Svartådalsleden between Västerfärnebo and Mattssons Torn is a lovely hiking trail within Svartådalen Friluftsområde. Charming countryside, beautiful wetlands and dreamy forests are some of what this varied trail has to offer. One of the highlights along the trail is clearly the mile-long view from Mattssons Torn.
Svartådalsleden is a perfect day trip of 13 - 21 km depending on where you choose to end your tour. The trail is marked with orange signs and tree markers and with Naturkartan's map app you can easily follow where you are on the trail (mobile coverage is available along the entire trail). The terrain you walk in is mostly flat, while there are some rocky parts along the natural forest trails.
The Svartådalsleden trail starts in the beautiful village of Västerfärnebo. You can get here by bus from both Sala and Norberg and of course there is also parking. Before or after your hike, a visit to Svartådalen visitor center is recommended and for the coffee-hungry, a stop at Fiket i Färnebo is a must.
The first part of the hike after leaving Västerfärnebo follows gravel roads in a beautiful rural environment. A quiet landscape spreads out with open fields, red old barns and green groves.
After 3.5 km you will reach a bridge that takes you over the famous Svartån river. Svartån is the pulse and heart of Svartådalen and is a big reason for the enormous natural wealth that exists here. Every year, the Svartån river floods and contributes to a vast wetland area teeming with diversity and life. Birdwatchers in particular are attracted to this beautiful area to enjoy the rich birdlife.
Shortly after crossing the Svartån river, you will reach the Hedbo area and then you will mostly move in forest landscapes on the way to Mattssons Torn. You will alternately walk on graveled forest roads and natural forest paths. Just before Mattsons Torn you will find a water source and a shelter where you can either rest or stop for an overnight stay.
After reaching the high point Mattssons Torn you have two options. If you have pre-arranged transportation, you can end your tour at the Parking lot at Mattsons Torn. This gives you a hike of 13 km and about 3.5 hours active hiking time. The other option is to hike back to Västerfärnebo via the tour suggestion "Svartådalsleden - Tillbaka till Västerfärnebo". Then you get a total 21 km long trip and about 5.5 hours active hiking time.
Svartådalsleden is best hiked as part of a longer visit to the area. Svartådalen Friluftsområde has more hiking trails to discover and it has become very popular to experience Svartådalen from the water. Charming accommodation can be found at Edens Garden B&B, Fallängetorp for sheep & people and Per Persgården. For those who want to stay in luxury and enjoy the SPA, there is also the accommodation in Sätra brunn.
Welcome to Svartådalen!
Directions
Svartådalsleden börjar i Västerfärnebo som ligger längs väg 256 mellan Sala och Norberg.
Regulations
Remember never to burn in nature if there is a fire ban. You can find information on this at krisinformation.se
For information on how to burn safely and with consideration Read Trails of Västmanland's article on burning in nature.
Communications
With Västmanlands länstrafik (VL) you can take a bus to Västerfärnebo from Sala and Norberg. See bus times via www.vl.se