Tysjöarna, Östersund Travel Guide

Tysjöarna is defined by its limestone-influenced hydrology: two lime lakes sit amid broad marl flats, calcareous fens and patches of wet forest where springs deposit fine tufa and create a high-pH environment. These chemical conditions produce rare soils and a striking mosaic of habitats — shallow, shimmering shallows, soft sedge meadows and hummocky fen — that differ visibly from typical boreal forest surroundings.

Where groundwater bubbles up and the ground stays alkaline, plant life changes: orchids and calciphile species thrive. Look for nodding orchids, meadow herbs and species tied to mineral-rich, moist ground; in sheltered edges reed and willow give way to mossy fen carpets. The floral richness is subtle rather than flashy, best experienced close to ground level where small flowers and moss textures reveal the reserve’s character.

Tysjöarna is a staging and breeding area for waders and waterfowl. In spring the shoreline life intensifies as long‑legged waders, ringed plovers and passage migrants probe the shallow margins; cranes and swans add their calls to the early-morning soundscape. Three bird towers and observation platforms are placed to offer views of feeding and resting birds while minimising disturbance to the wetlands beneath.

A roughly 7 km signposted route links the two lakes and passes through different wetland types; sections of nailed boardwalk and an accessible ramp at the northern entrance reduce trampling and keep feet dry across fragile substrates. Rest areas, an outdoor toilet and occasional footbridges are provided along main approaches, while quieter side paths lead to the towers and spring-fed hollows.

As a protected nature reserve with habitats of international interest, Tysjöarna has strict regulations to protect wildlife and sensitive ground: disturbing or harming mammals, birds, amphibians and reptiles, damaging nests or collecting eggs is prohibited, and low-impact behaviour is required to preserve the fen’s delicate chemistry and tufa formations. The reserve also forms part of broader conservation networks recognising its marl and fen values.

Sounds are a strong part of the reserve’s personality: the abrupt trumpet of a swan, the metallic peep of a wader, and, in spring mornings, an emergent chorus from reed and shallow water. Visually the site is one of low horizons and close-to-the-ground detail — subtle shifts in sedge tone, the pale sweep of marl flats and the crystalline sheens around spring orifices. Visits reward patience and a slow pace.