Klåvudden, Naturreservat

The Klåvudden nature reserve is located on the dramatic rocky coast of Harge uddar facing Lake Vättern. Here is a very exciting outdoor environment, with elements of rare lichens and vascular plants.

Old forest

The reserve's forests are old and varied. Along the shores of Lake Vättern there are old pines and spruces, late-grown and chastened by wind and weather. In more sheltered areas, there are deciduous swamp forests with giant limes and dead birches. There are also plenty of old, late-growing aspens.

The shores of Lake Vättern

The shoreline is lobed with protruding headlands and islets. The shores are barren and rocky, but in the east Askersundsåsen breaks off with its loose soils. Sand and gravel from the ridge have settled in the area's bays, which are shallow and sandy.

Flower-rich cliffs

The vegetation on Klåvudden and south-east of Bredviken is unusually rich thanks to the rich bedrock found here. Cat's-foot, creeping thyme, bloodwort and goat's-beard are examples of drought-resistant and sun-loving herbs that thrive along the rocky shores. Exclusive lichen species such as peltula and dwarf placo lichen also grow on damp rocks along the shore. The ridge forest to the east is home to another rarity, the tall and fragrant purple orchid.

Migrating birds

Klåvudden is a well-known migratory bird site. In spring, birdwatchers come here to look for eider, kittiwake, blackbird, oystercatcher and sandwich tern, species otherwise associated with the east and west coasts. Most birds pass by early in the morning. Great crested grebe, common snipe and little auk can be seen all year round.

Nature reserve at Lake Vättern

Near Klåvudden there are several nature reserves that protect the shores and old-growth forests of Lake Vättern for the future and ensure everyone's opportunity for outdoor recreation. To the west is the Harge uddar nature reserve with its popular hiking trail and wind shelter. To the east, the large wilderness area the Hargemarken nature reserve spreads out.