Discover Vallentuna: runes, nature and trails

Vallentuna combines a rich runic history with nature reserves, lakes and trails through forests and cultural landscapes. You’ll find a range of things to enjoy during your stay: historic sites, exhibitions, events and nature experiences.

Runic sites and culture

Runic inscriptions of various kinds can be found in and around Vallentuna Church. The church was built mainly of grey stone sometime between 1150 and 1250. It is the source of a Latin missal written in 1198, considered the oldest surviving Swedish book. Around Lake Vallentuna, Runriket comprises nine cultural heritage sites in Täby and Vallentuna. The prehistoric monuments are clearly marked, and information boards explain their history. From Jarlabankes bro, you can visit parts of Runriket by bicycle, on foot and by public transport.

At Vallentuna Kulturhus, art exhibitions featuring professional artists are held in Konstkuben, organised by the Municipality of Vallentuna and the Vallentuna Art Society. In Utställningsrummet, Kultur Vallentuna organises, produces or rents exhibitions. The Pattern Parade is a permanent work of art in the cultural centre. Cultural lunches and jazz concerts take place in Kulturrummet; it also hosts performances by students from the culture school and art exhibitions. Vallentuna Teater adds to the cultural programme with concerts, current cinema releases, theatre performances, Live on Bio events and lectures. Music and dancing are part of the programme at Musik vid kvarnen at Väsby kvarn. This annual event takes place in late May; exact dates may vary.

Lakes, birdlife and landscapes

In terms of natural geography, Vallentuna is part of the central Swedish rift valley landscape, with clay-filled valley depressions and moraine-covered hills. The Björkby-Kyrkviken Nature Reserve, characterised by open cultural landscapes, is close to the centre. There are numerous benches and several picnic spots along the waterfront promenade. Among other species, pochards and mallards nest at Kyrkviken.

Ubbysjön is one of Vallentuna’s most bird-rich lakes. Reeds, shrubs and open water form a varied mosaic that benefits birdlife. A two-kilometre blue-marked hiking trail goes around the lake. At Angarnssjöängen, north of Örsta, the birdwatching tower and Midsommarberget on the southeast side are considered the best viewpoints. The Roslagsleden trail passes through the southeastern part of the area near Örsta.

Trails through forests and wetlands

The Veda nature trail passes through varied forest landscapes by Storsjön. The route is about five kilometres long, with a shorter loop of about 4.2 kilometres. Boardwalks cross the swamp forest, where changing water levels create conditions for rich biodiversity. The two stated route lengths provide a clear guide when planning your hiking day.

Swimming and getting around

Kvarnbadet has a heated 50-metre pool, a 17.5-metre pool for swimming lessons and children who are less confident swimmers, and a paddling pool for the youngest visitors. You can also rent canoes there; a life jacket is included in the rental price. Check the latest information about the pools and canoe rentals before your visit.

The Roslagsbanan runs through Vallentuna and is part of the regional rail network. Vallentuna’s public transport network includes buses and trains. Check the latest timetables for specific journeys.

Discover more destinations: Vallentuna, Brottby, Danderyd, Värmdö, Österåker, Nykvarn, Norrtälje, Ekerö.

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