Pelarne: Church, Church Village and Landscape

Pelarne offers several specific points of interest for a stay: the church and church village, archaeological traces, and open, hilly countryside. There is also a marked trail to a fortification, a section of the Sevedeleden trail, and fishing opportunities at Mossjön. For planning purposes, it is helpful to distinguish between cultural history, walking routes and lake activities. This lets you focus your trip on what genuinely interests you—local history, outdoor activities or fishing.

Church and Cultural Heritage

Pelarne Church was probably built at the beginning of the 13th century. Together with the church village, it forms the main criterion for designating a cultural environment of national interest. The early date gives the church building a specific historical context; the designation also includes the church village as part of the cultural focus. In summer, Pelarne Church is usually used as a wayside church, with devotions, coffee and sales. As these activities are seasonal, check the latest information in advance if they are a focus of your visit. There is also an information board and parking at the church; check local arrangements before your arrival.

Archaeological Traces and Landscape

The area around Pelarne is very hilly and relatively open, with extensive farmland and pasture. An Iron Age burial ground is located on Pelarne kulle. The comparison brings together periods far apart in time: the Iron Age at Pelarne kulle and the church’s probable construction at the beginning of the 13th century. Archaeological traces and the church building therefore offer distinct historical points of interest.

Fortification near Toppesten

Another historical destination lies in the area around Pelarne. Opposite the large erratic boulder Toppesten, a marked trail leads to a fortification. It measures 220 × 70 metres. Steep rock faces border the site, while stone ramparts run along the less steep sections. The combination of rock and stone ramparts describes two forms of boundary that differ according to the steepness of the terrain.

Walking Route and Lake

The 18-kilometre Sevedeleden feeder trail, Stage 4 between Mossebo and Lönneberga, passes Pelarne Church. If you plan to walk this section, check the route details before setting out.

Mossjön lies just outside Pelarne. The lake covers 221 hectares and offers opportunities to fish for perch, pike, vendace and whitefish. This provides a different focus alongside the cultural sites. If you plan to fish, check the latest information before your trip.

Getting There and Getting Around

Pelarne is on National Road 40 between Mariannelund and Vimmerby. Pelarne has good regular bus services for people without a car. The road location and bus services are different travel options; check the current timetable before your trip to make sure your journey suits your plans.

Discover more destinations: Solnehult, Gullringen, Tuna, Storebro, Vimmerby, Södra Vi

Back to the main travel overview: Vimmerby.