Änggårdsbergen begins almost in the middle of the city, but after just a few minutes on the trails, Gothenburg feels far away. The nature reserve stretches from the Gothenburg Botanical Gardens and links the green parks in the western parts of Gothenburg with the Sisjön nature area south of Mölndal.
Here, you’ll find classic west coast nature: forest paths, rocky ridges, small lakes, wetlands and open heathland. Scrubby oak, birch and pine grow on the higher ground, while the valleys are greener, with broadleaf woodland and hazel. It makes Änggårdsbergen one of Gothenburg’s best areas for a short nature outing, a longer walk or a hike with coffee and sandwiches in your backpack.
Hiking in Änggårdsbergen
Änggårdsbergen has a large network of paths and trails. For a shorter walk, there are several good options, including Vitsippsstigen through the valley of wood anemones and the loop around Finnsmossen. For a longer route, trails such as Grodstigen and Änggårdsbergen runt take you through more varied terrain, past wetlands, viewpoints and changing natural landscapes.
Views, heathland and traces of history
Bredfjället is one of the nature reserve’s fine viewpoints. From here, you can look out over western Gothenburg, and in clear weather the view reaches all the way to Vinga lighthouse. The area also has several ancient remains, including Bronze Age graves.
Änggårdsbergen is home to many typical west coast habitats. The heathlands on the rocky ground are kept open through controlled nature conservation burns, while birds, insects and amphibians thrive around the lakes and wetlands. In spring, you may spot newts in the ponds.
Walking, cycling and horse riding
Änggårdsbergen is best explored on foot, but there are also marked routes for cycling and horse riding. Cycling is only allowed on marked roads and trails, and only during certain periods. Always check the signs in the reserve before setting off by bike, and do not cycle off marked trails, as this can damage the ground and tree roots.
Horse riding is only allowed on marked riding trails. Dogs must be kept on a lead throughout the nature reserve.
Accessibility
Änggårdsbergen is hilly, and the surface varies from gravel paths to smaller woodland trails. Along the western side of Finnsmossen, there is a more accessible loop suitable for wheelchair users. In other parts of the reserve, expect slopes, roots and uneven ground.
Getting here
There are several entrances to Änggårdsbergen. You can enter the nature reserve from areas such as the Gothenburg Botanical Garden, Sahlgrenska, Eklanda, Toltorpsdalen and Högsbo industrial area. Useful public transport stops include Botaniska trädgården, Eklanda skola, Fässbergs äldreboende and JA Wettergrens gata.
Public transport, cycling or walking are good ways to get here. Maps, current rules and more information about the trails are available from Länsstyrelsen and Västkuststiftelsen.
Änggårdsbergens nature reserve covers around 352 hectares and was established in 1975. Camping and overnight stays are not permitted in the reserve. Fires are only allowed at designated fireplaces. Take any litter home with you and show consideration for nature and other visitors. Dogs must be kept on a leash.