Discover the best bird towers (fågeltorn) and hides near Uppsala for bird photography and birdwatching. This guide includes exact locations, how to get there, what to see, when to visit, and tips for capturing stunning bird photos—including sunrise/sunset orientation for optimal lighting.
1. Hjälstaviken Fågeltorn
Location: Near Hårby, 30 minutes southwest of Uppsala
How to Get There: Drive via road 55 toward Enköping and follow signs to Hårby. Parking available at Hårby parking lot.
Best Time to Visit: March–May (geese, ducks, cranes); August–October (raptors and late migrants)
Species to See: Cranes, geese, ducks, marsh harriers, bittern
Tower Orientation: Faces east—great for early sunrise light and morning mist photography.
Photography Tips: Use a long lens (400–600mm), visit during early morning for low light and misty scenes. Tower gives excellent overview of the reedbeds and open water.
1b. Hjälstaviken Bird Hide (Gömsle)
Location: South shore of Hjälstaviken
How to Get There: From Hårby parking lot, walk south on the boardwalk trail about 1.5 km. The hide is along the lakeshore.
Best Time to Visit: April–June for nesting waterbirds, and autumn migration
Species to See: Bittern, grebes, ducks, marsh harrier
Hide Orientation: Faces north toward the open water
Photography Tips: Great for close-up shots with low disturbance. Bring a tripod and camouflage clothing. Early morning or late evening offers dramatic light.
5. Övre Föret Fågeltorn
Location: West of the Fyris River, near Ulleråker
How to Get There: Walk or bike from central Uppsala along the river trail. No formal parking—bike recommended.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for migratory activity
Species to See: Ducks, herons, gulls, cormorants
Tower Orientation: Faces east toward the riverbend
Photography Tips: Morning light reflects beautifully on the water. Compact camera gear is useful for mobile shooting.
6. Gredelby Hagar Fågeltorn
Location: Gredelby Hagar Nature Area, south of Knivsta (25 km from Uppsala)
How to Get There: Drive to Knivsta, park at the Gredelby Hagar entrance. Follow marked trail to the bird tower.
Best Time to Visit: April–June and August–October
Species to See: Waders, geese, swans, lapwings, kestrels
Tower Orientation: Faces west—ideal for photographing birds in golden sunset light.
Photography Tips: Visit in late afternoon. Look for feeding waders in the wet meadows. Bring a spotting scope or super-telephoto lens.
7. Dalkarlskärret Bird Tower
Location: Dalkarlskärret wetland area, northwest of Uppsala
How to Get There: Drive toward Bälinge, turn west to Dalkarlskärret. Parking available at the trailhead.
Best Time to Visit: April–June for breeding season
Species to See: Ducks, waders, snipe, grebes, herons
Tower Orientation: Faces east—perfect for sunrise photography
Photography Tips: Morning mist creates beautiful silhouettes. Bring waterproof footwear. Ideal for early spring breeding shots.
8. Hammarskog Bird Tower
Location: Hammarskog Nature Reserve, southwest of Uppsala
How to Get There: Drive to Hammarskog Herrgård. Park at the main lot and walk the gravel trail to the lake.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round; best in spring and fall
Species to See: Geese, cranes, ducks, raptors
Tower Orientation: Faces north over Lake Ekoln
Photography Tips: Great place for wide-angle bird-in-habitat shots. Sunset gives warm backlight on birds in the water. Good wheelchair-accessible spot.
FAQ – Bird Towers and Hides Near Uppsala
Q: Are all the bird towers free to access?
A: Yes, all listed towers and hides are free and open to the public year-round.
Q: Can I park near each bird tower?
A: Most locations have nearby parking. Some like Övre Föret and Norra Lunsen may require walking or biking from the nearest point.
Q: Is wild camping allowed near the bird towers?
A: Sweden’s Right of Public Access allows overnight stays in nature, but not directly at towers or private land. Stay discreet, use leave-no-trace principles, and avoid sensitive bird areas.
Q: When is the best time of day for photography?
A: Sunrise and sunset offer golden light and better bird activity. Orientation info above will help you choose.
Q: Do I need a permit to photograph birds at these sites?
A: No permits are required for non-commercial use. For drone or commercial work, contact the county administrative board (Länsstyrelsen).