Ljusdal: Church Art and Outdoor Trails

Ljusdal can appeal to a range of travel interests: church art and local cultural history sit alongside walking, hiking and cycling routes. When planning your stay, you can focus on historic sites and outdoor trails, or include both in your trip. The specific differences can be seen in the individual cultural landmarks as well as in the length and course of the trails.

Cultural History and Art

The Ljusdalsbygdens Museum has a wide-ranging exhibition program. Ljusdal Church also offers several points of historical interest: its oldest section dates from the late 12th century, and inside is a Flemish altarpiece made in Antwerp in 1501. The bell tower by the church was built in 1757 under the direction of Per Jonsson from Rångstra. Jonsson was a self-taught local farmer’s son. The church therefore cannot be reduced to a single era: its oldest medieval section, the Antwerp altarpiece and the 18th-century bell tower represent different historical connections.

Near the center of Ljusdal, Hembygdsgården comprises around 20 buildings and showcases Hälsinge painting. From there, you can enjoy a view over the Ljusnan River. This is where architectural heritage, regional painting and the river landscape come together.

A different kind of art can be found around Bagargränd in the center: most of the murals from the Artscape 2019 project are still visible on the walls. On the art walk in central Ljusdal’s outdoor areas, a map makes it easier to find the artworks. Both the murals and the map offer practical guidance for exploring public art.

Walks, Hiking Trails and Cycling

A popular walking route in Ljusdal circles Kyrksjön, and several easily accessible hiking trails also start here. Hälsans Stig is four kilometers long and forms a loop. Each kilometer is marked, making it easy to follow your progress along the route. Barnleden offers two options: around 2 and 5.5 kilometers. Both start and end at Kolsvedjaberget. Korta leden leads from Kolsvedjaberget to the old water tower and former ski jump. The routes therefore differ both in length and in the landmarks along the way.

Those who prefer mountain biking will find a signposted 4.5-kilometer trail at Kläppaåsen in Ljusdal, rated as easy. Another way to get active is at Östernäs Park, which has a concrete skatepark for skateboarding and cycling. The options offer different experiences: the Kläppaåsen trail has a specified length and difficulty level, while skateboarding and cycling are the focus at Östernäs Park.

At Ygsbo, Ljusnanleden has a bathing spot that is well suited to a longer break and a swim in the river. This adds a seasonal opportunity for a waterside break to the walking, hiking and cycling routes.

Discover more destinations: Färila, Korskrogen, Järvsö, Hamra.

Return to the main travel overview: Ljusdal.