Brobacka nature reserve
Brobacka

A nature reserve with mighty pot-holes

The area contains a pothole field of glacial origin. The potholes were carved by the inland ice on the east side of a narrow, rocky gorge between the lakes Anten and Mjörn.

One of Sweden’s Most Impressive Giant’s Kettle Fields

Brobacka Nature Reserve is home to one of the most impressive fields of giant’s kettles in Sweden – entirely shaped by the forces of nature. Discover around 40 potholes carved out during the last Ice Age, dominated by the “Great Kettle,” measuring an impressive 18 metres in diameter.

A well-marked hiking trail of approximately 1–1.5 km runs through the entire reserve.

The terrain is partly hilly, with roots and stones along the paths. There are significant changes in elevation in some sections, and stairs have been installed in certain areas. The trail leads through the giant’s kettle field, to a beautiful viewing platform, and up to a scenic viewpoint at the top of the hill.

Brudsängen

Directly opposite the giant’s kettle field, across the lake, lies Brudsängen (“The Bride’s Bed”), a mythical rock ledge steeped in legend. It is said that Brudsängen can only be reached by passing through the so-called “Eye of the Needle.”

According to local folklore, the site got its name when a young couple, forbidden to marry, threw themselves from the cliff in despair.

Beautiful Nature & Historic Battles

The reserve also includes several other points of interest, such as Ekhagen meadow, where traditional meadow cutting takes place annually, mixed coniferous forest with Knipe bog, open grazing lands and hazel groves by the lake.

Among the lime trees on a hill in the western part of the reserve stands a memorial stone commemorating the battle against Danish forces at Brobacka in 1566, during the Northern Seven Years’ War.