Attractions and Places To See around Söderhamn - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Söderhamn include a blend of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features. The city is situated on the coast in the province of Hälsingland, Sweden, and is characterized by its archipelago, forests, and mountains. Visitors can explore its past and engage with the natural landscape. The region offers diverse outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
Best attractions and places to see around Söderhamn
- The most popular attractions is Söderhamn Town Hall Square, a…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Söderhamn Town Hall Square
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Birdwatching Tower at Ålsjön Nature Reserve
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Oscarsborg Observation Tower
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Segersta Bridge
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Gustav II Adolf Obelisk
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful building. Very pleasing proportions.
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The Oscarsborg observation tower, a landmark of the town, was built in 1898 with funding from the local singing society. To the west you can see Västra berget with the old water tower. Behind it runs the E4 with the entrance to Söderhamn. To the northwest you can see Ulrika Eleonora's church, to the east of it the Staffan school. To the east you can see the sea and at the mouth of the river is a wooded hill, Faxeholmen, on which the 15th century castle fortress Faxehus was located. In the summer there are many outdoor entertainments around Oscarsborg tower.
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"Söderhamn still lacks a monument to the city's founder, King Gustaf II Adolf," wrote "Söderhamns Zeitung" in December 1895. But then the local singing club founded the Gustaf Adolf Fund to erect an obelisk in honor of the hero king. In 1897, the club bought a finished obelisk that Örnsköldsvik's stonemason had brought to the Stockholm exhibition. A bronze medallion with the portrait of Gustaf II Adolf was ordered from Stockholm. On November 6, 1899, the obelisk was inaugurated on the town hall square. The locals somewhat disrespectfully call the monument "Toothpick."
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The current town hall in Söderhamn was built in 1860 and received its current appearance between 1876 and 1878. It is the fourth town hall in the city; all three previous buildings since 1621 fell victim to the city fires. The current town hall was designed by the city architect of Gävle, Gustav N. Runer. It became his most important work. The building was built in brick with a main facade facing south and two wings. It has a roof tower that is visible from afar. Originally it housed the entire city administration and the city's tax office. There were also rooms for the police with detention cells. Runer's town hall was badly damaged in the city fire on July 22, 1876. In a comprehensive restoration by the Stockholm architect Ernst Jacobsson, which was completed in 1878, the town hall received its current Dutch Renaissance design with limestone decorations.
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In 1621, one year after Gustav II Adolf granted the new town of Söderhamn city privileges, the first town hall was built on this site. It was a one-storey wooden building and was located just southeast of the current town hall.
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In the film "Verblendung" (based on the book by Stieg Larsson - in English "The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo") the scene with the accident on the old bridge of Segersta was filmed.
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The tower is open to the public and from there you have a sweeping view of the water and you can watch a number of water birds: swans, geese, ducks, cranes, birds of prey, great crested grebes and much more. The flat around the tower is well suited for a rest
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The tower is great. It is open and you can stay inside over 2 floors and could even light the stove. Wood available and table and chairs. A small library of animal books and a guest book are available
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Söderhamn?
Söderhamn boasts a rich history. You can visit the Söderhamn Town Hall Square, a central historical site featuring the neoclassical Town Hall and the Gustav II Adolf Obelisk. Other notable historical landmarks include the stunning Ulrika Eleonora Church, the unique railway viaduct often called the 'lying Eiffel Tower,' and the ruins of Söderhamn Castle. The Öster district also offers well-preserved 19th-century fishermen's homes.
Where can I find panoramic views of Söderhamn and its surroundings?
For breathtaking panoramic views, head to the Oscarsborg Observation Tower. Built in 1898, it offers sweeping vistas of the city, the sea, and the surrounding landscapes from Östra Berget. You can also enjoy views of the river from Segersta Bridge, famously featured in 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo'.
Are there any UNESCO World Heritage sites near Söderhamn?
Yes, near Söderhamn, you can visit Hälsingegården Erik-Anders, an elegant 19th-century farmhouse recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's renowned for its beautiful wall paintings and is one of seven decorated farmhouses in Hälsingland reflecting the region's unique cultural history. A World Heritage Center is also available to learn more.
What natural attractions are there around Söderhamn?
Söderhamn is surrounded by natural beauty. The Birdwatching Tower at Ålsjön Nature Reserve offers excellent opportunities to observe various water birds. The Söderhamn Archipelago, with over 500 islands and islets, is perfect for boating, fishing, and outdoor swimming. The region also features deep forests and looming mountains for exploration.
Can I go birdwatching in Söderhamn?
Absolutely! The Birdwatching Tower at Ålsjön Nature Reserve is an excellent spot. It's open to the public and provides sweeping views of the water, allowing you to observe a variety of water birds, including swans, geese, ducks, cranes, and birds of prey. The area around the tower is also suitable for a relaxing rest.
What outdoor activities are available in the Söderhamn area?
The Söderhamn area offers diverse outdoor activities. You can explore the archipelago for boating, fishing, and swimming. For land-based adventures, there are numerous options for running and cycling. Rönnskär Island, a short boat ride from Stenö beach, is ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and relaxing in a wood-fired sauna.
Are there opportunities for cycling around Söderhamn?
Yes, Söderhamn is great for cycling enthusiasts. You can find various routes for road cycling and general cycling, ranging from easy to difficult. Popular routes include the 'Cykelspåret Trail' and loops around local landmarks like the Oscarsborg Observation Tower.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Söderhamn?
Many attractions in Söderhamn are suitable for families. The Birdwatching Tower at Ålsjön Nature Reserve and Segersta Bridge are noted as family-friendly. The Gustav II Adolf Obelisk and the Town Hall Square are also accessible for all ages. Rönnskär Island offers a summer paradise with activities like kayaking and paddleboarding that families can enjoy.
What cultural experiences does Söderhamn offer beyond historical sites?
Söderhamn offers a vibrant cultural scene. You can visit the Fishermen's Cottage Museum in the Öster district to see well-preserved 19th-century homes. Kvarnen, a former mill from 1751, now hosts exhibitions and cultural events. The Söderhamn City Museum, housed in a 1748 gun factory, preserves artifacts from the city's industrial heritage. Skärså Fishing Village provides a picturesque setting to enjoy local seafood.
What do visitors enjoy most about Söderhamn's attractions?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The Söderhamn Town Hall Square is loved for its architectural beauty and historical context. The Birdwatching Tower at Ålsjön Nature Reserve is praised for its sweeping views and abundant wildlife. The region's diverse outdoor activities and cultural experiences also receive high marks from the komoot community.
Where can I learn about Söderhamn's industrial and military past?
To delve into Söderhamn's industrial and military history, visit the Söderhamn City Museum. It's located in a 1748 gun factory building designed by Christoffer Polhem and showcases artifacts from the city's past as a weapon manufacturing hub. Additionally, the Söderhamn F15 Aviation Museum is a notable attraction for those interested in aviation history.
Are there any islands to visit in the Söderhamn archipelago?
Yes, the Söderhamn archipelago comprises over 500 islands and islets. A popular destination is Rönnskär Island, just a short boat ride from Stenö beach. It's described as an idyllic summer paradise, offering opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and relaxing in a wood-fired sauna. You can also enjoy sunset views from its historic pilot lookout tower.
What is the best time of year to visit Söderhamn for outdoor activities?
The summer months are particularly vibrant for outdoor activities in Söderhamn. The Oscarsborg Observation Tower hosts outdoor entertainment during this season, and Rönnskär Island is described as an idyllic summer paradise for water sports and relaxation. The archipelago is also ideal for boating and swimming in warmer weather.
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