Activities on the Svartån River and Lake Hjälmaren

1. Go on a shrimp boat cruise

For over thirty years, Arboga Rederier has been offering cruises on the M/S Gustaf Lagerbjelke in Hemfjärden, the eastern part of Lake Hjälmaren. During the three-hour cruise, guests are served a cornucopia of shrimp accompanied by live classical music. A combination that has attracted a seemingly never-ending stream of visitors. And which has also made the “shrimp boat” one of Örebro’s longest-running summer attractions.  

2. Take the ferry over to Vinön 

Vinön , the largest island in the Hjälmaren archipelago , makes for a lovely day trip from Örebro. A free ferry runs from Hampetorp to Vinön. A tip is to leave your car on the mainland and rent a bike on the island. There’s a nice hiking trail, swimming spots, a café, and a restaurant. Perfect for those looking for a day of peace and quiet, or for some excitement and adventure. Tip: double-checkthe ferry schedulebeforehand.

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 Hemfjärden. Gliding along the river, under bridges and past walking paths, is a wonderful nature experience that’s perfect for the whole family. Then continue paddling out onto Hemfjärden, where an entire lake awaits.

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

4. Gastronomic boat tour on Lake Hjälmaren

Want to get even closer to the water? And aren’t afraid to get a little wet? Then round up a group of friends and book “Flotten,” an experience at and around Katrinelund’s lakeside restaurant. A culinary delight on the water that you won’t soon forget! Book an overnight stay at Katrinelund’s inn afterward (and don’t forget an evening swim at sunset), and the experience will be complete.

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. Or why not order something delicious atÖrebro Hamnkrog? Nearby, you’ll also findNaturens husand the Oset and Rynningeviken nature reserves.

6. Take a tour boat on Lake Hjälmaren this summer

From May through September, the M/S Sirena operates a regular service on Lake Hjälmaren, offering stops at Vinön, Katrinelund, and Björkön. Take the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful natural and cultural surroundings around and on Lake Hjälmaren.