Mariedamm offers hikes with different character: in the Runsala Nature Reserve, a marked circular trail is the main attraction, while the Mariedamm Trail starts at Trehörningens masugn and passes through an area rich in mines. There is also a bathing spot, a rest area by the lake and tangible traces of the region’s former ironworking.

Hiking in Runsala and on the Mariedamm Trail

The Runsala Nature Reserve consists of old meadow and pastureland, lush broadleaf forest and the deep Runsala Gorge. From the car park in the northwestern part of the area, a marked 1.8-kilometre circular trail leads into the nature reserve. The route’s markings, circular layout and length make it easy to plan.

The Mariedamm Trail has a different focus: it starts at Trehörningens masugn and passes through an area rich in mines and cultural history. Along the way is the Runsala äng meadow, with its rich variety of flora. The Runsala ek oak is also on the trail; it is several hundred years old and has a circumference of 540 cm. So the trail offers both reminders of mining history and named natural landmarks.

Cultural history around Trehörningens masugn

Trehörningens masugn is considered Sweden’s best-preserved mulltimmerhytta. Located in Mariedamm, it is a surviving testament to the region’s former ironworking. This makes the site a notable landmark for those interested in cultural history.

Between the village and Trehörningens masugn lies Grillska graven, where members of the influential family were laid to rest. Another find is the Mariedammsbrakteat: a small gold amulet found in the ground, dating from between 400 and 700. It was probably worn as a protective symbol. The sites have different significance: the furnace represents former ironworking, the grave marks the burial place of family members, and the amulet is associated with a presumed protective function.

Every year, the charcoal-burning team builds a charcoal kiln and invites visitors to a programme during Charcoal-Burning Week. Dates and programme details vary from year to year. If you would like to attend Charcoal-Burning Week, check the information for your travel year in advance.

Guided tours and seasonal offerings

Guided tours of Trehörningens masugn can be booked. Guided tours of the former English Park next to the ironworks site can also be booked. Availability may vary, so check booking options in advance. There is also a seasonal café at Trehörningens masugn. Before travelling, check whether it will be open during your visit.

Skiren and Lake Trehörningen

Skiren is a bathing spot in the small village of Mariedamm. It has a changing room, a toilet, a jetty and a small sandy beach. There is also a rest area with a wind shelter and fire pit by Lake Trehörningen. This lets you choose between a bathing spot with specifically listed facilities and a rest area by the lake.

Discover more destinations: Aspabruk, Åmmeberg, Askersund, Zinkgruvan, Motala, Olshammar, Åsbro, Hammar

Go to the main travel overview: Askersund.