In Ödeshög, various routes lead into the landscape and its stories: through the terrain of Omberg, along the cliffs of Lake Vättern and to a runestone with inscriptions that were not meant to be read by everyone. The walking routes also offer a variety of experiences. In the Glänås visitor area, there are trails of 500 metres, around 700 metres and four kilometres in length – from a short walk along the shore to a longer route.

Hiking, cycling and getting outdoors

The Ödeshög–Omberg–Vadstena section of Östgötaleden is designated as a signature trail. It is suitable for beginners and experienced hikers alike, and can be reached by public transport. Check connections before travelling. Ödeshög Municipality also has several local walking and hiking routes, including Annastigen, Öningerundan, Brodderydsrundan and the route via Ålebäcken to Hästholmen.

In Ekopark Omberg, the hiking trails range from easy to more challenging, and include accessible routes. The area also has several nature reserves. If you prefer cycling, the park has two mountain biking trails and other, easier cycling routes. At Omberg Zipline near Stocklycke, guides lead visitors through two high ropes courses and several ziplines in beech and coniferous forest. The tours are suitable for ages seven and up and require no previous experience. Check booking options and dates in advance.

Another activity is the public disc golf course at Klockargårdsängen: it is free and has nine holes for beginners and experienced players. Check signage and access on site before using the trails in the Glänås visitor area.

Lake Vättern, Tåkern and activities on the water

At Naturum Tåkern, exhibitions, films and guided tours share knowledge about nature and culture in the Tåkern area; programme details may vary. In Stora Lund Nature Reserve, flower-rich steppe meadows meet the cliffs of Lake Vättern. The habitats there support birds and fish, and the clear water offers good conditions for diving. Östgötaleden runs along the cliffs through the reserve, which also offers opportunities for swimming, fishing and picnicking.

Hästholmen harbour is also a diving site. The clear water of Lake Vättern and its great depth close to shore attract many recreational divers. Kayaks are usually launched from the harbour and paddled towards Omberg; the one-way trip usually takes around 45 to 60 minutes. A VätternKajak self-service station at the harbour offers day rentals. Check rental availability and water conditions before setting out.

The bathing area in Hästholmen has a lawn, sand, a jetty and changing rooms. A café, restaurant and toilets are about 100 metres away. The bathing area at Trehörnasjön has jetties, a lawn, sand, picnic furniture, a playground, changing rooms and a toilet. Crayfish fishing is also available on the lake; local fishing regulations may apply. At Lake Visjön, two non-motorised rowing boats are available to rent for half or full days. Check availability in advance.

Runestones, churches and monastic history

Next to the Rökstenen is an open-air museum explaining the history of the stone. The four-tonne runestone includes Lönn runes, some of which were not meant to be read by everyone. Another glimpse into regional history can be found at Heda Church: the medieval church has been dated to the mid-12th century using dendrochronology. A piscina with reliefs of exceptionally high artistic quality is set into the south wall of its chapel.

Alvastra Monastery was founded in 1143 by French monks of the Cistercian Order. Ulf, the husband of Saint Birgitta, died in 1344 during a pilgrimage and was buried at the monastery. The area around Alvastra played an important role in the formation of the Swedish kingdom in the Middle Ages. A visit to the museum at Ellen Keys Strand offers a different perspective: the house has been preserved with its original furniture, textiles and books, and is open for guided tours from May to September. Check visiting options before your trip.

Explore in your own way

Ödeshög lies directly off the E4. Exit 106 takes you to the town centre in just a few minutes. The nearest railway stations are in Mjölby or Tranås; buses run from there to Ödeshög. Check timetables and connections in advance. The Turistvägen is a road route linking Gränna, Ödeshög, Omberg, Rök and Tåkern. It follows Lake Vättern through natural areas and past historic sites.

Smaller discoveries are part of the stay, too: 31:ans Glass och Kök in the heart of Hästholmen serves homemade Italian ice cream made with natural ingredients, with views of Lake Vättern. The menu includes ice cream and sorbets in several flavours; offerings may vary seasonally. When exploring the area, nature trails, water activities and cultural sites each offer a different focus.

Discover more destinations: Ödeshög, Vikbolandet, Linköping, Mjölby, Ydre, Söderköping, Valdemarsvik, Boxholm.

For the main travel overview: Östergötland.