Surrounded by Lake Vättern, Visingsö is a picturesque Swedish town on an island of the same name. According to local legend, the island was created by a giant named “Vist", who threw a lump of soil into Lake Vättern as a stepping stone for his wife to cross over.
Things to do in Visingsö
One of the best ways to explore Visingsö is aboard the Visingsötåget, a charming train that travels between Remmalagen and Näs. Admire the 16th-century castle ruins of Visingsborg, where Russian prisoners of war were once detained and visit the island’s majestic oak forest. In Näs, you’ll find the remains of a royal castle that was constructed by King Sverker I in the 12th century.
Erected in the 17th century as a royal church, the Brahe Church is now one of Visingsö’s most important places of worship. It was designed in a Renaissance style and is beautifully decorated, with its interior serving as a museum and art gallery. Also of note is the whitewashed Kumlaby Church, which houses plaster paintings dating from the 15th century.
North of the island is the Visingsö Golfklubb, which offers magnificent views across Lake Vättern from each of its nine holes. It has been described as having a “Scottish character” and lies not far from the golden beach of Sandudden. In the summer months, this sweep of sand is a popular setting for swimming and sunbathing.
Getting around Visingsö
Car ferries connect to Visingsö from Gränna, which is around 30 minutes’ drive from Jönköping. Gothenburg-Landvetter Airport is just under two hours away and has flights to destinations across Europe. Buses travel around Visingsö, although renting a car or bicycle is the most convenient way of exploring the island. Horse-drawn carriages are also available for getting around.