Discover Tabergsgruvan – Småland's underground adventure
In the middle of the Småland landscape, just south of Jönköping, rises a mountain with a heart of iron – literally. Tabergsgruvan is not only a historical site, but a living experience for those who are curious about both the wonders of nature and human history. From Smålandstorpet it takes just over an hour to reach this unique attraction, and we promise – the journey down the mountain is well worth the trouble.
Here, equipped with a helmet and flashlight, you can join a guided tour 200 meters into the cold, silent interior of the mountain. It's a journey through 1.2 billion years of geological history – but also through the world of mining and bats.
Read more about the Taberg Mine.
A place with deep roots
The Tabergsgruvan mine is a piece of Swedish industrial history. Ore has been mined here since the 15th century, and the current mine shafts were blown up during World War II. The ore in the rock – an unusual mineral with the tongue-twisting name Titanomagnetitolivinite – is unique in its kind and of high quality despite its relatively low iron content.
Mining operations ceased in the 1950s due to the risk of landslides, but since then the mine has been given a new lease of life – as a nature reserve, a refuge for bats and an exciting excursion destination for curious visitors.
Guided tour with helmet and lamp
Today, Tabergsgruvan offers two different tours: a shorter and a longer tour, both with knowledgeable guides from the non-profit association Tabergs Gruvguider. The tour always begins outdoors with an introduction to the geology and history of the mountain before you go inside the mountain together.
The short tour – for the curious
The short tour takes about an hour. After an introduction outdoors, you walk about 200 meters into the rock, on wide walkways that are partly wheelchair accessible. The temperature in the mine is cool all year round – so bring a warm sweater!
The guides tell about the path of iron ore through history, show rock formations and tell about the bats that sleep here during the winter. The tour is perfect for those who want to get a good insight into the history of the place without going too far or too steep.
The long journey – for the brave
The longer tour takes about 1.5 hours and requires more stamina – but also courage. It starts with an exterior section, followed by a descent via a 20-meter illuminated spiral staircase. Once down in the older, narrower passages, you will see parts of the mine that were previously closed to the public.
This tour is suitable for those who are not claustrophobic and want a more physical experience. Please note that the minimum age is 10 years, and that there is no turning back - once you start, you follow the tour the whole way.
The bats' winter home – and Sweden's only bat museum
Between November and April, the mine is closed to visitors – that's when the bats take over. Six of Sweden's 19 bat species use the Tabergsgruvan mine as their winter home. In order not to disturb the animals' hibernation, the mine is closed during this period.
During the summer, the bat museum is open next to the mine. Here you can learn more about these fascinating nocturnal animals, hear their sounds, try on bat costumes (for children), see models and participate in interactive stations. The museum is Sweden's first and only of its kind - a must for those who like nature, biology and a bit of mystery.
More to discover at the foot of the mountain
Adjacent to the mine is Gruvgården , where you will find a covered barbecue area, municipal toilets and information boards. From here there is also a path up to Tabergstoppen – a short, but somewhat steep hike that takes about 30 minutes.
From the top you get a fantastic view of the Tabergsådalen valley. Here you can breathe Swedish mountain history, but also faith in the future. Up at the top there is also a restaurant and adventure golf during the summer.
How to get to Tabergsgruvan
Getting to Tabergsgruvan is easy. By car, take the E4 and exit at exit 93 (Trafikplats Torsvik), then follow the signs to Taberg. Parking is available adjacent to the mine.
If you are travelling by public transport, you can take bus 27 or 37 from Jönköping to Tabergs Centrum. From there it is a short walk of about 500–600 metres to the mine and museum. The Krösatåget train also stops at Tabergs station.
A destination for those traveling without children
Tabergsgruvan is a perfect destination for adult travelers without children who appreciate guided tours, history and a genuine experience. Although there are child-friendly elements in the museum, the pace and tone of the mine tours are calm, educational and reflective – something our guests at Smålandstorpet often request.
Here you can be both a participant and an observer. It's not just an excursion – it's a journey of discovery.
Stay close to nature and comfortably at Smålandstorpet
After a day among mine shafts, bats and views, it's nice to come home to peace and quiet. At Smålandstorpet you live surrounded by Småland's nature - with forest, lake and tranquility right outside your door. Here you will find space for recovery, rest and new memories.
Welcome to book your stay
Combine the underground adventure of Tabergsgruvan with a nature-filled and peaceful stay at Smålandstorpet . It's a perfect day trip – and an even better part of a whole holiday in the heart of Småland.
Read more or book your stay directly via our website. We look forward to welcoming you to an experience beyond the ordinary.
