Usually road side attractions mean you have to stop and look at something tacky. And large.  Sometimes though, road side attractions are just that, attractive.  Sometimes you’ll find a sight bereft of all tourism.  Sometimes it’s even free.

In Småland, a region in southern Sweden, just north of Jönköping, is Brahehus.  Today, Brahehus is an impressive ruin.  In the 1650s it was an impressive country castle.  Unfortunately, it never got much use and burned down in 1708 leaving a shell of stone walls.

Since then it has stared out over the water as Sweden’s busiest highway was built right next to it.  In fact, you have to walk under the highway to get to the Brahehus.

As it must have been hundreds of years ago, the view over Lake Vättern, one of Sweden’s largest lakes, is amazing. Visit the castle right around sunset.  You’ll be able to watch the sun go down looking out over the lake an when darkness falls, the castle is lit up by several spotlights.

Brahehus isn’t a tourist destination.  It’s a stop along the way to somewhere.  Wherever that may be.  But as you drive by and Brahehus fades, you’ll wish you had stopped.  So do.  Pull over, stretch your legs, and wander around the ruins of a 17^th century Swedish country castle.

More Tips for Things to Do in Sweden

We’ve lots more travel tips for what to do in Sweden.