Surte: Glass History, Cycling Tour and Nature

Surte combines Swedish industrial history with varied travel planning amid cycle paths, bodies of water and natural areas. The history of the glassworks is particularly significant: from 1862 to 1978, it was the town’s largest and dominant workplace. Those who want to combine cultural discoveries with active excursions will find several different starting points for planning their days in Surte.

Glass History at the Glasbruksmuseet

The Glasbruksmuseet i Surte presents an important era in Swedish industrial history. During a visit, you can see numerous different glass containers, including the oldest surviving bottle from Surte, a beer bottle from 1893.

Individual life stories are also part of this history. Alexander Samuelson learned glassblowing at Surte Glasbruk. A visit to the museum therefore allows you to trace the development of the glassworks not only through the workplace and its products, but also through the people connected with it. The Surte Kraftstation, built in 1943 as a reserve power station for the glassworks, is also part of the historic surroundings.

Cycling between Surte and Bohus

The Bohus–Surte cycling tour begins at the library in Surte. Depending on the route, it ends in Bohus or leads back to Surte. Most of the route runs along cycle paths, making it easy to include as a separate active element in your travel plans. Those who want to learn about not only the landscape but also the area’s history along the way can choose the guided cycling tour. It includes a stop at the Glasbruksmuseet, where you can learn more about the glassworks and the former industrial community.

Another point of interest is located at an information board beside the first pond on the Bohus–Surte route. It covers the birds and the history of the Surte Bäcken. In this way, the route combines physical activity with insights into local industrial and natural history. For planning purposes, the starting point at the library is particularly useful, while on the return journey you can distinguish between Bohus and Surte.

Fågeldammarna and Nature in the Surrounding Area

Fågeldammarna were originally created as water reservoirs for the formerly important mill operation and the power station of the Surte glassworks. Those who want to visit this area can take the bus to the Bruksvägen stop or the commuter train to Surte station. The route then continues via Göteborgsvägen and Bruksvägen. You can take this information into account when planning your day and choosing your preferred means of transport.

The Vättlefjäll nature reserve is also located in the surrounding area. It has several hiking trails, and the Bohusleden passes through the area. From the north, Vättlefjäll can be reached via Bohus and Surte. Another option for a day in nature is the circular hike around Surtesjön. It begins at a car park by the Surte bathing area or at Vättlefjällstugan in Angered and follows an easy circular trail on gravel paths.

The Right Accommodation for Your Travel Plans

When searching for a holiday apartment or holiday home in Surte, you can first decide which experiences should be the focus of your trip. For those interested in culture, the Glasbruksmuseet, the history of the glassworks and the Surte Kraftstation are the main attractions. If you want to combine cycling with local history, the Bohus–Surte cycling tour provides clear guidance, starting at the library and with a possible stop at the museum.

Choose your holiday apartment or accommodation in Surte according to your desired travel pace and the focus of your days.

You can also include Skepplanda, Verle, Älvängen, Nol and Ale in your further travel plans.

Return to the higher-level travel overview: Ale.