In the northern part of the Knuthöjdsmossen Nature Reserve, a boardwalk runs through the moor. The first approximately 400 metres are especially wide to accommodate strollers and wheelchairs. Parts of the trail are subject to seasonal restrictions to protect nesting birds; check the current visitor rules before your visit. Parts of Knuthöjdsmossen are included in the European Union’s Natura 2000 network under the designation SE0240037.
Moors, Orchids and Hiking Trails
Knuthöjdsmossen is a breeding area for red-necked grebes. Your best chance of seeing the birds is in April and May, but sightings are not guaranteed. Björskogsnäs offers a different natural setting: its old cultural landscape, rich in plant species, has been shaped by centuries of mowing and grazing. The lady’s slipper orchid attracts many visitors each year, and its main flowering period usually falls in early June. Until the meadow has been mowed, visitors should stay on the marked trail.
The natural highlights peak at different times of year: red-necked grebes are most likely to be seen in April and May, while the lady’s slipper orchid usually reaches its main flowering period in early June. Björskogsnäs also has a 1.3-kilometre circular trail through the nature reserve. From the car park, there is an additional one-kilometre walk to the reserve; check access rules before your visit.
For a hike covering a considerably greater distance, the 65-kilometre Silverleden trail starts and ends at Hurtigtorpet in Hällefors. The route passes through areas where silver mining was extensive in the 17th century. There are places along the trail where hikers can refill their water supplies; check whether these facilities are available before setting out. The different trail lengths offer a clear choice, from the loop at Björskogsnäs to the long-distance Silverleden.
Hurtigtorpet offers activities throughout the year. In summer, these include exercise trails ranging from 1.5 to 15 kilometres, an outdoor fitness area and an 18-hole disc golf course. In winter, the exercise trails become well-groomed ski tracks, and there is also a toboggan hill. Snow and winter operations are weather-dependent, and facility availability may change. Check the latest operating information in advance.
River Landscapes and Waterways
Nittälven Nature Reserve encompasses an unregulated river with rapids, waterfalls and calmer stretches. From the Kolbron entrance, a marked trail runs along the river: seven kilometres north towards Kaljoxadalen and south to Römyren. Trail-marking work is under way in parts of the reserve. April and May are often especially favourable for paddling, when spring floods naturally raise the water level. However, suitability depends on current water levels and hazards on the water.
Lake Torrvarpen also offers an opportunity to spend time by the water: Grythyttan’s bathing area has a beach and bathing jetty. As seasonal facilities may be affected, it is a good idea to check their current status before visiting. Fishing is also possible in more than 400 lakes, ponds and flowing waters in Hällefors Municipality. Check the current fishing rules and any required permits in advance.
Silver Mining, Architecture and Local Traditions
The Silvergruvorna preserve visible traces of the silver mining carried out here mainly in the 17th and 18th centuries. Silvergruvan was Sweden’s second-largest silver mine; only Sala silver mine was larger. A marked trail through the Silvergruvorna cultural landscape leads to a viewpoint with a picnic table. Check trail and terrain conditions before your visit. Krokbornsparken, meanwhile, is Sweden’s oldest public park; seasonal events may vary.
Grythyttan’s character is shaped by its well-preserved village and church centre, the Bergslagen style and wooden houses with architectural features dating from the 18th and 19th centuries. Since the early 1970s, the town has focused particularly on preserving and developing local products and traditions. Måltidens Hus also has an unusual story: it originally represented Sweden at the 1992 World Expo in Seville and was moved from Spain to Grythyttan in 1994.
Among the offerings in Grythyttan is Neerings, a shop featuring an exhibition of homemade products, as well as ice cream and chocolate made on site. Grythytte Qwarn is a café, gallery and farm shop, selling freshly milled flour and other locally produced goods. Check opening hours before visiting. Tunnbröd and sourdough bread are baked at Kloka Gummans bagarstuga.
Another cultural history destination is the open-air museum in Bredsjö. Along an approximately two-kilometre historic trail, information boards tell the story of the Forest Finns and their way of life from the late 16th century onwards.
Plan Your Journey
Hällefors and Grythyttan are usually reached by car or bus. Train connections are available from Gothenburg, Falun and Kristinehamn. As routes and timetables may change, check current connections before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Grythyttan, Hällefors, Sävsjön, Laxå, Vintrosa, Lekeberg, Askersund, Degerfors.
Return to the main travel overview: Örebro.
