Bolmen is a lake in the southwest of Småland, which offers a very high recreational value with its numerous islands and bays. It is the tenth largest lake in Sweden and the second largest lake in Småland after Vättern. With its clean water and beautiful landscape of meadows and forests, the region is ideal for swimming, fishing, paddling, hiking and cycling. The largest island is Bolmsö.
Ideal access by car and ferry
The lake is conveniently located halfway between Malmö and Jönköping, only 20 km from the town of Ljungby and the E4 motorway. From the ferry ports in Malmö, Trelleborg and Gothenburg, Bolmen is only 2 - 2.5 hours away by car, making it easy and stress-free to reach, especially for families with children.
More than 300 islands
With an area of 173 km2, Bolmen is Sweden's tenth largest lake and covers the territory of four municipalities. The largest part, including the island of Bolmsö, belongs to the municipality of Ljungby, while the remaining part is divided between the municipalities of Värnamo, Gislaved and Hylte. Although Hylte is politically already part of Hallands län, the municipality is still part of Småland.
There are more than 300 islands spread over the entire area, which are best explored by boat, canoe or kayak. The largest island, Bolmsö, is connected to the mainland by a bridge on one side and a (free) ferry on the other.
Fishing
Bolmen is a paradise for anglers: the clean water of the lake, which is up to 36 metres deep, is home to 24 species of fish, including pike, zander and perch, but also salmon and trout. If you want to fish, you have to buy a fishing licence on the spot, which you can buy as a daily, weekly or annual pass at campsites or in grocery stores.
Paddling and canoeing
Bolmen is a popular destination for paddlers and part of the large canoe route "Lagaleden". The route runs from Bolmen along the rivers Bolmån and Lagan to the town of Laholm on the Swedish west coast. There are campsites with fireplaces along the way, and equipment can be rented locally.