Bolmsö Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food to try, where to stay, and how to get to Bolmsö. Get ready for a memorable holiday in this gorgeous destination in Sweden.


Introduction to Bolmsö

Bolmsö is a quaint island in the heart of Lake Bolmen, situated in the southern part of Sweden. This beautiful destination is a nature lover’s paradise and ideal for those looking to escape the chaos of the city. Bolmsö boasts vast forests, endless lakes, and many scenic trails, making it a sought-after destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Bolmsö

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bolmsö has a rich historical and cultural significance. There are many museums and significant historical places on the island that visitors can visit. The top cultural attractions in Bolmsö include:

  • Bolmsö Church: The Bolmsö church, also known as Sankta Birgitta, is a beautiful church that dates back to the 17th century. It’s a must-visit for those interested in history and architecture.
  • Bolmsö Museum: The Bolmsö Museum is situated on the island and has exhibits dedicated to showcasing local culture and history. The museum offers an insight into the life and times of the early settlers of the island.

Natural Attractions of Bolmsö: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Bolmsö is a nature lover’s paradise, with beautiful natural attractions that visitors can explore. The top natural attractions in Bolmsö include:

  • Lake Bolmen: Lake Bolmen is the 10th largest lake in Sweden, covering an area of 184 square kilometers. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, fishing, or taking a swim in the lake’s crystal clear waters.
  • Bolmsö Nature Reserve: The Bolmsö Nature Reserve is a protected area on the island that covers over 160 hectares of forest and wetlands. Here visitors can hike and bird watch through the many marked trails.
  • Västanåfallet: Västanåfallet is a stunning waterfall on the island, and visitors can take beautiful scenic walks and hikes to the waterfall through the forest.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bolmsö

Bolmsö has plenty of hiking and biking trails through the vast forests and wetlands in the area. These trails cater to all levels of trekking, from beginner to advanced. Some of the popular hiking and biking routes in Bolmsö are:

  • Bolmsöleden: Bolmsöleden is a 24km trail that winds through the forests, wetlands, and cultural landmarks of the island.
  • Halen Runt: Halen Runt is a 20km biking trail that offers beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding forest.

Best Things to Do in Bolmsö: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to enjoy in Bolmsö, catering to all levels of adventure. Some of the must-do things in Bolmsö are:

  • Wildlife Safari: Visitors can take a guided wildlife safari through the forests where they can see the many animals that call the island home.
  • Fishing: Bolmsö is renowned for its fishing, and there are plenty of tours available that cater to all levels of fishing.
  • Canoe Adventures: Visitors can take a guided canoe adventure through the many waterways of the island.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bolmsö

To make the most of your trip to Bolmsö, we have created a week-long itinerary that showcases all the best attractions on the island.

Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation

  • Arrive and check into a hotel
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the forests and wetlands near your hotel.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures

  • Take a guided wildlife safari in the morning
  • Afternoon kayaking or fishing on the lake

Day 3: Exploring History

  • Visit Bolmsö Church in the morning
  • Visit the Bolmsö Museum in the afternoon

Day 4: Hiking and Biking

  • Hike the Bolmsöleden trail
  • Enjoy a biking tour of Halen Runt

Day 5: Relaxation

  • Spend the day lounging by the lake or taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters

Day 6: Water Adventures

  • Take a guided canoe adventure through the many waterways of the island

Day 7: Departure

  • Depart for home

Food and Drink Scene of Bolmsö

Bolmsö has a rich culinary heritage and boasts many unique dishes that visitors will love. The island is also famous for its locally brewed beer and apple cider.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rökt sik: Smoked whitefish is a local delicacy and is available in many restaurants on the island.
  • Kålpudding: Kålpudding, or cabbage pudding, is a Swedish dish that is prevalent in Bolmsö. It’s made with minced beef and cabbage and is a must-try dish.

Local Beverages

  • Bolmshults cider: Bolmshults cider is a locally brewed apple cider that is made from locally sourced apples and is available in many restaurants and bars on the island.
  • Bolmö Brygghus beer: Bolmö Brygghus beer is a locally brewed beer that visitors can enjoy in many bars and restaurants in Bolmsö.

Where to Stay in Bolmsö: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to accommodation options on the island. There are plenty of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses catering to all budgets and preferences. Some of the popular options are:

  • Bolmsö Gård: Bolmsö Gård is a charming hotel situated near the lake, offering stunning views of the water and the surrounding forests.
  • Bolmsö Hostel and Guesthouse: Bolmsö Hostel and Guesthouse offer budget-friendly accommodation options, ideal for travelers wanting to explore the island on a budget.

What to Buy in Bolmsö: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bolmsö has many unique products and souvenirs that visitors can bring back home. Some of the must-buy items in Bolmsö are:

  • Bolmshults cider: Bolmshults cider is a perfect souvenir to bring back home for friends and family.
  • Handcrafted crafts: There are many locally made handcrafted products on the island, including bowls, plates, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Bolmsö

Bolmsö has a rich cultural heritage that visitors can explore during their visit. Some local customs and traditions in Bolmsö include:

  • Respect nature: Locals are committed to preserving the natural environment of the island, and visitors are expected to do the same.
  • Punctuality: Swedes value punctuality, and visitors are encouraged to be on time for meetings and tours.

Best Time to Visit Bolmsö

The best time to visit Bolmsö is from May to September, when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities. However, the Island is open to visitors all year round, and each season offers its unique charm and scenery to explore.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bolmsö

Do:

  • Respect the locals and their customs
  • Explore the vast forests, wetlands, and lakes that the island has to offer.
  • Try the local delicacies, including the Rökt sik and Kålpudding.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the forests and wetlands.
  • Ignore the safety guidelines set by tour providers and local authorities.
  • Disrespect the cultural heritage of the island.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bolmsö

Bolmsö is a safe destination to visit, with low crime rates. Visitors are advised to take necessary precautions while exploring the island. It is advisable to carry a first aid kit and follow safety guidelines set by local authorities and tour providers.

Health in Bolmsö

Switzerland has excellent healthcare facilities, and visitors can be assured of top-quality healthcare services in the event of medical emergencies. Visitors are advised to have comprehensive travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies that may arise during their trip to Bolmsö.

Getting to Bolmsö: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bolmsö is accessible by both public and private transportation. The top transportation options available for visitors to reach Bolmsö include:

Airports Near Bolmsö

The nearest airport to Bolmsö is Växjö airport, situated 40km from Bolmsö. Other airports nearby include Halmstad airport and Jönköping airport.

Bus Stations Near Bolmsö

The nearest bus station to Bolmsö is in Ljungby, which is served by many regional and international bus services.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Bolmsö by car or train, with many car rental companies and train stations in the vicinity.

How to Get Around in Bolmsö

The best way to explore Bolmsö is on foot or by bike. Visitors can rent bikes or explore the island’s many hiking trails on foot. There are also many car rental companies on the island for visitors who prefer to explore the island by car.

Where to Go Next from Bolmsö: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can explore after their visit to Bolmsö. Some of the popular nearby destinations include:

  • Småland region: The Småland region is famous for its vast forests, red houses, and picturesque landscapes, and is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
  • Göteborg: Göteborg is the second-largest city in Sweden, situated on the west coast, and is a vibrant destination with a bustling food and nightlife scene.

Conclusion

Bolmsö is a beautiful island in the heart of Lake Bolmen, situated in the southern part of Sweden. With its vast forests, endless lakes, and many scenic trails, Bolmsö is a nature lover’s paradise and a sought-after destination for outdoor enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide has covered everything visitors need to know before planning their trip to Bolmsö, from the best places to visit, where to stay, and how to get there. With this guide in hand, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable experience exploring Bolmsö, the gem of southern Sweden.