Medevi Brunn

## Overview Medevi Brunn is one of Sweden's oldest and most historically significant mineral spring sites, located near the western shore of Lake Vättern in Östergötland County. Established as a health spa in 1678, Medevi Brunn is widely regarded as Scandinavia's first organized spa resort. The spring was championed by Urban Hjärne, a prominent Swedish physician and chemist, who analyzed the mineral-rich waters and promoted their therapeutic properties during the late 17th century. For over three centuries, visitors have traveled to Medevi Brunn to take the waters, which were historically believed to aid in treating a variety of ailments. The spring sits at approximately 58.674°N, 14.960°E, in a pastoral Swedish landscape characterized by rolling farmland and proximity to the expansive Lake Vättern. The spa grounds have long been a cultural gathering place, hosting events, concerts, and traditional Swedish midsummer celebrations. The site's well-preserved wooden architecture and parklike setting evoke the charm of a bygone era, making it a destination not only for the spring water but also for the atmosphere and heritage. The mineral water at Medevi Brunn has historically been prized for its iron content and other dissolved minerals, which gave it a reputation as a curative water source. Visitors over the centuries have reported that the water has a distinctive mineral taste. As with any natural spring, water quality can vary, and the water has historically been used as a drinking water source, though visitors should exercise their own judgment regarding consumption. ## Directions 1. From Motala, head south on Route 50 toward Mjölby for approximately 15 km. 2. Watch for signs to **Medevi Brunn** — the spa is well-signposted from the main road. 3. Turn off Route 50 following the Medevi Brunn signs and continue along the local road for a few kilometers until you reach the spa grounds. 4. Parking is available on-site near the main entrance to the historic spa area. *Note: If traveling from Stockholm, take the E4 south to Mjölby, then head northwest on Route 50 toward Motala. The total drive is roughly 2.5–3 hours.* ## What to Expect Medevi Brunn is a well-established historic site rather than a remote wilderness spring. Visitors will find the spring within the beautifully maintained grounds of the old spa resort, surrounded by traditional Swedish wooden buildings, manicured gardens, and mature trees. The atmosphere is peaceful and steeped in history. The spring itself is accessible on foot within the grounds. The water emerges naturally and has been channeled through historic pump structures over the centuries. The surrounding area offers pleasant walking paths, and the proximity to Lake Vättern provides additional scenic beauty. Medevi Brunn is most active during the Swedish summer season (roughly June through August), when events, markets, and cultural activities are often held on the grounds. Outside of the main season, the grounds may be quieter but the spring and surrounding landscape remain accessible. The site is family-friendly and generally easy to navigate, with relatively flat terrain suitable for most visitors.