The Gullspångsälven flows through Gullspång, connecting Lakes Skagern and Vänern. From this river landscape, there are discoveries in several directions: marked hiking trails, places with medieval history and experiences by the water. It is the contrasts that make Gullspång so interesting—from quiet forest paths to the summer festivities in Hova.
Hiking Among Views and Traces of the Past
The Högsåsen Nature Reserve has marked trails ranging from 1.2 to 10 kilometres long, so you can choose a route based on its length. Högsåseberg reaches 216 metres above sea level; on a clear day, you can see as far as Billingen and Kinnekulle. The view and trail length offer two different points of reference when planning your hike.
In the Folkeberg Nature Reserve, a marked 1.6-kilometre loop leads through a forest of very old trees. The reserve is also home to a well-preserved Bronze Age burial cairn. Nature and an archaeological find thus sit side by side in the same protected area, without requiring a long hike.
Kvarnfallet is a picnic spot and starting point for hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels. Along the trails, you’ll pass traces of the charcoal-burning tradition, including a charcoal-burning platform and a charcoal burner’s hut. For a walk in the town of Gullspång, Hälsans stig is a good option: the three-kilometre, accessible walking loop begins and ends at Dressinparken. Gullspång bus station is across the road.
Knightly History and Cultural Sites
Hova Riddarvecka has been an annual summer tradition since 1990. It centres on the historic Battle of Hova, which took place in 1275. During the festival week, Hova hosts events including jousting tournaments; there is also a medieval village with craft stalls and food. Individual programme items and vendors may vary. Dishes mentioned include cabbage soup and “galen galt” at Ladulås lada; the annual offerings may also vary.
The reconstructed Södra Råda timber church represents one of Sweden’s best-preserved medieval wooden churches, with its magnificent 14th- and 15th-century wall paintings. The church was reconstructed using medieval methods. The old churchyard site and permanent outdoor exhibitions are open for independent visits year-round. Guided tours are offered on Saturdays and Sundays in summer; dates may vary.
Another cultural and historical discovery awaits at the Frans G Bengtsson Memorial Library. On display are books from the author’s private collection, his rustic desk, and original letters and work notes. The collection gives literary history a tangible connection to personal working materials.
River, Lake and Wildlife Watching by the Water
The salmon ladder in Gullspång can be visited year-round. The best opportunities for viewing are generally during the salmon and trout spawning season in October and November. An information board, tables and benches invite you to take a break during your visit. Wild salmon and trout depend on spawning grounds in the Stora and Lilla Åråsforsarna. The area around Åråsviken in the Gullspångsälven Nature Reserve is also home to a rich variety of birdlife.
You can fish for several species in Lake Vänern year-round using various sport-fishing methods. Check the current fishing regulations and protected areas before setting out. Vänern Outdoor offers kayak rentals, courses, and guided and self-guided tours in Gullspång Municipality. Rental and tour availability may vary by season.
More Activities and Practical Information
If you enjoy exploring on two wheels, try Trelänsbanan: a 38-kilometre rail-bike route from Gullspång through Konsterud in southern Kristinehamn to Degerfors. Booking details may vary seasonally. The rail-bike centre in Gullspång is about a 200-metre walk from the bus station.
Getryggens aktivitetspark has a bike park with downhill and technical trails, pump tracks and MTB trails. There is also a 12-hole disc golf course and an easier six-hole course. Ribbingsfors Golf Course, meanwhile, is set in a manor estate landscape by Lake Skagern and has nine holes. The different options offer several ways to explore the area actively, without limiting you to just one way of getting around.
Discover more destinations: Gullspång, Hova, Gårdsjö, Otterbäcken, Skagersvik, Södra Torp, Mariestad, Vårgårda.
Back to the main travel overview: Västra Götaland.
