Discover Johannishus

Johannishus combines a distinctive Ice Age landscape with a history of churches, castles and runestones. The town lies on Johannishusåsen, a glacial esker that stretches across the landscape. Johannishus åsar Nature Reserve brings nature and archaeological traces together: its pastureland includes mighty oaks and numerous archaeological remains.

If you are interested in landscape and history, you will find several distinct themes here: protected pastureland, medieval church architecture and archaeological monuments. You can plan your visit accordingly, depending on whether you would rather spend time outdoors or focus on historic buildings and finds.

Landscape and archaeological traces

In Johannishus åsar Nature Reserve, pastureland, old oaks and archaeological remains together shape the character of the landscape. This combination makes the area relevant both to nature enthusiasts and to travellers interested in history. Information about how to get there and the Johannishus Kyrkrundan also gives you practical guidance for planning a visit.

A registered burial ground is also among the area's archaeological sites.

Churches, castle history and runestones

Hjortsberga Church is one of the oldest and best-preserved churches in Blekinge. Its oldest sections date from the first half of the 13th century. The dating of its oldest structural elements and its state of preservation are two distinct indications of its long history.

Johannishus Castle and its associated buildings form an unusually well-preserved 18th-century manor ensemble. A two-storey building in the castle complex was designed in the neoclassical style in 1772. Johannishus Castle and its park are not open to visitors. Take this restriction into account when planning, and check visitor information before arranging a visit.

The runic inscription on Björketorpsstenen dates from the second half of the 7th century AD. Two tall, upright stones flank the runestone and form a triangle with it. The inscription, its dating and the arrangement offer different ways to explore the monument.

Walking the Johannishus Kyrkrundan

The Johannishus Kyrkrundan is an easy-to-walk circular route that passes a church and a cemetery and includes historical information points. It runs mostly along gravel paths and wooden bridges, with a short section on asphalt.

Bus route 255 stops at several places, including Ålycke, the starting point of the Johannishus Kyrkrundan. Timetables may change, so check the latest times before travelling. The nearest stop to the southern end of Johannishus åsar Nature Reserve is Tvingsvägen Ronneby, about 300 metres away. This information refers to the southern end of the reserve, not to the starting point of the Kyrkrundan.

By car, the nature reserve can be reached via the E22, Listerby and then in the direction of Johannishus. There is a car park south of Hjortsberga Church. Check local road conditions before setting off so you can plan your journey accordingly.

Art, local products and ARK56

The farm shop at Johannishus Gods sells game meat from its own lands, organically farmed beef and lamb, and a small selection of local foods and handicrafts. Products and stock may vary.

The exhibition hall at Johannishus Gods hosts various art exhibitions and events throughout the year. If a particular exhibition or event is important to your trip, check the dates in advance. Johannishus Gods is also part of ARK56, a network of interconnected coastal trails in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Förkärla, Bräkne-Hoby, Hallabro, Eringsboda, Ronneby, Listerby, Backaryd, Kallinge.

Back to the main travel overview: Ronneby.