Mattön is a small settlement as well as an island in Sandviken Municipality in Gävleborg County. It was previously a part of Österfärnebo Parish in the historical province of Gästrikland. Dalälven River surrounds the island on all sides and it makes up a part of the Färnebofjärden National Park.
A Short History of Mattön
With the industry in Gysinge just to the north, a new residential area was developing on the island. The first settlement was established in the 1840s when the bridges across the river were built. The small settlement was expanded in the 1870s when the river was used to transport timber. The end of the 19th century saw the establishment of services and smaller businesses in the area.
A large part of the island became part of Gysinge Nature Reserve when it was established in 1975. A large part of the reserve became a part of Färnebofjärden National Park when it was established in 1998.
Things to Do and See
With the river Daläven right next door and a nature reserve as well as a national park as a neighbor there is plenty to enjoy on the island of Mattön. It is very likely that you end up on the island to enjoy nature unless you are visiting someone you know here.
Gysinge Nature Reserve
A part of Gysinge Nature Reserve is on the island. It was established in 1975 and covers an area of 455 hectares. Parts of the reserve have already become a part of the neighboring Färnebofjärden National Park.
Färnebofjärden National Park
Färnebofjärden National Park was established in 1998. It covers an area of more than 10.000 hectares across four municipalities in four different counties. The municipalities are Aveseta, Heby, Sala, and Sandviken. The park covers a river landscape known for its rich birdlife and impressive natural beauty.
How to Get to Mattön
- Flights: Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN) is 114 kilometers to the southeast.
- Car: Mattön is close to Road 56 between Gävle and Heby.
- Bus: Buses from X-Trafic connect Mattön with the surrounding region.
The driving distance from 5 major Swedish cities, according to Google Maps:
- Stockholm – 148 kilometers (1 h 47 min)
- Gothenburg – 470 kilometers (5 h 37 min)
- Malmö – 689 kilometers (7 h 50 min)
- Linköping – 284 kilometers (3 h 37 min)
- Kiruna – 1115 kilometers (13 h 23 min)
Find out more about other destinations in Sweden by visiting our page Exploring Sweden
