Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Caves
Sweden
Jönköping

Vetlanda

Top 5 Caves around Vetlanda

Best caves around Vetlanda are found in Småland, Sweden, a region characterized by its natural formations and geological history. While extensive cave systems are not prominent, the area offers intriguing natural formations and historical sites. These locations provide a glimpse into the region's past and are often steeped in local folklore. Exploring these sites offers insights into both geological features and cultural heritage.

Best caves around Vetlanda

  • The most popular caves is Lasse-Maja Cave, a cave that is divided…

Last updated: May 13, 2026

Lasse-Maja Cave

Highlight • Cave

Legendary small grotto, which is divided into two chambers and can be reached via a simple wooden ladder. In one chamber you can easily stand with several people, the other …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Hornbæk Slate Quarry

Highlight • Cave

Beautiful slate quarry. Permanently open, during the summer time there is a concert every Wednesday evening.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Dackegrottan Cave

Highlight • Cave

Sturdy shoes recommended... The last few meters over the footbridge are slippery when wet ‼️

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Kleva Mine

Highlight • Cave

Kleva Gruva is an interesting cave, especially worth a visit with children

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Kleva Gruva

Highlight • Cave

A highly recommended mine that you can explore on your own. It's only 3°C in the mine, so you should dress warmly even in midsummer... or change accordingly on site. It's already cold from the entrance.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more caves around Vetlanda.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Vetlanda

Hiking around Vetlanda

Cycling around Vetlanda

Running Trails around Vetlanda

Road Cycling Routes around Vetlanda

MTB Trails around Vetlanda

Gravel biking around Vetlanda

Tips from the Community

Karin&Joerg
July 30, 2025, Hornbæk Skiffergruva

A detour is one of the must-sees in Sweden. It feels like being transported to another world. Slate was mined here in the 19th century. Thirty-meter-high walls, lined with intertwined plants and water droplets, reflect the sunlight. A flashlight and sturdy shoes are recommended for the descent.

Translated by Google

0

0

Highly recommended and a small highlight in the area. If you have the opportunity to visit at night, you should take advantage of this experience and visit the bats there.

Translated by Google

0

0

Hiking recommendation. If you want to hike around the lake, I recommend going from the grotto back to the ski area (winter) or the mountain bike trails (summer) and continuing the circular route. I've attempted the climb myself. However, I advise against it unless you're sure-footed and experienced climbers. There's an increased risk of falling here. Furthermore, after the climb, you have to make your way through the undergrowth for another 100-200 meters before you reach the hiking trail again. I therefore don't recommend this direct route.

Translated by Google

1

1

The cave itself is relatively small and rather unspectacular. The stories surrounding it, however, are not. Legend 1: Protection from the Danes During the Kalmar War in 1612, the village of Klövdala was burned down by the Danes. The inhabitants survived by fleeing and hiding in the Stora Lassa Kammare (Stora Lassa Chamber). Legend 2: Lars Molin the Thief The commoner Lars Molin (1785–1845) from Ramsberg undertook a series of robbery sprees throughout the country. He usually disguised himself as a woman (hence the name Lasse-Maja) and repeatedly evaded the authorities. During one of his raids, he is said to have found refuge in this very cave. This story, however, is doubtful, since according to historian Edvard Matz, the thief was never active in this area, but primarily in the Märlardalen region. In 1813, Lars Molin was caught stealing church silver from Järfälla Church. He was subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment in Karlsten Fortress. After 22 years, he was pardoned. During his sentence, he wrote his memoir, "The Strange Adventures of Lasse-Maja."

Translated by Google

1

1

Wonderful! 👍🏻

Translated by Google

1

1

Get off your bike and go down into the slate quarry. It's relatively small but absolutely worth seeing. If you can spare 15-30 minutes from your tour, you should definitely stop here.

Translated by Google

1

0

I in der Natur
January 2, 2025, Kleva Mine

Great passages in the pit

Translated by Google

1

0

The mine is a great place to explore, especially with children - there are no guided tours (but that is not necessary either)

Translated by Google

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What unique geological formations can I explore near Vetlanda?

Beyond traditional caves, you can discover the Lasse-Maja Cave, known for its two chambers and legendary stories. Another remarkable site is the Runkesten, a massive 260-ton rocking stone formed by glaciers, which can be wiggled with muscular strength. The region also features crevices like Götsboda grotta.

Are there any historical sites related to caves or mining in the Vetlanda area?

Yes, the area offers several historical sites. The Hornbæk Slate Quarry is a historical site and natural monument, permanently open for visitors. You can also explore Kleva Mine, a former show mine, and the Iron Mine Tunnel, both offering a glimpse into the region's mining past.

Which caves are suitable for families with children?

The Kleva Mine is particularly recommended for families. It's an interesting cave with activities like treasure hunts and gold washing, and is known for its very nice staff.

What kind of gear should I bring when exploring caves around Vetlanda?

For most cave explorations, sturdy shoes are highly recommended. For places like Lasse-Maja Cave and the Iron Mine Tunnel, a flashlight or headlamp is essential due to dark, narrow sections. For the Iron Mine Tunnel, rubber boots might also be beneficial.

Are there any challenging caves for experienced explorers?

Yes, the Dackegrottan Cave is considered challenging, especially with slippery footbridges when wet. The Iron Mine Tunnel also presents challenges with deep pitholes and requires solid footwear and caution.

What outdoor activities can I combine with a visit to the caves?

The Vetlanda area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including the 'Landsbrorundan' and 'Hallsnäs Gård' loops, detailed in the Cycling around Vetlanda guide. For gravel biking, explore routes like 'Vetlanda runt' or 'Alfred's House in Katthult' from the Gravel biking around Vetlanda guide. Mountain biking enthusiasts can check out trails like 'Lake Grumlan' or 'Kvarndammen' in the MTB Trails around Vetlanda guide.

Are there any lesser-known caves or grottoes worth visiting?

Beyond the more popular sites, the Götsboda grotta (also known as Götsboda skreva or Rövarskreven) southwest of Kvillsfors offers a unique experience. It's situated in a rock crevice and is steeped in local legends of hidden treasures.

What do visitors enjoy most about the caves around Vetlanda?

Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Many enjoy the unique challenge and exploration aspects of caves like Lasse-Maja Cave and Dackegrottan Cave. The historical context of sites like Hornbæk Slate Quarry and Kleva Mine also receives positive feedback, especially for their educational value.

How accessible are the caves around Vetlanda?

Accessibility varies. Lasse-Maja Cave is accessed via a simple wooden ladder, and some sections require crouching. Dackegrottan Cave involves a footbridge that can be slippery. The Iron Mine Tunnel has deep pitholes, making it less suitable for small children and requiring careful navigation.

Are there any specific safety considerations for exploring these caves?

Yes, safety is important. For Götsboda grotta, visitors should be aware of inherent risks and proceed at their own risk. The Iron Mine Tunnel has deep pitholes, so entering is at your own risk, and a flashlight is crucial. For Dackegrottan Cave, sturdy shoes are recommended due to potentially slippery footbridges.

What makes the Lasse-Maja Cave unique?

The Lasse-Maja Cave is unique due to its legendary status. It's a small grotto divided into two chambers, accessible by a wooden ladder. Its allure is significantly enhanced by the rich stories and myths surrounding the robber Lasse-Maja, who reportedly hid there.

What is the best season to visit the caves around Vetlanda?

While many caves are accessible year-round, the best season for general exploration and combining visits with outdoor activities is typically spring through autumn when weather conditions are milder. The Hornbæk Slate Quarry even hosts concerts on Wednesday evenings during the summer.

Can I find any man-made cave structures or mines in the region?

Absolutely. The Vetlanda region is known for both natural caves and man-made structures. You can visit the Hornbæk Slate Quarry, the historical Kleva Mine, and the Iron Mine Tunnel, which are all examples of man-made sites offering unique exploration opportunities.

Most popular routes around Vetlanda

Hiking around Vetlanda

Most popular attractions around Vetlanda

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Boskvarnasjön

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy