Discover Ekolsund: Palace Park, Gardens and Hjälstaviken

Ekolsund combines a historic palace complex with extensive gardens and landscaped areas, as well as a variety of nature experiences. Those planning a trip can combine culture, walks, cycling and fishing here. Families and other travel groups will particularly appreciate the fact that different ideas for the day can be pursued side by side: a visit to the palace park, a nature walk or a longer cycling tour.

Ekolsund Palace and its historic gardens

Construction of Ekolsund Palace began in the 1630s, after Field Marshal Åke Thott had received the estate from Gustav II Adolf. The palace forms a cohesive ensemble with clear traces of a park, avenues and a game park that extend far beyond the actual palace grounds. As a result, the history can be understood not only through a single building, but also through the design of the surrounding landscape.

The palace park includes five different historic gardens. The architecture of the palace also offers specific details to look out for during a visit: Ekolsund Palace consists of two separate main buildings, a northern and a southern one. They are connected by two low, semicircular buildings known as exedras. The palace park is open to individual visitors during the day. Plan your visit so that you allow enough time for the park and gardens.

Arboretum and landscape around Ekolsund

Another highlight is the Ekolsund arboretum, with more than 400 tree species. Around 16 hectares consist of relatively dense mixed woodland. Those interested in trees, gardens and established landscapes will find a distinctly different focus here from a visit devoted solely to the palace. The combination of historic gardens and an arboretum also makes Ekolsund varied enough for a more leisurely stay.

The Hjälstaviken nature reserve is located in the immediate vicinity of the destination, directly next to Ekolsund Palace. Around Hjälstaviken, an approximately 8 km-long hiking trail runs through flowering pastureland to the birdwatching tower on the western side of the lake and to Parnassen with its tall deciduous trees. This route is suitable for anyone who would like to focus their stay more strongly on landscapes and nature observation. There are also good fishing opportunities in Ekolsundsviken.

Cycling, paths and practical orientation

The surrounding area can also be incorporated into your travel plans by bicycle. Cykelleden Uppland is approximately 80 kilometres long. Near Ekolsund Palace, it runs for an approximately 100 m-long section along a gravel path south of Route 263. At Ekolsundsviken, the route crosses the water and then continues along the old railway embankment. When planning, therefore, consider whether you would prefer short excursions in the surrounding area or a longer section of the cycle route.

Many visitors stop at Wärdshuset for lunch, information, key collection or an initial conversation with the staff before continuing to the palace and park. This point of contact can help you structure your day. If you are looking for a holiday apartment or holiday home in Ekolsund, the most suitable choice depends primarily on whether the palace and gardens, hiking trails, cycling or the fishing opportunities in Ekolsundsviken are the main focus of your stay.

Compare Ekolsund with other places

If you would like to compare several places when planning your trip, you can also include Edsta, Örsundsbro, Grillby, Lillkyrka, Enköping and Fjärdhundra in your search. Ekolsund itself particularly appeals to travellers who want to combine historic sites with nature trails and active excursions.

To the higher-level travel overview: Enköping.