The Sävarån flows through Sävar, dividing the town from north to south. It shapes both how you find your way around town and the views of the river landscape. At the same time, the river links nature and paddling experiences with Sävar’s industrial history. This gives you a clear choice of focus when planning your trip: cultural history in town, nature by the river, or activities on the water and on foot.

River Landscape and Trails along the Sävarån

The Sävarån has been designated an area of national interest for its distinctive natural environment. In its lower reaches, its diversity is reflected in a mosaic of unregulated river, deciduous and coniferous forests, wetlands and sea bays. Wet meadows and deciduous forest swamps are also part of this distinctive natural environment. There are several ways to experience this landscape from the water: the lower reaches, from the E4 to the river mouth at Skeppsvik, form a canoe route.

A paddling trip along this stretch of river starts at the E4 bridge near Sävar. Sävarkanot offers canoe and kayak trips from Sävar to Skeppsvik along the Sävarån. Check that the route is available before your trip. If you prefer to explore on foot, the start of a hiking trail that continues along the river can be found in nearby Pålböle, a short distance upstream from Sävar. The paddling route and hiking trail are different ways to experience the river environment; no specific distances or walking times are associated with them.

For cross-country skiing, there is also a specific starting point: Sävar’s ski trails begin at Skogsvallen IP on Aspvägen, where parking is also available. As parking arrangements may change, check them before you arrive. This makes it easy to plan a paddling trip, a walk by the river or a ski outing from the appropriate starting point.

Industrial and Local History

The history of the Sävarån extends beyond today’s river landscape. A sawmill was built on the river in 1787; the Sävar ironworks later operated from 1804 to 1865. The town’s connection to the ironworks can still be seen at Bruksbacken: the plateau runs along the west side of the Sävarån. The river, industrial sites and landscape are therefore part of a shared local history, without implying that the former businesses are places visitors can tour today.

Another historical connection is the Battle of Sävar, fought between Sweden and Russia in 1808–1809. Archaeological finds also point to partial settlement in Sävar dating back around 4,000 years. This date refers to the finds and the partial settlement; it does not indicate a single historical site or uninterrupted settlement. Sävar thus brings together different layers of history: early traces, the river’s industrial history and the memory of the battle.

Sävar Church

The church is also part of the town’s history. It was inaugurated in 1934, after the previous church burned down. Opening hours are a useful point of reference when planning a visit: Sävar Church is open on weekdays from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The church adds a tangible place in present-day Sävar to the town’s industrial and military history.

When planning your stay, you can tailor your time in Sävar to your interests: the lower reaches and trails offer opportunities to enjoy nature and outdoor activities, while Bruksbacken, the former ironworks, the battle and the church offer ways to explore local history. This combination makes Sävar a particularly appealing destination for those who want to experience its river landscape and cultural history together.

Discover more destinations: Tavelsjö, Umeå, Holmsund.

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