Just 30 minutes from your little red cabin in the woods
There’s something ancient and grounding about preparing a meal from ingredients that carry a story—especially when those ingredients come from a place as special as Bisonfarmen i Gate.
A half-hour scenic drive north of Solskenet, along winding forest roads and open fields, leads you to the remarkable Gate Bison Farm. This family-run farm is not only home to one of Sweden’s most impressive herds of American bison, it’s also a destination in itself—rich in nature, history, and taste.
The Story Behind Bison Gate
The Gate Bison farm began in 1993, when the first bison arrived to this remote corner of Västergötland. What started as a dream became a thriving operation with over 150 bison grazing freely across more than 100 hectares of pastureland. These majestic animals, once nearly extinct in North America, have found a peaceful home in the Swedish countryside.
The farm is fully committed to sustainable, ethical animal care, producing high-quality meat without unnecessary additives or stress for the animals. It’s slow food at its finest.
What to Do at the Farm
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Take a guided tour to see the bison up close (from a safe distance, of course!). Learn about their behavior, their comeback story, and the life of the herd through the seasons.
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Shop in the farm store, where you can buy delicious cuts of bison meat—tender steaks, rich minced meat, marinated grill packs, sausages, and even charcuterie.
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Pick up local specialties such as honey, jams, and sauces to complete your outdoor dinner.
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If you’re visiting during summer, keep an eye out for special events like grill buffets and tastings at the farm.
👉 More info: https://gatebison.se/
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Back at Solskenet: Grill, Sip, and Soak It In
No meal is complete without a good drink. On your way back to Solskenet, swing by Systembolaget in Hjo, where you’ll find a curated selection of wines, beers, and alcohol-free options.
If you’re unsure what pairs best with bison, a helpful employee might guide you to a robust red wine—something earthy, full-bodied, and perfect for open-fire grilling.
Once you return to the peace of Solskenet, it’s time to fire up the outdoor grill pit just in front of the cabin. We’ve placed a grill rack and a sturdy tripod pot there for guests to use. Light your fire (make sure it’s safe and conditions allow it), and let the slow grilling begin.
As the scent of wood smoke and sizzling meat fills the air, pour yourself a glass of that well-chosen wine. Sit back in one of the outdoor chairs, watch the light shift through the pines, and listen to the quiet sounds of nature. Maybe a woodpecker, maybe a deer stepping gently through the trees.
There’s no rush.
No noise.
Just forest, fire, and food.
Why We Love This Daytrip
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It combines adventure, local culture, and slow living
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You support a small-scale, sustainable farm with every purchase
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You return to Solskenet with more than just ingredients—you bring back a story
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And nothing beats a meal made outdoors, by your own hands, surrounded by silence
Solskenet isn’t just a place to sleep. It’s a place to experience Sweden—through its forests, its animals, its people, and yes… its food.
So if you’re looking for a day trip with flavor and soul, we recommend:
Bison Gate + Systembolaget + Forest Grill = A Perfect Evening at Solskenet.
Smaklig måltid! 🥩🌲🍷