The old church village of Södra Vi was located immediately north of the church, along the former highway between Linköping and Kalmar. This historic location gives the history of the village a specific point of reference. Cycling routes with different characteristics are another option to consider when planning a stay.

The church and the village’s early history

The present nave of Södra Vi kyrka was completed in 1755; that year, the church was consecrated by Bishop Ryhzelius. The church also houses two medieval wooden sculptures, which were transferred from the old church. They depict S:t Olov and S:t Maria. Thus, the church brings together 18th-century architectural history and medieval works of art.

Finds and historic institutions also point to different periods. Tools around 4,000 years old have been found in the area around Krön near Södra Vi. Krönsborg, near Södra Vi, is home to remains believed to be medieval. Södra Vi Hälsobrunn was founded in 1759 by Provost Arendt Grape and operated until 1946. The span of time thus stretches from prehistoric traces to the middle of the 20th century.

Sculptures and museum building

The Agne Lindblad Museum displays around 150 wood-carved sculptures. They depict people in various everyday situations; most are groups shown in scenes from the early 20th century. The building was originally the gymnasium of a health resort complex. In 2015, it was fully renovated and converted into a museum.

The museum building is wheelchair accessible and has an accessible toilet. Confirm visitor arrangements before your arrival. This allows you to plan around your intended museum visit without assuming any particular opening hours.

Choose cycling routes by distance and surface

The “Krön runt” cycling route starts and ends in Södra Vi. It is just over 20 kilometres long and has 160 metres of elevation gain. After a few kilometres, the route reaches Torp Krönsborg. Its length and elevation gain provide specific reference points for planning the route; check current route conditions before setting out.

The Södra Vi–Skillingarum–Skäfshult route is defined by its mix of surfaces: gravel roads, forest tracks and paved roads each account for about a third of the route. At the crossing of the Högerumsån, this route may be difficult to pass in early spring, when water levels are temporarily high. Take this seasonal limitation into account when planning your ride.

Other routes offer different landmarks. The Södra Vi–Mjösjöhult–Bäckhult route heads west from Södra Vi and loops around Bäckhult and Mjösjöhult. The Södra Vi–Marstad–Dabbetorp route starts on a forest track and ends on a particularly scenic path towards Lilla Vi. The options described therefore differ in aspects such as distance, surface and direction.

When choosing a route, note that the distance and elevation gain are specified for “Krön runt,” while the Södra Vi–Skillingarum–Skäfshult route is notable for its mix of surfaces and the potentially difficult spring crossing at the river. Check the current conditions on your chosen route before cycling.

Transport connections

Municipal information updated on 24 January 2024 lists a municipal transport service that runs from Djursdala to Södra Vi on Fridays. A supplementary service to Vimmerby is listed for Tuesdays and Thursdays, as well as market days. Check the current operating details before planning your journey around these services.

Discover more destinations: Vimmerby, Tuna, Gullringen, Solnehult, Pelarne, Storebro

Return to the main travel guide: Vimmerby.