Trönö: Churches, Pilgrim Trail and Forest Landscape

Trönö lies in a distinctive, open valley along the Norralaån, which is called the Trönöån in its upper reaches. Steeply hilly forests and many small waterways shape the landscape. In addition, there are more than 40 smaller ponds and small lakes. Anyone wishing to combine culture, nature and a distinctive regional history during their holiday will find a place here with several clear focal points.

Medieval Churches and Unusual Art

The main cultural attraction is Trönö Old Church. The church, which is protected by the state, is well preserved; its oldest parts date from the 12th century. It is one of Sweden’s oldest surviving buildings and is considered one of the country’s best-preserved late medieval church complexes. Inside are several medieval sculptures, including a triumphal cross from the early 15th century. The distinctive bell tower is also noteworthy: it is one of the few surviving Swedish bell towers from the 16th century.

Trönö New Church stands in contrast to this medieval complex as a more recent place of worship. The church was originally consecrated in 1895 and built from red bricks manufactured in Trönö. After being completely destroyed in a major fire in November 1998, it was reconsecrated on the first Sunday of Advent in 2001. Today, its appearance is defined by a bright, modern style and a protected courtyard enclosed by old walls.

Below Trönö New Church, on the other side of the road, is the artwork “Träd in” by Erik Olof Wiklund. It depicts the murder of Thomas Becket, who was archbishop in 1170. The sculpture “Pilgrimen”, on the other hand, refers to Trönö’s own church seal from the period when the pilgrim trail passed through the village. In this way, the history of the place is made visible not only in the churches but also in public spaces.

Pilgrim Trail, Forest and Water

Trönöleden offers a way to place Trönö within a longer pilgrim trail. The trail leads from the coastal area of Norrala via Söderhamn and Norrala Church to Trönö. From here, it continues to Undersvik Church. It is also possible to follow Trönöleden via Arbrå, where it joins the Helgonleden. For your travel planning, this means that you can view Trönö as a cultural destination or incorporate the place into a longer trail experience.

Even without the pilgrim trail, there are various nature experiences to choose from. The forest-dominated surroundings, small waterways and numerous ponds and lakes give Trönö a distinctly rural character. Information about the fishing waters includes shelters, a bathing area, water depths and directions. Fishing permits are sold at Trönö Lanthandel and at ticket machines in the centre of Trönö and at Storsjön.

Local History and Practical Information

Söderblomsgården is a local history museum in a former parsonage built in 1730. Nathan Söderblom was born there in 1866. From Midsummer until mid-August, Söderblomsgården is open to visitors and offers homemade pastries and filled sandwiches during this seasonal opening period. Guided tours can be arranged for Söderblomsgården and the adjacent Trönö Old Church. Trönö Church is open to visitors on weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

When looking for holiday accommodation or a holiday home in Trönö, you can therefore first consider which type of trip suits you. Those interested in culture can focus their plans on the two churches, the medieval sculptures, Söderblomsgården and the artworks. Anyone who prefers outdoor activities can place the landscape, the fishing waters or the various sections of the pilgrim trail at the centre of their trip. This combination makes Trönö a destination that brings together historical discoveries and peaceful experiences in nature.

For the overarching travel overview: Trönödal.