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Photographer: Patrik Borgenhard

Discover autumn in Skara, where colourful countryside invites you out for walks and cosy cafés offer a welcome pause. Explore the rolling hills of Valle, uncover the history of Skara and Varnhem, or enjoy a day of family adventures. There’s plenty to discover at your own pace.

Discover Skara’s Rich History

Autumn is a lovely time to explore Skara’s historic heart, with colourful trees framing the streets around the cathedral. Step inside Skara Cathedral to admire its soaring arches and glass mosaics by Bo Beskow, then continue to Västergötlands museum for more stories from the region’s past. Nearby, Fornbyn’s traditional buildings sit among trees turning gold and copper. Combine a stroll through town with a museum visit and a warming coffee break along the way.

Explore the Countryside of Valle

As the leaves change colour, Valle’s wooded hills, lakes and pastures take on a different character. Explore Höjentorp–Drottningkullen nature reserve, where paths wind between old trees, open countryside and traces of the area’s history. Make a stop at Höjentorp Castle ruins, or simply enjoy the views along the winding country roads. Bring a flask and something to sit on for a lakeside pause. There’s no need to rush when the autumn scenery is part of the outing.

Meet the Birds of Lake Hornborga

Discover a quieter side of Lake Hornborga in autumn, when wide skies, reed beds and changing light set the scene for a day outdoors. Head to Fågeludden on the eastern shore, bring your binoculars and see which birds you can spot from the paths and viewing areas. When open, naturum Hornborgasjön offers a closer look at the lake’s wildlife, while nearby Café Doppingen makes a welcome stop for something warm. Take your time – there is plenty to enjoy even without knowing every bird by name.

Follow the Footsteps of Varnhem’s Past

Autumn colours bring a peaceful atmosphere to Varnhem’s historic surroundings. Explore Varnhem Abbey Church and the monastery ruins, then visit Kata gård during its opening season to discover the people who lived here before the monks arrived. Continue around Klostersjön, where the water reflects the changing landscape and the abbey church is never far away. It’s a place to combine fascinating history with fresh air, whether you stay for a short visit or make an afternoon of it. Leave time to browse Varnhems gårdsbutik beside the abbey church, then settle down for a warming coffee and a Swedish fika at Varnhems Klosterkafé in the church park. It’s a place to combine fascinating history with fresh air and a few leisurely stops. Check the shop’s and café’s autumn opening hours before your visit.

Taste Your Way Around Skara

Cooler days make a long lunch or a Swedish fika all the more inviting. At Mellomgården Café & Gårdsbutik near Varnhem, settle down for crêpes or coffee and something sweet, then browse the shop for crafts and home accessories. In central Skara, combine a meal at Skara Stadshotell with a look at its collection of paintings by Lars Lerin. Whether you’re returning from a countryside walk or spending the day in town, good food and a warm place to pause belong on the autumn itinerary.

Find Your Next Family Adventure

Autumn days in Skara can be filled with stories, fresh air and small discoveries. At Bokäventyret in the old library, children can explore books and storytelling through play. When it’s time to head outdoors, Petersburg offers space for cycling, woodland walks and a picnic – perhaps with something to cook over a grill. Fornbyn is another stop for curious explorers, with old buildings and stories of everyday life in the past. During the autumn school holidays, check the local events calendar for extra activities for children and families.

Explore Museums and Enjoy Art, Culture and Local Stories

A crisp or rainy autumn day is a good excuse to explore Skara’s museums and art collections. Discover the region’s history at Västergötlands museum, or visit Veterinärmuseet for an unusual glimpse into the history of animal care and veterinary medicine. At Skara Stadshotell, take a closer look at paintings by Lars Lerin, while Skara Konsthotell features works by Swedish artists including Anders Zorn and Carl Larsson. Choose one stop for a leisurely visit, or combine a few for a day of art and unexpected stories.

Shop Local and Discover Hidden Treasures

Combine an autumn drive through the countryside with a leisurely browse around Skara’s town centre. At Mellomgården Café & Gårdsbutik near Varnhem, you’ll find local delicacies alongside home accessories, clothes and gifts – with the chance to stop for a warming fika. Explore more farm shops along the way for local produce and artisan food to take home. Back in town, discover independent shops, antiques and second-hand treasures. Browse art and pre-loved pieces at Värket, explore vintage interiors at Smått Antikt or look for your next favourite record at Jackdaw Records. Keep an eye out for the Swedish word loppis, meaning a flea market or second-hand sale. Whether you leave with a local treat or a vintage find, you’ll be taking a little piece of Skara home.

Take the Scenic Route on Foot

Pull on your walking boots and enjoy the autumn landscape at your own pace. Klostersjön runt in Varnhem offers a waterside walk close to the abbey church and Kata gård, while the Pilgrimsleden trail between Skara and Varnhem combines countryside with historic surroundings. For a longer outing, Ramlaklevrundan leads through varied terrain to views towards Valle, Lake Hornborga and Kinnekulle. Pack a warm drink, dress for the weather and choose a route that leaves plenty of daylight for pauses along the way.

 

Opening hours may vary during autumn. Please check each venue’s website before your visit.

Last updated on: 15 October 2026