Stornäset, Vasternorrland Travel Guide

4.5 (153)

A long sandy headland of seaside meadows and reed-fringed bays where migrating ducks and shorebirds gather against a backdrop of accessible boardwalks.

Stornäset is a coastal nature reserve on the northeastern tip of Alnön near Sundsvall, known for its broad strandängar (coastal meadows), shallow sandy beaches and reed-fringed inlets that attract large numbers of migrating and breeding birds. The reserve combines accessible boardwalks and viewpoints with open grazing meadows, sandspits and alder swamp, creating varied habitats for plants, waders and ducks and offering calm nature experiences year-round.

A brief summary to Stornäset

Ö,, Sundsvall, SE
Click to display
Click to display
Duration: 0.5 to 4 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 3 out of 5

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Stornäset.

Bring binoculars and a field guide for bird identification; the reserve is famed for spring and autumn migrations.
Use the raised boardwalks and accessible ramp to explore wet areas — these are suitable for strollers and many mobility aids.
Respect grazing cattle: observe quietly, keep distance and close any gates you pass.
Tide, wind and weather change the shoreline quickly; layer clothing and wear sturdy footwear for uneven ground beyond the boardwalks.

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Explore Stornäset on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Stornäset, mapped for you.

Getting There

Car

Drive from central Sundsvall to the Alnön bridge and continue toward northern Alnön; typical travel time is about 20–30 minutes depending on traffic. Parking near the reserve is limited and seasonal; parking spaces may be cleared in winter and busy in summer, so plan arrival times accordingly. There is no parking fee for the reserve, but local restrictions apply during maintenance or events.
Regional bus plus walk

Take the local regional bus service serving Alnön to the Stornäset / Alnön stop; bus travel from Sundsvall central typically takes 25–35 minutes with standard service frequency. From the stop a level walk of at least 1.5 km over minor tracks and boardwalks leads to the reserve entrance; sections of the path include raised ramps suitable for wheelchairs where indicated.
Cycle

Cycle from Sundsvall across the island on minor roads and tracks; expect a 40–60 minute ride from town depending on route and fitness. Some stretches are on country lanes with limited shoulder space; secure your bicycle at the signed parking area and use the provided paths and boardwalks within the reserve.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Restrooms
Seating Areas
Sheltered Areas
Picnic Areas
Information Boards

Discover more about Stornäset

A coastal tapestry shaped by land uplift

Stornäset occupies a long, low-lying headland where post‑glacial land uplift and coastal processes have created long shallow beaches, sand spits and mosaic strandängar. The changeable shoreline and underlying calcareous bedrock make for a mix of habitats — open grassland kept short by grazing, muddy flats, shallow bays and internal alder swamp — each revealing different textures and colours through the seasons.

The reserve as a stage for migrating birds

The open strandängar and long, shallow tidal shelves turn Stornäset into a vital resting and feeding ground for migratory waterfowl and waders. In spring and autumn the flats host waves of ducks and shorebirds that pause to refuel on invertebrates and seeds; in summer parts of the reserve are also important for breeding species. A sequence of habitats from reed edges to exposed sandbars gives visiting birds options for shelter and foraging. Management has combined nature protection with accessibility: raised boardwalks cut through wet alder fen, an adapted ramp leads out across the marsh and there are viewing hides, a small bird tower and picnic spots with benches and simple shelter. Grazing cattle still keep many meadows short, a deliberate measure to maintain open habitat for plants and birds. Simple facilities provide comfort without overwhelming the landscape.