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Hike along the Pilgrimage Trails of West Sweden

In recent years, the interest in pilgrimage hiking has grown enormously. Many people seek the calm of nature, combined with good food and comfortable accommodation. In West Sweden, there are six pilgrimage trails waiting to be explored.

 

Pilgrim Trail Göta Älv

Pilgrim Trail Dalsland

Pilgrim Trail Skaraborg

Gothenburg – The Göta Älv Trail

When you set out on the Pilgrim Trail Göta Älv, you’re walking in the footsteps of your ancestors. The route is rich in cultural heritage and takes you through beautiful natural surroundings along the Göta River. The trail begins in Gothenburg and ends in Vänersborg.

 

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Dalsland 

The Pilgrim Trail Dalsland has a fascinating story to tell — one that stretches over 100 kilometres, from Vänersborg in the south to Edsleskog in the north. For centuries, countless pilgrims have travelled this route on their way to Nidaros, now known as Trondheim, in Norway.

 

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Läckö - Hjo

The Pilgrim Trail between Läckö and Hjo weaves together nature, history and culture on a continuous walk from the majestic castle setting in Lake Vänern’s archipelago to the charming wooden town on the shores of Lake Vättern.

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Lödöse – Skara (Essunga Trail)

This historic hiking route connects the medieval port town of Lödöse with Skara – one of Sweden’s oldest towns and an important ecclesiastical centre. The trail winds through scenic landscapes and areas rich in cultural history.

 

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What is a pilgrimage hike?

A pilgrimage hike is an ancient tradition where you walk at a peaceful pace towards places of spiritual or cultural significance. It’s a chance to take a break from everyday life and gain new perspectives. The word pilgrim comes from the Latin peregrinus, meaning “stranger”. As a pilgrim, you leave behind what is familiar and journey towards the unknown — welcoming new experiences, encounters and insights along the way, whether alone or with others.

Pilgrimage – a tradition revived

Pilgrimage hiking was common as far back as the Middle Ages, right up until the mid-1500s when King Gustav Vasa banned the practice. Fortunately, the tradition has seen a strong revival in modern times.

Today, the motivation is usually not religious, but rather a longing to reconnect with nature and take a break from the stresses of everyday life. Why not give it a try yourself?

Last updated on: 8 October 2026