Just 30 minutes from our little red cabin Solskenet, there’s a forest so wild and ancient that even Swedes speak of it with a kind of reverence. Welcome to Tiveden National Park – a place of moss-covered boulders, crystal-clear lakes, winding trails, and silent beauty.
If you’re searching for something more than just a walk in the woods, Tiveden is your dream come true.
A Forest Full of Legends
Tiveden lies between the great lakes Vättern and Vänern, on the border of Örebro and Västra Götaland counties. For centuries, this dense forest was known as “the wilderness between kingdoms.” Bandits and outlaws once roamed here. Trolls, fairies, and forest spirits still seem to whisper through the trees.
In fact, the name Tiveden itself may come from “Tyr” (the Norse god of war) and “veden” (the forest), making it the “Forest of the God Tyr.” There is an ancient, sacred energy in the rocks and roots here — something you feel more than see.
Today, Tiveden is a protected national park, offering a rare glimpse into one of Sweden’s last true wilderness areas.
What to Do in Tiveden
Whether you’re in for a gentle stroll or a challenging forest hike, there’s a trail waiting for you.
Top Hiking Trails
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Stenkällerundan (2.2 km) – A short trail through massive boulders and old pine trees. A perfect introduction to the park’s fairytale atmosphere.
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Trollkyrkerundan (4.3 km) – A moderate loop past mossy cliffs and sacred stones, including the mysterious “Troll Church.”
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Trehörningsrundan (9.5 km) – A scenic and peaceful trail around Lake Trehörningen, with swim spots and quiet picnic places.
Trail maps and seasonal information can be found on the official website: Tiveden National Park
Trails are clearly marked and color-coded, and some include wooden stairs and viewing platforms. There are options for all experience levels.
Nature Highlights
Moss-covered boulders
Tiveden is famous for its giant stones, dropped here by retreating glaciers. Some are the size of houses. Walking among them feels like stepping into a Nordic myth.
Lake Trehörningen
This is the heart of the park — calm, clear, and surrounded by forest. Ideal for a cold swim after a summer hike or a quiet moment by the shore.
Flora and fauna through the seasons
In spring, the forest floor is full of blooming wildflowers. Summer brings butterflies and warm breezes. In autumn, the leaves turn golden and red. Winter covers the park in snow, revealing animal tracks and perfect silence.
Wildlife
Tiveden is home to deer, foxes, hares, owls, and many forest birds. If you’re very lucky — and very quiet — you might spot a moose or hear the call of a distant lynx.
Practical Tips
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How to get there: From Solskenet, it’s a scenic 30 to 35-minute drive through forest roads.
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Where to park: Main entrances are at Vitsand (with access to the lake) and Ösjönäs (a more remote entrance with cabins and activities).
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Facilities: Compost toilets, marked fire pits, picnic shelters, and maintained trails.
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Bring your own food and water: There are no shops or restaurants inside the park.
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Best time to visit: May through October. Autumn is ideal for photography and calm hikes.
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Camping: Not allowed in the national park, but several nearby places offer cabins and camping.
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Dogs: Welcome, but must be kept on a leash.
Combine It with Solskenet
Tiveden is a perfect day trip from Solskenet. You can start your morning with breakfast at the cabin, pack a thermos and picnic, and head into the forest. Hike, swim, breathe, and then return to the warmth of Solskenet by evening. Light a fire, sip something warm, and let the forest stories settle in.
This combination of untouched wilderness by day and cozy simplicity by night is what makes staying here so special.
Why Tiveden Steals Hearts
Because it’s wild and untamed.
Because it reminds us how small we are — in the most beautiful way.
Because here, the silence speaks.
Whether you’re looking to reset, reconnect, or just wander, Tiveden offers the kind of space that fills you up instead of wearing you down.