Swim in Storsjön – Badhusparken & Surfbukten in Östersund

From Hotel Emma it takes just 7–8 minutes to walk down to Badhusparken and Surfbukten. That kind of simplicity is what makes summer here so good.

Badhusparken – the city's living room by the water

Badhusparken is the classic spot where locals and visitors alike gather. Here you can:

• Walk along the water with views across to Frösön
• Sit on a bench or spread out a blanket
• Watch people cross the footbridges
• Just sit and breathe for a while

It isn't spectacular in any forced way – it's simply very pleasant. Especially in the evening when the sun is low and people are out and about.

Surfbukten – where more is happening

A stone's throw from Badhusparken sits Surfbukten (also called Sommarparken in summer). This is where the activity is:

• Swim from the jetties and jump from the diving tower
• Wakeboard in the cable park (open selected days, drop-in or book)
• Kayak and SUP – there's a Kayakomat where you can rent yourself
• Beach volleyball
• Large grass areas for picnics and sunbathing
• Café with ice cream, coffee, sandwiches and snacks

It's one of the liveliest summer spots in town. You can spend a whole afternoon here without getting bored, whether you want to be active or just relax.

Practical tips

• Surfbukten is usually open from mid-June to late August. Hours vary a bit, so check their site or Instagram if you want to wakeboard or rent a kayak.
• The water in Storsjön is cool even in summer – many find it refreshing, others take it slow the first time.
• Toilets and changing facilities are available in the area.
• Want it calmer: walk along the water towards Frösön or sit in Badhusparken.
• Want more action: head for Surfbukten.

How to get there from Hotel Emma

Easy. Walk down towards the water through the centre – under ten minutes at a relaxed pace. No car or bus needed. Many guests go in the morning or afternoon and are back at the hotel in good time to shower and head out for dinner.

Summary

Badhusparken and Surfbukten are the obvious summer spot in the middle of Östersund. Walk, swim, wakeboard, paddle or just sit and watch the lake. And best of all – it's just a few minutes' walk from Hotel Emma.