Lake Hornborga

Lake Hornborga: A natural paradise not only for bird lovers

Lake Hornborga, (Hornborgasjön) also known as Lake Hornborga, is a jewel and nature reserve in Västra Götaland, Sweden. This picturesque region is a paradise, not only for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Location of Lake Hornborga:

Lake Hornborga is located in the triangle of Skara, Falköping and Skövde and is a eutrophic shallow lake in Västra Götaland about 140 km northwest of Gothenburg. Lake Hornborga is located in the middle of a beautiful natural and cultural landscape. Meadows and grazing animals along the lake characterize the landscape.

The area offers wonderful nature experiences all year round.

Parking and hiking trails:

There are various parking spaces around the lake with toilets and information boards. The hiking trails along the lake range from 1.3 km to 6.3 km. At the southern end is the "Trandansen" information center, which is open to visitors during the crane season. Since the crowds are particularly high at this time, the surrounding fields are used for parking, including for buses and campers.

Crane dance and the arrival of spring in Sweden:

Every year in spring, between March and the end of April, up to 30,000 of these majestic birds gather at Lake Hornborga during their spring and autumn migration.

For Swedes in the region, the arrival of the cranes is the first sign that spring is coming and winter is over.

Some of the cranes come from Central and Western Europe and, after a short stop at Lake Hornborga, fly on towards northern Sweden and Norway.

Of course, nobody can predict exactly when the most animals will be seen here, as this is highly dependent on the weather. However, the crane statistics for Lake Hornborga show that the best chances are from the last week of March to the second week of April.

When we were there at the end of March, over 15,800 cranes were counted. The sight of these majestic birds dancing in formation is breathtaking. The spring dances are an unforgettable experience.

In September the cranes return and take a short rest at the lake before flying south again.

Lake Hornborga is one of the best places in the world to observe thousands of cranes every year. This natural spectacle is known as the crane dance (in Swedish: “Trandansen”). But not only the dance, but also the crane migration is one of the most spectacular spectacles in the bird world. The cranes use the nutrient-rich lake as a resting place on their way to the breeding grounds in northern Sweden. The cranes stay here for one to two weeks before moving on.

A few pairs of cranes even stay here and breed. The sounds of the many animals and their elegant flying skills are impressive.

You don't have to be a huge bird lover, but if you get the chance to witness this sight, you will surely be amazed by the beauty and fascination of the cranes at Lake Hornborga!

Other residents and visitors of Lake Hornborga:

When the migratory birds arrive in spring and the cherry trees turn the hills white, spring has arrived in Sweden. During the summer, the lake turns into a nursery, and even during the short nights it is never really quiet here.

Ducks, geese, swans, birds of prey and various water and song birds visit the lake and nest here.

Not only birds gather on the lake shore, but also frogs, dragonflies and various species of fish live in and around Lake Hornborga.

The lake is one of the most important resting places for migratory birds in Sweden. Rare and endangered birds such as the black-necked grebe nest here every year.

The nature reserve also offers rich vegetation with plants and wildflowers. A true paradise for butterflies and insects of all kinds.

Walking in the summer months is accompanied by the buzzing of bumblebees and bees as well as the melody of birds.

Practical information and the Naturum Center:

Many visitors come to Lake Hornborga to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Since Lake Hornborga is a bird and nature reserve, there are various viewing platforms and visitor centers with information boards around the lake.

The Naturum is located on the east side of the lake. Opening hours vary depending on the season and can be found on the website: www.hornborga.com .

Here, visitors of all ages can experience tours, lectures or film screenings about the animals and nature at Lake Hornborga, or simply explore for themselves. Children in particular are presented with the lake's inhabitants in a playful way.

In addition to the visitor center, there is also a café on the east side of the lake. When the weather is sunny, you can enjoy a coffee on the terrace and admire the surrounding nature.

Personal conclusion:

Lake Hornborga is a place where nature reveals its full splendor. The majestic cranes dancing in formation, the diverse birdlife and the rich vegetation make this lake a unique experience. Whether you are a bird lover or just want to enjoy the beauty of nature - Lake Hornborga will amaze you!

So grab your camera and explore this impressive landscape and the inhabitants of Lake Hornborga. Have fun!

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