| In the northwest of Sweden, on the shores of Lake Storsjon
sits the town of Östersund, the capital of the county of Jämtländ and one of the main
tourist centres of the region. |
 |
Within Östersund itself there’s not much to see as the city was established only
in the last years of the 18th century and is woefully short on old monuments
and historical sights, but just venture out of the city and you will come across many
interesting sights in the area round Östersund.
If you’re keen on boating, a brief cruise on the waters of Lake Storsjon can be a
pleasant experience. Other than that, the main tourist attraction in Östersund is Jämtli
Historieland, an open-air musuem consisting of 60 buildings- mostly 17th and
18th century structures, including unusual examples of local architecture (there’s
even a pilgrim’s hut on display). Locals dressed in traditional costume act as guides
and encourage visitors to participate in the ongoing activities- tree felling,
grass-cutting and baking, among others.
Next to Jämtli is the Lansmusuem, which showcases native Sami artefacts and crafts.
From Östersund, a boat trip to the island of Froson in Lake Storsjon, takes you to the
site of the northernmost runic stone in Sweden, dating back to the 11th
century; the area was once the site of an important Viking settlement. Further afield, to
the north of Östersund, lies an area of dense forests and rugged terrain, where avid
hikers can attempt treks.
The easiest way to get to Östersund is by train- the Inlandsbanan line, which covers
some of the most spectacular scenery along its route, comes this way. Other than that, you
can get here by road, either by bus or car. Although Östersund is small, it has a number
of options for tourist accommodation (including a youth hostel and campsites) and bookings
can be made through the tourist office at Rådhusgatan 44.
For detailed country and visitor information, see Sweden.
