Lofsdalen - Rannsundet, St Olav Rombo Way Stage 26

Here, you walk across open mountain terrain – with panoramic views of the mountain ranges – and through forested areas. The stage is marked with Romboleden trail markers as well as red markings.

You move through old regions with traces of medieval pilgrimages. On Rishöjden, north of Lofsdalen, the original path is still visible, worn down by centuries of hooves and footsteps. At "Hälsingestenen," a pilgrim is said to have lost their life, and Bokån is believed to have been named after a priest who dropped a book into the water.

The trail runs far from settlements, over open mountains with rapidly changing weather, and across a stream that must be forded. Bring a map, compass, extra food, and plan for an overnight stay.

Read more about the stage

The stage starts at Rombovallen in Lofsdalen and ends at Rannsundet. Expect 2-3 days of mountain hiking on this stage.

Hiking starts from Rombovallen and continues north towards Fruhågna and then Rannsundet. When you pass the Strådalsvallen, there are sparse markings.

Fruhågna is said to have received its name from a pilgrim who is said to have stated; "You shouldn't just be a simple maid. You should be called Fruhågna". Probably in honor of the Virgin Mary. Legend has it that it was a pilgrim who gave birth to her child at Fruhågna. She must have asked Maria for intercession in need and then thanked her for a successful delivery. (Source: Stefan Åslund, Lofsdalens kulturförening)

Just south of Lussifjället there is a barbecue hut in which you can sleep. There is often wood here for starting a camp fire. There is also a privy next to the hut. If you follow the trail in the direction of Fruhågna, there is a water source about 10 minutes' walk from the barbecue hut. You can also take water from one of the water pounds nearby, but make sure to purify the water properly in that case.

North of Fruhågna you come down to Bokdalen and crossing the river Bokån, which does not usually cause any major problems to cross. The path is marked but you have to pay attention in order to find the markings. Follow the eastern slopes of Kölsjöfjället further towards Kölsjön, where it is nice to rest for a while.

The part further towards Rannsundet is sometimes rough and you move close to the reindeer fence. Follow Rannsjön's shoreline to the village of Rannsundet.

Walk in the footsteps of the pilgrims

Romboleden (Rombo Way) is a pilgrimage route that people began using in the 11th century. The Romboleden is Sweden’s longest pilgrimage route at 900 kilometres long. It starts in Köping in Västmanland and finishes in Trondheim on the Norwegian Atlantic coast. If you walk the entire trail, you will experience a beautiful and varied landscape. You will walk on old chalet paths, over mountains with magnificent vistas and along narrow country gravel roads. You will find easy one-day walks with cafés along the way, and long treks that take several days. The route often passes through small villages.

Thanks to the landowners – show consideration when hiking

St Olav Rombo Way runs mainly through actively cultivated forest and agricultural land. Thanks to the generosity of the landowners and the cooperation with non-profit organizations, you have the opportunity to hike through landscapes that would otherwise be inaccessible.

As a hiker, it is important to remember that you are walking on someone else's land. Show consideration by sticking to the trail, avoiding to disturb animals, crops and ongoing work. Leave nature as you found it - or even better.

Leave nothing but footprints along the trail.