Birgitta Church was completed in 1620 and is notable, among other things, for the placement of its pulpit. For those interested in culture, this offers a tangible architectural point of interest. Just to the south stands Birgittastugan, an 18th-century wooden cottage that houses a small local-history museum. The church and cottage lead to two different themes in the area's history: church construction and local collections. Birgittastugan also displays boat models from Harry Karlsson's former boat museum collection; the display may vary.

Cultural history and local places of remembrance

Olshammarsgården is the birthplace of the poet Verner von Heidenstam. It also has a small commemorative exhibition about Båt-Harry Karlsson; the seasonal display may vary. Between Olshammarsgården and the churchyard stand De tolv apostlarna: twelve lime trees that give this place its name. Tours of Birgitta Church can be booked through neighboring Olshammarsgården. As booking arrangements may change, it is advisable to check before visiting.

Another historical trail leads south: Igelbäckens masugn is about nine kilometers south of Olshammar. The preserved blast furnace is one of the few of its kind in Örebro County; its history dates back to 1696. This adds a distinct focus on industrial history to the area's church and literary history.

Walking trails and cycling options

The 96-kilometer Munkastigen Pilgrim Trail runs between the Riseberga Monastery Ruins outside Fjugesta and Birgitta Church in Olshammar. On the Aspavandring, the trail passes Rosendal bathing area after about one kilometer. The Norra Vätternleden starts at Olshammarsgården; cyclists can follow it from Olshammar to Tiveden National Park. This brings together different kinds of routes: a long pilgrim trail, a named stopping point at a bathing area, and a cycling connection to Tiveden. Local trail conditions may change; it is advisable to check the latest route information when planning.

Paddling and nature

The waterways also vary in their routes. The Norra Vättern Canoe Trail is about 15 kilometers long and runs from Askersund to Olshammar. The Hjortholmarna Tour is a kayaking trip that starts at Olshammar's guest harbor. Water conditions can affect paddling; conditions on current tours may change. So check in advance what applies for your planned date.

The Norra Vättern Archipelago Nature Reserve comprises about fifty islands and is accessible only by boat. Local restrictions may change; check the current conditions before visiting. Its rich birdlife includes breeding red-breasted mergansers, common terns, ospreys, black-throated loons and other waterbird species. As wildlife sightings are seasonal, the time of your visit also affects which species you may see.

A regional place to eat

The restaurant at Olshammarsgården serves home-cooked meals, mainly made with regional ingredients. The menu may change; checking for the latest information before dining can help with planning.

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

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