Planning day trips from Östersund by car is one of the easiest ways to experience the landscapes, villages, lakes and mountains of central Sweden. Östersund is well placed for flexible road trips, with calm lake roads leading to historic farms, waterfalls, mountain resorts and viewpoints. Whether you have one free day or several, these nearby attractions offer a varied taste of Jämtland without requiring a long stay away from the city.
Why take day trips from Östersund by car?
Östersund sits on the eastern shore of Lake Storsjön, surrounded by forest, open farmland and distant mountain ranges. The city itself has museums, restaurants and waterfront walks, but a car gives you access to many of the region’s most memorable places. In less than an hour, you can reach quiet islands, traditional villages and dramatic waterfalls. A longer drive takes you towards Åre, one of Sweden’s best known mountain destinations.
Public transport can reach some of these destinations, but driving makes it easier to stop at viewpoints, cafés and small craft shops along the way. It also allows you to adapt your route to the weather and the season. Summer brings long daylight hours and green landscapes, while autumn offers vivid colours. In winter, snow covered roads create beautiful scenery, although journeys require more planning and extra care.
1. Frösön and the Peterson-Bergerska garden
Frösön is the most convenient of these day trips from Östersund by car and can be explored in just a few hours. The island is connected to the city by bridges, so you can reach it in around ten minutes. Despite its proximity to central Östersund, Frösön feels quieter and more rural, with views across Storsjön towards the mountains.
One of the island’s highlights is the Peterson-Bergerska garden, the former home of composer Wilhelm Peterson-Berger. The house and garden sit above the water and provide a peaceful setting for a short walk. During the summer season, the site often hosts cultural events and opens its café. Check opening times before you go, as they vary during the year.
What else to see on Frösön
- Frösö Church, a historic stone church with wide views over Lake Storsjön.
- Frösö Zoo, which may appeal to families during its open season.
- Rödöberget, a scenic area for views, walking and outdoor activities.
- Small beaches and picnic spots along the island’s shoreline.
Frösön works well as a relaxed first stop after arriving in Östersund. You can combine it with a walk beside the lake or return to the city for dinner.
2. Andersön Nature Reserve
For an easy nature escape, drive south from Östersund towards Andersön Nature Reserve. The island lies in Lake Storsjön and is connected to the mainland by a bridge. The journey is short, but the reserve offers a sense of distance from the city, especially outside the busiest summer weekends.
Marked paths pass through pine forest, rocky shoreline and small clearings. Several places are suitable for swimming or a picnic when the weather is warm. The views across Storsjön are particularly attractive in the evening, when the light reaches the mountains on the western side of the lake.
Planning your visit to Andersön
Bring food and water, since services are limited inside the reserve. Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to explore the trails, as some sections can be uneven. In autumn, the island is a good place for a quiet walk among changing birch and pine trees. In winter, access and conditions can vary, so check local information before setting out.
Andersön is one of the best nearby attractions for travellers who want a short drive and several hours outdoors rather than a packed sightseeing itinerary.
3. Ristafallet waterfall
Ristafallet is one of the most popular waterfall stops within reach of Östersund. It is located near Hammarstrand and can be reached by driving east along roads through forest and farmland. Allow roughly one and a half to two hours each way, depending on your chosen route and stops.
The waterfall is broad and powerful, especially in spring when snowmelt increases the flow. Viewing areas near the falls make it easy to appreciate the rushing water without a long hike. The surrounding landscape is wooded and peaceful, giving the visit a distinctly Jämtland character.
Ristafallet is also associated with the Swedish film adaptation of Ronja, the Robber’s Daughter, which used parts of the area as a filming location. Fans of the story may recognise the scenery, while other visitors can simply enjoy the waterfall and the drive.
Make the waterfall a full road trip
Rather than driving directly there and back, consider stopping in smaller communities along the route. Look for local farm shops, cafés and craft businesses, particularly during the summer season. Leave plenty of time for the return journey, as rural roads can be slower than the distance on a map suggests.
4. Åre and the Åredalen valley
Åre is one of the most rewarding longer day trips from Östersund by car. The journey west takes approximately one hour and fifteen minutes to one and a half hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The route follows the E14 through the wide Åredalen valley, with forests, lakes and mountain views appearing along the way.
In summer, Åre offers hiking, cycling, scenic lifts and outdoor activities. Ride the cable car or another lift if operating, then enjoy views over the valley and surrounding peaks. The village has cafés, restaurants, shops and equipment outlets, making it easy to combine outdoor time with a relaxed lunch.
Winter changes the character of the destination. Åre is a major ski resort with downhill skiing, cross country trails and a lively village centre. If you are driving in winter, allow extra time and check the road forecast. Snow, ice and limited daylight can make the return journey slower than expected.
Stops near Åre
- Åre Old Church, a medieval stone church in the centre of the village.
- Åre Lake, where you can enjoy views and a calm waterside walk.
- Duved, a smaller resort west of Åre with its own historic and outdoor attractions.
- Ristafallet, which can be combined with the journey if you are prepared for a longer day.
Åre is best for travellers who want a complete mountain experience in one day. Start early, especially in summer, when popular activities may become busy.
5. Tännforsen, Sweden’s largest waterfall by volume
Tännforsen is a dramatic waterfall on the road between Åre and the Norwegian border. It is farther from Östersund than the other suggestions, but it is possible as a long day trip if you leave early and plan carefully. The drive to the waterfall usually takes around two hours or more each way, depending on conditions and stops.
The waterfall is especially impressive during the spring thaw and after periods of heavy rain. In winter, parts of the falls can freeze into striking ice formations. A short path leads from the parking area to viewing points, and the surrounding forest adds to the atmosphere.
Because Tännforsen is remote, services are limited and opening hours may be seasonal. Bring provisions and check the latest local information. The road can be challenging in winter, and mobile coverage may not be reliable throughout the journey.
How to combine Tännforsen with other stops
The most practical approach is to include Åre or Duved on the same route. You can stop for lunch in Åre, continue to Tännforsen, and return along the E14. This creates one of the most scenic road trips from Östersund, but it is a full day rather than a quick excursion.
6. Hoverberg and the southern shore of Lake Storsjön
Drive south from Östersund along the shore of Lake Storsjön to reach Hoverberg, a small village known for Hoverberget mountain. The journey takes about an hour and offers views across the lake, open fields and forested hills.
Hoverberget is a distinctive landmark rising above the surrounding countryside. A path leads towards Hoverberg Cave, a natural cavern inside the mountain. Access to the cave may be seasonal, and guided visits are sometimes offered during the summer. Even when the cave is closed, the mountain is worthwhile for its viewpoints and walking routes.
At the top, you can look across Storsjön and towards the mountain areas west of the lake. The area also has picnic opportunities, making it a useful destination for families and travellers who prefer a slower day outdoors.
Other stops on the southern lake route
- Svenstavik, a small service town where you can refuel and buy supplies.
- Local farm shops and seasonal cafés around the lake.
- Rural viewpoints and shoreline areas suitable for photography.
Hoverberg is a good choice when you want one of the more manageable road trips with a clear destination and plenty of flexibility.
7. Persåsen and the culture of Jämtland
Persåsen, south of Östersund, is a useful stop for visitors interested in design, woodcraft and local culture. The journey takes roughly forty five minutes to an hour by car, depending on where you begin in the city. The destination is known for its connection to Swedish woodworking and traditional craftsmanship.
At the local craft centre, you may find furniture, artwork, home products and exhibitions inspired by the surrounding landscape. There is often a restaurant or café, although seasonal schedules can change. A visit here combines well with a drive through the countryside and a stop at Hoverberg.
This is one of the best nearby attractions for a rainy day or for travellers who want more than natural scenery. It also offers an opportunity to buy a practical souvenir made in the region rather than a mass produced item.
8. Lockne and the Meteorite Centre
South of Östersund lies the Lockne area, where a meteorite impact shaped the landscape millions of years ago. The Lockne Meteorite Centre explains the geological history of the impact and the unusual rock formations connected with it. The centre is generally most accessible during the warmer months, so check its schedule before driving out.
The area is not a conventional sightseeing stop, which is exactly why it appeals to curious travellers. Exhibitions help explain how scientists identify impact structures and how the event changed the local geology. You can combine the visit with a countryside drive and stops in nearby villages.
Allow extra time if you enjoy geology, natural history or photography. As with many rural attractions in Jämtland, opening hours can be limited outside the summer period.
9. Vemdalen and mountain scenery
Vemdalen is a longer option for experienced drivers who want a mountain focused day. The journey southeast from Östersund takes around two hours or more, depending on the destination within the Vemdalen area. It is best suited to summer hiking, autumn scenery or winter skiing, rather than a quick sightseeing stop.
During the warmer months, walking trails lead through birch forest and open mountain terrain. In winter, the ski areas attract visitors looking for downhill and cross country activities. The region has accommodation, restaurants and shops, but services can be spread out between different villages and resorts.
Check weather and road conditions carefully before leaving. A day trip to Vemdalen is most enjoyable when you choose one main activity and avoid trying to cover too much ground.
Driving tips for day trips from Östersund
Check distances and opening hours
Map distances can be misleading in rural Sweden. Roads may be narrow, winding or affected by weather, and a scenic route often takes longer than the fastest route. Check travel times, fuel stations and attraction opening hours before departure. Many museums, gardens and cafés operate mainly from late spring to early autumn.
Prepare for changing weather
Weather can change quickly around the lake and mountain areas. Pack an extra layer, waterproof clothing and comfortable shoes even on a sunny morning. In winter, use suitable tyres, clear snow from the car and allow additional time. Avoid driving tired after a long day outdoors.
Respect wildlife and the landscape
Forests and open roads around Östersund are home to moose, reindeer and other wildlife. Slow down at dawn, dusk and in areas marked with wildlife warnings. Park only in designated spaces and take rubbish with you. At nature reserves, follow marked paths and observe local fire safety rules.
Plan food and fuel stops
Some of the most attractive road trips from Östersund pass through areas with few services. Fill the tank before leaving the city, carry water and pack a picnic if your route is remote. Local cafés and farm shops are worth supporting, but do not rely on every business being open outside the main season.
Choosing the right day trip
For a short outing with minimal driving, choose Frösön, Andersön or Persåsen. Hoverberg offers a balanced route with views, walking and cultural interest. Åre is the strongest option for mountain activities, while Ristafallet and Tännforsen suit travellers who want waterfalls and scenic countryside. Vemdalen is best reserved for a long, activity focused day.
Whatever route you choose, travelling by car allows you to slow down and discover the smaller nearby attractions between the major stops. A viewpoint, farm café or quiet lakeshore can become just as memorable as the destination itself, which is what makes exploring Jämtland from Östersund so rewarding.