The Ljungbyån Hiking Trail – Explore Nature and Culture

The trail, which follows the main channel of the Ljungbyån River—past rapids and calm, deep waters, beautiful cultural heritage sites, through forests, pastures, and urban areas—offers a unique opportunity to experience both nature and the region’s cultural heritage. In the spring and summer, the trail is a feast for the eyes with its blooming flowers among large, stately oak trees. Whether you’re looking for a day hike or a shorter stroll, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The entire trail is 8.5 kilometers one way, but you can also take shorter loops. At Hossmo, the trail connects to the Kalmarsund Trail, which stretches over 120 km.

The Ljungbyån River has historically been the lifeblood of the community. People have lived, fished, and traded along the river since the Stone Age. During the Viking Age, the region flourished. The name Ljungby comes from the word “ljonga,” which means “to hold a thing,” and the suffix “-by” is common from the Viking Age.

The trail passes several of the region’s historic farms. Along the river were popular bathing and laundry spots. In Källängen, there was a spring where people traveled to drink the healing water.

Along the trail, there are a number of informational signs that tell you more about the nature and cultural heritage sites. Using the trail’s own digital map, you can further enrich your experience by seeing where you are on the trail and accessing stories, photos, and videos.

Birds such as swallows, kingfishers, and dippers are attracted to the small fish and insects in the water, which is home to a wealth of fish species, including sea trout and dace. Otters have also been spotted in the river.

It’s good to know that the trail sections passing through the pastures of Källängen, Krankelösaholm, and

the Prästgårdsängen Nature Reserve have grazing animals (cows and horses) for much of the year. There are only simple trails here, and you enter and exit the area through gates. Cyclists are asked to stay out of these areas, and dogs must always be on a leash. Special rules also apply in the nature reserve.

There are several benches and picnic areas where you can take a break if you feel like it along the way.