Granna: Town Famous For Its Peppermint Candy Canes

Description: Gränna is a charming little town located on the eastern shores of Lake Vättern in Sweden. Famous for its traditional red and white striped candy canes, known as “polkagrisar,” Gränna is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The town’s picturesque setting by the lake, its historic wooden buildings, and its sweet confectionery treats make it a delightful place to visit.

Visitor Fee: Gränna itself does not have a visitor fee as it is an open town where visitors can freely explore its streets, shops, and attractions. However, fees may apply for specific activities, attractions, or guided tours that visitors choose to participate in.

Transportation: Gränna is accessible by car or public transportation. It is about a 2.5-hour drive from Stockholm and a 1.5-hour drive from Gothenburg. If you prefer public transport, you can take a train or bus to Jönköping, which is the nearest major city. From there, Gränna is a short drive away.

Things to Do:

• Polkagris Candy Shops: Visit the numerous candy shops in Gränna and watch as skilled candy makers create the famous polkagrisar right before your eyes. You can purchase a variety of flavors and sizes as sweet souvenirs.
• Grenna Museum: Learn about the town’s history, including the story of the polkagris, at the Grenna Museum.
• Visingsö Island: Take a ferry from Gränna to Visingsö, a nearby island in Lake Vättern. The island offers biking and hiking trails, historical sites, and beautiful nature.
• Lake Vättern: Enjoy the beautiful lakeside views and consider taking a boat tour on Lake Vättern to admire the surroundings from the water.
• Local Crafts and Shops: Explore the town’s craft shops, boutiques, and galleries, where you can find unique and locally made items.

Why People Enjoy Coming Here:

• Polkagrisar: The traditional candy canes are a big draw for visitors. Watching the candy being made and sampling the delicious treats is a fun and tasty experience.
• Charming Setting: Gränna’s picturesque setting by Lake Vättern, with its wooden houses and cobblestone streets, creates a quaint and charming atmosphere.
• Scenic Views: The town offers lovely views of Lake Vättern and its surrounding landscapes, making it a great spot for relaxation and photography.
• Cultural Experience: Visitors enjoy learning about the history of the town, especially the sweet story behind the polkagris candy tradition.

How Old is This Place:

Gränna has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. It was officially granted town rights in 1652, but its history as a settlement goes back further. The polkagris tradition in Gränna began in the 19th century when a local woman named Amalia Eriksson created the candy.

Additional Nearby Attractions:

• Brahehus Castle Ruins: Explore the ruins of Brahehus Castle, located on a hill overlooking Lake Vättern, just a short drive from Gränna.
• Vadstena: Visit Vadstena, a charming medieval town known for Vadstena Castle and the Vadstena Abbey, which is about an hour’s drive from Gränna.

List of Activities:

• Purchase and enjoy the traditional polkagris candy canes.
• Explore the Grenna Museum to learn about the town’s history and the candy-making tradition.
• Take a ferry to Visingsö Island and enjoy outdoor activities and historical sites.
• Enjoy the scenic views of Lake Vättern and the charming town of Gränna.
• Shop for local crafts and unique souvenirs in the town’s boutiques and galleries.