Viksjö – Waterfall, Nature and Culture

Viksjö combines impressive nature with regional history and experiences for different kinds of holiday days. Västanåfallets naturreservat nature reserve is located in Viksjö near Road 331 and is characterised by a waterfall with a total height of 90 metres, the second-highest in Sweden. There are also viewpoints, cultural attractions, a nature trail for children and special places for relaxed trip planning. If you are looking for a holiday apartment or holiday home in Viksjö, you can choose your accommodation based on whether you mainly want to explore landscapes, experience culture or take excursions with children.

Nature Experiences Between the Waterfall, Mountains and Lake Viksjön

The Västanåfallet waterfall gives the nature reserve its distinctive character. Its total height difference of 90 metres makes it one of the area's striking natural features. Hippaberget is also interesting when planning your trip: From there, you can look out over wooded ridges to the east, Lake Viksjön directly below and the Mjällådalen valley. This allows you to combine a stay in Viksjö with a viewpoint experience without the day having to consist solely of a single attraction.

Viksjöbadet is located on Lake Viksjön between Hippaberget and Billberget and is a good starting point for climbing one of the two mountains. Those who value varied days combining nature and exercise when looking for accommodation can take these starting points into account when choosing their location. The combination of waterfall, wooded ridges, lake and valley offers various ways to adapt your stay to your mood and the day.

History and Craftsmanship at Västanåfallet

The cultural history is also part of Viksjö's character. Viksjö's bell tower was originally built in 1724 for Högsjö kyrka by the master builder Johan Schytt from Härnösand. It was purchased in 1789 and erected at its present location in 1792. Those interested in historic buildings and regional developments will find a concrete detail here that brings the history of the village to life.

The exhibitions at Västanåfallet provide information about the Västanå ironworks, which operated at this location in the 18th and 19th centuries. At Västanåfallet Natur & Kulturcentrum, a separate exhibition area also presents the history of the Finnish settlers in the surrounding area. In addition, the Kunsthandwerksboden at Västanåfallet sells handicrafts by around twenty craftspeople. This allows a nature excursion to be expanded with insights into work, settlement history and local craftsmanship.

Ideas for a Trip with Children

The Barnens Naturstig nature trail at Västanåfallet has thirteen stations about animals and is aimed at children aged approximately five to eleven. For families, this nature trail can be an activity in its own right, while older children or adults can also explore the landscape and viewpoints. The Viksjö library in Viksjö Folkets hus offers another option for a quieter part of the day. It is accessible every day of the week with a library card for the self-service facility.

Choosing Viksjö as a Suitable Base

When looking for a holiday apartment in Viksjö, it is worth prioritising the experiences you want before booking. Nature enthusiasts can focus on Västanåfallets naturreservat nature reserve, the view from Hippaberget and the location on Lake Viksjön. For an interest in cultural history, the bell tower, exhibitions and handicrafts are good options. If children are travelling with you, the Barnens Naturstig nature trail can also influence the decision to stay in Viksjö. Viksjö Mat & Nostalgi is furnished in the classic style of the 1950s and 1960s and sells something good to eat – another specific stop to include when planning your day.

For orientation regarding other destinations in the surrounding area, you can then also look at Älandsbro, Härnösand and Ramvik.

For the higher-level travel overview: Härnösand.