Plizio Visual Lab

Hjälmaren

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Lake

Weather…

Hjälmaren is the fourth largest lake in Sweden, covering an area of approximately 484 square kilometers within the provinces of Södermanland, Västmanland, and Närke. It is characterized by its relatively shallow waters, with an average depth of six meters and a maximum depth of twenty meters. A significant historical feature is the Hjälmare Canal, completed in 1639, which connects the lake to Lake Mälaren to facilitate the transport of iron from regional mines. In the late 19th century, the lake's water level was intentionally lowered to reclaim fertile agricultural land, a project that permanently altered the surrounding landscape and shoreline. Currently, the lake supports both commercial fishing and recreational boating while serving as a crucial habitat for various bird species and freshwater fish in central Sweden. The city of Örebro, located at its western tip, serves as the primary economic hub for the region, maintaining a strong cultural connection to the lake.

Location: Sweden
Top sights: Stora Rävsvik · Stora Bastås · Grundholmarna
Nearby: Köping (32 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	-5	-4	0	6	11	15	18	17	12	6	1	-3
Rain mm	53	43	41	43	73	89	100	87	58	76	66	56

📋 Practical info

🧭

Getting there

The lake is surrounded by numerous accessible roads and small towns, with the city of Örebro situated near its western end. Many marinas, public beaches, and nature reserves offer direct access to the water.

📅

Best season

Summer is naturally the peak season for boating, swimming, and enjoying the lively lakeside atmosphere. In winter, if the ice freezes solidly, the lake becomes popular for long-distance ice skating.

⛰️

Terrain & paths

The extensive shoreline features a mix of sandy public beaches, dense reed beds, and pleasant, flat walking paths. The surrounding landscape is generally level and dominated by agriculture and deciduous forests.

🎒

What to bring

Bring standard beachwear, a towel, and sun protection during the summer months. If venturing out on a boat or canoe, an approved life jacket is a crucial piece of safety equipment at all times.

🅿️

Parking

Ample parking is generally available at designated bathing areas, marinas, and nature reserves along the coast. Some larger parking spots near popular beaches may charge a fee during the summer peak.

⚠️

Safety

Always pay close attention to weather forecasts, as large, shallow lakes can quickly develop treacherous, choppy waves during strong winds. Ensure ice is officially measured and declared safe before skating.

⏱️

Time needed

A visit can range from a relaxing couple of hours on a sunny beach to a multi-day boating adventure exploring the lake's islands and connected waterways. The region is great for leisurely weekend getaways.

Geography

Coordinates

59.25500, 15.74800

Facts

The lake surface is located 22 meters above sea level.
The Hjälmare Canal is the oldest artificial waterway in Sweden, built in 1639.
Between 1878 and 1888, the water level was lowered by nearly 1.3 meters.
The drainage project reclaimed approximately 15,000 hectares of agricultural land.
Vinön is the largest island in the lake and is reachable by ferry.
The lake drains into Lake Mälaren via the Eskilstunaån river.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Arboga17 km · NExplore →

Örebro Castle30 km · WExplore →

Köping32 km · NEExplore →

Katrineholm Museum38 km · SEExplore →

Strömsholm Palace42 km · NEExplore →

Eskilstuna45 km · EExplore →

Hallstahammar48 km · NEExplore →

Nora Town50 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Hjälmaren (3)

Stora Rävsvik 🌿 nature

A nature reserve by Lake Hjälmaren featuring diverse flora and fauna.

Stora Bastås🌿 nature

A nature reserve on the shores of Lake Hjälmaren, preserving local wildlife and flora.

Grundholmarna🌿 nature

A nature reserve in Lake Hjälmaren consisting of a group of small islands.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is Hjälmaren a deep lake?

No, it is relatively shallow with an average depth of only 6 meters.

What is a local specialty from the lake?

The lake is famous for its freshwater crayfish (Hjälmarekräftor).

Which city is nearby?

The city of Örebro is located at the western end of the lake.

Are there nature reserves there?

Yes, such as Oset-Rynningeviken, known for its birdlife.

Can you travel to Stockholm by boat?

Yes, via the Hjälmare Canal, the lake is connected to Mälaren and Stockholm.

Hjälmaren: where is it located?

Hjälmaren is located in Sweden.

Hjälmaren: what is there to see?

Highlights include Stora Rävsvik, Stora Bastås, Grundholmarna.

Hjälmaren: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Hjälmaren: why is it worth visiting?

Hjälmaren is the fourth largest lake in Sweden, covering an area of approximately 484 square kilometers within the provinces of Södermanland, Västmanland, and Närke.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → Most beautiful beaches → OpenStreetMap →