Söderala: Cultural History and Nature

Cultural History and Architecture

The nationally designated cultural heritage area of Söderala includes burial grounds, a large burial mound from the Late Iron Age and slag heaps. The same area also includes large Hälsingegårdar dating from the early 19th to the early 20th century. Archaeological traces and historic farmsteads thus represent different periods in the history of the area.

A prominent landmark is Söderala Church. It is considered the best-preserved church in the so-called Sigtuna Group and has an unusual floor plan. The church houses a copy of the Söderala weather vane, dating from around 1025. Visits can be arranged by telephone.

Bergahögen also connects archaeological history with a specific landscape view. The burial mound is considered Alir’s only remaining large burial mound. From there, the view extends over the Söderala valley, the former sea inlet and the ridge with the church.

In Asta, the Hälsingegården Erik-Anders is one of the seven Hälsingegårdar on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It has a visitor center for the Hälsingegårdar World Heritage site. The farmstead also has a garden café that is open seasonally; check current opening hours before your visit.

During the summer half of the year, Söderala local heritage center hosts various events. If you have a specific date in mind, check the event schedule in advance.

Ålsjön: Birds and Access to Nature

Ålsjön Nature Reserve in Söderala is a very shallow lowland lake and is considered the county’s most important bird lake area. More than 200 bird species have been recorded at Ålsjön; more than 60 species regularly breed there. An old forest of spruce and pine, with trees approaching 200 years of age, lies directly next to it.

A boardwalk runs through large parts of the area. As maintenance or storm damage can affect visitor facilities, it is advisable to check their condition before visiting. The nearby reserve is considered easy to access; strollers and wheelchairs are no obstacle to birdwatching or enjoying nature.

Activities and Trails

In winter, Söderala has a ski facility at the Valla shooting range, with a two-kilometer illuminated trail. Check snow and lighting conditions before setting out. A major snowmobile route also begins in Söderala; check current access and trail conditions in advance. This lets you distinguish between a ski trail and a longer snowmobile route without assuming that the same conditions apply to both.

A cycle path connects Söderala with Söderhamn. If you plan to use this connection, allow for possible construction or maintenance work. Söderala itself also has a well-preserved village street; the agricultural and cultural landscape shapes the character of the area. The cycle path and village street therefore offer different starting points for a stay, without assuming a specific route length.

Motorhome Parking in Söderala

Söderala Bygdegård has four parking spaces with electricity and four without. The parking area has a toilet, shower, washing-up area and washing machine. Check current operating details before arrival if these facilities are important to your plans.

Discover more destinations: Skog, Holmsveden, Söderhamn, Marmaverken, Norrala, Ljusne, Stråtjära, Mo.

Return to the main travel overview: Söderhamn.