Hidden between the great lakes Vänern and Vättern, Tiveden National Park is a mystical forest that feels plucked from the pages of a fairytale. Massive moss-covered boulders, deep ravines, and ancient pine trees shape this dramatic landscape—once feared as an outlaw’s haven, now revered as one of Sweden’s most enchanting nature escapes.
📍 Location: Between Laxå and Karlsborg, about 1 hour from Mariestad
🗺️ Park Size: 2,030 hectares of protected primeval forest, crystal-clear lakes, and rare flora and fauna
Why Visit?
🌲 Step Into a Nordic Fairytale
Wander beneath towering old-growth trees and clamber over glacier-smoothed rocks. The air here smells of pine and moss, and the silence is broken only by birdsong and the rustling of wind in the trees.
🥾 Hike the Wild Trails
With over 25 km of marked trails, Tiveden offers hikes for every level—from family-friendly loops to more challenging adventures like the Stenkälla Trail or Trehörningsrundan, taking you around tranquil forest lakes and up to panoramic viewpoints.
🦅 Spot Wildlife
Keep an eye out for majestic sea eagles, shy lynx, and the elusive black-throated diver. The biodiversity here is rich, thanks to the park’s varied terrain and old forest ecosystem.
🏞️ Swim, Paddle, Breathe
In summer, cool off with a swim in the pristine Trehörningen Lake. Or bring a canoe and explore the peaceful waterways.
Good to Know
- 🅿️ Parking & Entrances: Main entrances are Ösjönäs (with a visitor centre and adventure options) and Vitsand, popular for swimming and family picnics.
- 🏕️ Camping: No camping in the park itself, but beautiful nature campsites and cabins are available nearby.
- 🐶 Dogs: Welcome on leash
- ❄️ Year-Round Access: Beautiful in all seasons—snowshoe in winter, mushroom-pick in autumn
Make It a Day Trip (or Two!)
Tiveden is ideally combined with other Västra Götaland gems:
- Visit Göta Canal and stop by the boutiques in Lyrestad
- Stay overnight at Kinnekullegården or a lakeside cabin at Spikudden
- Stop at Wira Bruk for lunch and local craftsmanship
- Pick up some sweet souvenirs at Tavlebords Honungsgård on the way back
A Final Thought
Tiveden isn’t just a forest—it’s an experience. A place to unplug, slow down, and rewild your senses. Whether you’re drawn by the ancient myths, the epic hiking, or the sheer Nordic beauty, Tiveden will leave you breathless in the best way.
