Rommehed, Naturreservat

One, two! One, two! Right, left! The trampling of countless soldiers created the steppe-like vegetation that has led to the thriving of very special plants and insects here.
Photo: Dalarna County Administrative Board

The closest thing to a steppe in Sweden?

Rommehed was used for a long time as the Dalarna Regiment’s drill ground. Long-term trampling, combined with the dry, sun-exposed location and the well-drained sand, has formed a unique natural habitat. Here, conditions are almost steppe-like.

Extremely northern outposts for certain species

These special conditions have allowed species that are not typically found at these latitudes to thrive. Among others, the area is home to the plate-shaped egg mushroom and the banded bumblebee, which digs small holes in the sand. Here you’ll also find steppe flora including sheep’s fescue, yellow bedstraw, knapweed, field bindweed, cinquefoil, caraway, yarrow, red fescue, and small bluebell.

Necessary wear and tear

To maintain its character, the area must be constantly subjected to a moderate amount of wear and tear. This currently occurs through exhibition activities and horseback riding. There is hardly any other reserve in Dalarna where such activities are not only permitted but also necessary!

Visitor Information

The reserve is located between the old military buildings and Borlänge Airport. It is signposted from Rommevägen. There is plenty of parking along the small gravel road that runs alongside the reserve.

There is a reserve sign along the road. At the western end of the grove, there is a picnic table.

Photographers in the slideshow above: Johanna Malmgren, Anders Heurlin, and Maria Jons, Dalarna County Administrative Board.