Vattingsmalarna, Naturreservat

North of Sörfjärden on the northern Hälsingekusten coast is Vattingsmalarnas nature reserve. The nature is barren and exposed part of the coast that is typical of southern Norrland. There are interesting cultural and ancient remains in the area. Here you can hike along the marked trail. Or take a break at one of the rest areas and have a barbecue. The sea, forests and ancient remains offer great natural and cultural experiences. The area is located on the coast north of Sörfjärden in Gnarp and covers 228 hectares.

Natural forests and pastures

In the reserve there are clear traces of the development of the landscape from the Ice Age to today. The site consists mostly of shingle fields, beach terraces and storm shorelines that are traces of land uplift.

The largest shingle field in the area, which is also one of the county's largest, has given its name to the nature reserve.

The forest is dominated by moorland pine forest with elements of spruce. Most of the forest is between 70-120 years old. In more humid areas along streams and bogs, deciduous trees grow, as well as night violet and heather.

Burial cairns and fishing villages

There are a large number of burial cairns/burial mounds from the Bronze Age and old fishing sites in the area. On the cape Hartskär, in the southern part of the reserve, there are remains of an old harbor that belonged to Myrtorpet.

The ruins of Myrtorpet, which is a late settlement, are located about 200 meters centrally west outside the reserve.

The walking distance via path from Sörfjärden is about 800 meters and in the north the reserve borders the former fishing village Vattingen which was inhabited until the mid-1930s. All that remains of this settlement are two earth cellars and several house foundations. Today the area is partly built up with holiday homes.

Animals in Vattningsmalarna

Vattingsmalarna nature reserve is home to many birds. The nightjar has been observed in the area, and along the coast you can see seabirds and waders such as the blackbird, oystercatcher and lesser sandpiper.