Nature & Adventure

Activities on the Svartån River and Lake Hjälmaren

Published August 24, 2020 / Updated May 29, 2026
Isn't it wonderful to get out on the water? To feel the freedom of gliding along and all the adventures you can embark on! Here you'll find several options to choose from if you want to explore the Svartån River and Lake Hjälmaren, Sweden's fourth-largest lake.

1. Cruise aboard the M/S Gustaf Lagerbjelke

The M/S Gustaf Lagerbjelke takes you out onto Lake Hjälmaren for a variety of cruises. For example, you can book a shrimp cruise and spend three hours eating as many shrimp as you can manage while listening to the onboard troubadour. You can also join a guided lunch cruise, tag along on the slightly longer trip to the Hjälmare Canal—or book the boat for your own celebrations. For more information and reservations, contact Arboga Rederier.

A white, low-slung boat with blue accents and the text "G. LAGERBJELKE" on the bow. The boat is gliding along a calm river surrounded by forest.
The M/S Gustaf Lagerbjelke operates on Hemfjärden.

2. Take the ferry to Vinön 

The largest island in Hjälmaren Vinön is perfect for a day trip. Here you’ll find hiking trails, swimming spots, a café, and a restaurant—and in the summer, a series of evening concerts. You can get there by taking theSwedish Transport Administration’s ferry from Hampetorp. If you have a car, we recommend parking in Hampetorp and renting a bike—or walking—around the island. Another good tip is to take the Summer Bus to and from the ferry in Hampetorp. It runs between Ånnaboda and Hampetorp from May 15 to August 16, with several stops along the way.

A man and a woman are standing on a yellow ferry on a lake, smiling at the camera.
The Swedish Transport Administration's ferry operates on the Vinö route, between Hampetorp and Vinön.

3. Paddle from castle to lake

Did you know you can go kayaking right in the heart of the city? The Svartån River flows through downtown Örebro and eventually empties into Lake Hjälmaren. Gliding along the river, under bridges, and past walking paths is a wonderful nature experience that’s perfect for the whole family. Keep paddling and you’ll soon reach Hemfjärden, the part of Lake Hjälmaren closest to Örebro.

Tip! The outdoor adventure company Experitur offers equipment for adventures on both land and water. Learn more about renting canoes, kayaks, or packrafts on Experitur’s website.

A blonde woman wearing red pants and a blue life jacket is paddling on a surfboard in front of the castle.
Go paddleboarding off the coast of the castle.

4. Gastronomic boat tour on Lake Hjälmaren

Want to get even closer to the water? And aren’t afraid of getting a little wet? Then round up a group of friends and book “Flotten,” an experience offered by Katrinelunds Gästgiveri & Sjökrog. A gastronomic delight at sea that you won’t soon forget! Book an overnight stay at Katrinelund afterward (and don’t forget the evening swim at sunset), and the experience will be complete.

A restaurant housed in a glass cube floats on the water's surface.
Photo: Per Knutsson.

5. Take a stroll around the marina

Want to get a taste of boating but can’t make it out onto the lake? Take a walk down to the marina. On the way, you’ll pass the Örebro Lock. If you’re lucky, you might see the old lock from the 1880s in action. At the marina, you can stroll among the boats and soak up the maritime atmosphere. Perhaps sit down and order something delicious atÖrebro Hamnkrog? Nearby, you’ll also findNaturens husand the Oset and Rynningeviken nature reserves .

Örebro Hamnkrog is located in the marina and offers a lovely view of the canal leading out to Lake Hjälmaren.

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Tips for swimming spots in Örebro

Looking to go swimming in Örebro? Discover the hidden gems along the shores of Lake Hjälmaren or explore the more central swimming spots.
The sandy beach at Dimbobaden on Lake Hjälmaren. Behind the sandy beach, a dense forest is visible.

Close to the lakeside life in Lake Hjälmaren

Örebro is located on Hemfjärden, the westernmost part of Lake Hjälmaren. Here you can go boating, fishing, swimming, and discover plenty of hidden gems.
Two canoeists in a silver-colored canoe. Green leaves are visible in the foreground.

Go canoeing in the waters around Örebro

This is where the canoeing adventure begins. Explore the rivers of Bergslagen, the archipelago of Lake Vättern, the forested lakes of Kilsbergen—and, of course, the Svartån River.
A drone photo of Vinön.

Explore Vinön the gem of Lake Hjälmaren

Vinön the largest island in Lake Hjälmaren—and a little paradise for those who want to enjoy nature and the cozy island life.

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