Hostels in Västmanland

Vastmanland is a province in the central part of Sweden. It borders Sodermanland, Narke, Varmland, Dalarna and Uppland. The traditional Swedish provinces serve no administrative purpose; it is a historical designation only. The largest city in Vastmanland is Vasteras; it is also the oldest city, having been settled around 1000 AD.

To get to Vastmanland, fly to Stockholm-Vasteras Airport, located in Hasslo, 5km from the city. Alternately, you can fly into Stockholm and catch the train. To access the more remote parts of the province - the canoeing and hiking trails in the northern Farnebofjarden National Park or the small villages near the lake - you may prefer to have your own transportation. If not, local and regional buses can get you to most towns.

Budget hostel accommodation in Vastmanland can be found in Vasteras. Keep an eye out for signs saying “vandrarhem,” as that is what the Swedes call a hostel. Many locals speak English, so you can always ask them for a hostel as well. Outside of the main cities, hostels are often hard to find. Consider a guesthouse (“gasthus”) or B'n'B instead.

After you sort your accommodation, you can spend time exploring this small Swedish province. In the north, the mountains offer excellent hiking and winter sports. The central province is mainly plains, and there was once a big mining industry in the western part. Engelsberg Ironworks, in Norberg, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the best preserved and most complete example of a 17th to 19th century northern European industrial complex. Nearby, you can also visit the Sala Silvermine, one of the best examples of a silver mine from the 19th century. The underground complex often hosts concerts, and if you are up for a unique adventure, you can stay in a furnished bedroom for the night.

The main city, Vasteras, is located on the shores of Lake Malaren, Sweden’s third largest lake. Some Norse ruins are nearby, the most famous being Anundshog, the largest burial mound in Sweden. Currently, as in the past, Vasteras is an industrial city, but is quickly becoming a tourist destination. Visit the Vallby Open Air Museum, the Vasteras cathedral, and the Skultuna Brassworks while you are there. Don't miss the chance to explore the Stromsholm Canal either. Go by pleasure craft at a leisurely pace or hire a bicycle and pedal alongside the canal.

Vastmanland is a quiet and industrial province, but explore slowly and her riches will be revealed.

Handwritten by local expert for Västmanland hostels Jakob Lombardi