Three wooden cities - making a wooden city classic

'Three wooden cities' is a term that refers to the three Swedish wooden cities of Eksjö, Hjo and Nora. All three towns have received a Europa Nostra award and cooperate through the concept of 'a wooden town classic', which we tested earlier this year. We've already written about the towns, but now we thought we'd tell you a bit more about the concept and the 'classic'.

Three wooden cities - what are they?

'Three wooden cities' refers to a network between the three cities of Eksjö, Hjo and Nora. What these towns have in common is that they are wooden towns and that they have received the 'Europa Nostra' award. Together in the network, they help each other to develop ideas and exchange experiences about the small town as a cultural-historical tourist destination.

What are the 'Three Wooden Cities'?

As said, the concept of "three wooden cities" includes Eksjö in Småland, Hjo in Västergötland and Nora in Västmanland. There are, of course, even more fine wooden towns in Sweden, but these are the ones that have received the European award and are working together.

The three wooden towns are actually very different in many ways. Eksjö is an old military town in Småland, Hjo is a historic spa town by Lake Vättern and Nora is an iron and mining town in Bergslagen. What the towns have in common are old town centres with wooden houses, which they are keen to preserve and showcase.

Making a 'Wooden city classic'

One of the collaborations between the three wooden cities is that you can now do 'a wooden city classic'. The concept is simply to visit all three wooden towns. In each town you go to the tourist office to get a sticker, and in the third and final town you are rewarded with a small gift.

Now it's not the gift that's the thing (although it's fun) but the journey itself. We did the Wooden City Classic in May this year, in collaboration with Three Wooden Cities. Now we feel that it's time to "tie the knot" and tell you about the whole concept at the same time!

How to make a wooden city classic

To make a wooden town classic, you simply visit the three towns: Eksjö, Hjo and Nora. We started in the south and travelled north, but of course you can also do it the other way around.

For tips on what to see and do - and where to stay - read our features below. You can also check out the Three Tree Cities website or download their app, called 'Three wooden cities'.

1. Eksjö - the unique wooden town

Eksjö is sometimes referred to as 'the unique wooden town'. In 1568, the entire town burned to the ground, and many of the houses that were built afterwards are still standing today. Therefore, you can stroll among lots of fine wooden houses from the 17th and 18th centuries. There is also a lot to see and do in the surrounding area, especially if you like nature or Astrid Lindgren stories.

Some highlights in Eksjö

• Walking among the wooden houses
• Eksjö Museum
• Guided tour of the Aschan farm
• Cosy patisseries
• Excursions in the footsteps of Astrid Lindgren

Where can you stay in Eksjö, or park your campervan?

For example, you can stay at Eksjö stadshotell or the charming Hotell Vaxblekaregården. If you are travelling with a motorhome, you can stay at Ställplats Eksjö City and Eksjö Camping.

2. Hjo - the wooden town by Lake Vättern

Hjo is sometimes called the "Wooden City by Lake Vättern" and offers an old neighbourhood that is very well preserved. In the town you can also see traces of the brief period when it served as a spa for wealthy tourists, including the beautiful wooden villas in the city park. Now it is once again a popular destination, especially in the summer.

Some highlights in Hjo

• City walk in the Old Town
• Hjo harbour
• Ice cream at Aunt Elin's
• Steamship Traffic
• Hjo city park

Where can you stay in Hjo, or stay with your campervan?

Accommodation is available at Hotel Bellavue or the STF Villa Eira hostel. If you are travelling with a motorhome, you can choose between the Lokstallet caravan park and Hjo Camping.

3. Nora - the wooden town in Bergslagen

Nora is the northernmost of the three wooden towns and is beautifully situated by Lake Nora in Bergslagen. Here, a picturesque little wooden town meets the history of trains, iron ore and miners' farms. In Nora you can also experience everything from delicious ice cream and cosy cafés to exciting murder tours.

Some highlights in Nora

• Göthlinska farm
• Guided tour in the footsteps of Maria Lang
• Nora Glass
• Pershyttan mining village
• Antiques and flea markets

Where can you stay in Nora, or stay with your campervan?

In Nora you can stay at Stadshotellet, Lilla Hotellet or the hostel Nora Tåghem. If you are travelling with a motorhome, you can stay at Ställplats Nora on Skojarbacken and First Camp Nora - Bergslagen.

Curious to visit Three Wooden Cities - or already been there?

Are you curious to visit "Three wooden cities" or to do a "wooden city classic"? Or maybe you have already visited these great cities? Please tell us about your experiences?

Facts about Three Wooden Cities

• Cities: Eksjö, Hjo and Nora
• Award: Europa Nostra, in the Conservation category - for the preservation, restoration and re-use and addition of buildings in the historic environment. Hjo 1990, Nora 1993 and Eksjö 1997.