow narrow forest paths, cross streams and ravines, or venture out onto the Västra Vätterleden Trail, which runs from Tiveden in the north to Mullsjö in the south. For those seeking speed and a challenge, there are a number of MTB trails and a new pump track. The trails are suitable for beginners and experienced cyclists alike, and the longest trail is even approved for international competitions. So why not take the family and explore Rankås from the saddle?
Visit Tibro Tourist Information
Visiting address, summer season: Centrumgatan 17, Tibro
Tel.: (switchboard) 0504-180 00 turism@tibro.se www.visittibro.se
Follow Visit Tibro on Facebook and Instagram.
Visit Tibro InfoPoints:
• Municipal Offices reception
• Tibro Glass Workshop
• Örlenbadets Familjecamping campsite
• Mini-Zoo
• Villann’s Café
• Elander’s bookshop
• Bagare Brage bakery
Discover the Tibro Glass Workshop, a place where creativity and history meet! In the charming old station house, you can watch glass blowing at close hand – a craft that is a thousand years old. Guided by experienced glass blowers, you will have the opportunity to create your own item of glassware and take it home as a unique souvenir. In the shop you will find beautiful glassware such as drinking glasses, carafes and vases, all manufactured on site.
Visit Förr & Nu, a shop that offers shopping out of the ordinary. Whether you are looking for a personal gift, are looking to renovate your home or are just seeking inspiration, Förr & Nu will have something for you. Here you will find a carefully selected range of furnishings, antiquities and clothing from well-known brands – always with that feeling of quality and personality.
Take a trip into the countryside and discover Tibro’s charming farm shops. Here you can buy locally produced delicacies, fresh flower decorations from their own cultivation, and award-winning charcuterie. Each shop offers products of the highest quality, produced with the welfare of animals and nature very much in mind.
Life in Karlsborg has that little bit extra. It is a place with several gems ready for you to discover, whether you are in search of life’s pleasures or life’s adventures. A sauna, walking in a national park, historical experiences, relaxed boat trips and swimming somewhere along the long beaches.
For those wishing to discover nature, there are 13 nature reserves and 28 fabulous hiking trails. When it is time for something good to eat, there are many different options available. Karlsborg is a paradise for anyone who wants to enjoy the water. Because of its location between two lakes, it is hard not to be close to the water. The fresh Lake Vättern is at your disposal, with its wonderful archipelago, the Ombo islands, and the island of Kyrkogårdsön/ Boviken. With the best freshwater diving and fishing opportunities in the Nordic Region, it is possible to spend a whole day on the water.
The Göta Canal tempts you with its boat trips, and the quiet little lakes in Tiveden provide tranquillity deep in the wilderness. Forsvik invites a visit with its mill and the oldest and highest lock on the Göta Canal.
More adventures await at Karlsborg Fortress. During the action-packed guided tours for the whole family, offered all year round, you will learn more about the captivating history of the fortress. So why are you waiting? Welcome to Karlsborg.
Karlsborg Fortress
Construction of the mighty fortress began in 1819 on the Vanäs Udde peninsula. The site was proposed by General and Vice Admiral Baltzar von Platen, who also initiated the Göta Canal project. The idea was to move the government, the Riksdag (Parliament), the royal family, as well as the central bank gold reserve here in the event of war. In modern times, the gold reserve has been housed in one of the cellars of the fortress. During World War II, 140 tonnes of gold were stored in the fortress. Karlsborg literally became a place of gold.
Today, Karlsborg Fortress is one of Sweden’s largest and best-preserved fortresses, with its own museum, guided tours, exciting activities, shops and restaurants. Inside the impressive walls of Karlsborg Fortress, an adventure awaits visitors of all ages.
Enjoy the feeling of the wilderness in a hilly and wild forest landscape, complete with rift valleys, beautiful forest lakes, giant boulders at Stenkälla, views from Trollkyrkobergen and the beach at Vitsand. Here you will find in-
Visit Karlsborg
InfoCenter
Storgatan 65, 546 32 Karlsborg
Tel.: +46(0)505-173 50
Email: info@karlsborg.se www.visitkarlsborg.se Instagram: @visitkarlsborg
Facebook: @visitkarlsborg
credible opportunities for hiking in varied terrain, cycling, riding, kayaking, fishing, or venturing out on a high ropes course. In the national park, the forest is allowed to develop into a natural forest, untouched by the large-scale forestry of recent decades. The large areas of old forest (somewhat unusual in southern Sweden) lend a unique character to the national park, from the age and splendour of the forest to the wildly shaped landscapes. Tiveden National Park covers 2,030 hectares and there are almost 35 kilometres of marked trails, with routes of from 0.9 km to 9.5 km.
Forsvik is idyllic with its picturesque mill buildings and the oldest and highest lock on the Göta Canal. Enjoy the sparkling water, the aroma of coffee from the cafés, the local selection of small shops, or a tasty ice cream while watching the boats glide through the lock. Built in 1813 and with a drop of 3.5 metres, the lock is not only the Göta Canal’s oldest but also the tallest. Forsvik Mill has an amazing industrial history. Swedish engineer Jan Ericsson, who later invented the propeller, once lived here. At the same time as you can follow 600 years of industrial history at the mill museum, there are other activities in the area. The museum is something for the whole family to experience, and the area contains several opportunities to sit down on a blanket and enjoy nature. If you are looking for accommodation, there are hostels and hotel rooms. Together this is a fascinating place with authentic charm!
Karlsborg in autumn and winter
Autumn in Karlsborg offers that little bit extra. It is impossible to miss the bright yellow leaves of the chestnut trees inside Karlsborg Fortress, the markets dotted around the municipality and the different activities for all ages. There are several traditional events to look forward to during the autumn season. When the autumn winds blow, a warming visit to one of the village’s restaurants is highly recommended. Autumn hikes in both the Granvik nature area and Stora Fjället nature reserve are also popular, while Tiveden provides awesome surroundings during this season. Nature’s larder is full of fly honeysuckle and mushrooms. Even in its winter garb, the landscape here is gorgeous, and our municipality has winter activities for everyone. Walk along the beaches of Lake Vättern in the winter light, or try cross-country skiing on prepared ski trails, three of which are illuminated, in Norra Skogen’s recreational park. If the ice is lying on the lakes, there are opportunities for tour skating and ice fishing. If you would prefer to stay on terra firma, you can experience a touch of nostalgia at our popular outdoor skating and ice hockey rink in Hanken, with natural ice and electric lighting. Around Christmas time, there is a magical dazzle around Karlsborg and the markets in the area. Forsvik’s market anno 1906 is an oldfashioned experience, and the market around the fortress area provides a Christmas atmosphere with market stands and entertainment. For anyone wishing to step into a Carl Larsson painting, a fabulous vehicle trip and dining at one of our restaurants in Tiveden will take you there just like that! Experience the beautiful town of Karlsborg – there's something for everyone, all year round.
Your
to Lake Vättern & Tiveden
• Kayaking & classes
The landscape around Vättern offers a wide variety of natural experiences. There are more than 100 nature reserves, together with Omberg Ecopark, the North Vättern archipelago, the Eastern Vättern Scarp biosphere reserve and Tiveden National Park. The countryside here offers great opportunities for hiking and cycling. You can discover the trails and experiences via Naturkartan and the Runt Vättern Guide.
world renowned Göta Canal and within walking distance from the Karlsborg Fortress – we kindly welcome you to Hotell & Bistro Rödesund.
Storgatan 41, Karlsborg 0505-61010 www.hotellrodesund.se
40 double rooms with the colors of Lake Vättern. Breakfast, coffee, and evening meals included.
★ Enjoy hiking in Tiveden, horseback riding, cycling, fishing, or visit the fantastic Karlsborg Fortress. We arrange your activities and transportation.
★ The pub/restaurant is open every day until 01:00 (arrive before 22:00).
★ A pier with sun loungers and a sandy beach is right outside.
Hotell Wettern
Kungsgatan 1, 546 30 Karlsborg. Tel. 073-535 81 12
Fästningsmuseetskildrarmilitärhistoria ochnutidsamthembygdmedutrustning, vapen,uniformerochandraföremål. PåövreplanfinnerniGarnisonskyrkan medsinstorslagnabajonettkrona. Iåruppdaterasutställningarnaom HembygdenochKarlsborgsFästning.
Skeppshult Källdalen 1, 546 95 Karlsborg info@tivedensmat.se · 0505-22066
Thefortressmuseumdepictsmilitaryhistory andthepresentaswellasthenativeplacewith equipment,weapons,uniformsandother objects.
OntheupperlevelyouwillfindtheGarrison Churchwithitsmagnificentbayonetcrown. Thisyear,theexhibitionsabouttheNativePlace andKarlsborgFortressarebeingupdated.
The changes of the seasons are fabulous here, and we warmly recommend hiking and cycling in the autumn, with October and November being wonderful. Granvik and the Stora Fjället nature reserve, Tiveden, Omberg, the Eastern Vättern Scarp, Västanvik, Harge Uddar and Hökensås are some of our favourites. Taking a deep breath of fresh autumn air!
With the leaves gone from the trees, a new landscape opens up. Make sure that you visit your favourite locations at a different time of year and enjoy the new views. Some summits worth visiting: Dunkehalla, Vistakulle, Kleven, Gränna berget, Linnarshemsberget, Vaberget, Staplaberget, Håleberget. Or why not go mast climbing on one of Motala’s radio masts? This is not for those afraid of heights.
We have put together a Summit package for you. Visit Taberg, Omberg and Trollkyrka in Tiveden. Accommodation, guided tours and food. Experience autumn around Lake Vättern! Scan the QR code for more information!
Around Vättern there is a long tradition telling about our industrial history, and we have many museums that make a perfect destination for the entire family. Find out the fascinating life stories of the artist John Bauer, the polar explorer Andrée or Saint Birgitta. For a huge array of great suggestions, see page 44.
Expect fabulous week, with major national competitions in showjumping and dressage, shows and a fair. Count on a party atmosphere and top class equestrian sport as the top horses and riders compete in the 2025 Jönköping Horse Show.
The countryside around Lake Vättern is famous for its fertile soils, and from these grow some real delicacies. Make sure that you shop from our local producers during the best harvest period, or enjoy an autumn coffee at one of our cosy cafés around the lake. On 6–7 September, both the Östgötadagarna Days and the Örebro ‘Journey of Food’ (Matresan) will be taking place, and many of the local companies will be open. Hjo stages its big Harvest Festival on 20 September, while ‘Food around Gränna’ (Mat runt Gränna) will see a gathering of around 30 producers, who offer high class locally produced products all year round!
Autumn is a good time for reflection, and the ever more popular pilgrimage provides you with both an and outer and an inner journey. At Sweden’s largest place of pilgrimage, Vadstena, you will find authentic surroundings from the time of Saint Birgitta, in both the Abbey Church and the Abbey Museum. You can also walk in her footsteps along ‘Saint Birgitta’s Ways’, which are trails that take you to the destination. Be sure to be here to commemorate the canonisation of Saint Birgitta on 7 October. The Pilgrim Centre arranges a number of walks during October.
In January and February, there are spectacular sunsets and sunrises across Lake Vättern. Intense colours in shades of yellow, orange, purple and pink tinge both sky and lake. The night sky can also put on a spectacular show – the dancing aurora above Vadstena Castle.
This is what photographer Carl Schnell wrote about the moment:
‘The silent night, the mirror-like reflection of the water and the green veils of light created an unforgettable moment. Experiencing this phenomenon at such a historic site was something really special! The fact that it then won Sweden’s Photo of the Year is something that warms my heart.’
Many towns and villages offer a Christmas market or ‘window display Sunday’ during December. Get in the festive mood with an old-fashioned Christmas on snow-covered cobblestoned streets.
The Christmas Market Anno 1906 at Forsvik Mill on 13 December will take you back to the start of the 20th century, where the local craftspeople set the mood in clothes typical of the time.
On the first weekend of Advent, Vadstena Castle and courtyard are filled with the atmosphere of Christmas when Old Christmas takes place.
The fact that the human body feels good after cold water swimming has been everywhere in the last few years. But what is so great about throwing yourself into ice-cold water? In addition to providing a huge adrenaline kick for many people, and a feeling of well-being, some research also shows that swimming in really cold water has significantly reduced tension, fatigue and poor memory and improved mood, while research participants have also reported relief of pain caused by rheumatism, fibromyalgia and asthma. In other words, there are only positive effects. No wonder that those of us who live next to Lake Vättern are so nice! So this winter, take a refreshing dip in Europe’s fifth largest lake – for free. Stay around to watch the happy residents of Vättern doing the big Christmas swim all around the lake!
Take someone you love for a weekend break. Our Sjöängen (Askersund) and Spira (Jönköping) cultural centres have busy programmes, so why not combine it with one or two nights at a hotel?
For those looking for some extra relaxation, perhaps a spa break at Starby or Klosterhotellet in Vadstena might be nice? Or a Winemakers’ Dinner at Ombergs Turisthotell, which offers an exceptional culinary experience. Find out about our packages on our website, or scan the QR code for more information.
Fancy a real fishing adventure? There are a number of skilled and qualified guides offering charter fishing and top-class trolling fishing trips on Lake Vättern. A real adventure with a great chance of catching big specimens of char, trout or salmon. And the cliffs at Omberg and Stora Lund offer some of northern Europe’s best salmon fishing from land. In fact, a number of fishing records have been set on Lake Vättern. In 1997, the world record for lake salmon was set. The fish weighed 20.4 kg and was caught from land outside Ödeshög. You can find out more about the fishing regulations on Lake Vättern and about how we protect the fish at vattern.org.
If you do not have access to a boat, the Hökensås sport fishing area offers excellent fly fishing, spin fishing, coarse fishing and, in winter, ice fishing.
