Best lakes around Linköping are found in the Östergötland region of Sweden, a landscape characterized by its diverse natural features. The area is home to several notable lakes, including Roxen, Stora Rängen, and Järnlunden, which are integral to the local geography and recreational offerings. These lakes are part of significant water systems like the Motala ström and Kinda Canal, providing varied environments for exploration. The region offers a mix of open waters, forested shores, and wetland areas, supporting a range of outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
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Rest area in the forest with swimming area
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Great bathing area with jetty, floating island and barbecue hut. Contact details for canoe rental are posted on site.
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Rest area with shelter and barbecue hut, toilets and bathing jetty. Information board about nature conservation projects. Beautifully located.
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The rest area is in an exciting location. The Göta Canal and the lake are very close to each other. However, the canal is higher than the water level of the lake.
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If you don't necessarily want to go to Linköping, you should definitely go around Roxen to the north. A very nice route!
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Nice bathing opportunity on our Sweden bike tour. But you swim in the lake. So the location is only partially correct.
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Long piece of dreamy road with little traffic along the Roxen See. Asphalt is good, it rolls along smoothly. Every now and then you have beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding area.
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For a serene environment, consider Lake Roxen, which is ideal for relaxation, picnics, and paddling. You can also find a great rest area with a shelter, barbecue hut, toilets, and a bathing jetty at Jaktstugeudden Shelter and BBQ Area. Another popular spot is Viggebysand Swimming Area, offering a jetty, floating island, and barbecue facilities.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. Stora Rängen offers a popular 45-kilometer hiking trail called 'Rängen Runt,' which is part of the Östgötaleden. Lake Järnlunden also features extensive networks of trails and viewpoints. For more hiking options, explore the Hiking around Linköping guide.
Lake Roxen offers several swimming spots, and Viggebysand Swimming Area on Lake Roxen is a great choice with a jetty and floating island. Stora Rängen also has several swimming spots around its shores, and Lilla Rängen features two public bathing areas.
The lakes are rich in wildlife, especially birdlife. Lake Roxen, particularly its western parts, is a Ramsar site known for over a hundred different bird species, especially during migration. Lake Järnlunden has recorded over 200 bird species, including breeding populations of Black-throated Diver and Great Crested Grebe. Lake Björken is an excellent location for birdwatching, serving as an important resting place for many swans, ducks, and waders during migrations.
Absolutely. A fantastic, low-traffic route runs alongside Lake Roxen, known as the Scenic road along Lake Roxen, offering smooth asphalt and beautiful views. You can find more cycling routes in the Cycling around Linköping guide, including loops around the Göta Canal which passes through Lake Roxen.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. Lake Roxen is home to 24 different fish species, including pike, perch, and asp. Lake Järnlunden is known for abundant populations of zander and large perch, as well as pike, making it excellent for sport fishing. Lilla Rängen is also known for its rich fish species, including pike, perch, zander, and bream.
The lakes offer diverse experiences throughout the year. Spring and autumn are particularly good for birdwatching, especially at Lake Björken and Lake Roxen, during migration seasons. Summer is ideal for swimming, paddling, and enjoying lakeside amenities. The hiking trails, like 'Rängen Runt' around Stora Rängen, can be enjoyed in various seasons depending on weather conditions.
Many areas are family-friendly. Lake Roxen's serene environment is suitable for families, offering picnics and paddling. Jaktstugeudden Shelter and BBQ Area and Viggebysand Swimming Area both offer facilities like barbecue huts and swimming spots. The low-traffic Scenic road along Lake Roxen is also great for family bike rides.
Lake Roxen's western part is a Ramsar site, an internationally recognized wetland. The area also features the Göta Canal, which passes through Lake Roxen with nine locks. You can also find a unique Heartshaped Lake near Linköping, which is a scenic spot for photography. Järnlunden is characterized by numerous islands and bays, and Lake Björken is surrounded by extensive alluvial marshes.
Yes, along the shores of Stora Rängen, you can find notable landmarks such as Bjärka Säby castle and Stafsäter manor. The Kinda Canal system, which connects Stora Rängen and Lilla Rängen, also has historical significance.
Near Stora Rängen, you can find local eateries focusing on organic and locally produced food, such as Vårdnäs Stiftsgård. The area around Stora Rängen also offers lodging options along the 'Rängen Runt' trail. While specific accommodations are not detailed for all lakes, the general region around Linköping provides various options.
Lake Roxen is special for its diverse features: it's part of the Motala ström water system and the Göta Canal, with nine locks passing through it. Its western part is a Ramsar site, recognized for its important wetlands and rich birdlife. It's also known for its 24 fish species and offers scenic views, hiking and biking trails, and amenities like swimming spots and BBQ areas.
The lakes vary in depth. Lake Roxen has a maximum depth of 8 meters and an average depth of approximately 4.7 meters. Stora Rängen is deeper, with a maximum depth of 23 meters. Lilla Rängen is relatively shallow, reaching 6 meters deep. Lake Björken is a very shallow lake.


Still not found your perfect lake around Linköping? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.