A beautiful autumn day in Östanås

After our somewhat wet adventure in The seal then came a really sunny October weekend and we went to Östanås between Molkom and Munkfors.

Östanås is an old mill area active between 1642 and 1894. Parts of the mill are still there, but the most interesting part is the remains of the old cottages, where everyone from forestry workers to paupers and cottage dwellers lived. Excavations have been carried out at several of the old cottages and the village association has put up signs telling the history of the inhabitants.

From Östanås there are three trails that you can either walk separately or combine for a slightly longer trip. Pinoleden is the longest trail and is a beautiful loop up Pinoberget. The route is 6 or 4.5 kilometres long, depending on which road you take.

The first section of the Pino Trail is also shared by the 2 kilometre long Finnbacken trail. At Finnbacken there is an old croft and a nice resting place. In summer, sheep graze in the area, so it's a good place to keep an eye on your coffee.

If you prefer to walk along the water and down in the village, there is a nature and culture trail that is about 4 kilometres long. Along the trail there are nice rest areas and a large rest house, Åttingen, with a barbecue area and seating both inside and outside.

This is autumn walking at its best. Beautiful colours, crisp air and bright sunshine. Add to this a scenic and educational trail just a short distance from home.