Askersund Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Askersund in Sweden with our comprehensive travel guide. Find out the must-visit places, food and drinks to try, hotels to stay, things to buy and cultural customs of Askersund


Are you looking for a unique off-the-beaten-path destination in Sweden? Look no further than Askersund. Situated in the heart of Närke, in the region of Svealand, this charming town boasts a rich history, stunning natural scenery, and an array of cultural attractions. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or simply a relaxing getaway, Askersund has something for everyone. Here’s our comprehensive guide to exploring the hidden gem of Sweden.

Introduction to Askersund

Askersund is a small town with a population of approximately 11,000 people. It is located on the shore of Lake Vättern, the second largest lake in Sweden. Askersund is known for its beautiful architecture, scenic views, and welcoming locals. The town has a rich history dating back to the medieval era, and there are several cultural attractions that highlight its heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Askersund

Here are the must-visit places in Askersund:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Askersund Parish Museum: Located in a charming old rectory, this museum showcases the history of Askersund and its surroundings.
  • Bergslagsleden: This trail takes hikers through the beautiful landscapes of the nearby Bergslagen region.
  • Ramunderberget: This hilltop fortification provides a glimpse into Viking-era Sweden and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Natural Attractions of Askersund: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tiveden National Park: This protected area is home to an ancient forest and offers ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
  • Harge Uddar: These rocky cliffs provide excellent bird-watching opportunities and are a popular spot for fishing as well.
  • Vättern: Take a boat tour around this vast lake, or simply enjoy the stunning views from shore.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Askersund

Askersund is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, which makes it a perfect destination for hiking or biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Tiveden National Park: There are numerous well-marked trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels that offer immersion into the park’s ancient forest and stunning lake views.
  • Hjälmarenleden: This 120 km bike trail connects Askersund to nearby towns and attractions, offering a chance to explore the region on two wheels.
  • Bäcksjöleden: This 26 km trail takes hikers through the beautiful countryside surrounding Askersund, with views of lakes, forests, and meadows.

Best Things to Do in Askersund: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Askersund Christmas Market: Held annually, this Christmas market is a must-see, offering traditional food, crafts, and holiday cheer.
  • Join a Viking Experience: Take a trip back in time with a guided tour of a Viking-era fortification and a chance to try out traditional crafts and activities.
  • Explore the Askersund Archipelago: Take a boat tour or rent a kayak and explore the string of islands that dot the lake around Askersund.

Week-Long Itinerary for Askersund

Here’s our suggested week-long itinerary:

  • Day 1: Explore Askersund Parish Museum and enjoy the picturesque town center.
  • Day 2: Hike or bike the Bäcksjöleden trail, then enjoy local cuisine at one of Askersund’s restaurants.
  • Day 3: Take a day trip to Tiveden National Park, hiking one of the park’s many trails.
  • Day 4: Take a boat tour around Lake Vättern or rent a bike and explore the Hjälmarenleden trail.
  • Day 5: Learn about the history of the Viking era with a tour of Ramunderberget.
  • Day 6: Visit Harge Uddar for some birdwatching, fishing, and enjoy a picnic on the rocky cliffs.
  • Day 7: Take a guided tour of the Askersund Archipelago and enjoy a traditional Swedish meal on one of the islands.

Food and Drink Scene of Askersund

One of the best ways to experience Askersund’s culture is through its food and drink. Here are the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Västerbotten Cheese: This hard, tangy cheese is a Swedish staple and can be found on most menus in Askersund.
  • Lagom-Style Meatballs: These meatballs are made with a mix of beef and pork and seasoned with lingonberry sauce, garlic, and allspice.
  • Traditional Crayfish: In late summer, you can join a traditional crayfish party, where you’ll dine on the local specialty accompanied with a glass of schnapps.

Local Beverages

  • Sigtuna Brewery: This local brewery makes craft beer inspired by Swedish traditions, utilizing locally-sourced ingredients.
  • Champagne: Askersund is known for producing delicious sparkling wines of their own.
  • Akke’s Distillery: This small-scale distillery produces high-quality spirits like gin and bottled cocktails.

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

In Askersund, you can find a variety of accommodations to fit your needs and budget. Here are some of our top recommendations:

  • Askersund Hotel: This centrally located hotel offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant on premises.
  • Guldkant Bed & Breakfast: This charming B&B is located in a historic home and offers a cozy atmosphere.
  • Bellevue Guesthouse: This guesthouse offers stunning views of Lake Vättern and comfortable rooms at an affordable price.

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

Looking for a souvenir or a unique local product to bring home? Here are some ideas:

  • Sweden-made handicrafts: Visit the Parish Museum’s gift shop, which features locally-made handicrafts that reflect Sweden’s design traditions and culture.
  • Vättern Wine: Take a bottle of bubbles with you, one of the finest of the local sparkling wines.
  • Local sweets and pastry: Treat yourself with a bag of locally produced chocolates, pastries or a jar of homemade jam

Local Culture and Customs of Askersund

As with any destination, it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Here are some cultural customs of Askersund to keep in mind:

  • Respect personal space: Swedish people tend to value their personal space, so try not to stand too close to them.
  • Remove your shoes: It’s a common practice to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home.
  • Embrace “lagom”: The Swedish philosophy of “lagom” means “just the right amount.” Embrace this value by not being too flashy, speaking softly, and not making a fuss.

Best Time to Visit Askersund

The best time to visit Askersund is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is warmest. These months are perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the town’s many attractions. However, winter also has its charm in Askersund, when the town is covered in snow and Christmas markets and holiday events are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Askersund

Here are some helpful tips to ensure you make the most of your trip to Askersund:

Do:

  • Try local cuisine and drinks such as Västerbotten Cheese, Lagom-style Meatballs, Champagne, and Akke’s Distillery spirits.
  • Take a boat tour around Lake Vättern or rent a kayak to explore the Askersund Archipelago.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Do not be too loud or chaotic in public areas.
  • Do not litter or cause any harm to the natural environment.
  • Do not forget to take off your shoes when entering someone’s house.

Safety and Health

Overall, Askersund is a safe and welcoming destination. However, it’s always a good idea to take some precautions:

Safety in Askersund

  • Always lock your doors and windows when leaving your accommodation.
  • Be aware of your surroundings to avoid accidents.
  • Take sufficient precautionary measures in the event of an emergency.

Health in Askersund

  • The health expenditure in Sweden is top-notch. However, it’s always recommended to carry travel health insurance.
  • Make sure to carry basic medication and personal hygiene products.

Getting to Askersund: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are the transportation options and logistics for reaching Askersund:

Airports Near Askersund

The nearest international airports to Askersund are Jönköping airport, Stockholm Västerås airport and Örebro airport.

Bus Stations Near Askersund

Bus transport is available from neighboring towns like Örebro and Kumla.

Other Options

It’s also very convenient to rent a car to reach the town. This allows you to explore the surrounding areas and attractions at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Askersund

Askersund is a small town that is easily walkable. If you prefer a faster mode of transportation, bicycles are available for rent at multiple locations. Bus transport is also offered to connect different parts of the town for a small fee. Boat tours are available during the summer months to allow you to explore the lake surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Askersund: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several destinations close to Askersund that are worth exploring:

  • Örebro: This nearby city is known for its beautiful castle, museums, and shopping.
  • Kumla: Small town located nearby, with a castle and museum, and forests to explore.
  • Karlskoga: A great place for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, skiing, and fishing.

Conclusion

Askersund is truly a hidden gem in Sweden. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming locals, this small town is a must-visit destination. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or simply a relaxing getaway, Askersund has something for everyone.