3 minute read
THE GOLDEN TOWN OF KARLSBORG
from Visit Vättern 2023
by Runtvattern
– 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.