Avesta is a picturesque town with a proud industrial heritage. Visit a museum housed in a former ironworks factory and meet one of the largest herds of European bison on the continent. The Dalälven River flows through Avesta and creates opportunities to hike, paddle, fish and enjoy the fresh air.
Things to do in Avesta
Step back in time and discover the town’s blue collar past at the Verket Industrial History Museum. The venue occupies a former 19th-century ironworks factory and is packed with interactive exhibits. It moonlights as an art gallery and features several permanent installations, as well as rotating exhibitions by local and international artists.
Get up close with prehistoric animals at the Avesta Bison Park. European bison once roamed the forests surrounding Avesta during the Bronze Age but became extinct in the Middle Ages. They’ve since been reintroduced, and this park is one of the best places to see the majestic animals up close. The largest males can weigh more than 1,000 kilograms.
The Nedre Dalälven River Landscape Biosphere Reserve protects a mix of swampland, grassland and deciduous forests. Hike on scenic trails and enjoy a leisurely paddle along the river. The biodiversity in the UNESCO reserve is incredible, with the chance to spot more than 100 bird species, including owls, osprey and Swedish woodpeckers.
Cast a line in the Dalälven River for the chance to reel in trout, grayling and other freshwater species. In nearby Färnebofjärden National Park, you can take advantage of an excellent catch and release program. The waterways are well-stocked with pike and perch.
Getting around Avesta
Avesta is compact and easy to get around on foot. The town is a 1.5-hour drive from Uppsala and two hours from Stockholm, while trains run between Stockholm and Avesta in 1.5 hours. Stockholm Arlanda Airport is a two-hour drive away.