Ödeshög - Stocklycke

This is one of the most beautiful stages in Östergötland! The trail
largely follows Lake Vättern with views of the lake and Omberg.The route is rich in historical sites and natural values.

From Ödeshög, the trail follows an asphalt road for a few kilometers before turning off towards Orrnäs. You then walk on small gravel roads, paths and through pastures, close to Lake Vättern with the water as your constant companion.

At Orrnäsån you pass a cultural trail that shows how hydropower
used in the past in several stages. The trail continues through open
pastures with grazing animals. Along the slopes of Lake Vättern you pass Orrnäs
rest area with barbecue area, benches and wood storage. At Öninge harbor
you can swim from the rocks or in a protected bay - there is also a barbecue area,
outhouse and parking. If you want to avoid grazing animals, choose the eastern side of
Orrnässlingan from Ödeshög.

A highlight is the strikingly beautiful Stora Lund nature reserve that the trail passes. The reserve has barbecue areas and swimming facilities. There are grazing animals in the reserve.

At the foot of Omberg is Ellen Key's beautiful home Strand.
During the season you can get a guided tour there.

The walk continues through the beautiful landscape of Omberg
beech forest nature reserve with Östergötland's largest stock of beech. Some parts
pass near cliffs, which requires caution - especially when the ground is
damp or if you have small children with you. Along the trail there are signs with
illustrated quotes from the author Ellen Key.

At Stocklycke harbor there is a shelter, picnic area, barbecue area
and a toilet. It is also possible to swim here.

The last bit to the hostel, the trail goes along an
impressive gorge that was formed during the Ice Age.

Food and drink along the way can be purchased in Hästholmen,
about halfway along the route. Hästholmen harbor has a restaurant, café, swimming area,
camping sites, cabins and a five-star guest harbor.

This part of the Östgötaleden has been named by the Swedish Tourist Association
named the signature trail Omberg. The stage takes about 3-5 hours to hike.

The stage has a common route with the St. Birgitta Ways pilgrimage trail - a collective name for all pilgrimage trails that lead to Vadstena and connect pilgrimage destinations in the Nordic countries and Europe. The trail is named after St. Bridget, the patron saint of Europe with her message of peace and simplicity. For more information see website.