Västerås: Year-round experiences in vibrant city by the lake

Situated by Mälaren, the third largest lake in Sweden, is the energetic city of Västerås. In addition to grand historic sites and a rich cultural heritage, you will find one of the world’s most unusual hotels here as well as the country’s first action-filled water park, less than one hour from Stockholm by train.

Sweden’s sixth largest city, Västerås, is also one of the oldest in the country with a thousand-year long history. This is also where successful global companies such as ABB and H&M were once founded.

“We have a long history but also a vibrant culture and beautiful nature,” says Pernilla Törngren, destination developer at Visit Västerås. “If you go for a walk from the historic neighbourhood around the cathedral to the lakeside with its booming developments, you will literally go on a journey from old to new.”

Photo: Press

Mälaren is the third-largest freshwater lake in Sweden and Mälarpromenaden, a four kilometre cycling and walking path, stretches from Lögastrand to Lasse Färnlöf’s place. “You can even walk all the way to the nature reserve Björnö, where beaches, cliffs, outdoor activities and fika await,” adds Pernilla.

In winter, locals are drawn to the frozen lake and many explore on ice skates, skis or kick sleds. Both ice skates and kick sleds are available to rent – and if you are brave, you can even plunge into the icy water. And in summer, the 100-year-old boat Elbafärjan will take visitors around the lake. This hop-on hop-off service is the perfect opportunity to discover the many islands.

Photo: Avig Kazanjian

Ancient burial mound and brass

“In Västerås, there are lots of activities, places to visit and opportunities to create fun memories for the whole family,” assures Pernilla. “Of course, there are some places that we are particularly proud of, such as Kyrkbacken (the church hill) with its old buildings, narrow alleyways and the cathedral, as well as our many beautiful castles.”

A memorable experience awaits at Anundshög and the Badelunda ridge, where you will find Sweden’s largest ancient burial mound with several ship settings and a rune stone. Dating back to around 500-1050 AD, this site was a cultural centre and one of the regional trading hubs. “This is a mighty and magical place,” says Pernilla. “It’s beautiful all year round. You can explore the ancient remains, take part in events and guided tours, or walk along the trail with an audio guide.”

Another highlight is Skultuna Messingsbruk, which has been producing brass products for over 400 years. Here, design has always been in focus and early designers include Carl Hjalmar Norrström and Sigvard Bernadotte. Today, the products are often seen in blogs, interior design magazines and on television.

Photo: Pia Nordlander

Unusual hotels and steam works

Locals and visitors also love the 100-year-old steam works, which is host to the popular Kokpunkten Actionbad. Here, you will find attractions and water slides across eight floors. You can even swim in VR, where a completely ordinary pool is transformed into an exciting experience that takes you into the depths of the sea.

The same building houses Steam Hotel, a luxurious experience across 18 floors that has put Västerås on the map. The hotel is a destination in itself with 264 guest rooms, restaurants and bars, conference rooms, and world-class relaxation.

Another not-to-miss experience is Utter Inn, which is included in the list Unusual Hotels of the World. “Utter Inn is a floating, underwater hotel, where you sleep in an underwater aquarium,” explains Pernilla. “It’s the brainchild of Mikael Genberg, a local artist. This spring, if things go according to plan, Genberg will place a similar small red cottage on the moon!”

In addition to its rich history, action-filled activities and unusual hotels, Västerås offers grand shopping and a wide range of mouth-watering culinary experiences, both in the city centre and along lake Mälaren. By the way, did you know that Sweden’s first pizza was made here? Another proof of the city’s vibrant culture.

Photo: Maisa Lappi

Web: visitvasteras.se
Facebook: VisitVasteras
Instagram: @VisitVasteras

Seven places to check out in Västerås:
• Västerås Domkyrka: cathedral and resting place of King Erik XIV
• Västmanland Läns Museum: tells the story of the city’s cultural heritage
• Kokpunkten Actionbad: Sweden’s first action-filled water park
• Anundshög: Sweden’s largest burial mound with rune stones
• Skultuna Messingsbruk: producing brass products for over 400 years
• Vallby Friluftsmuseum: one of Sweden’s largest open-air museums
• Västerås Konstmuseum: a meeting place for art lovers of all ages

Check out Visit Västerås for more inspiration on what to see and do.