The Pilgrim Path Falköping - Varnhem
Falköping - Hornborgasjön - Varnhem

Lovely cultural landscapes around Lake Hornborga

In Västergötland there’s a wide network of walking trails, and one of the nicest is the 43.7 kilometre long trail between Varnhem and Falköping. It’s also the stretch that has the strongest historic connection to the pilgrimage phenomenon.

There’s a lot to discover along the trail, including one of Europe’s most important bird areas, Lake Hornborga, where the thousands of dancing cranes arriving every year is an amazing spectacle. At the Hornborga Visitor Centre you can visit an exhibition about the fascinating crane dance, and learn more about the birds in the area.

Abbey ruins and Sweden’s oldest room

The abbey ruins in Varnhem and Gudhem are two other historical landmarks worth seeing. Moreover, on the slope behind Varnhem Abbey is the ruin of one of Sweden’s oldest churches. It’s called Kata Gård, and historians believe that the crypt of the church could actually be the oldest preserved room in the country.

Don’t miss Ekornavallen, a remarkable archaeological site, with remains of graves from the three main eras of the prehistoric period. The oldest grave was built during the Neolithic period of the Stone Age, approximately 3300 BC.

Enjoy the view from two hills

A steep track will take you up through the lovely natural surroundings of Billingen hill, where you’ll get a fantastic view of the plain from the top. Further south the trail passes Mösseberg hill, in Falköping. These two plateau mountains are packed with things to experience, including exercise tracks, mountain bike trails, and ski runs, both downhill and cross country. Billingen and Mösseberg forms part of Platåbergens Geopark. Västergötland boasts 15 table mountains. 

Lots of places to fill up along the way

Hiking requires a lot of effort, which is why its important to top up your energy supplies often. There are places to eat along the Pilgrim Path, Löfwings Studio and Restaurant and Kdesign are worth a visit. You can also eat well at Mössebergs Kurort and enjoy a massage or spa experience, as well as stay the night. Cosy B&B’s Nästegården and Konstnärsvillan, by Löfwings, are two other suggestions for accommodation along the trail.

Find more information about places to visit along the Pilgrim Path here.