Bestorp on Lake Stora Rängen: lake and trails

Bestorp can be explored through two distinct interests: the bathing spot on Lake Stora Rängen and the marked connections to the Östgötaleden trail.

Bathing spot, lake and water activities

Bestorp’s bathing spot is on Lake Stora Rängen, at the end of Badvägen within the village. The lake is part of the Kinda Canal. The water temperature is measured at the bathing spot, but only during the bathing season, from 15 May to 15 September. If you factor readings into your plans, this seasonal window is important.

Lake Stora Rängen is suitable for both experienced paddlers and beginners. Assess local conditions before paddling. Anglers will also find something specific to fish for in the lake: Stora Rängen is part of a lake system rich in fish, where pike and perch can be caught with a spinning rod. Fishing conditions and regulations may change; check the current rules before fishing.

Marked trails and oak landscape

The marked connecting trail from Bestorp meets the Sätravallen–Bjärka-Säby section of the Östgötaleden trail at Lake Sätrasjön, after about two kilometres. The connecting trail meets the main section about one kilometre north of Sätravallen.

The Sätravallen–Bjärka-Säby section runs along paths and smaller roads through a varied oak landscape. This offers a different focus for planning your day alongside the lake: instead of spending time by the water, you can make a section of the Östgötaleden trail the centrepiece of your visit. The connection between Bestorp and the hiking trail is marked; the starting point at Sätravallen is also accessible by bus to Bestorp, followed by the connecting trail.

Starting point and local orientation

In Bestorp, next to the connecting trail to the Östgötaleden starting point at Sätravallen, there is a car park for about nine cars. There is also a shelter with a barbecue area at Sätravallen.

The Bestorp stop is served by Östgötatrafiken. Check the timetable and connection before travelling if you plan to take the bus to Bestorp and then continue to Sätravallen. This lets you plan the two parts of the journey separately: the bus ride to Bestorp and the marked connecting trail to the starting point.

Local history across different periods

Bestorp developed in connection with its railway station on a railway line that opened in 1902. The station is therefore part of the village’s development history; the year refers to the opening of the railway line.

Sätravallen also has a history as a leisure destination: in the 1980s, it was a recreation area with cabins, swimming facilities and seasonal skiing. This historical context sits alongside today’s points of reference on the Östgötaleden trail, such as the starting point, shelter and barbecue area.

Cycling route and small-craft harbour

For cycling travellers, the Sverigeleden cycling route is another point of reference. The municipal plan from 2015 places it through Bestorp or just outside the village. Check its route on current maps before deciding on your itinerary.

The municipal plan from 2015 also mentions a small-craft harbour in Bestorp, operated by the Bestorps båtklubb association. If the harbour is important to your travel plans, confirm its current operating status locally.

Discover more destinations: Bergsslussar, Linghem, Linköping, Roxenbaden, Ljungsbro, Sturefors, Kögenäs, Ulrika

Back to the main travel overview: Linköping.