Västerljung is a stereotypical small locality in the countryside of Södermanland. With a population of around 380 inhabitants, you might think that nothing ever happens here. However, it is a part of the triangle of three localities within the Trosa Municipality together with Trosa and Vagnhärad. Rune stones, a church, and several farm shops can be found here today – in an area where many generations have been farming the land.
A Short History of Västerljung
Västerljung Parish has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. The oldest parts of today’s church date back to the 12th century and a locality has grown up around the church.
The parish was vast with several small villages and farmsteads. It was common for its inhabitants to move between Västerljung and the nearby parishes of Vagnhärad, Trosa, Lästringe, and Bälinge. Västerljung has had many different spellings during the years from Westerlung to Westerliwng. It was within the parish that the large Tureholm Treasure was found in 1774. With its 12 kilograms, it is one of the largest gold treasures found in Scandinavia.
The church has been destroyed several times during the centuries. It was hit by lightning in 1595 and 1689, not to mention the burning of the church in 1719 by the Russians during the Russian Pillage. A large rune stone was found in the church foundation in 1959.
Farming and livestock have been an important part of the livelihood for Västerljung’s inhabitants. But there has been more production here. A sawmill was in use at Gise until 1916 and a dairy at Hållsviken was closed the same year. Gise saw a new mill and power station in 1927. Västerljung had a running train station until the 1960s.
Things to Do and See
Welcome to the Swedish countryside! Västerljung is a quaint little locality and the main sight as in many similar places is the church. There are, however, also farms and nature to explore in its vicinity. If that is not enough, then a trip to neighboring Trosa or Vagnhärad is within easy reach.
Västerljung Church
The main building of Västerljung is of course one of its main sights. The church dates back to the 12th century. Its current appearance dates back to 1889 and its last reconstruction.
The church is surrounded by a small graveyard, which includes the grave monument for Walther von Hallwyl as well as the rune stone that was found in the church foundation. The runes date back to the 11th century.
Hillsta Gård – Vegetables & Strawberries
There are many farms around Västerljung and several offer the possibility for customers to purchase their products. Hillsta is located close to the center of the locality and its offerings differ depending on the season.
We have earlier been at Hillsta to pick strawberries, read more about it here>>
Bergs Gård – Meat, MTB & Hiking
This place is similar to Hillsta, but a bit larger. Here you can mainly find meat in their farm shop, but there are also more activities. It is known for its mountain bike tracks and has a nature walking path for the ones who want to enjoy an easy walk.
We have recently visited Bergs Gård for a Christmas walk, read more about it here>>
Lake Gisesjön
Gisesjön is a lake a bit south of Västerljung. It is within the Nynäs Nature Reserve and has several hiking paths, barbeque spots, fishing possibilities, and even a small beach.
We have visited Gisesjön several times in the past, read more here>>
Sörmlandsleden – Hiking
Sörmlandsleden is a network of hiking paths all around the province of Södermanland. Closest to Västerljung is Route 55 between Gisekvarn and Trosa, a distance of 16 kilometers. This route takes you from the old mill at Gise, past the Tureholm Castle, and all the way to the town of Trosa.
You can read more about Sörmlandsleden and find maps at the official website here >>
How to get to Västerljung
Flights: The closest airport is Stockholm Skavsta Airport (NYO) 41 kilometers away. It offers international flights to Europe. Sweden’s main airport, Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN), is located 110 kilometers away for more national and international flight options.
Car: Västerljung is located close to the E4 between Södertälje and Nyköping.
Train: Closest trainstation is Vagnhärad, with trains to Norrköping, Nyköping, Södertälje, and Stockholm.
Bus: Regional buses connect Flen with the surrounding region.
The driving distance from 5 major Swedish cities, according to Google Maps:
- Stockholm – 69 kilometers (56 min)
- Gothenburg – 404 kilometers (4 h 28 min)
- Malmö – 548 kilometers (5 h 48 min)
- Linköping – 135 kilometers (1 h 29 min)
- Kiruna – 1302 kilometers (14 h 59 min)
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