Visit Vättern 2023

unknown depths

Facts about Lake Vättern

Lake surface: 1,912 km2

Length: 135 km

Width: 31 km

Deepest point: 128 m

Vättern is the second largest lake in Sweden, and the sixth largest in Europe. The name Vättern simply means ‘water’. The largest inflows are Forsviksån, from lakes Unden and Viken, and the Huskvarna River. Vättern flows into the Motala Ström river system.

Lake Vättern is a graben, a rift valley. To the east is Omberg, which is a horst, i.e. a raised elongated block of the earth's crust between two faults. Vättern has more than 30 different species of fish, including grayling, smelt, char, whitefish and Vättern salmon, which in fact is not a salmon at all, but a brown trout. Visitors can see Vättern fish in summer at Vättern Aquarium in Motala.

VISIT Vättern 2023

Out and about on the John Jennings

For one week, every summer, a number of boats head out from Hästholmen on a short tour of Lake Vättern. The trip takes in the towns of Forsvik and Askersund.

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Vättern doesn’t divide us – we all share Vättern

Sustainable tourism – coming together and developing a place for future generations.

Page 6-7

Unknown depths

Lake Vättern was long considered to be bottomless. Two men tried to plot the depth off Omberg, where the lake was believed to be deepest. They joined together all the timber they had, but nothing reached the bottom.

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Birgitta as pilgrim

Birgitta is one of Europe's patron saints and this year marks 650 years since she died. During the middle ages, Vadstena became a well-known place of pilgrimage.

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A pilgrimage around Vättern

From 9 June to 9 July 2023, the attractive scenery around Vättern will be the site of a special pilgrimage.

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Diving in Vättern

The best freshwater diving in Scandinavia. We meet Niklas Jarsmo, an experienced diver. We also offer our tips for the best dive sites in Vättern.

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Presentation of places around Vättern:

Together Around Vättern

Production: Wettersaga AB, Ödeshög

Tel. 0768-95 50 36

info@runtvattern.se · visitvattern.com

Editorial and advertising: Åse Wännerstam

Editor: 0390 Communications, Gränna

Cover photo: CS Kommunikationsbyrå AB

Printing: Mittmedia Print 2023

Circulation: 70,000 copies

Publisher: Åse Wännerstam

The water is what unites all of us who live and work around Lake Vättern. And we pay it special attention this year, when Visit Vättern organises a pilgrimage on the theme of water and sustainability. 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, we focus a little more closely on water. We take a deep dive quite literally beneath the surface, and highlight the special underwater world of Lake Vättern.

The true depth of Vättern has always fascinated those of us who live here, and there are countless myths and legends about the lake. Is the lake really bottomless? Find out more in our article 'Unknown depths'.

There are several ways that, as a visitor, you can help make our area even more sustainable. This also applies to those of us who live and work here. Sustainable travel is about being in a place and passing it on for the next generation to enjoy and experience. Read more about how you can contribute in the article 'Vättern doesn’t divide us, we all share Vättern'.

This year marks 650 years since the death of Saint Birgitta and we take time out to pay special attention to medieval tourists, otherwise known as pilgrims. In collaboration with the Church of Sweden, municipalities and the hospitality industry, the Around Vättern network is organising a pilgrimage during the period 9th of June – 9th of July. This pilgrimage is being undertaken to help protect Vättern as a supply of clean drinking water. The name Vättern, which also means water, will also focus thinking on sustainability and future living conditions.

The pilgrimage visits historical sites and invites us to think about life through the eyes of people like Ellen Key, Verner von Heidenstam, Saint Birgitta and Dag Hammarskjöld. The pilgrimage starts and ends in Jönköping, goes through four dioceses and four regions, and explores Vättern from all four directions and from many different aspects – probably as many as there will be pilgrims. Why not sign up and walk with us?

Cycling around the lake during Vätternrundan is perhaps what most people associate with Vättern. This year we have started working with Naturkartan. We hope this will help give you as a visitor a more cohesive experience of how to cycle, or even hike, around Lake Vättern, at your own pace. Visit the website and check out all the wonderful trails on offer in our area. We've even developed some complete packages to help you explore Vättern, whether for a few days or more. On foot, by bike or touring by car. You can also find these packages on our website.

Thanks to all our colleagues, advertisers 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

Learn more about all our packages on our website:

out and about on the 'john jennings'

For one week, every summer, a number of boats head out from Hästholmen on a short tour of Lake Vättern. The trip takes in the towns of Forsvik and Askersund.

At lunchtime, Captain Lasse guides the tug John Jennings out of Hästholmen harbour. This year there’s only one support boat, with David and Helena aboard. And the John Jennings carries Ingmar and me. It’s my first time, even though I’ve been hearing about these eventful trips for some years. And speaking of eventful, this year will turn out to be no exception!

We set course straight across Vättern towards Karlsborg and Forsvik. The waves come straight at us, and for the support boat it promises to be a pretty bumpy ride. Lake Vättern is known for being rather choppy, which can sometimes make for an 'interesting' experience. On the John Jennings, it doesn’t really affect us. As a new crew member, I quickly have the opportunity to steer the boat. At first, I'm a bit all over the shop but I know I'll soon get a feeling for how much I need to turn the wheel to meet the waves and keep the boat on the right course.

In fact it's easy to aim at the wrong landmark, as even our experienced captain discovers when the support boat finally points out that we need to change course a little to avoid ending up in Hjo. At Karlsborg the bridge is about to open and we realise that we will probably miss it by just a few minutes, which would mean waiting around a while for the next one. But Lasse increases the speed to 8 knots

and with a whole 30 seconds to spare we arrive in time to glide smoothly into Bottensjön.

The environment changes rapidly, with rocks and small islands creating a true archipelago feel. Forsvik is a pleasant stop which can be reached by boat, car or even mobile home. The lock here is both the oldest and the highest on the Gota Canal and great fun to watch in action.

But don't miss a visit to Forsviksbruk, which showcases 600 years of industrial history. Throughout the year there are guided tours, theatrical performances and a range of musical events. Alvas Café and Forsviks Mat and B&B are

TEXT and photos: åse wännerstam

Captain Lasse at the helm.

Spetsnäs Canal.

other essential places to visit while you're here. As is the canal shop 5 Knop, located right by the lock gate.

Lock adventure

On one of the days we get an addition to the crew in the form of Anna and Ninni. The weather looks promising so we try following the canal up to Lake Viken. Given the size of the John Jennings, we checked with the security guards that we could use the lock after the big passenger boat Juno. We keep our eyes on Juno’s entrance, and after that it’s our turn. Or so we thought.

But something gets lost in the telling, and two yachts start to come down through the lock so we’re forced to back out of the narrow channel. Manoeuvring like this, and taking into account other yachts waiting around us, turns out to be a pretty sweaty exercise. At first, we can glide slowly towards one side and reverse, but suddenly our stern gets stuck and the prow swings out from the quay and straight into the path of an oncoming yacht. Now we really are stuck. And right across the canal, too, so no boats can go up or down. Thankfully, everyone remains calm and with the help of the yacht’s Dutch crew, and lots of encouragement from the land, we manage to pry our stern loose and continue to back out to one side. Needless to say,

this offered great entertainment for passers-by and there's plenty of photographic evidence of our antics. It's lucky we have a skilled captain on board.

On our second attempt, things go much better and we get a wonderful trip up into Lake Dammsjön, the Spetsnäs Canal and Lake Viken. We anchor up and enjoy both a swim and the sunshine before it’s time to go back down through the lock. This time without any mishaps but with many curious and interested spectators.

Up into the archipelago

An island landscape in the north of the lake, Vättern's archipelago has been called the most secret in Sweden. Incredibly, there are more than 1200 islands here! We say goodbye to Forsvik and head north towards Askersund. Off Karlsborg we are in wide open water and the lake has a real sea feeling. We pass Djäknesundet and the Ombo Islands and enter the archipelago near Aspa Bruk. Here the

An evening out with M/S Wettervik

Here too the John Jennings draws attention – perhaps it’s the fluttering Hammarby flag, or perhaps it’s the crew. Many people are curious about our large tug. In Askersund we have good company in the form of the work boat Pricken, which is owned and operated by Johan and Marita. For 20 years, they have also taken passengers out on M/S Wettervik. We take the chance to go out for a prawn party with singing, and enjoy a beautiful summer evening amongst the island landscape of Hammar. We call in at Grönön, and the passengers pouring off the boat are a bit of a surprise to the couple who have pitched their tent by the beach. Many Askersund residents associate the first boat trip of the year with the start of summer. Unfortunately, 2022 was the last year it ran on Vättern, and it now has another home port. But keep a weather eye out, because we hope there will soon be a new boat to adorn Askersund. The archipelago is truly worth experiencing.

water is turquoise, and all around us there are uninhabited rocky islands covered with pine trees and blueberry bushes. Incredibly beautiful. Kayaking is popular here and we see many boats that have brought people to sunbathe on the islands and swim from the rocks.

After a few hours, we approach Hammarsund Bridge, which towers above us. We get a great view of Stjärnsund

Which side of the mark?

Manor, which is beautifully situated at the water’s edge, and can see all the way to Askersund harbour. Just as we moor up, the sky opens up in a real downpour that's fortunately over as quickly as it arrived. The evening is sunny and fine and we look forward to our days in Askersund.

Small town shopping in Askersund

Askersund offers lots of pleasant walks as well as laid back small-town shopping. Don't miss Johan's Leksaksbod, a toy shop made famous on Swedish TV a few years ago. Customers who visit Johan's still talk about the programme. In the summer, the harbour is a pretty yet vibrant meeting place full of small stalls selling all kinds of goodies and delicacies, with art, music and much more besides. A pleasant walk takes you to the rural life museum, where you can see a range of old buildings together with goats, rabbits and other small animals. It’s attractively located, with a great view of Stjärnsund Manor and the water. The beach promenade can also take you out to Borgmästarholmen where there are plenty of places to swim. And if you don't want to walk, you can take the small train that leaves the harbour several times a day.

Our days in Askersund are coming to an end, and the forecast warns of strong winds so our support boat decides to go a day early. They are forced into the port of Motala when the winds and waves become too strong. We cast off the day after and pass slowly through the sound. Here we are protected from the wind and the captain and crew take the chance to do some maintenance on the boat. We aren’t as observant as we should be, and navigation markers can be a bit tricky. But we discover that it is apparently possible to pass on the wrong side of the mark, and continue homewards. This is easier, because as soon as we get out on the open water we see Omberg, and then it's just a matter of keeping our course. Now even the John Jennings feels the strength of the waves, and the water sprays in over the rail as the boat heaves. I keep my eyes on the horizon to suppress the nausea. We steam past the Jungfru as a flock of seabirds scream and fly around the island. It's fascinating to see how they play in the wind. Before we arrive at Hästholmen, we pass Omberg. The vertical rocks and caves disappear down into Vättern's waters. Today's definitely not a good day for kayaking. A couple of yachts have accepted the challenge, but Vättern’s pretty empty today. It's all about knowing what to do if you do go out on a day like this. We get a warm and happy reception from Hästholmen when we slide in; the quayside feels a bit empty when the John Jennings isn’t there. It's nice to be back home and we bring many great memories from our week on the water.

Askersund harbour.

Stjärnsund Manor.

Spetsnäs Canal.

Vättern doesn’t divide us – we all share Vättern

– sustainable travel is about meeting in a place

text and photos: linda staaf

What do we mean by 'sustainable tourism'? The fact that something is sustainable really means it’s permanent, without change. But what we’re looking for is also an improvement, a development. In essence, what we want to improve is the quality of life of the people in a certain area. So instead of thinking about how we can develop a place more sustainably, we can ask ourselves the question – how can we improve the quality of life in this place? What can we do together, those of us who share an area – those of us who share Vättern?

Beloved Vättern

Those of us who live and work near Vättern get to enjoy the special feeling the lake offers on a daily basis, and we understand why the area attracts so many visitors. Regardless of whether we’re watching the sunrise from the western side or the sunset from the east, the lake invites us to pause for a moment and savour the instant and the place we're in. But the lake also serves various purposes for us – it’s a place for relaxation, a place for play and activity, a source of income, a reservoir of drinking water... a source of life itself.

Worth a visit – worth a life

Whatever the reason we come here, or how long we stay, we all share the place with others who all want to enjoy their time here.

Tourism and travel are encounters, where it should not be about taking up space, but of showing respect to others, of openly and curiously learning about each other and our different stories. Where the hosts try to create opportunities for activities and experiences that gently allow our guests to discover and enjoy what makes our place worth a visit, or even worth a life.

The good life

Vättern has become a natural boundary for the four regions surrounding the lake, but it is also something that brings us together. Instead we are united and gathered around Vättern, with a single question – how can I contribute to helping Vättern and the good life here flourish, both now and in the future?

A holiday for life

The above text isn’t just a tribute to Vättern and the local communities and natural areas surrounding the lake. It also sums up the message about what sustainable development is all about, where ecological, social and economic perspectives all go hand in hand In addition to environmental and climate issues, the well-being of the local population is also of great importance, as is the fact that all of us depend on the flourishing of animal and plant life. To develop and improve this place for future generations, we need to learn from one another – that's why coming together, meeting and travel is so valuable, as long as they involve a desire to improve things.

Here's how, as a host, you can help improve a place:

• Use your resources to improve the environment for everything that lives in the area. Make the place even more precious through the work you do and the life you live.

• Inform visitors about the most suitable places to visit at the current time, and which ones should be avoided with respect for the people, plants and animals that live there today.

• Remember that what we do today affects the lives of everyone and everything that comes after us. Create and improve the conditions for a greater diversity of animal and plant life.

• Many of us collaborate and shop locally – let your guests and customers know by telling them more about your suppliers and partners.

Here's how, as a visitor, you can help improve a place:

• Visit your destination outside the high season.

• Don't geotag locations in nature. If you find a treasure – keep it to yourself!

Perhaps the word life-giving would be better than sustainable in this context? Why not try and run a life-giving business or go on a life-giving holiday?

• Shop from and work with small-scale local businesses to benefit the local economy.

• Show respect for the environment.

• Learn from those who know the place best.

• Take your time; this is the best way to learn about a place, to make a better connection with it and the people who live there.

"How can we increase the quality of life in this place?"

Photo: Fredrik Broman

unknown depths

Lake Vättern was long considered to be bottomless. Two men tried to plot the depth off Omberg, where the lake was believed to be deepest. They joined together all the timber they had, but nothing reached the bottom. Finally, as they attached the last piece, a voice came from the depths: “Measure my length and you will know my depth!”

It’s said that in ancient times, to the west of Rödgavel Cave (Omberg), a skipper named Bojharthefinne lowered a line of 1100 arms length without reaching the bottom. In the 1600s, Per Brahe carried out measurements off Visingsö, without result, as did the Counts Oxenstierna on the Västgöta side. The bottom could not be reached. Finally, the Lady of the Lake herself intervened and expressed her dissatisfaction with all this measuring. The lead used to plumb the depths was inexplicably replaced with horse's heads and other unpleasant things that come out of the lake. Respect for the bottomless lake then grew to the point that nobody dared take part in the measurements any longer. South of Visingsö, the official depth is now 128 metres.

Underground rivers

There are several stories about underground rivers leading to other lakes, for example to Lake Vänern and even to Bodensjön in the Alps. One story tells of a young woman

who drowned in Lake Vättern only for her body to be found in Bodensjön. The woman was identified with the help of the name in her psalm book.

Several strange phenomena are also associated with underground currents or winds, including the stories of Vättern’s mirages or aerial images that can be seen in special weather conditions. Even today, tales are told of strange images appearing above the lake, and the most incredible things have been seen: sailing fleets, battles, castles, churches, even whole cities.

that sea monsters are associated with Vättern can be seen in Huskvarna, where Nessie takes the form of a sea snake beside the E4 motorway.

The world of giants

Next door to Nessie is the giant Vist, made by the artist Calle Örnemark in 1969. The area around Vättern is truly the world of the giants. There are many stories about the giants around Lake Vättern. How in anger that churches were built they threw stones to crush the Christian faith.

In 1962, Östergötlander Elis Åström related the following story:

According to folklore, these are the work of the Lady of the Lake, who, before a storm, moves her palaces and gardens to a calmer part of the lake. She is believed to have her home on the island of Jungfrun, off Vadstena.

The great sea monster

In 2003, egg shells were found in Motala Bay and the idea of a Baby Nessie – a relative of the Scottish Loch Ness Mon ster – really took off. But is there really something down in the depths? Fishermen have often talked about inexplicable water bubbles that have moved both boats and ice. They come from nowhere and then disappear again. Attempts have been made to measure and film the depths, but currents make it almost impossible. The fact

"The Lady of the Lake lived in Omberg. When Visingsö was built, it went like this. There was a giant and his wife who wanted to cross Vättern to get to Omberg.

"It's too wide to step over," said the giant woman. “You’ll have to shovel up some soil and throw it into the water.”

The giant took up a shovel of soil at Ombo Öjer on the Västgöta side, where you can still see the mark to this day. Where he let fall the earth, that’s the spot called Visingsö. They stepped on it to reach Gränna and from there they went to the Lady of the Lake in Omberg. She wanted to cook them pike, so her serving girl must rush to Hammarsundet in the far north and fetch one.”

"Even today, tales are told of strange images appearing above the lake, and the most incredible things have been seen"

TEXT: åse wännerstam

Baby Nessie.

Apparently the giants met to feast many times and were fed up with walking around Vättern. There are similar stories telling how Landsjön and Visingsö came into being when the giants were invited to parties in Västergötland.

The island of fairy tales

Where Vättern now lies was once was a large and fertile valley. Two kings, the Brothers Vätte and Vise, ruled over the kingdom in the valley. Vise was good and fair, while Vätte was evil and cruel. Vise married a beautiful princess from a nearby kingdom. Vätte was overcome by a fierce desire for his sister-in-law, killed his brother and took the princess for his wife. A large burial mound rose over Vise, which is today the island of Visingsö.

Vätte's love was not returned, and to escape from her new husband, the princess asked the mermaid for help. The mermaid decided to draw Vätte down into her realm, so she appeared as the princess at the wedding. Then she enchanted him and all of his possessions, farms and castles. The whole kingdom sank into the depths. The lake was then named Vättern.

Vätte was not happy down there in the deeps. On calm, beautiful summer days, he still tries to raise his drowned kingdom, and many have seen its image above the lake. But then the murdered brother, Vise, stirs in his mound on Visingsö, and all of Vätte’s buildings tumble back down into the depths again. Then Vättern’s king rages, and the waves of the lake are thrown against the beach, even if the wind is completely still.

The saying above comes from another of the peculiarities of the lake, that the water level is the same regardless of the precipitation. An unusually low water level was reported in 1826 and the harvest was good in the following years. Let’s hope this is also true in our times.

"When Vättern’s waters have full power, then wickedness is at the door”

Vist the giant.

Giant, drawn by John Bauer.

Visingsö – the island of fairy tales.

Nessie the sea monster.

Birgitta – as pilgrim

TEXT: åse wännerstam

Birgitta Birgersdotter was born in 1303, and this year marks 650 years since her death. Birgitta was the daughter of the lawspeaker Birger Persson, from Finsta in Uppland. Her mother was Ingeborg Bengtsdotter, from Bjälboätten in Östergötland. Birgitta was declared a saint (Saint Bridget) in 1391, but in Sweden she is more widely known as Holy Birgitta of Vadstena. Not only is Birgitta one of Europe's six patron saints, but with more than six hundred publications to her name, she was also the most productive author of the Swedish Middle Ages.

Mentor to the queen and a lawspeaker’s wife

At the age of 13, Birgitta was married to the then 18-yearold Ulf Gudmarsson. It’s said that the young people grew to love each other and had a happy, if conflict-filled relationship. Birgitta devoted much time to her religious life, while Ulf was a knight to the court and probably more outgoing. Ulf also became a lawspeaker in Närke. The couple ran a large household at Ulfåsa by Lake Boren in Östergötland, where their eight children were born. Birgitta also became mentor to the young queen Blanche (of Namur), and divided her time between Vadstena and Ulfåsa for several years

A medieval family tradition

Birgitta’s parents came from one of the most prominent families of the Swedish Middle Ages. Her father, Birger, was a lawspeaker in Uppland and her mother, Ingeborg, was closely related to the royal family. As such, it was tradition to set off on a pilgrimage. Thus Birgitta’s father visited Santiago de Compostela and her grandfather visited Jerusalem.

Medieval tourism

It may be difficult for us today to imagine that in the 14th century, people travelled as much as they did. But the truth was that soldiers, businessmen and pilgrims travelled regularly across Europe. Pilgrims travelled on foot, or sometimes on horseback, often undertaking difficult journeys to the graves of saints both within and outside Sweden. Typically a pilgrim would travel 30-40 kms per day. These journeys became popular folk movements, and large groups travelled together, which often worked well. The journeys were often dangerous, and pilgrims were frequently attacked and robbed. Along the way, there were well known stops and even tour operators who organised all the practicalities. Medieval tourism even had its sellers of souvenirs and pilgrim badges. Places visited back then are still tourist sites today: Norway, Spain, Italy and the Holy Land. The longer the journey, the greater the effort and thus the greater the spiritual effect. The purpose of a pilgrimage was to appease God, cure diseases, injuries or disabilities, or simply to express gratitude to God.

Pilgrim journeys

Birgitta became very well travelled over time. Together with Ulf she undertook several pilgrimages. Like many other Scandinavians, they travelled to see the relics of the Norwegian Saint-King Olav in Nidaros Cathedral (Trondheim). She undoubtedly visited the reliquary of Eric the Holy, in Uppsala Cathedral, many times, as her parents are also buried there.

Their next trip was to Santiago de Compostela, and whilst their exact route is not known, it is likely they travelled down through France. This particular journey affected Birgitta greatly. France was ravaged by war, and she saw great suffering in the wake of the war and the plague that had afflicted Europe. The trip lasted for three years and on the way home Ulf fell seriously ill. They managed to reach Alvastra Abbey, 20 km south of Vadstena. Ulf was cared for by the Cistercian brothers, but died from his illness in 1344. Birgitta remained in Alvastra for five years before making a long trip to Rome, where she then remained until her death. She was also urged by Christ to encourage the Pope to return to Rome.

Both her sons Birger and Karl, and her daughter Katarina, accompanied her on the journey. They stayed with Queen Johanna in Naples, who was a friend of Birgitta. It is said that Johanna became very fond of Karl and that he brought about a great scandal by kissing the queen on the mouth. The journey became dramatic in several ways as the company continued by boat. Off Jaffa, the boat ran aground and panic broke out. Only Birgitta was calm, saying that God was with them. The group lost all their belongings but managed to reach shore unharmed. They arrived in Jerusalem exactly one year after their departure from Rome.

The last trip home to Vadstena

The pilgrimage to Jerusalem took a heavy toll on Birgitta's strength, and on 23 July 1373 she died in her home in Rome. At her side were her son Birger, her daughter Katarina, her confessors and the entire household. When the news of her death spread, large numbers of people gathered outside her house. Her body was transported through Europe in a secure wooden casket with iron fittings. The journey took seven months, with a group of some twenty people following the casket, led by Katarina.

The coffin can be seen in Vadstena at Sancta Birgitta Klostermuseum, and the reliquary can be seen in the Abbey Church. Here, Birgitta relics were manufactured as early as the 1300s. Vadstena quickly became the most visited pilgrimage site in Scandinavia in the Middle Ages, and even today thousands of pilgrims visit the church. The Nordic mystic is one of the world's most famous Swedes.

From Rome she made many trips to famous places of pilgrimage: Assisi, the birthplace of Saint Francis; the Benedictine Abbey in Farfa; the tomb of Saint Andrew in Amalfi; the tomb of Saint Matthew in Salerno. She visited Naples several times. Her final pilgrimage, in 1371, was undertaken following a revelation from Christ to visit the Holy Land. She expressed her dismay at being too old and infirm, but received a clear answer: “Why do you blame your old age?

I am the creator of nature, I can weaken and strengthen as I please.”

Medieval depiction of Saint Birgitta as a pilgrim, with her son Birger and daughter Katarina. Harg Church, Uppland.

Historic shoemaker Sofia Berg and archaeologist Henrik Summanen have reconstructed Birgitta’s pilgrim bag as it would originally have appeared.

medieval "visa cards"

How did the pilgrims avoid carrying cash and getting robbed? Helgandsbanken had offices all over Europe. The traveller had a personal letter issued by a local bank certifying that the pilgrim had money there. On presentation of the letter, the pilgrim was then able to take out money along the way.

ingrid of skänninge

The first well-known Swedish pilgrim who travelled to Santiago de Campostela was St. Ingrid. She was a prioress and founded the Dominican Convent in Skänninge in 1281. She was also a lady-in-waiting at King Valdemar's court in Vadstena and aunt to Birgitta's father's first wife.

In Holy Birgitta’s pantry

Pilgrimsmat is a project aiming to offer traditional food to pilgrims on their way to Vadstena. With the help of historical research into Holy Birgitta's own pantry and with seeds from the Nordic gene bank, medieval plants are once again being grown along Saint Birgitta Ways.

Food for pilgrims

Through the Pilgrimsmat project, vegetables, fruit and cereals once included in medieval meals have been brought back into cultivation. Some were only to be found in the gene bank. Two completely unique varieties have been preserved thanks to the project: the Viggeby grey pea and the Nunn pear. The project involves interested growers near the pilgrim trails, who provide food to the pilgrims walking the Saint Birgitta Ways pilgrimage route to Vadstena.

What did people eat in the Middle Ages?

Together with plant historian Matti Leino and foodie Hans Naess, Pilgrim Centre of Vadstena produced a catalogue of the plants that Holy Birgitta most likely had in her own pantry. Varieties that are now once again available for you and me.

In collaboration with top chef Mathias Dahlgren, simple recipes have been developed to suit pilgrims. Food made from plants with historical connections adapted to modern-day people. The recipes focus on the theme of delicious breakfasts, food to eat while hiking and shared meals.

The pear tree in the deep forest

Through Eva Hägström-Öberg, the project recently heard that Sweden's oldest pear tree could be found somewhere near Zinkgruvan, south of Askersund. Rumour says it’s 800 years old and seed-sown from cores discarded by passing monks from the Risberga monastery.

A medieval Bible commentary reads:

Eva set off on a pear hunt, and after a lot of knocking on doors she finally met a man who could tell her about the tree. But to her great dismay, the man explained that the tree had blown down during an autumn storm only a few months previously. Missing an eight-hundred-yearold tree and a medieval pear by only a few months was devastating. Imagine arriving just a few months too late to save the tree for posterity. Disappointed, Eva returned to Vadstena and told Matti Leino the terrible news. But were there really no branches left? The spring was a cold

one. New hope awoke and Eva made a new trip to see the tree. And sure enough all the branches have been heaped up, and at the bottom are living pear branches. Eva takes a whole load back with her, and with help from Hans Naess they are grafted onto other trees. Now the new pear trees are growing fast, and it’s hoped that the first harvest of the original pear will be possible soon.

More information: Pilgrimsmat.se

If you’re interested in becoming a grower or offering food along Saint Birgitta Ways, please contact Eva HagströmÖberg: eva.hagstrom@svenskakyrkan.se

"As the apple tree bears apples, and the pear tree bears pears, so man is created to do good works".

Emanuel Eriksson, Eva Hagström, Mathias Dahlgern and Hans Naess.

In Holy Birgitta’s pantry:

Blackcurrants

Plums

Cherries

Apples

Pears

Hops

Black mustard

Cumin

Onions

Pulmonary root

Black radish

Carrots

Parsnips

Parsley

Kale Turnips

Broad beans

Peas

A pilgrimage around Vättern

A pilgrimage around Vättern is a collaboration with the Swedish Church, local municipalities and the hospitality industry. During the period 9th of June - 9th of July 2023, the beautiful countryside around Vättern will form the backdrop for a modern pilgrimage.

The pilgrimage is being undertaken to help protect Vättern as a supply of clean drinking water. Sweden's second largest inland lake has a rich but threatened fauna.

Throughout history, Vättern has had a great impact on people's lives. The name Vättern, which also means water, will also focus thinking on sustainability and future living conditions.

The pilgrimage visits historical sites and invites us to think about life through the eyes of people like Ellen Key, Verner von Heidenstam, Saint Birgitta and Dag Hammarskjöld.

The pilgrimage starts and ends in Jönköping, goes through four dioceses and regions, and explores Vättern from all four directions and from many different aspects – probably as many as there will be pilgrims.

Spread made from yellow or grey peas

Recipe: 1 batch

Ingredients:

2 kg yellow or gray peas

200 g brown butter

2 tsp ground caraway

Salt and Water

Method:

Soak the peas in water for 24 hours. Pour off the water, cover with fresh cold water and bring the peas to the boil and simmer, removing scum from the water with a ladle. Stir with a balloon whisk so that any skin residues float to the surface. Remove skin residues and simmer the peas until completely soft. Sieve off the cooking water. Blend the soft peas with a little water, brown butter, caraway and pass them through a fine-meshed sieve. Season with salt and store in the fridge. Before serving. Remove the desired amount and mix with a little room temperature water to the desired creamy consistency.

Mathias comments:

Remember that the butter in the spread will solidify when stored in the fridge. It’s therefore wise to bring the spread to room temperature and stir until smooth before each serving.

The pilgrimage is divided into four stages with different leaders. You can register for the entire hike, one or more stages or walk with the group for a day. The maximum number of participants per stage is 20.

For questions and bookings, please contact: Åse Wännerstam on +46 (0)768-955 036 or ase.wannerstam@runtvattern.se

diving in Vättern

Natural and wreck dives

I also asked Niklas which are the best dives in Vättern.

"That depends how experienced you are," he replies.

"The harbour at Hästholmen is a good dive for people who aren't experienced. Here you'll discover the underwater artwork Viska-Lyssna, created in 2021. A little further out you can visit the wreck site of the Per Brahe. Other great natural dives are Stocklycke harbour, Stora Lund and Öninge. The underwater scenery, caves and formations are a real experience,” says Niklas.

"Around the Fjuk archipelago, off Motala, there are several wrecks that are easy to dive if you have a boat. Kung Ring, Måsen, Ulrika are just three of these.”

Known wrecks

The best freshwater diving in Scandinavia. We meet Niklas Jarsmo, who has over 40 years of experience in diving, especially in Lake Vättern. As a child, Niklas and his brother spent a lot of time with their father Bo, who ran a diving shop and courses in Linköping. Niklas got his diving certificate at the age of 14, and became a diving instructor aged just 17. Diving courses always start and end with four dives in Hästholmen, and this is also where Niklas and his family live on the boat LaGitt 2001. Hästholmen has been the base for Niklas' diving operations for 20 years. We asked him what is the attraction of diving in Vättern:

"Vättern is an underrated lake in terms of diving. Almost all of my guests have been overwhelmed. Diving in freshwater attracts divers from all over, not least because the visibility is almost always good. Vättern is easy to get to, and there are great natural dives which don't require a boat, as well as exciting wreck dives. The water in Vättern is cold and very low in oxygen so there is no shipworm. This means the wrecks are very well preserved.

An inland sea

Below the surface, Vättern is reminiscent of the nutrient-poor lakes in the mountains. The deep, cold lake is classified as an oligotrophic lake, and these are rare in southern Sweden. It offers a visibility of 18 metres. The lake was formed during the last ice age and several species have been present since then. Vättern can be divided into three zones: the beaches, the deep bottoms and the free water mass. The flora and fauna of the lake are similar to those in a coastal landscape.

The many wrecks on the bottom of the lake testify to the fact that the mood of Vättern can change quickly. In Swedish it’s sometimes called Vätternhavet, the Vättern Sea, because conditions can change hugely in less than an hour.

Not all wrecks have sunk by accident. Some have been deliberately sunk. Elsa af Lidingo is one of these. The boat had lain at Williams Boatyard in Motala for a long time. The local diving club, DK Octopus, created a project to turn the boat into an artificial reef This was approved in 2011 by the County Administrative Board and the Swedish Environmental Protection Agency and, after decontamination, the boat was sunk in the area around Fjuk, where it lies today at a depth of 21 metres, benefiting both wildlife and divers.

The most famous wreck in Vättern is arguably the paddle steamer Erik Nordvall, which ran aground off Jungfrun island near Vadstena in 1856. The ship took in water and sank just east of the island. Niklas' father, Bo Jarsmo, was one of the divers who found the wreck by chance in the early 1980s. For several years there have been plans to salvage the wreck, which is considered as interesting as the royal ship Wasa. Today there is a ban on diving on this particular site, as things unfortunately started to disappear from the wreck. The Dykpark Vättern project has made it possible to digitally dive the wreck with videos and images. Read more at www.ericnordvall.se

TEXT: åse wännerstam

Photo: CS Kommunikationsbyrå AB

Tips for diving in Vättern:

• If you are a coastal diver and used to salt water, you can remove 2 kg of lead.

• The weather and wind can change very quickly. From flat calm when you jump in to a full storm by the time you come out. Vättern is known for rapid changes in the weather, and you should always check the weather forecast carefully, especially if you’re going out by boat.

• Vättern is very easy to dive, as the visibility is always good. Welcome to the wonderful underwater world of Vättern.

Photo: Jeppe Gustafsson/Bild Östergötland

Photo: Dennis Malmström

back to the 50s and 60s:

nostalgia trip

4. fiket in gränna

At Fiket in Gränna, you can step straight into the 50s, enjoy a coffee and watch the crowds on the street outside. After visiting Gränna and Visingsö we continue along the old national road, which is today a tourist route, toward the town of Ödeshög. There are several pleasant stops along the way in the fantastic countryside of the Vättern Scarp. Girabäcken Nature Reserve is one of them. Or enjoy spectacular views from Kleven Café.

1. HUSQVARNA MUSEUM

Our nostalgic tour of the 50s and 60s starts at Husqvarna Museum. The museum, which is open all year round, is also the starting point for the annual Husqvarna Rally, with hundreds of enthusiasts on two wheels travelling around the area. This year's rally will take place on the 3rd of June. Every Wednesday during the summer, cars and bikes meet in Huskvarna Folkets Park. People with a passion for classic vehicles of many different models and periods meet to socialise and admire other vehicles.

5. 56:ans Bar in Ödeshög

In the centre of Ödeshög you will find 56:ans Bar. Listen to the jukebox, eat a classic burger and experience a true 1950s environment. For almost 20 years, Husqvarna-branded motorcycles were produced here in Ödeshög.

2. the moped museum in björkenäs

In the spring of 1962, National Road 1 was re-labelled to the E4. We choose to follow the old route of National Road 1, which was the main road between Helsingborg and Stockholm between 1945 and 1962. It takes us past Vista Kulle, Kaxholmen and Skärstad. At Ölmstad we turn off toward the beautiful lakeside village of Bunn. This is where John Bauer was inspired to paint and where the Bauergården now serves good food. The next stop is the Moped Museum in Björkenäs. This year, the museum is celebrating its 20th anniversary.

3. the nostalgia museum on visingsö

On the way to Visingsö you pass Sweden's oldest country hotel, Gyllene Uttern, the Golden Otter, which was built in the 1930s. The hotel was featured in Ingmar Bergman's 1957 film Wild Strawberries. Book the ferry across to Visingsö and experience the Nostalgia Museum, a great place for those who dream about being back in simpler times. The exhibition includes a home and a café, together with a BP petrol station from the 1950s.

6. Sunday meets in Väderstad

If you're out on a Sunday, take a trip to Väderstad and their Sunday meets, where car enthusiasts gather during the summer. On the way to Väderstad, don't miss a stop at the famous Rök Runestone or a visit to Naturum Tåkern nature centre. Väderstad offers cute shops and Väderstad Centralkonditori is mentioned in the White Guide.

7. Nostalgia meet-ups in Vadstena

For over 20 years, Slottsgården in Vadstena has arranged nostalgia meet-ups on Wednesdays. Shiny cars and live music make a perfect pairing, and the meet-ups are always very popular in the summer. Don't miss a visit to the newly opened Café Nostalgi on Rådhustorget. In Vadstena you can cycle a draisine and experience what it was like to take a train in the mid-20th century. Sweden's oldest preserved narrow track takes you across the beautiful Östgöta plain.

8. The Motor Museum in Motala and Hotel Nostalgi

At Motala harbour, you will find the Motor Museum, which is open all year round. Cars and motorbikes from all periods are on display in the exhibitions, which makes for a real nostalgia trip for the whole family. Hotel Nostalgi is next door to the museum. Swedes of a certain age will remember the call “Stockholm-Motala!” which came from the transmission station in Motala. A visit to the Swedish Rundradiomusum immerses you in the history of radio.

Some of us long for a time where jukeboxes delivered hits like Chuck Berry’s “No particular place to go”. A time where Brylcreem, spotted dresses, turned up jeans and classic American cars were part of everyday life. Visit Vättern has selected just a few of the best places to travel back in time.

9. Stop off in Askersund

The annual antique market in Askersund harbour attracts 10,000 enthusiasts and is a popular festival for those who like old things and curios. Here you can browse amongst antiques and other items from around 170 exhibitors. The market is organised by Askersund Auction House and held in August. The harbour is also a lovely place to sit and watch the world go by.

10. rockabilly-musical in forsvik

In July-August you can experience a colourful rockabilly show at Forsvik Bruksteater. The musical ‘KLING – A life in ice cream’ offers great flavours, comedy, dance, acrobatics, and above all, swinging music inspired by the rock’n’roll-era. This flavourful entertainment tells the story of Sweden's first great ice cream-maker, Harry Kling. And don't miss a visit to Forsvik Bruksmuseum or the highest locks on the Göta Canal.

12. Brandstorps lanthandel & café

The shop and café in Brandstorp is another stop on our nostalgia trip. A classic country shop with lots of local products and a café decorated in the best retro style.

11. Nostalgia meet-ups in Tidaholm

In Tidaholm, there’s enormous interest in classic cars amongst both young and old. Classic American car culture is alive and well here, and has passed on to youngsters driving licence-free cars. The Swedish band Eddie Meduza started here in the 60s. Just one of many bands drifting from the stereo of a Chevrolet Impala parked at the hot dog kiosk. And don't miss out on the Tidaholm Museum, exploring Tidaholm Bruk's production of fire trucks, buses and lorries.

Welcome

Knalla Gruva

For thousands of years, metals have been extracted from around Åmmeberg and Zinkgruvan. Today, the mining museum explores mining history, with a fire truck, geology room and laboratory. Furthermore, if you’re interested in a ride, you can also take a trip on the mining train For runners, the mining company Zinkgruvan Mining also organises Run of Mine, a unique race where part of it is run underground. The competition is held in mid-September. On the other hand, if you want to experience something completely different, Mårsätter Nature Reserve is just a stone's throw away. The area offers beautiful and interesting flora and fauna in hilly terrain.

Our nature

You’ll find a wide range of beautiful natural landscapes in and around Askersund. During the summer, Fagertärn is a jewel best known for its beautiful red water lilies. Tiveden offers Sweden's southernmost wilderness and is perfect for visiting all year round. Dovrasjödalen is an area of wilderness with narrow lakes lying in a deep valley, and makes an excellent destination with varying lengths of hiking trail. Some restaurants and cafés in Askersund also offer pre-packed lunches at an affordable price, perfect for taking on your hike.

The town centre

For the shopaholic among you, Askersund is a real gem. Here you will find cafés, restaurants and food stalls together with unique shops selling everything from liquorice to toys. Even outside the town centre, whether it's Hammar in the south or Asbro in the north, there are farm shops and outlets offering great shopping all year round! We look forward to seeing you here!

Kulturhuset Sjöängen

Located in the centre of Askersund, Sjöängen is an award-winning culture centre. For those who want to experience art and culture it’s an opportunity you sholdn't miss, with concerts, shows and exhibitions all year round. Artists such as Tommy Körberg and Jonas Gardell have performed here, and the library has also been called “Sweden's most beautiful”. It’s well worth a visit, not least during spring and autumn when the weather can be changeable.

Check out the full programme here:

Stjernsund Castle

Guided tours · Gift shop · Café

Open Thursday-Sunday 18 May-25 June

Open dayli 26 June-3 September For

For 10 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

Enjoy the fantastic environment around Vättern!

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.

welcome to MOTALA

– The lake city of east sweden!

All of the towns around Vättern have a great location. But Motala is privileged to have a lot more water than most. Here we have the Gota Canal, the Motala Ström river system, Lake Boren and 170 other lakes. This is something residents get to appreciate all year round.

In addition to summer swimming, fishing, SUP, sailing and kayaking, we do open water swimming, winter swimming, long-distance ice skating and ice fishing, among other things. Those of us who live around Vättern also have a joint event, Vätternrundan. Vätternrundan starts and ends in Motala, and during a single week in June there’s a big cycle festival with different races with the 315 km Vätternrundan as the finale.

Motala is called the capital of the Gota Canal because this was one of the two locations where the canal building began (the other was Forsvik) and this is where the head office is. AB Göta Kanalbolag’s head office is a beautiful yellow building in Motala harbour, a harbour that’s a meeting place with restaurants, boats, a motor museum and plenty going on. From the harbour you can follow the Göta Canal through Motala on a beautiful walk or bike ride to Borenshult's locks, a trip of about 3.5 km.

Along the way you pass Old Motala workshop area where you can eat delicious waffles and take a look inside the Motala Industrial Museum. The area demonstrates Motala's history, with Motala Verkstad and the town that grew up around it. Download the Story Spot app and listen to different stories from the area. The road also goes past the mighty Lokverkstan, which is now used as an event venue, giving us fantastic concerts and other events.

At Borenshult's locks there’s something to fascinate both large and small. This is the steepest lock staircase on the Göta Canal. The five locks steps tie together the Göta Canal with Lake Boren, and have a level difference of just over 15 m.

Tourist information

Motala Visitor Service

Visiting address, summer season: Stora torget, Motala Tel. 0141-101 205

upplev@motala.se · www.motalasjostad.se

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

For a current list of events visit www.motalasjostad.se

InfoPoints in Motala municipality:

• Best Western Motala Stadshotell

• Motala Library

• Borensberg Library

• Brunneby Musteri

• Charlottenborgs slott

• Hotell Carl Friman

• Hotell Östermalm

• ICA nära Tjällmo

• Kaffeteriet

• Lindgården Äventyrsgolf

• Fornåsa Flea Market

• Mallboden Café & Hostel

• Medevi ProSalus/Medevisalvan

• Motala Motormuseum/Hotell Nostalgi

• Rapps Foto

• Sveriges Rundradiomuseum

• Övralid

Naturkartan.se

Stay one more night. Why not try out a short – or longer –hike? Choose from fantastic nature, perhaps in the woods of Tjalmo, or an urban hike and get to know Motala a little better. You can find all the tips you need at naturkartan. se And if you've never been to Varamobaden, it's a must, a gem with kilometres of sandy beach and shallow water. If you prefer to swim in a more secluded location, there are many options, and if you're into winter swimming, Råssnäsbadet is a good place.

As we said, stay one more night. There's much more to discover.Restaurants, cafés, farm shops, museums, pretty Borensberg, Medevi Brunn and much more. Here you can find accommodation for all tastes and if you have a motor home we have several parking places around the municipality.

QR code to accommodation on our website:

QR code to our event calendar:

M/S Kung Sverker – Motala

Day Cruises Gota Canal

Daily from the middle of May to Sep

With M/S Kung Sverker you get to experience a guided tour around the most beautiful part of Gota Canal. During the journey which takes 5 hours we go through 12 different locks.

Motala 10.30 => Borensberg 12.30

Borensberg 13.10 => Motala 15.30

Round Trip 650:-, one way 600:-, children 6-12 half price. Lunch 250:-

Pre-booking www.kungsverker.se

Mallboden Café &

Välkommen att ta en paus i idyllisk miljö beläget vid Göta kanal & Motala verkstad.

Welcome to take a break in a breathtaking environment along Gota kanal. Stay a while at our café and try our famous and delicious waffles. And/or stay the night in our cosy apartments

Vi serverar ett stort utbud av hembakat, våra välkända våfflor samt lättare rätter. Stanna över natten i en av våra mysiga lägenheter!

August 26 – September 17

Sjöängen September 30 – Oc

www.mallboden.se 0141-21 09 23 Varvsgatan 17, Motala

www.mallboden.se +46 141 21 09 23 Varvsgatan 17, Motala

the world's biggest recreational cycling event

Our best tips for a great Vätternrundan

1. Train smart – and slowly increase

There’s something special about going around a lake. A special challenge. We meet Andreas Andersson from Vätternrundan, who explains how it all began and gives his top tips for taking part in the big cycling festival.

Vätternrundan

On a blustery day in March, we meet Andreas who works with Vätternrundan. He tells us how it all started.

"We have to go back half a century, and a little more. Doctor Sten-Otto Liljedahl wanted to improve public health in Sweden, starting with himself. With the help of – and with – good friends, he started to cycle and was convinced that more people would appreciate this type of exercise. Two years later, in 1964, he set off to cycle a lap around Vättern. What he didn't know was that the same route was going to become the world's biggest recreational cycling event. With his first trip fresh in his mind, he decided to do it again. This time in better shape and with more cyclists. In 1966, the first official Vätternrundan took place, with 370 participants. And then things happened fast. Three years later, the number of participants had almost doubled, and now every summer around 20,000 cyclists are at the starting point ready to take on the race.

A full week of cycling

Since the start, more races have also been added and a whole week of cycling events is now held annually in June. Here, even the youngest can take part in the Minivättern. Cykelveckan attracts 36,000 participants from all corners of the world who take on one of the various races: the Half Vättern, Women’s Vättern or 100 km Vätternrundan – all passing through beautiful countryside and over the scenic peak of Omberg. Find out more about the different races at vatternrundan.se.

"Many people start by cycling 100 km, then try out to 150 km and finally 315 km," says Andreas.

Discover Vättern from the saddle all year round

Vättern is so much more than just Vätternrundan. More and more people are discovering the charm of getting close to the beautiful landscape around Vättern. We recommend a bike that can handle both gravel and asphalt roads for the best cycling experience. Take your time and swim in crystal-clear waters, and discover historic destinations and high-quality dining along the way.

book your cycle package here:

There are many training programmes for Vätternrundan, but one recommendation is that you should have cycled 1000 km before getting ready for the start signal. Most important is that you have continuity in your training – and that you are used to cycling long distances. Do longer, calmer workouts at the weekend, and short, intensive ones during the week.

2. Invest in the right gear

A bell, brakes and an approved cycle helmet are obvious essentials. If you have a pair of cycling shorts with padding and braces, and a pair of gloves, your cycling will definitely be more comfortable.

3. Get tips online!

There are many different websites, podcasts and Facebook groups sharing everything from tips to inspiration and guides. Check out vatternrundan.se and cykla.se and don't miss the podcast and Facebook group Hjälp! Jag ska cykla Vättern! (in Swedish)

4. Don't forget to enjoy the experience

Don’t set any time goal if you're riding one of the races for the first time. No one knows how the weather or the race will be. The most important thing is the experience! Why not take a dip in Vättern along the way or stop for a break to enjoy the fantastic scenery?

The experiment that turned into

Andreas Andersson, Vätternrundan

VADSTENA – A CREATIVE HISTORY

Vadstena is a small town, but it offers a wide range of fascinating experiences. It's a town where every season has its own unique charm, from the hustle and bustle of summer tourists and outdoor dining to the peaceful and relaxing atmosphere of winter.

The town's historical roots are everywhere. Saint Birgitta, and the great king Gustav I of Sweden. It strikes you as soon as you approach and see The Monastery Church, Vadstena Castle and the Red Tower rise over the small town: buildings that have been landmarks for hundreds of years.

While it’s true that summer is the major tourist season in Vadstena, many people are drawn to the municipality at other times of the year. This is thanks to the unique environment and the mix of history, culture, nature and events.

The town comes to life in spring. As the first tourist bus starts rolling in, spring snowflakes bloom in their thousands in the former Abbey gardens, which always awakens great interest and draws the attention of countless camera lenses every year.

Nature lovers flock to lake Tåkern when the migratory birds begin to return and Omberg's many beautiful sites become greener week by week.

Soon the summer arrives, and the town is seething with life. Local guides show both Swedish and foreign visitors around the many attractions. Storgatan and Rådhustorget have an almost continental feel, with their mixture of restaurants and shops. The castle's courtyard is transformed into a concert venue for a few evenings each summer, and in the wedding hall Vadstena Academy performs a new opera. And on the plains south of the town Shakespeare is acted in an old feed factory.

Every Wednesday is nostalgia evening by the moat, when visitors come from all around to admire vehicles from the past and listen to rock’n’roll.

Vadstena Camping is filled with mobile homes and caravans, whilst Vätterviksbadet is full of people who want to enjoy the sun and take a dip in Lake Vättern. Others choose one of the smaller bathing areas in the municipality, or take a swim by the boardwalk.

Culture, creativity and entrepreneurship permeate Vadstena. There is a rich tradition of crafts. Not least in bobbin lace making, a field in for which the town is widely known. However, there are many artistic styles here: sculpture, glass, paint, forged iron and photography. And for art lovers, there are many exhibitions and studios to visit.

Vadstena Infocenter

Open all year round.

Visiting address Storgatan 28

+46 (0)10-234 73 70

info@vadstena.se

More information about local services, accommodation, culinary experiences and activities can be found on Vadstena’s website, vadstenaguiden.se, and on social media @vadstenaguiden

Event calender:

As autumn slowly comes in, the town takes on a different atmosphere. Many people come to Vadstena for a retreat and enjoy relaxing weekend stays with a spa, delicious food and walks in the picturesque town centre. And people travel to the aforementioned Omberg to experience nature and the magnificent views, now painted in autumn colours.

It will soon get darker, but in November Vadstena prepares for Advent. The main street and squares are decorated with trees and lights. It's wonderfully atmospheric and festive. During the ever popular Gammeljul part of the castle is filled with crafts and delicacies. The Christmas concerts follow quickly on from each other, several of them in the impressive Monastery Church.

Winter here is also characterised by a calm atmosphere. But there are still things to do. Non-profit efforts ensure that Ombergliden, the local ski resort, is ready for downhill skiing. And if the cold lasts and the ice stays, ice skaters start to glide out onto Vättern.

Vadstena is a town with a lot to discover and a lot to experience, all year round. But it's also a place where it's nice to simply be. Something that draws many visitors back. And sometimes they even decide to stay.

Here people look forward, but with an anchor in the past. Vadstena – a creative story.

BY WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE | DIRECTED BY RONNY DANIELSSON

For more information and opening hours see www.klostermuseum.se

The meeting place for pilgrims, friends, guests and locals!

Big assortment of brands such as: Avet · Bitte Kai Rand

A pilgrimage around Vättern

During the period 9 June–9 July 2023, the beautiful countryside around Vättern will form the backdrop for a modern pilgrimage.

A pilgrimage around Vättern is a collaboration with the Church of Sweden, local municipalities and the hospitality industry.

For questions and bookings, please contact: Åse Wännerstam on 0768-955 036 or ase.wannerstam@runtvattern.se

Architecture that inspires!

In 2023, the municipalities of Vadstena, Motala and Ödeshög highlight architecture. Take part in events, exhibitions and presentations.

More information and this year's event: www.vadstena2023.se

beautiful plains

– welcome to mjölby municipality, at the heart of the Östgöta plain!

Here you can walk in the footsteps of Birger Jarl, enjoy picturesque surroundings and breathe in beautiful nature. The varied landscape offers rapeseed-fragrant plains and deep forests where you can hike among orchids, ice-age trails and ancient monuments.

The churches are many and open for visitors. In Bjälbo you can find a well-known church, which was part of the estate of the House of Bjälbo, also known as the House of Folkung. Here, in 1210, Birger Jarl was born – Sweden's most powerful and last jarl, who it’s said founded Stockholm in the year 1252.

The dark waters of the Svartån stream wind through the old mill village of Mjölby , which is today the municipality’s capital. On an island in the stream, you'll find the rural life museum, with its beautiful buildings that talk of a time when farmers came from near and far to grind their grain at the rapids and falls of the Svartån. The area around Mjölby has been inhabited for a long time, as testified by the large number of runestones, stone circles and hillforts. Today you will find restaurants, shops and beautiful green

Tourist information, Mjölby Municipality

Visiting address:

Skänninge Library & Tourist Information

Stora torget 2, 596 23 Skänninge

Tel: 010-234 56 38

turistbyran@mjolby.se

www.visitmjolby.se

areas in the town of Mjölby. Take your picnic basket with you and sit down in Gästisparken, where there’s music in the summer. Or take a swing at the mini golf course in the centre of town. In the centre of Mjölby you’ll also find Lundbybadet, where you can swim in the outdoor pool in summer. The larger children will love the high diving board, while the small splash pool is perfect for the youngest. At Lundbybadet you can also rent a canoe if you want to take a trip along the Svartån.

Some small towns live and thrive – Väderstad, in Mjölby municipality, is one of them. In this small, picturesque village you can enjoy beautiful surroundings, shopping and, of course, a coffee at a well-known café. Centralkonditoriet’s interior is inspired by the 1930s and on the bread shelves original classics rub shoulders with innova-

Bjälbo is a medieval parish that was the home of a Swedish noble family in the 12th and 13th centuries. The church was first built in the early 12th century.

The Svartån at Mjölby.

Picturesque Väderstad.

tive specialities. In the neighbouring shops you’ll find delicacies, shellfish, interior design and a well-stocked building maintenance shop. The businesses and entrepreneurs have put Väderstad on the map, and visitors come from far away to admire the result.

Interested in history? If so, you should head to Skänninge, one of Sweden's oldest towns. In the centre of the town, the 14th century Church of our Lady rises in all its glory, and in the square, Ture Lång gazes out over the town. Around the square you’ll find cute shops and the town hall, which houses the town museum. In Gamla Skeninge, the old town, there are idyllic wooden houses with beautiful gardens and a herb garden where you can relax on a warm summer's day. Skänninge’s golden age was the 1200-1300s when the town served as a hub for trade on the Östgöta plain. The market has a long tradition and you can still visit Skänningemarken, Sweden's oldest street market. If you want to dive deeper into the history of Skänninge, a guided tour with the local guide association is highly recommended .

If you're looking for excitement, head to the fast paced Mantorp Park and Mantorps Hästsportsarena. Since it stared in 1969, Mantorp Park has been one of Sweden’s leading motor racing tracks, offering a number of events. At Mantorps Hästsportsarena, you’ll find equine sports, pleasant surroundings and exciting events.

In the evening perhaps you’ll feel like taking a dip in one of our lakes? There are swimming spots in Mjölby, Skänninge, Normlösa and Västra Harg. Why not combine an evening dip in Lake Skogssjön with a barbecue and a game of beach volleyball? Or an evening walk on any of the hiking trails running through the municipality? Mjölby Municipality offers something for everyone.

The Church of our Lady, dating to around 1300, and the Town Hall of Skänninge, which today houses the town museum.

In the Middle Ages, Saint Catherine’s Hospital lay just outside Skänninge. During the early medieval period, Skänninge was an important town, with two monasteries. Pilgrims and tradesmen visited often and sometimes brought contagious diseases.

unique windbreaks for omberg and Lake Tåkern

Arknat is coming to Omberg and Tåkern. Engineering and architecture students from all over Scandinavia will create three unique windbreaks. One at Omberg and two at Lake Tåkern.

The Arknat Architecture Festival was founded in 2017, and its main purpose is to create and construct a number of uniquely designed windbreaks that are then placed in the Swedish countryside. Arknat has already been held with great success on Höga Kusten and in Skåne, and now it’s the turn of Omberg and Tåkern. The windbreaks are the property of the public, for everyone to enjoy, use and experience.

The people who design and build these creations are students of architecture and engineering from all over Scandinavia. Students apply to compete and are selected to create a varied and stimulating group.

"All students get a unique opportunity to work with design and practical wooden construction over a two week

period, giving them invaluable experience for their future professional life. We also emphasise the connection between architecture and nature, enabling as many people as possible to experience the combination of functional and innovative windbreaks with their unique surroundings," says Martin Björklund, project manager for Arknat.

There’s something for everyone here

“I believe these windbreaks will enhance the area and enable more people to practice outdoor activities. There should be a windbreak that suits everyone. If you're looking for a serious challenge, you might choose to visit the one that will be built at Omberg. If you have reduced mobility, Svälinge may be a good fit, and if you’re mainly looking for a Sunday walk with a flask of coffee then you should aim for the rest area on the south side of the lake, with the trail starting at Naturum Tåkern.

Naturum Tåkern is already attracting an architect-interested audience, and I think this can bring even more people to this fantastic location. It’s wonderful that these will be opened in late August, right when the bearded reedlings are most active.

Previous windbreak from Arknat. These have been adapted to the environment in Skåne.

ÖDESHÖG

– We love the great outdoors!

Ödeshög is the perfect year-round destination for visitors who love spending time outdoors. Here you can hike, cycle, kayak, go cross-country skiing, ice bathing, camping and so much more.

Discover Omberg all year round

Omberg is a fantastic place to discover all year round. It offers everything from guided kayaking to hiking, MTB trips, zipline and courses for beginners. In the immediate vicinity are several comfortable accommodation options, cafés and restaurants. A stone’s throw from Omberg you will find Särtshöga Vingård, one of the northernmost vineyards in the world. A little further south is Ombergs Golf, which is known for being one of Sweden's best golf courses – ranked in 13th place. At the foot of Omberg is Ombergs Turisthotell, with its charming rooms and well-known restaurant, which is highly rated in the White Guide.

On Omberg, you are surrounded by history, fairy tales and legends. Not far from the mountain lie the ruins of Alvastra Abbey and the Rök Runestone, which offer both history and mystery. If you want to find out more about the legends, history and nature of Omberg, there are several exciting hiking packages and guided tours bookable through Wettersaga, Woods & Water and Ombergs Turisthotell.

Get close to nature

Visitors who want to explore the landscape on foot can take the Östgötaleden trail, with stunning views across the lake, the woods, rolling fields and hills. Did you know that the route between Ödeshög and Omberg has been named one of Sweden's 12 signature trails, often described as Sweden's most beautiful hiking trails?

And don’t miss all our nearby nature reserves. Ödeshög has as many as 15 nature reserves – each offering their own unique insights into the environment. Here you can discover primeval forests, giant spruce trees, limestone marshes, hidden and forgotten historical sites, deciduous forests and picturesque agricultural landscapes offering amazing biodiversity.

Lake Tåkern has the well-known and incredibly popular visitor centre Naturum Tåkern. Here there are activities for the whole family, including a bird watching tower, barbecue areas, a fairytale path, playground, guided hikes/ activities, exhibitions, a laboratory and much more besides.

Visit Ödeshög

Tourist Information

Visiting address, summer season:

Hästholmen harbour

Tel. 0144-351 67

tourism@odeshog.se

www.visitodeshog.se

Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @visitodeshog

Pilgrimages throughout Swedish history

Some of Scandinavia's most beautiful pilgrim trails, such as Birgittaleden, Franciskusleden and Klosterleden, lead through Jönköping, Gränna, Ödeshög and Vadstena, with Vadstena Abbey Church as their final destination. Along these trails, you can stop at some of our most beautiful historical sites, such as Alvastra Abbey ruin, Eriksgata, Narbäck, Holkaberg and Ellen Keys Strand

Cycling trips for everyone

Cycling is one of the best ways to experience Ödeshög and the surrounding countryside. Choose from several beautiful and interesting cycle trails. For the more adventurous visitor – how about mountain biking or downhill at Omberg or Skönatorpet ? Maybe you’re gearing up for the Vätternrundan cycling event and want to try out a few of the longer cycling trails, such as the Round Vättern trail, the Vättern-Sommen trail, Vätternrundan or the Women's Vät ternrundan? Or why not bring your friends, family or partner along on a relaxing cycling trip across the Östgöta plain? Whatever you choose, there’s something here for everyone.

Hästholmen harbour

Summer is a busy time in Hästholmen harbour and the picturesque village. People gather here to enjoy the beautiful views and great food, to go swimming in Lake Vättern, try their luck at fishing or set off by kayak to explore Omberg’s caves and cliffs. Here you will also find 31:ans Glass och kök which has Sweden's best ice cream – if you ask us! – and Mustiga Mauri at Uppdrag Mat. Hästholmen harbour also played a major role in Swedish history. This was where the steamer SS Per Brahe sank during the night of 19 November 1918, with widely admired artists John and Ester Bauer on board. During the summer, you can find out more about the tragic event in the museum Vätternrummet, which is next door to the tourist information centre.

Explore our beautiful countryside

The Östgöta plain is known for its fertile agricultural land, bright yellow rapeseed fields, and for all the charming destinations and shops along the roads between the fields. Along the roads of Ödeshög you will find everything from farm shops, pick-your-own fields, flea markets, florists, fashion and interior design shops to various studios with local artists and craftspeople.

In the centre of Ödeshög there are a variety of shops offering everything from locally produced delicacies, underwear, electronics and shoes to second hand bargains and freshly caught fish from Vättern. Lysings konditori is the perfect spot for a coffee and a bite to eat. The bakery is known for its selection of gluten-free baked goods. And if you’re still hungry, there are also several restaurants to choose from.

The Ecoparks 20years

The Omberg Ecopark celebrates its 20th anniversary - a mythical place that attracts and fascinates visitors with its dramatic natural beauty. The steep slopes down to Lake Vättern lead to one of Sweden’s most diverse forest landscapes with beautiful beech forests, oak hills with grazing and colourful meadows.

The Omberg Ecopark was inaugurated by Sveaskog in 2003. Since then, the number of ecoparks has grown to 37. Spread across the country, the ecoparks showcase an impressive range of habitats, offering southern beech forests, beautiful archipelago environments, fire-prone pine forests, vast bog landscapes and natural spruce forests full of beard lichen.

sveaskog.se

Ödeshög – Öninge Wetter

We now offer excellent lots ready to build your new home on, 700 meters from Lake Vättern with an astounding view of the regional plains and hike-friendly Omberg mountain.

Price: SEK 600 000

Contact: Robert Thunér Fastighetsbyrån in Ödeshög

Mobile: 070-756 82 87

E-mail: robert.thuner@fastighetsbyran.se

WINTER TIPS BY VÄTTERN

Old-time Christmas market

Many towns and villages offer a Christmas market in December. Get in the festive mood with an old-fashioned Christmas on snow-covered cobblestone streets. Check our event calendar to see which date suits you best.

Experience the magic light

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. Many artists and writers have been inspired by the unique light at Vättern.

Cold water swimming

The fact that the human body feels good after cold water swimming has been everywhere in the last few years. But what's 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, poor memory and mood, and research participants have also reported pain relief linked to rheumatism, fibromyalgia and asthma.

In other words, there are only positive effects. So this winter, take a refreshing dip in Europe's fifth largest lake – for free.

Winter fishing

Fancy a real fishing adventure? With one of Sweden's most qualified guides, Charterfiske offers first-class trolling fishing trips on Lake Vättern. A real adventure with a great chance of catching char, trout or salmon. And the cliffs at Omberg and Stora Lund, offers some of northern Europe's best salmon fishing from land.

Photo: CS Kommunikationsbyrå.

Photo: Jesper Anhede.

Photo: Jesper Anhede.

Find a Christmas market to suit you in our event calendar:

TÅKERN VISITOR CENTER

NATURUM

Photographer: Stefan Åström

GRÄNNA – the town of peppermint rock

Gränna is a Swedish idylll 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 using town privileges. Gränna is world famous thanks to its tasty peppermint rock – and S A Andrée's ill-fated polar expedition by balloon.

For nature lovers, Gränna is a miniature paradise. Here you can find peaceful nature reserves, enjoyable hiking trails and magical forests. During the summer, experience the environments that inspired John Bauer on a boat trip with Trolska Båtturer Grännaberget offers fantastic views of the town and Vättern. Each year in August the Grenna Bluegrass Festival is held live on the Grännaberget and Vättern stages. Prepare for goosebumps when it's time for the 46th festival in 2023.

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. At Rasmus Mill you can see how flour was ground. Here you’ll also find one of the country's oldest non-church buildings: Jerusalem Mill, which dates back to the 1200s.

The ruins of Brahehus are perched on the mountain ridge next to the motorway. Per Brahe the Younger had the castle built in 1638. The Brahehus ruins are a popular tourist destination.

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. The Polarcenter at Grenna Museum has the country's largest collection of historical polar objects. The crowning glory of the museum are objects from S A Andrée’s 1897 polar expedition, when three researchers set off for the North Pole in a balloon. The journey ended in tragedy. Peppermint rock production was begun in Gränna in the 1850’s by Amalia Erikson. In fact, she made an unusual switch for a woman at that time – from maid to successful entrepreneur. Today, there are numerous shops in Gränna where you can watch the production process. In some shops, you can even try making your own sticks of rock. The new EU designation PGI (protected geographical indication) means that only peppermint rock made in Gränna may be called

“Authentic Gränna Peppermint Rock”. Try other local treats like: Grenna ice cream, Gränna chocolate and Gränna crispbread

The best accommodation and food

If you'd like a taste of Småland, you’ll find many restaurants, cafés and farm shops. Hotel Amalias Hus proudly bears the name of the mother of peppermint rock. In 1859, Amalia made the world's first peppermint rock in the kitchen that is today the heart of the Amalias House restaurant. As a Member of Regional Food Culture Småland the kitchen works with locally produced ingredients from small food producers in and around Gränna. One of these is the family-run Ravelsmark Farm. BauerGården is a small, attractive hotel right on the edge of the forest in the idylllic village of Bunn. Here you will find hotel rooms, mobile home pitches and plenty of space for parties. The entire complex is perfect for those who like to be active in the countryside. In the restaurant you will meet carefully selected ingredients with flavours from the forest's pantry.

Tourist information

InfoPoints:

• Persgården

• Tempelgården

• Gladhytt

• Örserumsbrunn Inn & Conference

• BauerGården

Destination Jönköping info@destinationjonkoping.se

0771 211 300 www.jkpg.com

Event calendar:

Visingsö – A gem IN LAKE VÄTTERN

According to the legend, Visingsö Island was formed when the giant Vist threw a tuft of grass into Lake Vättern to give his lover something to stand on. That 'tuft of grass' is as vibrant today as it was a thousand years ago. It’s a place with exciting historical remains and magnificent nature.

From Gränna harbour there are frequent ferry crossings to the island of Visingsö. Once there, you can choose to get around the island by bike or horse-drawn carriage – the popular Remmalagen. For at least 100 years, visitors have been carried around the island at a quiet pace with several interesting stops.

Long association with the Brahe family

Several ruins of castles and fortresses in this area bear witness to a former landscape of power. Näs Fortress on Visingsö’s most southerly point is the ruin of Sweden's first royal castle, dating from the 12th century. From the 17th century onwards, the mighty Brahe family live in Visingsborg Castle, which is now ruined but a very popular historical site. Brahe Church was built as a royal church in the early 17th century. Internally, the church is splendidly decorated, and has few equals in the county.

Enjoyable activities in a beautiful environment

Stall Roempke is a horse farm offering horsey week-ends all year round. You can book horse driving, or riding for both adults and children. You can also take lessons in riding and handling horses.

Experience the beautiful oak forest that was once intended to be transformed into the Swedish national fleet. The trees which remain are Sweden's densest and straight est oak forest.

On Visingsö, you are close to the water and can easily kayak or swim. Kumlabybadet is a wonderful outdoor bathing centre with two heated swimming pools. If you want something playful, treasure hunting is something for you. The map will guide you to five stops where you get clues that help you finally open the treasure chest.

Genuine good food

Persgården Gårdsbutik & Café is an oasis of health and well-being. Whether you come for a cup of coffee or a full day of pampering, everyone is welcome here. By the harbour is the island's oldest restaurant, Solbacken, which is KRAV certified (organic) and places great emphasis on the origin of the ingredients. In its own bakery, both cakes and bread are made from KRAV-labelled flour.

EAT WELL IN GRÄNNA!

RUDENSTAMS

In our shop you find selected products from our farm and from other local suppliers. In the café you can enjoy the nice view as you taste some of the freshly baked fika. Lunch is served Monday-Saturday Welcome!

NEW INVASIVE SPECIES discovered in Vättern

Earlier this year, Dikerogammarus villosus, also known as the killer shrimp, was discovered in Vättern. This is a species never previously found in Scandinavia.

The killer shrimp is an invasive species that has caused major problems throughout Europe. When it invades a water, the ecology often changes and several of the native species decline markedly or even disappear altogether.

"The probability that the shrimp will spread through large parts of Vättern within a few years is unfortunately very high," says Ulf Bjelke, limnologist at SLU Artdatabanken. Sadly, it is considered impossible to eradicate this invasive species. However, the discovery does give us the opportunity to prevent the spread from Vättern to other waters, but also the spread of other invasive species to Vättern. Because it’s people who are primarily spreading this type of species –and we can all help to do something about it.

Help us prevent the spread!

• CLEAN all boats and equipment of plants, animals and mud before taking them to a new water.

• DRAIN all the water from your boat or equipment before moving it.

• DRY equipment such as diving suits, swimming gear, fishing equipment, boats and so on before moving them to a new water. It’s sufficient for them to air dry for just a few days.

Species found thanks to environmental monitoring

"Vättern's rich and diverse nearshoe zone is a valuable habitat with many rare species. That is why we regularly monitor aquatic insects, crustaceans and molluscs from here," says Friederike Ermold, water expert at the Lake Vättern Society of Water Conservation and coordinator for the environmental monitoring programme for Vättern.

It was during one such routine survey that the invasive species was found at three sites on the east side of Vättern.

"The discovery is a good example of the importance of environmental monitoring for the early detection of alien species," says Friederike Ermold.

facts about invasive alien species:

An alien species is a species that humans have spread, deliberately or not, to areas where they have not previously existed. Such species then establish themselves outside their natural range. Not all alien species cause concern, but some can cause major problems for biodiversity and the local environment and these are then called invasive.

Heated pools – always 27oC

So-called Killer Shrimps are quite large (up to 3 cm long) and both stronger and more aggressive than our native species, often killing more prey than they need to eat. Photo: Jonas Roth/HaV.

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. Nearby Huskvarna is Jönköping, with 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 more than 140,000 inhabitants, it is the only major town on Lake Vättern. Here it bubbles with life all year round. In the city centre you will find cute side streets, museums, libraries, shops, restaurants, hotels and a university with students from all over the world.

Tändsticksområdet, the matchstick area, is classified as a national monument and consists of 19th century buildings. Here you can learn all about the history of matches, shop in local shops and enjoy old streets, good food and drinks. Don't miss the city's only fish and seafood restaurant, Peschadores! Most recent addition to the district and with a splendid view of Vättern, is the Quality Hotel Match. In this well-preserved match factory you will find Brasserie NÒR, which serves classic Nordic cuisine in a modern way.

The proximity to nature is one of the main advantages of both Jönköping and Huskvarna. Here you’ll find pleasant cycling trails, well-trodden forest paths and silent nature reserves. Jönköping welcomes you with a long beachside walk along Lake Vättern. High up with a fantastic view of the town is Stadsparken, with the largest playground in Jönköping, animal pens, mini golf, barbecue areas, a unique bird museum, an open-air museum, an outdoor dance floor, a restaurant and a café.

The roots of a town

Jönköping is one of country's oldest towns. Magnus Ladulås was king of Sweden at the end of the 13th century. On 18 May 1284, he confirmed that Jönköping would be given trading privileges and that residents would be allowed to hold a market there three times a year. This is Sweden's oldest preserved charter and what makes Jönköping a town.

Events, culture and history

Jönköping’s central location in southern Sweden makes it a natural focal point for culture, sports, meetings and outdoor activities. It’s one of the country's most popular event destinations, with both national and international sporting events held here annually. One popular event that returns every year is the triathlon IRONMAN 70.3 Jönköping

For many younger visitors, the town is best known as the City of DreamHack, as Jönköping has hosted the world's biggest computer festivals, DreamHack Summer and DreamHack Winter, for 20 years.

Looking for art that breaks boundaries and smashes the rules? If so, you should visit Österängens Konsthall. It’s a meeting point for all, with guiding principles of openness, cooperation and diversity. Here you can experience new art in different forms.

Jönköping County Museum is home to a large share of John Bauer’s wonderful artworks. Children learn about the fairy tale artist by playing a game in which they can

dress up as trolls, princesses or princes. John was born in 1882 and grew up in Jönköping. His paintings of trolls, fairies and elves were inspired by the landscape of Småland. At the museum you will also meet John's great love, Ester Ellqvist, Småland history and Paulis and Gannevik's collections of 20th century Swedish art.

There are only three matchstick museums in the entire world and one of these is Tändsticksmuseet in Jönköping. In the beautiful wooden building constructed in 1848 you get to meet the people and machines that built and developed the matchstick industry into a world-wide business.

Food and drink with a little extra

There are several lovely restaurants in Jönköping that offer delicious food and a great dining experience. In 2016, Ester Kök & Bar became the first Nordic Ecolabelled restaurant in Småland, and today focuses on organic and locally produced food. To make use of the region's ingredients and to benefit Småland producers, they are members of the network Culinary Heritage Smaland

In Skärstad you’ll find Flättinge Gårdscafé with local and organic food/snacks. Three sisters run the café, while their parents handle much of the vegetable and berry growing.

Fruit has been grown along Vättern’s eastern slopes since the 1930s. Here in Skärstadalen, you’ll find Rudenstams Bär & Frukt. Due to the unique climate and the location of the cultivated plots, the area is known as both the Tuscany of Småland and Apple Valley.

Husqvarna is the heart of Huskvarna

The history of the Husqvarna factory began in 1689 with the production of muskets and other weapons for the Swedish armed forces. At the Husqvarna Museum you can discover all the things that were once made at the Husqvarna factory. These include guns, sewing machines, stoves, ovens, bicycles, motorbikes, chainsaws, lawnmowers as well as just about every imaginable household appliance.

Right next to the Husqvarna Museum is Slottsvillan, a listed 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. The restaurant prefers local ingredients and serves Småland-made food and drinks as far as possible. Slottsvillan is a house of many possibilities, and also organises weddings, conferences and birthday parties.

Opposite the museum and Slottsvillan, you will find Smedbyn. In the 18th century, the small red buildings are used as smiths' workshops and later as housing for the workers at the Husqvarna gun factory. Today they house handicraft workshops, cafés and galleries here.

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.

Diving tips:

IN THE DEPTHS OF VÄTTERN

Visibility in Vättern is generally very good but the water is cold. A drysuit is a must, even in the middle of summer. Weather and wind can change very quickly from flat calm when you jump in to a full storm by the time you come out. Vättern is known for rapid changes in the weather, and you should always check the weather forecast carefully, especially if you're going out by boat. Otherwise, it’s easy to dive as there’s always good visibility. Welcome to Vättern’s underwater world!

1. nydalen

Dive type: NATURAL Boat required: NO

Max. depth: 35

Difficulty: EASY

Signal crayfish build their nests/holes here in the muddy and gravelly bottom. Further out it starts to slope closer to 35 m after the first drop. There is plenty of boat traffic in the area, so a diver down flag is mandatory. Please inform the harbour warden of your dive.

2. granvik harbour

Dive type: NATURAL Boat required: NO

Max. depth: 10 Difficulty: EASY

The dive site is a small port/guest harbour well suited for shallow dives if you’re not yet confident. You can choose to get in/out at the foot of the stone pier or ideally from the head of the jetty. Keep an eye on your buoyancy, as the flat clay bottom can easily be stirred up and ruin visibility. Between the stone pier and the head of the jetty lie the remains of a jetty/raft and in some places traces of the industrial centre Granvik once was

4B. BYÄLVEN

Dive type: WRECK Boat required: YES

Max. depth: 11

Difficulty: MEDIUM

The Byälven is an interesting wreck that’s also suitable for snorkelling. The boat was carrying quicklime when it ran aground on the north side of the island of Fjuk. The vessel sprang a leak and in a desperate attempt to save her, the captain grounded her inside the bay. The load of unslaked lime reacted with the inrushing water and cracked the hull. Several parts of the ship are scattered across the area.

5. MÅSEN

Dive type: WRECK Boat required: YES

Max. depth: 38

Difficulty: ADVANCED

Another great wreck to dive off Fjuk, and often the site is marked with a buoy. If not marked, it's quite easy to find the wreck with sonar and to set your own buoy. Take a boat, for example from Motala or Karlsborg to position N58 31.450 E014 49.010

Easy to dive, and the wreck sits completely on the bottom. It does lie a little deep (38 m) so you need some experience. However, most of the dive can be spent on deck at about 35 metres. Often good visibility. Close by are the Ulrika and Kung Ring which can also be visited if as you're in the area.

6A. Greve von Rosen

Dive type: WRECK Boat required: YES

Max. depth: 41

Difficulty: ADVANCED

Loaded with stone from Borghamn. Sank in 1856.

3. KUNG RING

Dive type: WRECK Boat required: YES

Max. depth: 16 Difficulty: MEDIUM

Interesting and straightforward wreck dive where the site is marked with a buoy. Usually good visibility, as always in Vättern. The wreck lies straight up and down, slightly sunk down into the clay. There are also parts of the sides of the wreck. There are very many of fish of different sizes, with crayfish living in holes dug in the clay/sand around the wreck. Take a boat, for example from Motala to position: 58° 33' 536 N 014° 48' 694 E

4a. elsa af lidingö

Dive type: WRECK Boat required: YES

Max. depth: 21

Difficulty: MEDIUM

Sinking the Elsa af Lidingö was a project run by the local diving club DK Octopus, in Motala. In 2011, the County Administrative Board agreed that, after decontamination, the boat could be sunk and converted into an artificial reef. The wreck lies at a depth of 21 metres in the area around Fjuk.

6B. Borghamn

Dive type: NATURAL Boat required: NO

Max. depth: 40

Difficulty: MEDIUM

There are several different dives to try here. You can park your car at Borghamn Strand. Follow the promenade. The bottom near the land consists of marble blocks/slabs and there’s a lot of marble/limestone sludge on the bottom. The dives here can be very deep so make sure you keep an eye on your depth gauge.

The wreck of the Byälven.

Borghamn Strand.

7. Stocklycke harbour

Dive type: NATURAL Boat required: NO

Max. depth: 15 Difficulty: EASY

Easy natural dives with car parts (doors, roofs etc.) and large logs if you dive towards the south. Steep rock wall that turns into a sand bottom at a depth of 10-14 metres. The sand bottom runs northwards, but after a while it changes into large blocks and ravines. It can be difficult to get out. The easiest way is to climb up inside the staircase by the stones.

8. Hästholmen harbour

Dive type: NATURAL Boat required: NO

Max. depth: 25 Difficulty: EASY

Hästholmen is a good dive for people who aren't experienced. There’s a set of steps for swimmers that allows you to walk into the water. A short surface swim to the small island (Lortaknölen) is required. You can also walk in from the concrete pier and swim around the point. Off the island, the depth drops in ledges. Lots of crayfish, and night dives are recommended!

9. Hästholmen firing range/ stora lund

Dive type: NATURAL Boat required: NO

Max. depth: 30

Difficulty: MEDIUM

The former Stora Lund firing range lies between Öninge and Hästholmen, north of Ödeshög. A good starting point is below the car park or down the side of the rock where there’s a sloping road down to the water. One good dive is to jump in from the edge below the car park, where the bottom slopes down quite quickly to plateaus of different depths. Then swim northwards, and around the rock to walk out in the bay. On the way you’ll see several blocks and formations. Further out, at a depth of 57 metres, there are also the remains of a Fokker CV-E aeroplane that crashed here in 1937. It was found in 2013 and the pilot’s body was removed.

10. ÖNINGE

Dive type: NATURAL Boat required: NO

Max. depth: +40

Difficulty: EASY

Easy to walk out from the land. Immediately off the rocks, the bottom drops steeply. If you want, you can dive very deep here, down to 40 metres without any problems. At a depth of 12 metres there’s an old diving tower. It’s OK to drive down for unloading and loading but please note that parking is to the left of the boom (before going down to the water).

11. THURE TAGE (HAJEN)

Dive type: WRECK Boat required: YES

Max. depth: 32

Difficulty: MEDIUM

Sank in 1913 due to severe weather. The ship was loaded with bricks from the factory south of Hjo.

12. MATHILDA

Dive type: WRECK Boat required: YES

Max. depth: 34

Difficulty: MEDIUM

Mathilda lies at 32 metres and is very well preserved. The year was 1896. A man named Johansson and his son loaded the boat in Hjo harbour. It was market day and the boat was heavily loaded with potatoes. The weather was bad and the Johanssons pondered for a long time whether it was really safe to go north to unload their cargo. In the end they cast off, which proved to be a fatal decision. Just north of Hjo, the boat foundered and both father and son went down with their ship.

The wreck of the Hajen.

EXPERIENCE HABO – a place for peace, adventure and activity!

Welcome to Habo, the place where you can find peace and quiet at one of our fishing lakes or action and adventure, whether it’s on a zipline through the tree tops or taking part in a paintball match. We offer an experience that's just right for you!

Welcome to Habo!

Adventure and relaxation in Julared

If you don’t live near a big funfair, why not create your own adventure park? That’s how the Hagård family viewed it a few years back when they began to create their fun activities. Since then, thousands of people have enjoyed the part of Julared called Hagårds Lagård

Here you can try out both indoor and outdoor activities such as high ropes courses with zipelines, a high ropes course with climbing wall, multi-sport, paintball, the Julared hunt, shooting and a host of other enjoyable and adventurous activities. After a long and active day, you can then choose to relax for the night either in a cabin or glamping. You can find Hagårds Lagård between Habo and Mullsjö.

Unique fishing waters and outdoor adventures at Hökensås

On the ancient mountain ridge of Hökensås you will find tranquillity and one of Sweden's best places to fish for rainbow trout. The forest landscape around Hökensås is an invitation to hiking and makes you feel like you're in the far north of Sweden – on a miniature scale. There are many crystal-clear spring lakes, but also forest ponds with darker waters offering unique opportunities for sport fishing. Anglers come here from all over Sweden and, with its unique fishing opportunities, the area also attracts anglers from all over Europe. Everyone from families with children to specialist fly fishers can find their paradise here. If you need to buy equipment or have questions about the area, you can get help in the Fishing Centre at Hökensås holiday village

Adventure park and café

Experience Wildpark focuses on preserving nature and the feeling of wilderness. Here you will get to experience rural life and a day in beautiful natural surroundings. Activities include high ropes courses and a zipline, paintball, pentathlon, ATV and UTV driving. You can also visit with your friends or colleagues to challenge each other in a pentathlon.

If you just want to enjoy something tasty, you can also just stop at the wilderness café and chill out in the relaxed environment. Experience Wildpark is located a little to the north of Habo.

Nostalgia and fishing by the lake Brandstorps lanthandel och café is a country shop with food, a delicatessen counter with local products, interior design, gift items, flowers and a wonderful retro 1950s/1960s café serving scoop and soft ice cream.

A unique experience for those travelling along road 195 between Hjo and Jönköping, along the west coast of Vättern, is Rylanders Fisk. Here you will be greeted with the smell of freshly smoked trout or whitefish. All of the fish are processed and smoked on the farm. If there’s nobody on site to serve you, the outhouse offers self-service.

Vättern – a unique lake

for people, fish and tiny ‘mammoths’

Not the largest and not the deepest. And yet Vättern may be the most unique lake in Sweden. The lake has its own unique character, with great depths and clear, cold, nutrient-poor water. Its location in southern Sweden allows for an ecosystem with a very unusual combination of southern and northern species. There are even traces here from the last ice age, such as Vättern's small 'mammoths' that are still swimming in the lake.

When the ice withdrew after the last ice age, about 11,000 years ago, Vättern wasn’t a lake, but a bay in the Baltic Sea. It was only as the land rose that Vättern took on its current form and its inhabitants were closed off from the sea. Animals still remain in the lake from that time. Fish like smelt, char and the fourhorn sculpin, but also small crustaceans. These animals are called glacial relicts and they have been able to survive in Vättern because of the cold water – hence calling them ‘mammoths’.

"Shrimp-like Mysis relicta is fascinating, not least because of its exceptional ability to move between the lake bottom and surface. Such movement probably surpasses what all other freshwater invertebrates can do.”

– Björn Kinsten, Sweden's expert in glacial relict crustaceans. Mysis relicta is one of the crustaceans remaining from that time. It’s only up to three centimetres long, but despite its tiny size it has a huge swimming capacity. At dusk it swims from the bottom of Lake Vättern to the surface layer to feed on plankton. A distance that in Vättern can reach up to 100 metres every night. At dawn it swims back to shelter in the dark depths and so reduce the risk of being eaten itself by hungry fish.

Another crustacean that survives from the past is the small Monoporeia affinis. It resembles a pale shrimp and thrives in the deep waters of Lake Vättern. It isn’t uncommon to find several thousand individuals within a single square metre, at a depth of 120 metres. The bottom of Lake Vättern is so rich in oxygen that it’s teeming with life, even so far below the surface.

These small crustaceans play an important role in the ecosystem of the lake, including as fish food. In Sweden's lakes there are a total of seven species. All seven species are only found together in the waters of Lakes Vättern, Vänern och Stora Le.

As survivors of the ice age, these crustaceans are adapted to a colder climate and dependent on cold water. Climate change is increasing the water temperature in Vättern. Whether these "mammoths" will still be found in Lake Vättern in 100 years is not certain.

Unique ecosystem in Lake Vättern

It isn't just glacial relicts that make Vättern's ecosystem unique. The water in Vättern is cold, pure and clear. And the flora and fauna are rich and unique in many ways. Many of the species found here are rare in southern Sweden, and can usually only be found in northern Sweden and the mountains.

Beneath the surface of the water are a range of naturally reproducing fish unique in our part of the country. Here, cold water species such as grayling, trout and burbot swim together with the country's largest stock of char. In the open water, the predators' favourite food, smelt and vendace, swim in large schools to try to avoid being eaten. In their turn, predatory fish such as char and trout can also become prey for the larger pike that live in the lake.

"Sport fishing in Vättern offers exciting and unique fishing for char, trout and pike – something we must protect!"

– Hanna Eriksson, Sportfiskarna

Visitors to Vättern can experience world-class fishing. Char-fishing and pike-fishing from a boat, and salmon fishing from land, offer incredible experiences, but for the inexperienced angler it's a good idea to go out with one of the local fishing guides first. Vättern boasts both a world record for lake salmon and the Swedish record for pike, with two fish weighing over 20 kg.

Vättern is a fantastic lake in many ways, and a huge natural asset. It also provides drinking water for almost 300,000 people, and many people use the lake for fishing and outdoor activities. Vättern isn’t the largest lake, nor the deepest – but it is still unique in Sweden.

NOTE! Recently, an invasive new species was discovered in Vättern, which is known as the 'Killer shrimp' Read more about this on page 46.

Underwater meadows: Because Vättern is such a clear lake, light filters quite a long way down into the water, allowing underwater plants to thrive. These 'meadows' are a fantastic habitat for small fish and fry, and are the reason why the whole of Vättern has been designated as a Natura 2000 area.

Photo: Örnborg Kyrkander

Mysis relicta.

Photo: Arild Hagen

vättern's ‘to-do list’ – which ones have you checked off?

■ Swimming in Lake Vättern

■ Take a walk to a place with a great view

■ Visit one of the many nature reserves around the lake

■ Go skating in the North Vättern archipelago

■ Go out on Vättern – take a boat, kayak if weather permits, or take a trip on the steamer Trafik

■ See spawning trout and char in the autumn

■ Try land fishing for salmon

■ Visit the aquarium in Motala and see our fish up close

Learn more about Vättern!

Due to its unique characteristics, Lake Vättern also faces some challenges in the future. Do you want to know more about Lake Vättern’s health and how we measure it? Or are you going fishing?

Also visit:

• vattern.org

General information, in cooperation between the Lake Vättern Society of Water Conservation, Leader Vättern and the County Administrative Boards around Vättern.

• vätternliv.se

A portal about Lake Vättern, its ecosystem, environmental conditions and challenges.

There's also a section where you can find fun activities for children of all ages.

• svenskafiskeregler.se

Here you can find out which fishing rules apply to recreational fishing in Swedish coastal areas and the country's five largest lakes.

Plankton sampling is done several times a year and provides valuable information about Lake Vättern.

Char on its way to spawn. Photo: Klas Balkhed

Learn more about life under the lake surface at vätternliv.se

Experience Tidaholm!

Experience tranquillity, adventure, nature, hiking – and the town itself. Here, you’ll find activities for all ages and moods. Do Tidaholm your way!

Do nature in Tidaholm There’s something special about the area around Tidaholm. Here, in nature's own amusement park, you’ll find primeval forests, plateaus, meadows, streams, lakes and ponds. A variety of environments for hiking, fishing, adventure and discovery. Tidaholm’s surroundings not only inspire but also provide a source of energy and creativity.

Do the town of Tidaholm The beautiful River Tidan runs through the town, linking beautiful countryside with quaint urban scenery. Cosy cafés and unique shops line the streets. Well-preserved environments are reminiscent of the time around the turn of the last century, when Tidaholm was a prominent factory town.

It’s around the River Tidan that the town of Tidaholm grew up, and small oases have been created alongside the running water. Stroll around the town and enjoy the beautiful architecture and interesting town centre. The islands of Vulcanön and Turbinhusön in the centre of town offer a range of experiences.

Do hiking in Tidaholm Tidaholm has many beautiful hiking trails. The Pilgrim Trail between Hjo and Kungslena offers hiking through a varied historical landscape. It takes you from the idyllic small town of Hjo on the shore of Lake Vättern, over the barren Hökensås ridge, through forests and open landscapes, and up to the small medieval village of Kungslena at the foot of Mount Varvsberget. With its wilderness and dark forests, Hökensås is a region of great natural value offering soothing tranquillity. Hökensås Nature Reserve has great hiking trails and running tracks of varying distances. If you want more speed, a 19 km mountain bike trail takes you through the forests over a wonderfully soft surface.

Do fishing in Tidaholm Every year, people looking to fish come to Hökensås – a paradise for fishing enthusiasts and known as Sweden's best sport fishing area. There are also about 50 lakes and ponds, 30 of which are excellent fishing waters. In Baltak, just south of Tidaholm, you can fly fish for rainbow and brown trout in the rippling waters of the Tidan River. You're guaranteed a great fishing experience

on this beautiful stretch of river, which is about three kilometres long. Did you know you can also fish in the centre of Tidaholm?

Do culture in Tidaholm The island of Vulcanön is Tidaholm’s cultural centre, providing an arena for the arts –both past and present. Here you will find Vulcanen, our visitor centre with a kids’ activity centre, museum and tourist office. We'll guide you to all the best spots in the area. The children's activity centre offers playful environments to inspire your child’s creativity. Vulcanen is both a meeting place for Tidaholm residents and the obvious starting point for any visit to the town. Tidaholm Museum tells the story of Vulcan, which was the world's largest match factory at the turn of the last century, as well as the story of Tidaholm Bruk, which manufactured cars. The old match factory houses a lithographic workshop, which bears witness to the creativity that has thrived here for hundreds of years. Turbinhusön is an idyllic spot near the river bank with a well-preserved historical environment. Enjoy a coffee in a 19th century setting, relaxing on the outdoor terrace by

Tidaholm Tourist Information

Visiting address: Vulcans Väg 5

Tel: 0502-606208

turistbyran@tidaholm.se tidaholm.se/turist

Follow us on Facebook (@tidaholmsturisbyra) and Instagram (visittidaholm)

InfoPoints:

• First Camp Hökensås

• Tidaholms Stadsbibliotek

• Turbinen Tidaholm

• Camp Maplelakeadventure

• Mjölk, Fröjered

• AMT, Ekedalen

• Hellidens Folkhögskola

Here you will find exhibitions, crafts and more besides. In the countryside, you can visit Kungslena Church, a wellknown medieval church with an intriguing history, which is well worth a visit.

Do Tidaholm for kids Kids will be kids, so obviously Tidaholm offers plenty of space and activities for the youngest members of the family. At Barnens Hus, play is in focus, and the children explore different rooms in a themed environment. Buy something from the shop, take a peek inside the factory or discover the theatre. Another destination is Hökensås, where you can also try out fishing as a family. Guided family fishing at Hökensås takes place every Tuesday and Thursday during the summer. End the day with a refreshing evening swim at one of the many beaches. During the year, a number of family events are also held, ranging from family days to Easter and Christmas markets.

Do autumn in Tidaholm and experience Tidaholm’s varying landscape. Here you can hike, cycle, fish and pick berries and mushrooms. In nature’s own amusement park, you can discover everything that the woods and fields have to offer, and see how autumn transforms the summer greenery into beautiful autumn colours. Make sure your visit some of our farm shops. Most offer self service, so you can visit them whenever it suits you. In the autumn, Kulturhelg (Culture Weekend) is held in Tidaholm. This is a culture festival with stands, a food court and lots of interesting parallel events.

When the snow lies on the ground, there are many different cross-country ski trails to choose from, and when the lake ice is thick enough, you can go ice fishing. Tidaholm also has cross-country trails with artificial snow and a small alpine slope. Maybe you’ll take a break at one of our many barbecue areas? A scenic drive or a walk around the town will help you find your own favourite winter spot.

CHECKLIST FOR YOUR HJO VISIT

1. Taste a success story

Award-winning Wrångebäcks cheese was granted protected designation of origin status in 2022, putting it into the same category as Champagne and Parma ham. The cheese is produced just south of Hjo at Almnäs Bruk, one of the largest organic farms in Scandinavia, with roots dating back to the Middle Ages. Buy some cheese to take home or enjoy a taste on site. The cheese is available for sale in the self-service shop at Almnäs Bruk and also at , on Hamngatan in the centre of Hjo.

2. Discover Swedish design

The founder of Firma Svenskt Tenn, Estrid Ericson is a Swedish design icon of the 20th century. She grew up here in Hjo but moved to Stockholm in 1924, at the age of 30, to use her inheritance from her father Adolf to create what has now become an internationally recognised interior design brand. The exhibition on Estrid Ericson and Svenskt Tenn at Kulturkvarteret describes Estrid's childhood in Hjo, and features a wider selection of both old and new objects from her company. Entrance to the exhibition is free.

3. take an ice cream break

There are three great ice cream places in Hjo. At Moster Elins Glass on Hjo harbour, you can choose from over 40 different flavours and locally inspired ice cream dishes. Gula Paviljongens glasscafé, near the River Hjoån, serves locally made organic ice cream, and you can also try out gelato, nicecream and sorbet. Home made waffles are also on the menu. The Hjo-made Österhagen Glass, a classic Swedish cream ice cream, is served at Delicatezza Bianca on the shopping street of Hamngatan.

Photo: Jesper Anhede

Photo: Jesper Anhede

Photo: Visit Hjo

december in HJO

An atmospheric time of year

Once the decorations are up and the rooftops are covered in snow, there’s a mist over Lake Vättern and the annual tree has taken its place in the town square – then it’s truly Christmas time in Hjo.

There is mulled wine to drink, and hot chocolate too, and the town’s cafés serve ginger biscuits and saffron buns. There are seasonal concerts in the church, the year’s Lucia is crowned, the last presents are purchased and Christmas markets and lunches come one after the other. All of December really is a time where the wooden town turns into a scene from A Christmas Carol.

The Christmas period opens with Hjo Christmas market, which is held on the first Saturday of Advent. On the same day you can also experience the annual Christmas dip. A cold plunge where masked bathers happily jump in to Lake Vättern.

The period up to Christmas then sees more markets around Hjo, including the Christmas market in Almnäs, together with a living Advent calendar where courtyards in the old town create scenes on the calendar, Christmas concerts, shops open in the evenings and on Sundays and Santa's visit to Grebban Mill. To find out what's happening, visit www.vastsverige.com/hjo/jul

Events all year round:

4. Sightseeing with the Lok-Hjo-Motivet Train

If you want to experience Hjo in comfort, we recommend you hop aboard the Lok-Hjo-Motivet train. During the 20-minute ride, you’ll get tips on where to shop and eat, see the award-winning wooden town and park, the historic environment along Hantverksgatan as well as the harbour area. Quite simply seeing the sights!

5. Discover the history of Hjo by yourself or with a guide

You can easily discover the history of Hjo yourself by downloading our app THREE WOODEN TOWNS or by scanning the QR codes on different buildings around the town. You can also go on a guided tour. During the tour, you hear about monks arriving by boat, devastating fires, steamboats, travelling merchants, cattle trails and outbuildings. An exciting journey into the history of this idyllic little town. Guided tours are offered several days a week in summer, and can be booked via Hjo Tourist Information Centre.

6. A green oasis

In the 1870s, Hjo residents could treat their creaking limbs at Hjo Vattenkuranstalt. This was a kind of spa at the heart of Hjo Stadspark, with a heated swimming pool, treatment rooms, lounges, restaurants and accommodation. Just as in the days of the spa, the park is still a green oasis in the centre of town where we enjoy relaxing and socialising. Stay at a hotel or hostel, play chess, boules, mini golf or tennis, enjoy a picnic, visit one of the restaurants, work out, go jogging or simply enjoy the moment.

7. Bison safari

We definitely recommend a visit to Bisonfarmen where you can expect a unique and exciting adventure. On your bison safari, you see the animals up close and get to know Bamse the bison and his friends. A popular adventure for young and old alike.

8. a trip on the lake

Join the steamer Trafik on a day trip on Lake Vättern. Trafik, built in 1892, is one of Sweden's best preserved steamships. During the summer months, Trafik visits Visingsö, Vadstena and Hästholmen.

You can also take shorter day cruises and evening jazz tours. You’re bound to have a pleasant trip and a memorable experience on Lake Vättern.

Photo: Jesper Anhede

Photo: Jesper Anhede

Photo: Jesper Anhede

THE GOLDEN TOWN OF KARLSBORG

– glittering on the shores of Lake Vättern!

”Of all the lovely places here, my favourite for a summer visit is Karlsborg,” said one visitor. And that’s easy to understand, since Karlsborg has just about everything – whether you’re in search of life’s pleasures or life’s adventures.

Long beaches, great food, relaxing boat rides, kayaking, riding, a high ropes course, a national park, 13 nature reserves and 28 fantastic trails are just some of the things we have to offer.

For water lovers, Karlsborg is a paradise – in truth, it's hard not to be close to the water here. Among Lake Vättern's offerings are the wonderful archipelago of the Ombo islands, the Göta Canal with fishing and boating, and the quiet little lakes in Tiveden that provide tranquillity amidst the wilderness. Forsvik with its mill and the oldest lock on the Göta Canal, offers plenty of exciting history. And more adventures await at Karlsborg Fortress During the action-packed guided tour for the whole family, you’ll learn more about the captivating history of the fortress. Come and experience summer in Karlsborg and Karlsborg Fortress!

Karlsborg Fortress

The construction of the mighty fortress began in 1819 on the peninsula Vanäs Udde. The site for the fortress was proposed by Baltzar von Platen, who was also instrumental in the development of the Göta Canal. The idea was to move the Swedish government, Parliament and royal family here, as well as storing the Central Bank’s gold reserve here in the event of war. Even in modern times, the gold reserve has been housed in one of the fortress’ cellars. During World War II, 140 tons of gold were stored in the fortress. 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.

Visit Karlsborg InfoCenter

Storgatan 65, 546 32 Karlsborg

Tel: +46(0)505-173 50

Email: info@karlsborg.se

www.visitkarlsborg.se

TIVEDEN – Sweden's southernmost wilderness

The forest Tiveden is Sweden's most southern wilderness. Tiveden National Park covers over 20 km² of unspoiled forest mixed with lakes, caves and huge boulders. The forest here has been deliberately preserved in a way that is rare in modern Sweden. In Tiveden, magical wilderness and magnificent nature await. And so do incredible opportunities for hiking, cycling, riding, kayaking, fishing, or venturing out on a high ropes course. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or those trying real outdoor life for the first time!

Forsvik

An idyllic place with picturesque mill buildings and the oldest lock on the Göta Canal. Enjoy the glittering 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 isn’t only Göta Canal’s oldest but also the tallest. The works Forsvik Bruk has an amazing industrial history. The Swedish engineer Jan Ericsson, who later invented the propeller, once lived here. The site still bustles with activity. At the museum Bruksmuséet, you can trace the history of the site from its very first steps all the way to the present times. This is a fascinating place with authentic charm! A gem even in autumn and winter.

A gem even in autumn and winter

Autumn in Karlsborg is lovely. It’s impossible to miss the yellow leaves of the chestnut trees inside Karlsborg Fortress, where there are many different activities for people of all ages during the autumn holidays. There are also several traditional events to look forward to during the autumn season. Hiking in both the area of Granvik and the territory named Stora Fjället, both nature reserves, are popular at this time of year. Even in its winter garb, the landscape here is gorgeous, and our municipality has winter activities for everyone. Walking along the beaches of Vättern in the winter light is a unique experience. You can also try cross-country skiing on prepared ski trails (three of which are illuminated) in the recreative area of the forest Norra Skogen. If the ices on the lakes are thick, Karlsborg is a paradise for long-distance skating and ice fishing. Be sure to visit our popular outdoor ice-rink in the northern part of Karlsborg, Hanken, with electric lighting and natural ice.

Instagram: @visitkarlsborg

Facebook: @visitkarlsborg

Experience the golden town of Karlsborg – something for everyone, all year round.

FORSVIKS BRUK DISCOVER

You’ll find more travel tips, articles and inspiration at www.runtvattern.se

Follow us on social media: @runtvattern

Would you like to share Vättern with others?

Don’t forget to use: #vättern #runtvättern

NIKE SELLMAR DANIEL NORBERG DI LEVA JESSICA ANDERSSON HANNA HEDLUND JOHN LUNDVIK ANNE-LIE RYDÉ LIAMOO ANDREAS LUNDSTEDT MARIA SUR BRUNO MITSOGIANNIS LISA STADELL

6/7 HOK, HOOKS HERRGÅRD I 20/7 MOTALA, RÅSSNÄS 26/7 GRÄNNA, RIBBAVALLEN I 5/8 KARLSBORG, GÖTA KANAL

H COTTAGES AND LUXURY CARAVANS – QUICKSTOP 18.00-10.00 H

H WE HAVE ALMOST 500 SPOTS FOR CARAVANS, CAMPERS AND TENTS! H

With the camp site as a base, you have experiences for a whole week within reach of one of the largest tourist regions.

Train trips

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.

Cosy pub

Pub with à la carte menu.

Full rights. Large screen TV.

Open: 18:00 to 23:00. Please try our self-caught crayfish.

Shop

Service shop with long opening hours where we bake bread every morning.

H NEW FOR THIS YEAR H

Mini golf

Challenge your friends in miniature golf. Our beautiful new 9-hole course is located right next to the beach and restaurant.

This year’s news includes 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 we glazed in last year, has this year 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!