Trail section
1. Sankt Olofs kyrka - Gudhem
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Length
13 km
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Elevation
320 m
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Degree of difficulty
Blue
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Estimated time
h
The first stage of the pilgrimage trail is diverse, taking you from small-town charm to nature and cultural experiences in the countryside. It leads all the way to the historic site of Gudhem, where the next stage begins.
The trail starts at St. Olof's Church, located in the heart of Falköping, close to public transportation and parking. The church has medieval origins, with the oldest parts built from limestone in the early 12th century. Around it, Viking-era Christian graves have been discovered.
From the church, you walk through the charming town center, passing small shops, cafés, and restaurants. You’ll also pass Falbygdens Museum, which features an exciting exhibition about prehistoric times in Falbygden. The trail then ascends toward Mösseberg and its beautiful spa park. You’ll pass the Mösseberg Spa, which is now a spa hotel with a restaurant and conference center. Larger paths take you up the slopes of Mösseberg, offering a beautiful view of the town and the surrounding landscape. The trail then transitions to terrain hiking, with forest paths, gravel roads, and fields, before the final 5 kilometers along a minor country road past the old pilgrim chapel and Östra Tunhem Church. At the church, you can use the restroom and refill your water.
In Östra Tunhem, you’ll also find the shop and café Kdesign. Here, you can stop for a simple lunch, sandwiches, and coffee. The last stretch to Gudhem Abbey Ruins follows a country road, and you will cross a busier road that may have traffic.
In Gudhem, there was once a Cistercian nunnery founded in the 12th century. Today, only ruins remain, beautifully situated with a view of Hornborgasjön. Here, you will also find a museum, a monastery garden, and a parish church. You can refill your water and use the restroom.
Terrain: Asphalt, forest trails, and gravel roads.
Duration: About 4 hours, excluding breaks.
Don't miss: Gudhem Abbey Ruins.
Getting there: There are both a train station and a bus station in the town of Falköping. In Gudhem, along Road 184, there is a bus stop called Kabelstationen, where buses run between Falköping and Skara.
Accommodation: Various types of accommodation are available in Falköping. In Gudhem, you’ll find the Telacka Cottage and Gudhem Guesthouse.
More about Falköping
https://www.vastsverige.com/hornborgasjon/pilgrimsleden/boende-i-falkopings-stad/?site=3076
Gudhem
Places to visit
Read more about the pilgrimage concept at Pilgrim in Sweden.
13 km
320 m
About Difficulty Grading
The grading is tailored for Swedish lowland trails that adhere to the quality criteria established by the national framework for hiking trails.
Even and firm ground: The terrain is generally flat. The hike requires no need to use your hands for support. No obstacles. Bridges are always present when crossing waterways.
Uneven and/or soft ground: Some changes in elevation. Certain sections may require hand support to maintain balance. There may be obstacles such as low stiles and short stairs. Minor obstacles like stones and roots. Boardwalks are present.
Loose or slippery ground combined with steep sections: Technical parts require hand support. There may be obstacles such as high stiles and longer stairs. Frequent sections with stones and/or roots. Boardwalks with deeper surrounding water.
Note: One or more of these features may be present along the trail section.
Blue
h
- Vandringsled
- Kulturhistoria
- Pilgrimsleden Falköping - Varnhem
Highlights along the section
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Tour suggestions and information
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