Högfors is a settlement and former ironwork in an area known as Bergslagen in the historical province of Västmanland. It was earlier part of Karbenning Parish but is today within Norberg Municipality. The ruins of the old ironwork are still standing as a reminder of the industrial heritage of the area.
A Short History
The iron processing in Högfors dates back to at least the 15th century. At the time there was at least one foundry here. Several influential people have been sharing the ownership of the ironwork. These include families such as Brahe and de la Gardie, but also royalty such as King Gustav Vasa and King Karl IX.
The last blast furnace here was built as late as 1915. It is this blast furnace that still stands as a ruin today. It once employed around 250 people. The ironworks were decommissioned in 1953.
Things to Do and See
Walking around the site, and seeing the huge brick towers gives you a feeling at least of how big this ironwork once was. There are many of these in Sweden, but getting to see a ruin like this is impressive and provides an insight into the industrial past of Bergslagen.
Högfors Bruk
The ruins of Högfors Bruk are the main attraction here. The two towers of the former blast furnace are still standing and it is possible to walk around and explore the area. There are more buildings in the area that was once a part of the small company town. These include the manor and the stables, as well as the residential buildings for the workers.
Högfors Herrgård
Högfors herrgård is the manor house of the ironwork. It was built around 1680 and was for centuries the administrative center for the nearby production at the ironwork. It is today privately owned.
How to Get to Högfors
- Flights: Borlänge Airport (BLE), or Dala Airport, is 69 kilometers to the north, and Stockholm Västerås Airport (VST) is 69 kilometers to the southeast.
- Car: Högfors is along Road 256 southeast of Norberg.
- Bus: Buses from VL connect Högfors with the surrounding region.
The driving distance from 5 major Swedish cities, according to Google Maps:
- Stockholm – 158 kilometers (1 h 58 min)
- Gothenburg – 418 kilometers (4 h 48 min)
- Malmö – 638 kilometers (6 h 47 min)
- Linköping – 238 kilometers (3 h 1 min)
- Kiruna – 1185 kilometers (13 h 58 min)
Find out more about other destinations in Sweden by visiting our page Exploring Sweden
