Get to know Finja through two distinct highlights: the Romanesque heritage of Finja kyrka and the trails by Lake Finjasjön. The Finjasjöleden runs around the lake and passes the church, bringing culture and landscape together on a specifically named trail. There are also other hiking trails near Finja and Mölleröd, north of the lake. When planning your trip, you can decide whether architectural history, hiking or birdwatching will shape your stay.
The Romanesque heritage of Finja kyrka
Finja kyrka is dated to the latter half of the 1130s. Its Romanesque design comprises a nave, a chancel and an east-facing apse. The Romanesque lime paintings were uncovered in 1932 and dated to around 1140. The two dates refer to different aspects: the latter half of the 1130s dates the building, while around 1140 dates the paintings. This allows the architectural form and decoration to be considered as distinct subjects, dating to close to the same period.
The church is also a clearly identifiable landmark on the Finjasjöleden: the trail passes Finja kyrka, which dates from the 12th century. Those wishing to combine cultural history and hiking will find a clear connection here between the Romanesque building and the route around the lake.
Hiking trails around Lake Finjasjön
The Finjasjöleden is marked in pink. The Hovdalaleden and Skåneleden North–South also run near Finja and Mölleröd, north of Lake Finjasjön. This makes three trails in the area that can be distinguished by name. Pink markings belong to the Finjasjöleden; orange markings indicate the Skåneleden North–South. These colours provide a practical way to identify the trails.
Your choice of route can depend on whether you prefer the loop around Lake Finjasjön or one of the trail options running near Finja and Mölleröd. The trails mentioned provide different points of reference for planning; their descriptions give specific names and landmarks, but do not imply that they share a route.
Lookout tower and birdwatching
There is a lookout tower at Finja’s boat harbour. Various waterbirds can be observed there; you may also spot an osprey or a western marsh harrier. Which species are visible varies with the season. The two birds of prey are therefore possible sightings, not guaranteed ones. The tower adds a dedicated birdwatching option to the hiking trails and is especially appealing to travellers interested in waterbirds.
Another aspect of local history can be seen on the old country road between Finja and Vankiva. Along a ridge, it has partly retained its historic course. Unlike the church, it points to the history of a transport link and a historic route through the landscape.
Getting around and getting there
In Finja by, there is parking south of Finja kyrka, and a sign points to the lookout tower. Skånetrafiken bus route 511 serves the Hässleholm–Örkelljunga route. From the bus stop in Finja, it is only a few hundred metres to the orange markings of the Skåneleden North–South. Check the timetable before travelling, as bus services and route details may change.
A municipal notice dated 2 April 2025 reported at the time that the GPX files for the Finjasjöleden and Hovdalaleden did not match the routes on the ground. It also noted that the Alslingan, in the northeastern part of the trail system, was being removed; trail markers on the ground instead led through Finja by. If you are planning to use GPX data, check the current route in advance before relying on it.
Discover more destinations: Ballingslöv, Tyringe, Sösdala, Häglinge, Västra Torup, Emmaljunga, Hästveda, Visseltofta.
For the main travel overview: Hässleholm.
