Trail section
Gudhems kyrka - Naturum Hornborgasjön
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Length
19 km
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Elevation
187 m
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Degree of difficulty
Blue
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Estimated time
h
The second stage of the pilgrimage trail runs from the historic Gudhem to the beautiful Hornborgasjön. This stage passes historical landmarks and offers stunning views of the area.
The stage begins at Gudhem Abbey Ruins, which date back to the 12th century. There is a large gravel parking lot directly connected to the trail, and a bus stop is located 1 km away. Today, only the ruins remain of the abbey that once stood in Gudhem, along with a small abbey museum, a monastery garden, and a parish church.
The hike starts on forest trails and gravel roads, then transitions to a paved road for approximately 6 km. After these kilometers, you’ll reach Ekornavallen, an impressive ancient burial site. The area contains burial remains from the three main prehistoric periods: the Stone Age, Bronze Age, and Iron Age. The route then continues along paths and gravel roads, passing farms and fields.
With just a short detour from the trail, you’ll find the charming Löfwings Ateljé & Krog. Here, you can take a break to admire beautiful nature-inspired paintings and enjoy the delights of the restaurant and café. There is also a B&B on the farm, and nearby, you’ll find several other accommodation options, such as Nästegården’s B&B and Bosgården, offering cozy rooms and cottages.
As you approach Hornborgasjön and Ytterberg, there are picnic tables for a rest and a birdwatching tower offering lovely views over the lake.
The hike continues on soft, gently rolling paths along the shores of Hornborgasjön, with beautiful views of the lake. At certain times of the year, grazing animals may be present along this stretch. The stage ends at Naturum Hornborgasjön, which features an exhibition about the lake’s birdlife, animals, and nature, as well as a viewing tower, café, restrooms, and tent sites.
Terrain: Asphalt, trails, and gravel roads.
Duration: About 6 hours, excluding breaks.
Don't miss: The beautiful views from Västorpsåsarna along the lake, especially stunning at sunset.
Getting there: There are bus stops in Gudhem (Road 184, Kabelstationen), at Ekornavallen, and in Broddetorp. The latter two are serviced infrequently.
Accommodation: In Gudhem, you’ll find the Telacka Cottage and Gudhem Guesthouse. About halfway along the route, you’ll find Löfwings B&B, Bosgården Hornborga, and Nästegården’s B&B.
More accommodations:
Places to visit:
Read more about the pilgrimage concept at Pilgrim in Sweden.
19 km
187 m
About Difficulty Grading
The grading of the trails is based on a common national standard. If you want to read more about this, visit 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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