Biosfärområde Östra Vätterbranterna

Experience the unique area of Östra Vätterbranterna with its dramatic nature and great biodiversity! In many places, there are magnificent views over lake Vättern just a stone's throw from a small-scale cultural landscape.

Here, humans have shaped the biosphere – the living part of the earth – for millennia and continue to do so today through active agriculture. The proximity to lake Vättern and the steep climb up the heights give Östra Vätterbranterna its characteristic climate.

Here, heat-loving noble deciduous trees such as ash, elm, linden, and oak thrive. The area is therefore one of the country's most important for preserving the biodiversity that is primarily associated with these tree species. Additionally, there are a large number of pollarded trees in the area, which is considered one of the country's core areas for this tradition.

In addition to the richness of noble deciduous trees, the area is also home to a large number of red-listed species. In the summer of 2012, Eastern Vätterbranterna was designated a biosphere area by UNESCO. The area is simply a must-visit for nature enthusiasts!

Cycling through beautiful views and cultural environments

Biosfärområde Östra Vätterbranterna covers over 100,000 hectares and is crisscrossed by hiking and cycling trails. Significant resources are invested in sustainable tourism and outdoor activities within the area to maintain a vibrant landscape with rich nature where humans are part of the development.

Vätterbrantsleden is the perfect starting point for those who want to leave the car at home but still discover larger parts of the area than one can manage on foot in a day. This cycling trail of over 200 km runs back and forth between Uppgränna in the north and Huskvarna in the south. Here, you can cycle through beautiful surroundings with alternating gravel and asphalt roads.

Vätterbrantsleden is not signposted. Cyclists can choose their own route, but there are recommended stretches, and you can use Naturkartan for guidance. Along the routes, you can take the opportunity to stop at one of the municipality's many farm shops, cafés, swimming spots, or viewpoints for a break in beautiful nature and cultural environments.

Experience the biosphere area on foot or by water

For those who want to explore the area on foot, John Bauerleden, Västanåleden, or Franciskusleden are excellent options. All or parts of the three trails take you through Östra Vätterbranterna, offering forest tours as well as walks near lake Vättern and through urban and rural areas.

On a warm summer day, a trip on the lake can be an enticing alternative. The areas around Landsjön, Bunn , and Ören offer wonderful swimming opportunities and boat and kayak tours for those who want to experience the landscape from a different perspective.

Places full of history

After taking in the nature and views, you can head to urban areas. Huskvarna and Gränna, among others, are located within the biosphere area, two towns with much history to share.

In Huskvarna, you can learn about the history of the town's well-known company of the same name. Take the opportunity to visit Smedbyn and look at locally produced art and crafts.

Visit picturesque Gränna and learn about the story of the balloonist Andrée. Stop by one of the town's polkagris factories to buy some of the original confectionery. From the harbour, you can take the ferry to Visingsö and ride a horse-drawn carriage, or continue on a historical journey by visiting the ruins of Visingsborg Castle.

Three kilometres south of Gränna, you will find Röttle village. A cultural-historical idyll with wooden houses from the 18th and 19th centuries. The village is located right by the edge of Lake Vättern and has been significant for the Gränna area for a long time.

Locally produced food and drink along the way

Within the biosphere reserve's many tens of thousands of hectares, you don't need to worry about going hungry or thirsty. Here, you will find a plethora of cafés, local food and drink producers, and farm shops.

Visiting Äppledalen when the apple trees bloom in May is a unique experience. Take the opportunity to have a coffee and shop at Rudenstams or Grafitgrå.

Flättinge Gårdscafé is a picturesque detour for rumbling stomachs, and if you want a view of lake Vättern with your coffee, you can head to Kroatorpet, Brunnstorpsgård, or Café 7:an .

For those who want to take something home, Strands Gård, Lupiners Gård, Ravelmarks Gård, and Vistakulle Fruktodling are examples of places well worth a visit.

How to get here

The Eastern Vätterbranterna Biosphere Area is a large geographical area. It is recommended to use GPS to reach your specific destination.