Best lakes around Sommen are situated in the South Swedish highlands, spanning the borders of Östergötland and Småland. Lake Sommen is notable for its clear, nutrient-poor water, with visibility depths of 8 to 10 meters. It features around 260 islands, contributing to its archipelagic character, and offers diverse outdoor activities. The surrounding landscape is wild, wooded, and mountainous, making it a national interest for nature and outdoor pursuits.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
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A beautiful, secluded route on the western shore of Lake Sommen. If you have more time than "just" the small southern loop, I would recommend a detour to the sanatorium and hiking this section as well.
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Following the road north from the sanatorium, you'll reach this small boat dock. Apart from the jetty, there's nothing to see there. However, it's still in use, although currently (spring 2025) there are only a few boats moored there.
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This headland can be found by following the new path towards the shore directly after the sanatorium. Next to the small but beautiful beach, there are a few makeshift benches and a few fire pits.
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Beautiful spot on the shore of the lake where you can enjoy the view across the water. Sommen one of the greatest clear-water lakes in Sweden. It has around 260 islands, although legend tells that there are 360 - one for each day of the year.
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Had Camping is a medium-sized campsite in Tranås. The campsite is by Lake Sommen and an hour's drive from Jönköping. Lake Sommen is one of the most beautiful lakes in Sweden. It is said that the lake has as many islands as the year has days and the deepest part should be as deep as the year has weeks. Next to the campsite there is a beach with a large sunbathing area for sunbathing, a playground, a separate swimming area for the children and a diving tower for those who dare. The lake also offers beautiful boat and fishing trips! There are many opportunities! Sweden is a sparsely populated country and therefore ideal for relaxing and enjoying the beautiful nature. https://www.camping.info/de/campingplatz/hatte-camping
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Swimming area is open to the public, with diving tower, non-swimmers area and toddler playground. A small boat harbor is adjacent, from which one can make kayak tours. The campsite is also highly recommended!
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Lake Sommen is renowned for its exceptional water clarity, with visibility depths of 8 to 10 meters, making it one of Sweden's greatest clear-water lakes. It's also famous for its numerous islands, traditionally said to be 365, though around 260 are officially counted. The lake's irregular shape, bays, and straits give it an archipelagic character.
Yes, the Swimming Area at Hätte Camping, Lake Sommen is a popular family-friendly spot. It features a large sunbathing area, a playground, a separate swimming area for children, and a diving tower. The area is open to the public and offers facilities for swimming.
Lake Sommen offers a wide array of outdoor activities. In summer, popular pursuits include swimming, kayaking, boating, and fishing. During winter, the frozen lake becomes an ideal location for long-distance ice skating, allowing exploration of its many islands. The surrounding area also provides opportunities for hiking and road cycling.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. For a scenic experience, consider the Western Shore Path, Lake Sommen, which is a secluded trail through the forest with lake viewpoints. You can find more detailed routes and guides for various difficulties, including easy hikes, at Hiking around Sommen and Easy hikes around Sommen.
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for swimming, boating, kayaking, and fishing. For long-distance ice skating and exploring the islands on ice, winter offers unique opportunities when the lake is frozen. Hiking is enjoyable in spring, summer, and autumn, with varying scenery throughout the seasons.
Yes, Lake Sommen provides varied and exciting fishing opportunities due to its diverse fish species, including the highly protected great char and lake trout. Fishing is possible from land, boat, or ice, but a fishing license is required.
While the focus is on natural beauty, you can experience a piece of history by taking a tour on the historic wood-powered steamboat 'Boxholm II', which has been in service since 1904. Additionally, the lake is steeped in ancient local legends, such as the tale of 'Urkon'.
You can visit Naturum Sommen, located at the northern end of Torpön island. This visitor center and natural history museum provides valuable insights into the lake's ecology and history, making it a great stop for those interested in the region's natural heritage.
Yes, the area around Lake Sommen offers several road cycling routes. You can explore various loops, such as the 'View of Lake Sommen – Torpön Ferry loop' or the 'Viktoria Ferry loop'. For more options and details, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Sommen guide.
The area surrounding Lake Sommen is characterized by a wild, wooded, and mountainous landscape. You'll encounter original forests, open cultivated land, and numerous islands within the lake itself. The lake's clear water and expansive views, such as those from Lake Sommen, are prominent natural features.
Yes, for a more secluded experience, the Peninsula by the Sanatorium offers a small, beautiful beach with makeshift benches and fire pits, perfect for quiet relaxation by the water.


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