For a trip to Östra Frölunda, cultural history and trails take center stage: Kinnahus recalls a historic route along the Ätran Valley, the church stands high on the western bank, and two hiking trails of almost equal length lead to different destinations. Nearby, the public bathing area at Vitasjön adds another option; canoe routes heading south are also offered on the Ätran.

Kinnahus and the historic route

Kinnahus was built to monitor the historic route along the Ätran Valley. This route was known as a “ridhväg” (riding trail). Three defensive ditches remain at the visible fortification; during the period it was in use, they were probably filled with water. At Kinnahus, both the fortification’s function and its still-visible form take center stage. If you visit Kinnahus, park in the designated parking area.

Church by the Ätran

The present-day church in Östra Frölunda was built in 1826 by master builder Per Eriksson from Sandhult. The ceiling painting in the chancel was added later: Einar Forseth created it during a renovation in the 1930s. The church stands high on the western bank of the Ätran. The construction date and the painting therefore mark two distinct historical periods: the church’s construction in the 19th century and the later decoration of the chancel.

Hiking trails with different destinations

The 49-kilometer Pilgrimsleden Kindaholm connects the churches of Kalv, Håcksvik, Östra Frölunda and Mårdaklev. The 50-kilometer Kurirleden starts at Örestens fästning fortress near Örby and ends at Kinnahus in Östra Frölunda. The trails are similar in length, but follow different routes: one connects four churches, while the other leads from a fortress to Kinnahus.

There is an important planning note for the Kurirleden: some sections are poorly maintained and inadequately signposted. Take this limitation into account before including it in your plans. The Kindaholmsturen starts at Östra Frölunda church; the Holsljungaturen crosses the Ätran as it leads into Östra Frölunda. These details describe additional route connections without suggesting that the trails form a single continuous route.

Bathing area and canoe routes

Vitasjön has a public bathing area with jetties, a sandy beach and grassy areas. Signs to the lake are posted along the road between Mårdaklev and Östra Frölunda. Canoe routes heading south are offered on the Ätran from Östra Frölunda and Håcksvik; their course is checked regularly. The water activities are therefore clearly distinct: Vitasjön offers a bathing area and shoreline facilities, while the Ätran has canoe routes downstream.

Mining and farm history

Feldspar and quartz were mined at Skillnabo Gruva in the early 20th century. Beside the mine’s water-filled area, there is a raft, a picnic table, a mine cart and a barbecue area. At the 19th-century Lerbäcksbyn farm, you can experience the history of the Sjuhärad tenant farms. Mining and farm history thus offer two distinct themes: mineral extraction and the history of the tenant farms.

Campground and camping area

The campground near Östra Frölunda is just before the Lillån flows into the Ätran. A camping area near Östra Frölunda has a shelter with a living roof.

Discover more destinations: Örsås, Mårdaklev, Kalv, Svenljunga, Holsljunga, Sexdrega, Mjöbäck, Håcksvik.

Back to the main travel overview: Svenljunga.