Skans 179 was the first major defence installation built in northern Värmland during the preparedness years of 1940–1945. The fortification was constructed to defend the Klarälvdalen valley against a potential attack from Norway and formed an important part of Sweden’s border defence system.
A skans is a fortified military position with trenches, shelters, and other defensive structures built to protect strategically important areas during the Second World War.
A well-preserved defence installation
The restored section of Skans 179 provides a clear picture of what a Swedish defensive position from the wartime preparedness era looked like. Preserved features include trenches, communication trenches, shelters, machine-gun emplacements, anti-tank garages, and tank obstacles.
All forts and shelters within the area are open to visitors, offering a unique opportunity to explore the site and experience this part of history first-hand.
Visit Skans 179
The fortification was restored in the early 1990s and is today a well-maintained visitor attraction. At the entrance stands the wooden sculpture Mieskuva Brunn, created by Lasse Kuparinen, where visitors can collect fresh drinking water.
The site includes parking, toilets, barbecue areas, picnic areas, and open shelters. Information boards help visitors discover and understand the different parts of the installation while walking through the area.
Skans 179 is located approximately two kilometres north of Höljes along the road towards Långflon.
Finnskogavägen, 68065 Höljes
