Älvsered: Hiking Trails, the Högvadsån and Historic Border Traces

Älvsered offers several ways to enjoy an active stay: hiking through forests and moorland, paddling on the Högvadsån and exploring traces of the former Swedish-Danish border. Whether you are deciding between a longer hike, a shorter loop or time on the water, there are different options to choose from. Trail lengths, river conditions and historical connections each offer useful guidance for planning.

Hiking the Vandringsled Östdanmark

The Vandringsled Östdanmark offers two routes of different lengths: the main route is 17 kilometres long, starts in Ålarp near Älvsered and ends at Ulvanstorp. The associated “lilla leden” is a shorter, nine-kilometre loop. The trail follows the former Danish-Swedish border, and 35 signs explain the area's history. The distance, loop and trail signs provide a concrete basis for planning your outing according to your preferred length and historical interests. Along the way, the route passes through varied natural landscapes, including extensive forests, streams, lakes and moors. There are also two wind shelters and a barbecue area along the trail. As trail conditions can change with the seasons, it is advisable to plan your visit accordingly.

Paddling on the Högvadsån

Högvads Kanot rents canoes and kayaks for paddling on the Högvadsån. Signposted parking is available at Ödegärdsvägen 2 in Älvsered, where you can start your trip. Allow around three to four hours for the return journey if you paddle at a leisurely pace without breaks. When water levels are low, you may need to get out and carry the canoe for a short distance. After about 20 minutes of paddling from Älvsered, you will reach the bathing area at Horsasjön, which has a bathing jetty. The Högvadsån is also known for its salmon and sea trout spawning grounds.

Church, cemetery and border history

Älvsered's history is reflected in its cemetery and church, as well as in traces of the former border. The cemetery was established in the early 19th century in connection with the construction of the new church in 1836–1837. Many of the old gravestones are considered especially valuable from a cultural and historical perspective. A memorial stone marks the site of the former medieval wooden church. The church has one of Sweden's oldest church bells still in use. Nearby, Danabäcks sten is designated as a cultural heritage site. For about 600 years, the stone served as one of the border markers between Sweden and Denmark.

Cycling and other activities

The Pyttebaneleden cycle path follows the old railway embankment between Ullared and Älvsered and is easy to ride. It follows the former route of the Falkenbergs järnväg, which operated from 1896 to 1961 and was known as Pyttebanan. While the two route lengths and historical signs provide guidance on the Vandringsled Östdanmark, the former railway line shapes the outing on the Pyttebaneleden. The Motionsspår, Älvsered exercise trails are intended for running and walking. Högvads Ljus & Textil offers bookable half-day creative experiences at its candle factory. Regionally, Älvsered is one of eleven places in Trivselbygden, a cross-border area between Halland, Småland and Västergötland.

Discover more destinations: Ullared, Slöinge, Okome, Gällared, Ätran, Grimsholmen, Vessigebro, Glommen.

For the main travel overview: Falkenberg.