A runic inscription tells of a bridge while also depicting episodes from a famous legend: the Sigurdsristningen brings together different traces of the past in a small space. It is one of Sweden’s most significant prehistoric monuments and a unique 11th-century runic inscription among the monuments and inscriptions of Södermanland.
History to discover
The Sigurdsristningen depicts various episodes from the legend of Sigurd Fafnesbane. The text refers to the construction of a bridge over the Ramsundet. Information boards, the IZI-Travel app and a bookable guided tour offer ways to explore the history. If you travel by bus, route 18 stops at Mora vsk, about 500 metres from the Sigurdsristningen.
The Rademachersmedjorna also take you back to another era: the area is one of the best-preserved from the 17th century in Sweden and is now an open-air museum with craftspeople and shops. The site is accessible around the clock, and admission is free. If you would like to try something for yourself, Jutemarks Smide offers a bookable introductory blacksmithing experience.
At the Munktell Museum, you can explore 180 years of Swedish industrial history. You can do more than just see the old vehicles up close: visitors are allowed to climb on them, sit in them, touch them and play with them. The Eskilstuna City Museum on Faktoriholmarna in the city centre offers another perspective on the city. The history museum features exhibitions for adults and children.
Hiking trails, water and wetlands
The Gyllenhielmska Trail runs 34.1 kilometres from the Årby recreation area via the Sundbyholm guest harbour to Björsundsbron. Forests, rocky hills and fields shape the landscape along the route. Four natural stages divide the trail; you can start or leave it near bus stops and car parks.
The Hedlandet Nature Reserve is a mix of rocks, coniferous and deciduous forests, farmland, pastureland, wetlands and small bogs. Several trails run through the protected area. There are views from here of the Hyndevadsån, which connects Lake Hjälmaren and Lake Mälaren along its course. Eskilstuna and Torshälla have a total of 24 nature reserves, with diverse plant and animal life.
The Ekeby wetland, Sweden’s largest constructed wetland, lies on the outskirts of Eskilstuna. It covers 40 hectares and has eight large ponds. It is open to visitors around the clock throughout the year. You can watch birds from the birdwatching towers and explore the rich variety of plant life.
Different routes, different perspectives
There are also several routes to choose from by bike. The Torshälla–Vallby route is just under 40 kilometres long and starts and ends at Eskilstuna Central Station. It passes through one of Södermanland’s most culturally and historically rich landscapes. The Banvallen route between Eskilstuna, Ärla and Eklången is just under 20 kilometres long, paved and easy to ride. Visitors can cycle or ride horses along the old railway line. The two tours therefore differ in both length and the landscape and activities described.
For a break by the water, head to Sundbyholm beach on Lake Mälaren. It has a sandy beach, a jetty, a barbecue area, a toilet, benches and an accessible ramp. Watching nature and spending time at the beach are two very different ways to experience the landscape.
More of the region
Parken Zoo is home to unique and endangered animal species. Daily animal presentations and feedings take place throughout the season, while the amusement park offers rides and family experiences. Bookable special tours introduce visitors to animals such as lemurs, otters and petting animals.
Recurring events in Sundbyholm include the annual Breeders’ Crown. The venue also hosts elite-level harness racing, show jumping competitions and other events. Eskilstuna’s farm shops add a culinary touch, offering freshly picked strawberries, freshly extracted honey and freshly baked sourdough bread.
Discover more destinations: Eskilstuna, Näshulta, Ärla, Kvicksund, Stora Sundby, Västra Näshulta.
Discover more destinations: Nyköping, Strängnäs.
Back to the main travel overview: Södermanland.
