The industrial town of Finspång stands southwest of Stockholm, in the watery region known as Sweden's Lake District. The town claims to be surrounded by 368 lakes. Today there's still modern high-tech industry but many of the old mining and industrial areas are now visitor attractions. This means the surrounding countryside is perfect for exploring if you hire a car in Finspång. Expect to discover picnic spots, walking trails and opportunities for canoeing in all directions. For example, at Grytgöl find a special trail through an old mining area, at Lotorp there's a six-mile waterside walk or explore the path encircling Lake Maseln.
If you have a hire car you can explore Finspång Slott, the main sight of the area. This is the grand 17th-century home of the de Geer family who became wealthy by establishing successful industries here. Visitors can tour the house in its park, and see its orangery, temple and summerhouse. Other highlights of Finspång's industrial heritage include the Reijmyre glassworks, the Mill Museum, Bjorke Vavstuga weaving mill and Hafla forge. For a relic of a pre-industrial era, drive to the 900-year-old St Maria church, which boasts unique medieval wall paintings. And for a more modern thrill, Arena Grosvad is one of Sweden's most modern water parks.
