Lake Sommen in Östergötland offers some of Sweden’s finest freshwater fishing, with clear, deep waters home to trout, char, pike, perch, and zander. Its rugged shores, forested islands, and pristine bays create a sense of untouched wilderness that makes every fishing trip feel like an adventure. The surrounding nature reflects the best of rural Sweden—quiet forests, rolling hills, and sparkling lakes that invite you to explore.
Here, the Right of Public Access (allemansrätten) gives everyone the freedom to roam, hike, swim, and enjoy the outdoors, as long as they show respect for nature, wildlife, and private property. This unique principle allows visitors to experience the landscape up close, making the Ydre area an ideal summer destination for nature-based activities, from fishing and paddling to hiking and peaceful lakeside picnics.
Vassviksberget
Walking Distance from Ribbingshof. Forest walk to the crest of Vassviksberget, with extensive views of Ribbingshof, Norra Vi and Lake Sommen. Approx. 30 min. walk, partly on a gravel road, partly on a path through the forest. Sturdy shoes and coffee/picnic are recommended. Tables and benches are available at the viewpoint.
10 minutes walk from Ribbingshof. Google Maps
Torpön
The largest island in Lake Sommen, about 10 km long. Connected by a bridge in the south and a cable ferry in the north during summer. Offers camping, restaurant, canoeing, high ropes course, and an ice cream buffet.
30 minutes drive from Ribbingshof. Google Maps
Skurugata, Eksjö
Skurugata is one of southern Sweden's strangest natural phenomena, probably formed by a glacial river. The approximately 800-meter-long "street" was probably formed by a glacial river, when the ice sheet melted. Sturdy shoes are recommended for those who want to walk the length of the street, i.e. through the ravine and then up to the view. From Skuruhatt, one of the highest points in Småland at 337 meters above sea level, you have a breathtaking view of the countryside just northeast of Eksjö. Stories about trolls and robbers still live on, including the tale of Tjuva-Jösse.
40 minutes drive from Ribbingshof. Google Maps
Astrid Lindgrens värld, Vimmerby
In Astrid Lindgren’s hometown of Vimmerby, you’ll find an entire world built around her beloved storybook characters. Here you can easily spend one, two or three days with children of all ages.
50 minutes drive from Ribbingshof. Google Maps
Emils Katthult
Emil of Lönneberga was filmed at the Gibberyd farm in Ramskulla, about 25 km from Vimmerby. All the houses from the filming are still preserved.
50 minutes drive from Ribbingshof. Google Maps
Norra Kvills National Park
A small, untouched national park perfect for a hike. Fallen trunks, huge boulders and towering trees contribute to making this area a wilderness, albeit of a smaller format. In the middle of the park is a small forest lake, Stora Idegölen, with water lilies and bogbean. Sweden’s oldest (over a thousand years) and largest tree. The oak stands in the Kvill nature reserve near Norra Kvill National Park.
30 minutes drive from Ribbingshof. Google Maps
