The Best of the Biosphere Trail

Hike Day 1: Källby - Trolmen (Stage 4, Biosphere Trail)

The route begins with an ascent as the Kinnekulle plateau mountain starts here. Shortly afterward, you are rewarded with beautiful views over Lake Vänern and a varied landscape. Along the way, you pass the idyllic village of Blomberg, which could be described as the very image of a Swedish village. The trail continues through Västerplana Storäng, a nature reserve with small waterfalls cascading from Klevkanten cliff. If you hike the trail in May, you will notice the scent of wild garlic. Note that picking wild garlic is not allowed in the nature reserves, which much of the trail passes through. You then continue up toward Västerplana Church, where you walk over limestone pavement and through forested areas. This variation makes this stretch one of the trail’s most beautiful stages.

Accommodation: Trolmens B&B, Fredsberg 1
Food & Coffee: Café på klostret
Stage Length: 15 km
Time: 5 h

Hike Day 2: Trolmen - Hällekis (Stage 5, Biosphere Trail)

This stretch is one of the most spectacular on the entire Biosphere Trail, featuring both stunning nature that showcases the biodiversity of the entire Biosphere Reserve and several cultural attractions. The trail passes by The Munch Meadows and along Klevkanten above the treetops. It is worth taking the extra detour into the forest to walk along the lush paths. Right after The Munch Meadows, you reach The Grand Quarry. If it's a warm day, you might take the opportunity to go down into the quarry for a swim in the lake. After the quarry, you pass the manor Hellekis Säteri with its beautiful garden and garden café, finishing with a walk right by the shore of Lake Vänern before reaching Hällekis.

Food & Coffee: Hellekis Kök & Trädgårdscafé, Christians Garden and Café
Stage Length: 14 km
Time: 5 h

General Information:

Terrain: Mostly trails but also gravel roads
Transportation: Train service with Kinnekullebanan by Västtrafik operates from Herrljunga to Mariestad, stopping at Blomberg and Trolmen stations. Search for your departure here.