Monuments to visit Norrland

This pavilion appears in a surreal way in the middle of the forests of fir trees. This construction commemorates the arrival in the region of Kung Chulalonkorn, in 1897. A real point of interest for the local population, with a sumptuous Thai garden. It is the only Thai pavilion in the world outside Thailand. It has already been visited by tens of thousands of people. It is probably also the only one to be covered with a beautiful snow coat during the winter.

A small guidebook is available at the tourist office to help you understand the French and Italian-inspired architecture of the buildings in the city center, which the Swedes call the "stone city". Most of the buildings were built after the great fire of 1888: there are no less than 573 buildings built between 1891 and 1895, some in the Art Nouveau style. From now on, this visit can be done with an audioguide. For those who are passionate about late ^19th century architecture.

Frösötornet was originally built in 1888. It stands at the highest point of Frösön, at 468 m above sea level. It is 14.50 m high and has an elevator. At the top you have a wonderful panoramic view of the surrounding landscape with lakes and forests. At the foot of the tower there is a cybercafé where you can have a delicious snack! Perfect place to have a different view of the area, and attractive in winter and summer!

The river Skellefteälv and its built banks are perfect for a long walk which describes a pleasant loop, first by way of the village-church, then by taking steps on the small island of Kyrkholmen (where the summer Kyrkholmen Café serves delicious Swedish brussell to the chicoutés, these Nordic little blackberries). Then, past the church, you must admire Lejonströmsbron, the bridge of the lion's current. It is the oldest wooden bridge accessible to vehicles across Sweden. Supported by large stone piers, it dominates the vif waters of the river. Every seven years, the work must undergo renovations because the studded tires of cars use the boards that cover it. The place witnessed an important battle between the Swedish and Russian armies in 1809, but it was not destroyed! The walk continues on the other side, where you can reach the centre via the other bridge.

Climbing the hill where the Oscarsborg tower is erected is a must to enjoy a breathtaking view of the Söderhamn area. The tower was originally an observation point and is now closed. However, the panorama and the hiking path winding through the trees make the place an ideal excursion for hiking enthusiasts. The place is accessible by car or motorcycle, as there is a parking lot near the summit. Not far from there is a small café to recover from the climb! Wheelchair access is possible.

The seven decorated farmhouses of Hälsingland (Hälsingegårdar) have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021. The walls of these large wooden buildings are decorated with paintings that combine motifs from folk traditions with styles popular in the ^19th century, such as baroque and rococo.

The Stenegård Cultural Center is located in one of these farms. Contact them to find out which farm is closest to your location! A very pleasant activity where many festivities are organized (concerts, bread or cheese making).