Bettna Church dates back to the 12th century. Nearby are burial grounds of various sizes; paths in the nearby Brunnstaåsen Nature Reserve also cross a ridge. In summer, a seasonal outing on the steamer Munter on Lake Yngaren is another option. Church and settlement history, nature and a range of leisure activities come together here. When looking for holiday accommodation, you can weigh up which of these interests matters most for your trip.

Walking Trails and Activities Nearby

Brunnstaåsen Nature Reserve is outside Bettna, but nearby. There are trails and footpaths where you can explore the ridge on foot. This offers an opportunity to enjoy the landscape and get some exercise alongside the historical attractions. Another leisure option in Bettna is the disc golf course established by Bettna AIS next to the sports ground. Bettna AIS has also set up a barbecue area beside the football pitch.

The Church and Local History

Bettna Church originally dates from the 12th century. Two gatehouses, built in 1731, stand in its churchyard. The church’s origins and the precisely dated year of the gatehouses mark two different points in history. The area around Bettna’s former railway station also has cultural and historical value. Thus, the former railway station and its surroundings, as well as the church and its gatehouses, are part of the local history.

Archaeological Traces Around Bettna

The nearby burial grounds vary both in size and in the types of graves described. The burial ground at Valsta consists of around 25 circular stone settings. The so-called Lötagravfälten comprised around 60 graves in total, including burial mounds and stone settings; they were investigated in the 1880s. At Solberga there is a burial ground with stone mounds and circular and square grave structures. Lena is home to the largest burial ground in the Bettna parish: it contains more than 120 graves, including burial mounds and circular stone settings.

A runestone stands at Mälsundet, also known as Mälspången. Its location points to an old bridge site. Alongside the burial grounds, this brings another historical connection to the fore: the site’s significance as a former bridge crossing.

Waterways and a Summer Cruise

The history of the waterways is also part of the region’s story. During the Viking Age, a navigable waterway ran through the Bettna area from Långhalsen via Nyköpingsån to the Baltic Sea. The area around Bettna has numerous prehistoric and early historic monuments along Route 52 and scenic route 221, including runestones, hillforts, burial grounds and burial mounds. The towns of Bettna, Vadsbro and Blacksta are also along scenic route 221.

In summer, you can take a nostalgic trip on Lake Yngaren aboard the restored old steamer Munter. On its way to or from Björkvik, the vessel sometimes passes Bettna. If you want to plan your trip around the cruise, check the latest dates and timetable in advance. The cruise offers a seasonal view of Lake Yngaren; the occasional passage by Bettna is an additional connection to the village, but is not guaranteed on every trip.

Discover more destinations: Hälleforsnäs, Sparreholm, Flen, Mellösa, Malmköping

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