Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Sweden
Västra Götaland

Lilla Edet

Attractions and Places To See around Lilla Edet - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Lilla Edet, a municipality situated along the Göta Älv river between Trollhättan and Gothenburg, offer a blend of natural landscapes and historical significance. The region is characterized by its rift valley landscape, surrounding mountains, and the Göta Älv river, which is a central feature. Visitors can explore a variety of sites, from ancient historical landmarks and cultural institutions to expansive natural reserves and scenic viewpoints.

Best attractions and places to see around Lilla…

Last updated: May 9, 2026

Trollhättan Waterfalls and Crown Bridge

Highlight • Waterfall

Trollhättan was founded on the Göta Älv river at the foot of the mighty Trollhättan Waterfalls. The area around the waterfall, with its crown bridge and locks, offers exciting experiences …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Gamle Dal and Old Locks of 1800

Highlight • Monument

As early as 1800 it was possible to sail past the waterfalls by boat through eight locks (built by Baltzar von Platen). These locks and others from 1844 (built by …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

The Olidan power plant was the Swedish state's first hydropower project. The first four turbines went into operation in 1910. Subsequently, construction continued, and from 1914 four more turbines were …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

The Olidan power plant was the Swedish state's first hydropower project. The first four turbines went into operation in 1910. Subsequently, construction continued, and from 1914 four more turbines were …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Trollhättan Historic Locks

Highlight • Monument

As early as 1800 it was possible to sail past the waterfalls by boat through eight locks (built by Baltzar von Platen). These locks and others from 1844 (built by …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Lilla Edet.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Lilla Edet

European D̶I̶V̶I̶D̶E̶ Connect Trail Project – a journey across Europe

Crisscross through Sweden 🚴🏼

Hiking around Lilla Edet

Running Trails around Lilla Edet

MTB Trails around Lilla Edet

Cycling around Lilla Edet

Road Cycling Routes around Lilla Edet

Gravel biking around Lilla Edet

Other adventures around Lilla Edet

European D̶I̶V̶I̶D̶E̶ Connect Trail Project – a journey across Europe

Road Cycling Collection by

Seb_Breuer

Tips from the Community

Volker Rump 🌲〽️
September 6, 2025, Trollhättan Historic Locks

Historic, no longer operational lock system of the Göta Canal in Trollhättan.

Translated by Google

0

0

Gamle Dal (the old valley) At the end of the 1800 and 1844 locks you have a beautiful view over the river and the nature around it. The place is a very popular destination, because here you get a particularly strong impression of the beautiful nature around the lock area. There are a variety of signs and plaques providing information about the fantastic area. In order to be able to experience their history up close, there are three walking paths in the waterfall and lock area.

Translated by Google

4

1

As early as 1800 it was possible to sail past the waterfalls by boat through eight locks (built by Baltzar von Platen). These locks and others from 1844 (built by Nils Ericson) can still be seen today in a park-like area (Gamla Dal'n). However, these two lock systems are out of service.

Translated by Google

9

0

As early as 1800 it was possible to sail past the waterfalls by boat through eight locks (built by Baltzar von Platen). These locks and others from 1844 (built by Nils Ericson) can still be seen today in a park-like area (Gamla Dal'n). However, these two lock systems are out of service.

Translated by Google

8

1

Trollhättan is worth a day trip anyway due to the huge lock area from 1800. Wonderful hike from the campsite Stenrösets Camping (approx. 6km). You can see the old locks, but also new locks that are still in use today.

Translated by Google

3

0

A rocky trail leads along the historic locks.

Translated by Google

5

1

Historic hydroelectric power station on Göta ålv

Translated by Google

5

0

The Olidan power plant was the Swedish state's first hydropower project. The first four turbines went into operation in 1910. Subsequently, construction continued, and from 1914 four more turbines were added. Due to the increasing demand and growing capacities due to the straightening of the Göta Älv, another five turbines were subsequently built. In 1921, the Olidan power plant had a total of 13 turbines, ten of which are still operational today, and three have since been dismantled and "cannibalized". However, today, more than three turbines are rarely in operation at the same time. Each turbine has a capacity of 10 MW.

Translated by Google

5

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What historical sites can I explore in Lilla Edet?

Lilla Edet is rich in history. You can visit the historic lock systems at Gamle Dal and Old Locks of 1800, which offer insights into the region's industrial past. The broader Trollhättan Historic Locks area showcases three lock systems from different shipping epochs. Don't miss the Olidan Hydroelectric Power Station, Sweden's first state-owned hydroelectric power station. Additionally, the Lödöse Museum presents archaeological finds from Old Lödöse, and you can see preserved historical buildings like Fridhemsstugan and Tösslandagården.

Where can I experience nature and scenic views in Lilla Edet?

The region offers diverse natural beauty. Explore the 'closest wilderness to Gothenburg' at Svartedalens Naturreservat, or enjoy the expansive Risveden wilderness area. For panoramic views, head to Ekeberg, which overlooks the Göta Älvdalen. The Göta Älv river itself is a central natural feature, and you can witness the impressive Trollhättan Waterfalls and Crown Bridge, especially when the gates are opened during summer months.

Are there family-friendly attractions in the Lilla Edet area?

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The area around the Trollhättan Waterfalls and Crown Bridge offers exciting experiences for all ages, particularly during the waterfall releases. The historic lock areas, such as Gamle Dal and Old Locks of 1800, provide walking paths with informational signs that can engage younger visitors. Bodasjön/Prässebo is a child-friendly lake with large lawns, a playground, and a kiosk, perfect for a family day out.

What outdoor activities are popular around Lilla Edet?

Lilla Edet is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy high-class salmon fishing in the Göta Älv, or fish for pike, perch, and bream in lakes like Öresjö and Ryrsjön. The region also boasts numerous hidden gems for hiking and cycling. For specific routes, you can explore MTB Trails around Lilla Edet, Hiking around Lilla Edet, and Running Trails around Lilla Edet.

Are there good hiking trails near Lilla Edet's attractions?

Absolutely. The area around the historic locks, including Gamle Dal and Old Locks of 1800, features walking paths with informational signs. Svartedalens Naturreservat offers fantastic nature experiences with trails. For more options, consider routes like the 'Historic Locks on the Göta älv loop' or 'Edsviken Drawbridge – Trollhättan Historic Locks loop', which you can find in the Hiking around Lilla Edet guide.

When is the best time to visit Lilla Edet for outdoor activities?

The summer months (July and August) are particularly popular, especially for witnessing the Trollhättan Waterfalls when the gates are opened daily at 3 p.m. May, June, and September also offer waterfall releases on Saturdays at 3 p.m. Generally, late spring to early autumn provides pleasant weather for hiking, cycling, and exploring the nature reserves and lakes.

Are there any easy walking paths or accessible attractions?

Yes, for easier walks, Pingstalund and Spetalsbergen near Lödöse feature beautiful deciduous woodlands with well-signposted paths, some of which are illuminated. The park-like area around Gamle Dal and Old Locks of 1800 also offers accessible walking paths to explore the historical lock systems.

Can I go fishing in Lilla Edet?

Yes, fishing is a popular activity. The Göta Älv river is known for high-class salmon fishing. Additionally, lakes such as Öresjö, Ryrsjön, and Bodasjön offer year-round opportunities to catch various species like pike, perch, and bream. Fishing licenses are typically required.

What cultural institutions or museums are there in the area?

The Lödöse Museum is a significant cultural site, showcasing archaeological finds from Old Lödöse, which was Sweden's medieval gateway to the west. It offers exhibitions and activities focused on archaeology and the Middle Ages. You can also visit Åsbräcka Church, a medieval church surrounded by ancient monuments.

Where can I find unique natural areas or 'hidden gems' in Lilla Edet?

Beyond the well-known spots, explore the Långsbergens naturreservat, a 120-meter-high plateau with varied scenery and historical sites like ancient grave mounds. Ryrsjön, while good for fishing, also features small streams important for salmon and trout reproduction, and you might even spot kingfishers. The vast Risveden wilderness area offers an extensive, less-trodden experience.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Lilla Edet?

Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The impressive spectacle of the Trollhättan Waterfalls when the gates open is a highlight. The historical lock systems, like those at Trollhättan Historic Locks, are found to be very interesting, offering a strong impression of the beautiful nature around the lock area and insights into the region's past.

Most popular routes around Lilla Edet

Hiking around Lilla Edet

Most popular attractions around Lilla Edet

Lakes

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

UddevallaTjörnTanumOrustVänersborgLysekilSotenäsTörebodaKarlsborgKungälvTrollhättanHärrydaGöteborgMölndalDals-EdPartilleMellerudÖckeröLidköpingÅmålBengtsforsMunkedalMariestads kommunGöteneGullspångUlricehamnStrömstadStenungsundMarstrands NaturreservatFalköpingRamsvikslandets naturreservatHjoTranemoLerumAleFärgelandaTibroBorås kommunDelsjöområdets naturreservatKinnekulle naturreservatGrästorpMarkTidaholmSvenljungaBollebygdSkövdeSkaraVårgårda kommunAlingsåsStigfjordens NaturreservatHalle- Och Hunnebergs Rasbranters NaturreservatÄnggårdsbergenHerrljungaVättlefjälls NaturreservatLelångKosteröarnas NaturreservatVara kommunFoxenHornborgasjöns naturreservatHornborgasjöns naturreservatFegenSurtesjönHärmanö naturreservatVrångöskärgårdens naturreservatTresticklans nationalparkBokedalens NaturreservatFegen naturreservatSaltö NaturreservatTorpanäsets NaturreservatKnipeflågsbergens NaturreservatHäröns naturreservatHerrestadsfjällets NaturreservatRörö NaturreservatSörknattens NaturreservatVeddöarkipelagens NaturreservatKroppefjälls NaturreservatKållands skärgårdarEssunga kommunKosterhavets NationalparkRåvarpUndenGullmarns naturvårdsområdeMjörnValekleven-Ombo öars naturreservat

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do in Långemossens Naturreservat

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy