Torsö

Out in Vänern, just off the coast of Mariestad, lies Torsö, the largest of the more than 22,000 islands, islets and archipelagos that make up Vänern. The Mariestad archipelago, of which Torsö is a part, is the largest of its kind in Lake Vänern. Here you have excellent conditions for recreational activities, such as bonfires, swimming and hiking and cycling, but there are also many interesting sights, including Torsö Church, Fågelö Chapel and a number of historical monuments. There is easy access to Torsö from the mainland via a 1-kilometre-long bridge, from where you have a magnificent view. There are lovely beaches all around the island and a restaurant up on the north-west coast.

Torsö is the perfect place to start exploring the other islands and archipelagos, especially if you have a boat to get around in. In fact, many of the islands are car-free.