the valleys of the table mountains
a historic landscape
The unique table mountains in the west of Sweden were given their flat shape several hundred million years ago, and there is an ongoing debate on whether this was the cradle of Sweden. Either way, it is clear that this area was already popular at the dawn of human history – the exceptional number of megalithic tombs, boulder burials from the Stone and Bronze Ages, is a reminder still visible today. The area around Falbygden has around 200 passage graves, which is almost 70% of the total number of such graves in the whole of Sweden. A journey through this region offers plenty of historic experiences: you can visit medieval churches, Gudhem’s monastery, Åsle Tå, Ekehagen’s Ancient Village, just to mention a few.
The table mountains themselves are shrouded in mystery. There are many legends about this area, not least about Ålleberg, like the one about Ålleberg’s riders.
It is said that the inside of the mountain consists of a giant hall, where thousands of brave warriors from times gone by are sleeping, and their horses stand asleep in long rows of stalls. The riders are dressed in shining armour and are fully armed. The horses are in full battle gear. When their country is threatened, the warriors wake up och ride out to save it from enemy forces…
nature and birdlife
The varying landscape that surrounds the table mountains provides the perfect conditions for a rich plant and animal life. In this area, there is a good chance you will see the king of the forest, the elk, in its rightful element, and the area around the lake Hornborgasjön is a paradise for resting and breeding wetland birds. This is where thousands of cranes greet spring each year, as do other interesting species like the seaeagle. Hornborgasjön has almost 150,000 visitors every year!
In the east you’ll find Hökensås nature reserve which, with its vast coniferous forests, resembles a miniature Norrland – and where you’ll find bird species that prefer sheltered areas: Tengmalm’s owl, capercaillie and black grouse are some examples. The area includes around 60 lakes and ponds, where you can fish for game fish like rainbow trout, salmon trout and brook trout.
The river Tidan, 187 km long, is one of few Swedish rivers that flow north. It runs up into the lake Strängseredsjön and passes Tidaholm, where you can enjoy rich and varied fishing, before it debouches into Lake Vänern, by Mariestad.
the good things in life
In the area around the table mountains, food has always been an important part of life. The great focus on locally produced food means that you can enjoy authentic Swedish flavours: world-renowned cheeses, traditional game dishes, and home-baked bread made according to old traditions. The tables around the table mountains are set for anyone who enjoys culinary experiences!
Art is an important part of the good things in life, and this area has inspired creativity in all its forms. The area has a large number of artist’s studios – at some of them you can enjoy beautiful artwork accompanied by good food!
