Are you looking for a day trip in Småland that offers both history, nature and tranquility? Then this is Åsens village is a destination that stands out. Here you will find a living cultural reserve where you can experience what life in the Småland countryside looked like over a hundred years ago. A stop that is perfect for those traveling through Småland by car - whether you come from the continent or from a nearby town.
Time has stopped in the town of Åsen
Åsens by is Sweden's first cultural reserve. Here, houses, agricultural landscapes and traditions have been preserved as they were around 1900. It's not a museum - it's a place where history still lives. In summer, animals of old Swedish landraces graze in the pastures. Original furnishings have been preserved in the houses, and you are greeted by an environment where electricity, water and modern conveniences have not yet taken over.
It is a place for those who want to experience the real Småland - for real.
An accessible destination by car
Åsens by is located in Aneby municipality, just over 40 minutes northeast of Jönköping. It is only a short detour from the E4 highway, making it an ideal day trip during a car vacation in Småland. Whether you're heading for Vimmerby, Eksjö, Gränna or Glasriket, a stop here is a cultural break - peaceful, close to nature and easy to reach.
Free parking is available at the entrance to the village.
Things to do in Åsens village
What makes Åsens by so popular is the combination of simplicity and variety. There are no digital screens or intrusive activities here - but you'll find plenty of things to do for a full day.
1. Hike through the cultural reserve
Walk the gravel roads between the farms, look inside the buildings and see what everyday life was like at the turn of the century. For example, Tekla's house is preserved exactly as she left it in 1989 - without electricity and with hand-picked furnishings from the early 1900s.
2. Meet the animals
During the summer months, goat sheep, redcoats, Gotland rabbits and Linderöd pigs graze in the village's pastures. The animals are part of the cultural landscape and help to keep the land open - just like in the past.
3. Coffee in the coffee shop
The small café serves homemade cakes, coffee and light lunches. The setting is genuine and peaceful, overlooking flower meadows and courtyards.
4. Shop local at the market stall
The stall offers a carefully selected range of locally produced products - from honey and jam to crafts, ceramics and sheepskins.
5. participate in activities and events
Throughout the year, several events are held in the village - from craft courses to guided tours and markets. In the fall, a harvest festival is held, and a traditional old-fashioned Christmas market opens before Christmas.
6. Walk the trails
There are several marked hiking trails around the village. Many of them go through forests, past meadows and viewpoints. There are barbecue areas and shelters for those who want to stop with a packed lunch.
Practical information
- Location : Åsens by, Haurida: Åsens by, Haurida, Aneby municipality
- Travel here by car: Easy access from the E4 highway, free parking
- Entrance fee: Free to visit the cultural reserve all year round
- Shop & café: Open mainly during the summer months
- Accommodation : Hostels: Hostels, cottages, campsites - booked via www.asensby.com
A visitor destination close to Smålandstorpet
If you live at Smålandstorpet Åsens by is an excellent destination for a half-day trip. It takes just under an hour by car from the croft. You will have an experience filled with culture, nature and inspiration - and will return home with both tranquillity and new impressions in your luggage.
Summary: why Åsens village?
- Authentic Småland cultural environment
- Ideal for car traveling tourists
- Free to visit, open all year round
- Genuine, small-scale and historic
- Easy to combine with other attractions in Småland
If you are looking for a cultural excursion in Småland that feels realthen the answer is here. Åsens village is not a place you just pass by - it's a place you remember.
