Sundsvall: Stenstan, Museums and Activities on the Mountain

The stone town of Stenstan and the activities at Sidsjön and Södra Berget offer contrasting ways to spend time in Sundsvall. There is also local history, art and a long-distance hiking trail that starts nearby. When choosing a hotel, first consider whether your stay will focus on culture in the city, outdoor activities or a mix of both.

Stenstan and Sundsvall’s history

Stenstan is a cultural and historical area of national interest and a unique attraction in Sweden. After the fire, a densely built, elaborately designed stone town arose in Sundsvall, much of which has been preserved to this day. This makes architecture a tangible part of a visit. Stenstan’s visitor offerings include shops, restaurants and cafés; individual businesses and opening hours may change.

Sundsvall Museum focuses on the city’s history. Its exhibitions are housed in two sections of Kulturmagasinet: Barkassen and Skonerten. The collections bring together art and older finds: they include Swedish art from the late 19th century to the present day, with a focus on artists from northern Sweden, as well as archaeological finds from the Högom burial ground. These finds are dated to the Migration Period in Middle Norrland, around 500 AD.

Walking trails, cycling routes and winter sports

A 3.1-kilometre exercise trail runs along the lake at Sidsjön. Fishing is possible there, and you can also go canoeing and rent canoes on site. As rental terms may change, check them before your visit. The combination of a trail, water and canoeing offers several ways to spend time by the lake, with different activities catering to different interests.

At Södra Berget, in central Sundsvall, the ski area includes a family slope and a competition slope with World Cup status. The area has two downhill runs and two lifts. The longest run is 650 metres long, with a vertical drop of 142 metres. Separate from this is the Södra Berget Bike Arena: set in a forest landscape in northern Sweden, it offers views of Stenstan at the foot of the mountain. Its 19 non-lift-served trails have varying levels of difficulty and include flow, cross-country and enduro trails. Södra stadsberget is considered a year-round destination for the whole family, where you can cycle and ski.

Kulturmagasinet, water and views

Kulturmagasinet is in central Sundsvall and can be reached by bus, bicycle, car or on foot. Events are held there all year round, including guided tours, lectures, films, dance, concerts and theatre performances. The library is a meeting place for everyone, offering information, knowledge, reading experiences and activities. Kulturmagasinet therefore brings together both events and library offerings.

For water activities, Himlabadet in Sundsvall has a surf stream for riding waves. Its water slides include Magic eye, Black Hole and Turbo. The relaxation area features several saunas, hot and cold pools, an experience shower and a sun terrace with a whirlpool. From the entrance and changing facilities to the swimming and pool areas, Himlabadet is fully adapted for accessibility.

Norra Berget has a viewpoint. It is also home to historic houses and farmsteads from Medelpad. Locally produced products in Sundsvall include cheese, craft beer and gin; individual producers may change. Surströmming is considered a traditional Swedish dish originating on these coasts.

Getting around and choosing where to stay

The S:t Olavsleden begins in Selånger, seven kilometres from Sundsvall. The trail runs for around 580 kilometres to Trondheim; you can also explore its first section in shorter stages. For train travellers, signs mark a ten-kilometre route from Sundsvall station to Selånger and the start of the trail. Signposting and transport details may change, so it is worth checking for current information before planning your trip.

Sundsvall has regular bus and train connections from places such as Stockholm, Gävle and Umeå; timetables may change. The main roads to Sundsvall are the E14 and E4. The city is easy to explore on foot and has an extensive network of cycle paths.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Njurunda, Svartvik, Liden, Stöde, Indal, Sundsvall, Kvissleby, Örnsköldsvik.

For the main travel guide: Västernorrland.