Wild swimming

ALLEMANSRÄTTEN – WHERE CAN YOU SWIM IN NATURE?

Thanks to Allemansrätten, the Swedish Right of Public Access, you’re free to swim in most places – along the coast, in lakes or rivers – as long as you respect the rules and the environment.

Sweden’s shoreline protection law ensures public access to most waterside areas, regardless of land ownership, while also protecting plants and wildlife. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• 🚫 Do not swim close to someone’s private home or garden.

• 🪧 Respect any signs that prohibit swimming or access.

• 🚶‍♀️ Getting there: You may not cross someone’s private yard, cultivated fields, plantations, or drive a car where there is no road.

WHAT IS ALLEMANSRÄTTEN?

🎬 [Watch this short film about Allemansrätten]

WATER TEMPERATURE IN OUR LAKES

🌡️ Curious about today’s temperatures?
👉 [Check current lake temperatures here]

OUR SWIMMING TIPS – UNOFFICIAL WILD SWIMMING SPOTS

These locations are simply recommendations based on popular local spots for wild swimming. Please note that these are not official municipal bathing areas and are not maintained by Hjo Municipality.

📍 Skolbryggan, Lake Vättern

Located right in the centre of Hjo, Skolbryggan is accessible via Sjögatan. A well-loved swimming spot close to town.

📍 South Pier, Hjo Harbour (Södra Piren)

Take a dip from the southern pier, located right in the harbour. Beautiful views, refreshing water, and a real city-meets-lake vibe.

📍 Stämmorna, Mullsjön

On the northern shore of Lake Mullsjön, this calm and peaceful spot invites a more tranquil swim close to nature.

👉 [View our full swimming map]
👉 [Go to official public bathing areas]

SWIMMING WITH ANIMALS

🐶 Swimming with Dogs – What to Know

Between 30 April and 1 September, dogs are generally not allowed to swim at official public bathing areas in Hjo (exceptions apply – check the rules for each location).
👉 [See what applies to each bathing spot]

• During the winter season, dogs are allowed to swim at municipal bathing areas.

• At wild swimming spots (not official bathing areas), dogs may swim freely – as long as you follow basic rules:

• Keep your dog on a lead.

• Always clean up after your dog.
  
  

🐴 Swimming with Horses – What to Know

Horses are not allowed to swim at official public bathing areas at any time of year.
👉 [See the list of municipal bathing areas]

According to Allemansrätten, horses may swim at other, non-official locations – but with caution. It’s important to avoid damaging ground or sensitive vegetation. When riding near lakes, rivers, or coastal areas, be extra careful as soft ground is more easily worn.

Keep in mind:

• Horses stir up mud and often defecate in the water.

• This can affect water quality and pose health risks for humans.

• For this reason, it is not suitable to bathe horses where people commonly swim.