Top 20 Lakes in Jämtland

Jämtland is home to many lakes, with two of the most prominent being Storsjön and Åresjön. Storsjön, Sweden's fifth-largest lake, is known for its clear waters, numerous islands, and the mythical Storsjöodjuret (Great Lake Monster). It offers a blend of water sports, fishing, and cultural experiences near Östersund. Åresjön, nestled among the peaks of Åreskutan and Renfjället, provides a stunning mountainous backdrop and is a hub for both tranquil activities like kayaking and access to the vibrant Åre resort area for skiing and mountain biking.

The lakes in Jämtland are surrounded by diverse natural features. You can find expansive forests, high mountains, and numerous islands. For example, Andersön Nature Reserve on Storsjön offers gentle paths and impressive mountain views. Käringnäset provides a wonderful viewpoint over Storsjön, while Ånnsjön Bird Reserve is a notable spot for wildlife observation.

Yes, many areas around Jämtland's lakes are suitable for families. Andersön Nature Reserve, for instance, features gentle paths and rest areas perfect for family walks. The shores of Storsjön Lake near Östersund are great for swimming and boating in summer. Many highlights, such as Käringnäset, are also marked as family-friendly viewpoints.

Jämtland's lakes offer a variety of water sports. On Storsjön, you can enjoy kayaking, wakeboarding, water skiing, tubing, and windsurfing, especially at Surfbukten in Östersund. Kayaks are also available for rent at places like Tivars Gårdsmejeri on Norderön. Åresjön is excellent for calm kayak tours, with rentals available at unmanned stations along the lake. Many lakes also provide opportunities for swimming during warmer months.

Jämtland is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts. Storsjön is rich in nearly 20 fish species, including trout (Storsjööring), char, pike, and perch, with rod fishing often free from land or ice. Other notable fishing lakes include Revsundssjön, Bodsjön, and the lakes around Storlien. The Dammån river is famous for large brown trout migrating from Storsjön, and Ånnsjön's feeder rivers offer brown trout fishing.

During winter, Jämtland's lakes transform into venues for cold-weather activities. Lake Storsjön's Winter Park is ideal for ice fishing and ice skating. Åresjön, which freezes from late November to early May, also becomes suitable for ice skating, offering a unique experience with the mountainous backdrop.

Yes, there are numerous hiking and walking opportunities. Andersön Nature Reserve, an oasis surrounded by Storsjön, offers gentle paths and impressive mountain views. For more extensive hiking, you can explore routes in nearby areas. For example, you can find various waterfall hikes in Jämtland that often pass by or near lakes and rivers.

Yes, Jämtland offers cycling routes that often feature lake views. For instance, you can find MTB trails in Jämtland, such as the Lofssjön Lake loop, or road cycling routes like those around Östersund and Frösön Church, which provide scenic rides along Storsjön.

Visitors frequently praise the natural beauty and tranquility of Jämtland's lakes. Many appreciate the opportunities for outdoor activities, from swimming and boating in summer to ice skating and fishing in winter. The impressive mountain views, especially from spots like Käringnäset or within Andersön Nature Reserve, are also highly valued. The blend of wilderness and accessible amenities, particularly around Östersund and Åre, makes the region appealing.

Yes, Åresjön offers a unique relaxation experience with its floating sauna. This sauna, accommodating up to 12 people, provides warmth from a wooden fire and impressive views of the surrounding mountains. You can also take a refreshing dip in the cold lake water directly from the sauna, combining relaxation with an invigorating natural experience.

The best time to visit Jämtland's lakes depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June-August) is ideal for swimming, boating, hiking, and cycling, with pleasant temperatures. Autumn (September-October) offers beautiful fall foliage and good hiking conditions. Winter (December-March) is perfect for ice skating, ice fishing, and skiing, especially around Åresjön. Spring (April-May) is a transitional period with melting snow and awakening nature.

Beyond the larger lakes, Jämtland has countless smaller lakes and tarns that offer serene experiences. While not explicitly 'hidden gems' in the data, areas like the Stensjöarna (Stensjö Wilderness) in western Medelpad and southeast Jämtland, or the numerous lakes in northern and eastern Jämtland, provide excellent opportunities for fishing and quiet exploration away from the main tourist hubs.