Fagersta is situated in the northern part of the Swedish region of Vastmanland – a popular area often referred to as Bergslagen. The history of both Fagersta and Bergslagen is closely linked to the areas mining heritage. On a holiday in Fagersta you can explore an array of fascinating landmarks and activities. How about fishing, skiing, dancing or hiking? Many visitors are attracted to the dense forest landscape, and with no less than six nature reserves in the vincinity there is a lot of nature to discover.
Fagersta was for a long time a dedicated mining community, and it is still today an important industrial hub. Learn more about the area's industrial heritage at old mines like Engelsbergs bruk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a number of well preserved buildings from the heyday of the mine. Not very far from the mine you can visit the world's oldest still existing oil refinery Engelsbergs oljefabrik, on the aptly named islet of Oljeon (Oil Island) in Lake Amanningen. If you want to know more about the mining heritage of Fagersta, a visit to Bruksmuseet is appropriate. This little museum is located in the former fire station of the town.
Visit the popular Vastanfors Hembygdsgard, an outdoor museum of cottages, an old fashioned store and a coffee house. Go for a daytrip to Angelsberg to see the art gallery and the sculpture park – this place has been a gathering place for Swedish artists since the turn of the last century. Try your luck fishing on one of the many streams and lakes or go wild swimming at Eskilns popular swimming beach.
Stromsholm Canal is another one of the highlights during a weekend in Fagersta. It was built during the 18th century to facilitate transport of iron ore from the mines around Bergslagen to Stockholm and on to Europe. The canal passes fourteen lakes and has 26 locks, of which six are located in the town of Fagersta. Go on a cruise with the steamer A/FRunn, rent a canoe or go for a walk along the canal.
It's easy to travel to Fagersta by car, bus or train. The town is located conveniently next to highroads 66 and 68, and there are both regional and national train services to the station. The closest domestic airports are located in Vasteras, Borlange and Orebro. From Stockholm Arlanda International Airport it takes around two hours to drive to Fagersta.
Whether you are visiting Fagersta to dwell deeper into its fascinating industrial history or to enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings, you will be sure to make memories that will stay with you for ever.
