Gränna, a village tucked in the southern part of Sweden along the shores of Lake Vättern, is a place that you've probably read about in storybooks and fairy tales. This is the motherland of the iconic Swedish candy cane called Polkagrisar. Famous for its colourful wooden houses, cobblestone streets, and, most notably, its centuries-old tradition of crafting polkagris (candy canes), Gränna has earned the nickname "Sweden's real-life Candy Cane Village." With its idyllic setting and rich cultural heritage, this quaint town offers travellers a delightful mix of sweet experiences, local history, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're here to watch candy artisans at work, savour traditional Swedish delicacies, or explore the serene beauty of the surrounding nature, Gränna promises an unforgettable journey into one of Sweden's most charming hidden gems.
The story of polkagris (Swedish candy canes) dates back to the 19th century in Gränna, Sweden, where the sweet treat was first invented by a local candy maker named Amalia Eriksson in 1859. Amalia, a widow trying to support her family, crafted the candy by boiling sugar and shaping it into long, twisted sticks. Initially, the candy was made as a simple, unflavored sugar stick, but over time, the recipe evolved to include peppermint, giving it its signature flavour. The distinctive red and white stripes were added as a decorative touch, inspired by the colours of the Swedish flag. The polkagris quickly gained popularity in Gränna, and the town became known for its candy-making tradition. As word spread, candy makers across Sweden began adopting the method, but Gränna remained the heart of polkagris production. Today, the sweet treat is synonymous with Swedish culture, and visitors can still watch artisans in Gränna create these iconic candy canes by hand, preserving the same methods that have been passed down through generations.
Almost 150 years later, candy canes or polkagris are still being made in Gränna. More candy makers are selling candy canes on the main street of Gränna - Brahegatan – both in the classic way and in different new varieties. In most candy stores, you can watch how the candy is made. When in Gränna, one of the stores that you can check out is Polkapojkarna. They have fascinating rustic interiors, great staff, and an assortment of candy canes to choose from – all of different flavours and varieties – from Coca-Cola flavours to cool flavours like Mojito and Aperol Spritz.
Apart from buying candies, having lots of them and taking these candy canes back home for yourself, your family and your friends, you can also enrol yourself in candy-making workshops. Visit the Gränna Polkagriskokeri, a traditional candy cane factory where you can watch artisans handcraft the iconic Swedish candy, polkagris. The process is a mesmerising experience as the candy makers twist and pull the sugar into vibrant striped canes. Participate in a candy cane workshop where you can make your own polkagris to take home as a souvenir. You'll learn how to roll, twist, and shape the candy with the guidance of expert candy makers.
Held annually in August, the Gränna Polkagris Festival (Polkagrisfestivalen) celebrates the town's iconic candy canes. Visitors can enjoy candy-making demonstrations, taste different flavours of polkagris, and shop for unique sweet treats. The streets come alive with colourful stalls, live music, and fun activities for families, making it a perfect time to immerse yourself in Gränna's sweet traditions.
During the winter holiday season, Gränna transforms into a magical Christmas wonderland. The annual Christmas market features festive stalls offering handmade crafts, local treats, and holiday decorations. Visitors can enjoy mulled wine, gingerbread cookies, and warm Swedish specialities while browsing through the charming streets adorned with twinkling lights and holiday cheer.
Other Must-Try Delicacies In Gränna
Köttbullar (meatballs) with lingonberries and mashed potatoes.
Smörgåstårta (Swedish sandwich cake).
Kanelbullar (cinnamon buns) and semla (cream buns).
Gravlax (cured salmon) and kräftor (Swedish crayfish).
Fly from India to Sweden. Several airlines operate flights from major Indian cities (like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru) to Sweden, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Air India, and Scandinavian Airlines (SAS).
From Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN) to Gränna:
Train: Once in Stockholm, take a train from Stockholm Central Station to Jönköping, which is about 45 minutes away from Gränna by car. The Swedish train company SJ (Swedish Railways) operates regular services. From Jönköping, you can take a bus or a taxi to Gränna.
Bus: Alternatively, you can take a long-distance bus from Stockholm to Gränna, though this will take around 4-5 hours.
Once you arrive at the Gränna town center, you can explore on foot, as it is a small and walkable village. Public transportation options, taxis, or rented cars can help you navigate around the area, including visits to nearby attractions.