In Istorp, waterways, forests and horse-riding experiences set the tone. The landscape combines open areas with beautiful stone walls and woodland; the Viskan flows through the village. Every year, Istorp attracts birdwatchers and rare bird species. Historic sites such as Istorp Church and Ekarebo Skvaltkvarn add insights into the area's history to these nature experiences.
Horse activities for different interests
Ridskolehästar offers private riding lessons on the provider's horses. Beginners can learn the basics of horse care there: brushing, saddling and tacking up. Your first trail ride is also accompanied. Guided rides in the forest are also available and are suitable for beginners. Visitors who bring their own horse can also take part in training in dressage, groundwork and jumping at Ridskolehästar.
Fagerhults Häst offers trail rides, riding lessons, weekend courses and opportunities to spend time with horses. Horse experiences are limited to one or two guests per session. The offerings therefore differ in focus: Ridskolehästar offers not only guided experiences but also basics for beginners and training with your own horse; Fagerhults Häst combines trail rides and lessons with weekend courses and limited group sizes.
Church and mill: historic traces
Istorp Church was built in the early Middle Ages; medieval walls are still part of the present-day building. The church's location also tells of a former connection: the medieval road between Skara and Varberg ran between Istorp Church and the vicarage. The road is part of the historical context of the village and should be distinguished from today's horse activities and nature experiences.
Another historic stop is Ekarebo Skvaltkvarn, a restored watermill in the forest by the Ekån. It was originally built in 1800 and moved downstream in 1841. Of the 19 mills that once operated in the area, it is the only one still standing. The church and mill illustrate different aspects of the area's history: medieval walls are part of the present-day church building, while the mill is defined by its construction and relocation history.
Forest, birdwatching and waterways
The landscape of open areas, stone walls and woodland provides a setting for observing nature in Istorp. The village attracts birdwatchers and rare bird species every year. For anyone interested in birds, this is a compelling reason to include nature in their stay. The Viskan, which flows through Istorp, and the Ekån by the watermill are two named waterways mentioned in this description of the area.
Anglers can also use named waterways as a guide: a fishing notice from 2018 lists the Lillån up to Fävren within Marks Municipality, as well as Lilla Eksjö and Gravsjö in Istorp, as part of the Viskan fishing area. Check the current rules and access before fishing.
Farming and a forest-side stay
Frugårdens Kött is an organically certified farm with suckler cows; the calves are raised there until slaughter. The farm invites visitors to see the animals and experience a working farm. Specific arrangements may vary. A local report from 2026 lists Fridays as the farm shop's opening day and beef and ground beef as products. Check opening times before visiting.
Strömmared Östergården is a carefully renovated 19th-century farm with tourist offerings. The farm also has a newly established organic apple orchard and an on-site cider press. Skogens Hus organizes experiences and events for businesses and groups in the forests of Istorp. Overnight stays in cabins right by the forest are also offered; availability may vary. Check availability before booking.
Discover more destinations: Borås, Sunnersberg, Vänersborg, Månstad, Västerlanda, Grästorp, Lidköping, Öckerö
Go to the main travel overview: Västra Götaland.
