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.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Historic, no longer operational lock system of the Göta Canal in Trollhättan.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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A rocky trail leads along the historic locks.
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Historic hydroelectric power station on Göta ålv
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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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.


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