Omberg

Omberg stands abruptly out of the flat Ostergotland plain, about 263 metres at Hjassan, some 175 above the lake, with Vattern on one side and the Takern wetlands on the other - a horst, a block of mostly granite bedrock lifted between faults. A hill fort of about 500 by 200 metres crowns Hjassan. The slopes carry beech, unusual this far north, along with lime, elm and a rich ground flora including several orchids, and the western scarp drops steeply to the lake. Legends attach thickly: Omma the queen who lived in the hill, Rok and Alvastra below. Hjassan and Vasterlider give views over the lake and the plain. Paths run through the woods and Naturum Tåkern and Alvastra abbey are close.

What you'll find

• A hill 263 metres above the sea - a horst lifted between faults.
• Beech woods unusually far north - with lime and elm.
• Orchids in the ground flora - the slopes are rich.
• Views from Hjassan and Vasterlider - lake on one side, plain on the other.

When to go

May to September; late spring for flowers. Half a day.

Good to know

Trails are steep on the western side. Views are wooded in summer and better in spring or autumn. The hill is popular at weekends. Facilities are at the edges, not on the ridge.

Nearby

Alvastra abbey is below; Takern is east and Vadstena north.

Key facts