West Sweden – an outdoor adventurer’s paradise
A highly esteemed part of the country, West Sweden serves up varied landscape with thousands of lakes and an idyllic archipelago. Adventures involving nature, culture and culinary excellence await.

West Sweden is a region with much to offer on many levels. The landscape is varied, ranging from the enchanted, lake-studded forest found in Dalsland and Västergötland to the spectacular Bohuslän archipelago, which begins just north of Gothenburg and stretches 280 kilometres north, all the way to the Norwegian border. It’s also home to many historically significant landmarks, such as Göta Canal and the castle Läckö Slott. Add to that a reputable food heritage based around organic, local produce – including what is considered by many the best seafood in Sweden – and you have an all-round destination providing culture, endless outdoor activities and a culinary offer to impress the most discerning foodie.

Discover West Sweden on water
Opportunities to discover West Sweden from the waterside abound. The Bohuslän archipelago, with over 8,000 islands, is celebrated for its outstanding beauty, while the inland part of West Sweden is sprinkled with rivers and lakes, both mighty and small. The Bohuslän archipelago stretches across some 280 km and standout spots include Grebbestad, Fjällbacka and the Koster Islands. Kayaking is an ideal way to discover these unique coastal havens, which are blessed with both calm and wilder waters to accommodate paddlers of all levels. Rent a kayak and set off independently or join a guided excursion.

Exploring the Koster Islands and the surrounding Kosterhavet National Park – Sweden’s only marine national park – is an experience to behold. While paddling around the islets and rocky bays, keep an eye out for the local seal community, often found sunbathing on the rocks. These charming creatures aside, there’s much to discover in terms of flora and fauna as the national park is home to over 1,200 species. Come break-time, find yourself a secluded beach on your island of choice or stop by one of the many eateries serving freshly caught seafood.

There are also plenty of paddling opportunities further inland across the beautiful provinces of Dalsland and Västergötland. Vänern, Sweden’s largest lake, boasts some 22,000 islands and the Lurö archipelago, offers varying nature with numerous islets and sandy beaches.

As for long-distance canoeing, the beautiful DANO lake district in Dalsland is hard to beat. Its maze-like network of more than 1,000 lakes and rivers of crystal clear waters stretches some 135 km to the northeast.Although it feels delightfully remote, you’re never far from communities where food and accommodation are available.

Experience nature and culture on foot or two wheels
West Sweden is a hiker and biker’s paradise with numerous trails snaking through scenic terrain and areas of cultural interest. Many of these trails are divided into sections, each dotted with accommodation and eateries. Gotaleden is one of the most popular walking trails. This 71 km route runs from Kungsportsplatsen in central Gothenburg to Alingsås, the “capital of fika.” So be sure to reward yourself at the finishing line with some coffee and home-baked goods. Along the route, you’ll discover stretches of forest, lush nature reserves, lovely viewpoints and swim-friendly lakes. There are many cultural experiences on offer too, such as the industrial village of Jonsereds Fabriker – home to the hotel Hotellet Le Mat and Poppels Brewery (Sweden’s largest organic micro brewery). Don’t miss Nääs and its castle and school of crafts, one of Scandinavia’s best-preserved 19th century estates.

The Skaraborg Pilgrim Path – running from Varnhem to Falköping in Västergötland province – is a manageable walk at just under 44 km. Suitable for the whole family, you’ll be wandering among lush, gently rolling countryside, forests and fields. Highlights include the beautiful lake Hornborgasjön, known for its rich birdlife and yearly dance of thousands of cranes. Along the way, you’ll find the ruins of Varnhem Monastery and close by, Kata Gård (Kata Farm), one of Sweden’s oldest churches, dating back to the 900s. The Pilgrim Path in Dalsland, between Vänersborg and Åmål, is another hiking trail offering beautiful scenery as well as varied levels of difficulty.

As for family-friendly bike routes, consider the banks of Göta Canal. This 190 km historic landmark from 1832 snakes its way from Gothenburg in the west, to Söderköping and the Baltic Sea in the east. You could consider stopping at Norrqvarn for a spot of outdoor cooking courtesy of the culinary DIY concept The Edible Country. Tjörn island is another top cycling spot, and for a culture fix, visit Nordiska Akvarellmuseet, the renowned art museum in Skärhamn.

West Sweden – a gastronomy hotspot
West Sweden offers a smorgasbord of delicacies with focus on local, organic produce. The region is particularly known for its delicious shellfish. Prawns, crabs, lobsters, mussels and oysters grow slowly in the area’s cool, mineral-rich waters, which makes for high-quality seafood.

The restaurant Grand Tenan, housed within the historic Grand Hotel in beautiful Marstrand is a fine dining option where you can sample a wide range of fish and shellfish, as well as expertly prepared meat dishes and vegetarian options. Seasonal, locally sourced produce is used to prepare dishes such as bleak roe from Vänern, beef tartar and baked cod with aioli, shrimps and herbs.

Other options are Restaurant Hvita Hjorten, at Läckö Castle, and Lilla Spinneriet. At Hvita Hjorten, crops from the gardens of the medieval landmark are used, along with produce from local farmers and fishermen. Lilla Spinneriet, located in Lindome within a 19th century spinning mill, changes its menu weekly to make the most of the local produce available.

If you prefer to catch your own lunch, join one of the guided fishing trips and seafood safaris on offer in West Sweden’s archipelago. Everts Sjöbod, based in Grebbestad, organise safaris for everything from oyster and lobster to crab and mackerel.

Few places offer the diversity of West Sweden – its varied landscape, culinary heritage and broad cultural spectrum provide an experience for all senses.

Sweden’s 30 national parks cover nearly 7,000 km² – almost 2% of the total country area – and feature wildflower meadows, snow-capped mountains, sandy beaches and lush green forests.

Nature plays a large role in the Swedish lifestyle. No matter where you are in Sweden, pristine green spaces are never far away. So, it’s not surprising that in 1909, it was the first country in Europe to establish a system of national parks. Nine parks were designated in that first year alone. Currently, Sweden has 30 national parks, all of which are open to the public free of charge. Many feature a Naturum visitors’ centre, with information about the park’s history and nature as well as guided walks and exhibitions, to help you get the most out of your visit.

Alpine landscapes and arctic adventures in northern Sweden
In the far north of Sweden, you’ll find the region known as Laponia. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Laponia is home to four Swedish national parks with snow-covered mountains, valleys rich in vegetation and unique wildlife. One of the most popular is Abisko National Park. Snowshoeing, dog sledding, and the chance to learn about the reindeer-herding culture of the indigenous Sami people make Abisko the perfect place to experience the magic of arctic Sweden. Located 200 km above the arctic circle, this is arguably one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Reaching the natural park is easy from nearby Kiruna, taking just over an hour by car or bus.

Sarek, Padjelanta and Stora Sjöfallet national parks form a triangle near the Norwegian border some 100 km south of Abisko. Sarek is one of Sweden’s most inaccessible national parks, only reachable by foot or on skis. However, the scenic journey is worthwhile, allowing you to explore one of Europe’s last true wilderness areas. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as elk, lynx, wolverine and the endangered Arctic fox. Padjelanta is Sweden’s largest national park, covering almost 2,000 km². It offers unforgettable views of the Sarek mountains and fields covered in wildflowers once the winter frost thaws. And Stora Sjöfallet (also known as Stuor Muorkke) is home to the Akka massif, a ruggedly beautiful mountain range known as ‘The Queen of Lapland’.

While these parks offer some of Scandinavia’s most stunning winter scenery, they are worthy of a visit all year round, with the midnight sun shining 24 hours a day during the height of summer.

 

Sandy beaches and paradise islands in the southern parts of Sweden
In stark contrast to the northern national parks, further south you’ll find parks featuring white sand beaches and islands brimming with unique flora and fauna. Stenshuvud National Park on the south eastern tip of Sweden allows for both picturesque woodland hikes and relaxing days on the beach. Hills covered in dense forest roll gently towards the sea, met by a golden sand beach that is overlooked by several viewpoints along the trails.

Beach lovers won’t want to miss a trip to Gotska Sandön National Park, a small island located north of Gotland, Sweden’s largest island east of the Swedish mainland. It’s uninhabited, except for the colony of grey seals that you’ll find basking on one of the many sandy beaches. Between the end of May and beginning of September, you can reach Gotska Sandön by ferry from Nynäshamn just south of the capital of Stockholm or from Fårösund on Gotland.

Sweden’s first marine national park, Kosterhavet, provides an idyllic setting for divers and snorkelers alike, with coral reefs and marine life that can’t be found elsewhere in Sweden. Biking and hiking are also popular activities. This small cluster of islands can be reached by ferry from the town of Strömstad, north of Gothenburg. There are plenty of restaurants on the islands, where you can sample the fresh prawns and lobsters the region is renowned for.

 

Untouched wilderness a stone’s throw from Stockholm
If you want to mix a little time outdoors with a trip to Stockholm, Tyresta National Parkis a mere 20 km south of the city centre, just an hour away by public transport. The park spreads over almost 20 km², and has a 30-kilometer perimeter of surrounding nature reserve, with pristine primeval forests and deciduous woodland housing up to 8,000 animal species. Stockholm’s archipelago also boasts two national parks, Djurö and Ängsö. Ängsö is a treat in spring and early summer when vibrant wildflowers dot the bright green meadows. There are ferries from Stockholm to Ängsö, but you will need a private boat to visit Djurö.

 

Four seasons of splendour in Sweden’s deciduous forests
Refreshing summer dips in the lake, autumn strolls in the forest, cross-country skiing during winter and wildflower meadows welcoming the arrival of spring, a visit to Sweden’s deciduous natural parks is beyond worth your while any time of the year. Tiveden National Park, halfway between Stockholm and Gothenburg, consists of pristine virgin forests, with giant boulders from the ice age, jutting up to 10 metres into the sky. Also breaking up the terrain are dozens of lakes and rivers perfect for fishing and canoeing, and even some exciting caves to explore.

Thirty kilometres northeast of Malmö lies Dalby Söderskog, the smallest of the Swedish national parks. It’s a perfect green oasis all year round and a prime example of the beautiful old-growth forests in Sweden.

Unique landscapes you won’t want to miss:
– Garphyttan National Park and its wildflower meadows.
– Fulufjället National Park has Sweden’s highest waterfall.
– Skuleskogen National Park with its unique hiking trail, the narrow 200-metre-long crevice Slåttdalsskrevan with granite walls extending 30 metres high.
– While Sweden’s national parks are open to everyone, it is important to follow the park rules in order to protect the biodiversity in these fragile natural environments.

 

Sweden’s 30 national parks
– Abisko, Björnlandet, Blå Jungfrun, Dalby Söderskog, Djurö, Fulufjället, Färnebofjärden, Garphyttan, Gotska Sandön, Hamra, Haparanda Skärgård, Kosterhavet, Muddus/Muttos, Norra Kvill, Padjelanta/Badjelánnda, Pieljekaise, Sarek, Skuleskogen, Sonfjället, Stenshuvud, Stora Sjöfallet/Stuor Muorkke, Store Mosse, Söderåsen, Tiveden, Tresticklan, Tyresta, Töfsingdalen, Vadvetjåkka, Åsnen, Ängsö

The Northern Lights dance across the skies in Arctic winter and the Midnight Sun illuminates the nights in the summer months. From the mountains of the mighty north, to the white sandy beaches of the temperate south, we have space for everyone.

Three climate zones means varied nature
Sweden’s wealth of nature, which stretches from Arctic tundra in the north, to the mountains of the north west and the thick forests and mighty rivers at the centre, right down to some of Europe’s largest beech forests in the southern county of Skåne.

Then there’s the coast, from the sandy beaches of Skåne’s Österlen and the rocky outcrops of the Stockholm and Gothenburg archipelagos.The many unusual hotels make great launch pads for discovering Sweden’s nature.

From the Icehotel, Treehotel and others in Swedish Lapland, guides from the indigenous Sami people will take you on husky or snowmobile safaris deep into the frozen tundra, where you can meet reindeer, fish through the ice and experience some of their unique culture.

Top 5 outdoor activities in Malmö
Want to combine city life with Swedish nature? With its beaches, vast parks and several canals, nature is always nearby in Malmö. We’ve listed our favourite outdoor activities in Malmö, from ice swimming to sightseeing by bike.

The open-air bath Ribersborgs Kallbadhus
Looking for unique things to do in Sweden? Ribersborgs Kallbadhus will definitely be a memorable experience. This open air-bath is an oasis for both locals and visitors wanting to experience Swedish traditions such as sauna bathing and ice-swimming.

Swedish nature and culture in Bokskogen, Torup
Looking for things to do near Malmö? Explore south Swedish nature, visit a historic castle and hit the hiking trails of Bokskogen in Torup.

Kayaking in Malmö city
Why not explore Malmö from the sea? Or from one of the canals winding through the city? Kayaking is a fun way to experience the city of Malmö, and the wildlife and beaches of southern Sweden.

Malmö – the city of parks
If you’re seeking beautiful places to relax in Malmö, look no further than the parks Pildammsparken and the Castle Garden. Here you’ll find lush greenery, colourful flower-beds, music events and the historical Malmöhus Castle.

Sightseeing by bike in Malmö
Interested in exploring Sweden by bike? Malmö is an excellent city for cycling and it’s a great way to explore the city sights at your own pace.

BIKING
Discover Gothenburg by bike
A city tour across Gothenburg’s two main bridges, a mountain bike trail in the nature reserve or a moat sightseeing? Gothenburg on two wheels offers plenty of activities and keeps you fit at the same time.

Gunnebo House and Gardens
Start from Linnéplatsen and make your first stop at Guldhedstornet Café, a 1950s building with incredible panoramic views over the city. Continue to the old paper factory and the canals of Kvarnbyn in Mölndal, one of Sweden’s most important historical industrial areas. Then make your way to your final destination, Gunnebo House and Gardens – a mansion from the late 18th century. Enjoy lunch made from produce grown in the gardens. You can also book a tour which takes you through the building and tells the fascinating story of the rise and fall of the Hall family, who originally lived here.

Änggårdsbergen by mountain bike
Start slow in the Gothenburg Botanical Gardens, home of 16,000 plant species from all over the world. It is located on a hilly part of a nature reserve, which makes it perfect for a mountain bike trail. The boundaries between the cultivated garden and the wild nature are often blurred, making this a beautiful setting. Signs will lead you deeper into Änggårdsbergen, where you can cycle by lakes and across mountains covered in purple heather.

City tour
This tour starts from Götaplatsen, the main cultural square in Gothenburg and home to Gothenburg Museum of Art and Gothenburg City Theatre. First stop is Skansen Kronan, an old fortress with great views over the city. This is a perfect spot for a picnic in the sun, before continuing to the city park Slottsskogen where you can make several pit stops, including the Natural History Museum and wildlife park. Make your way to another incredible view, this time over the Gothenburg inlet from the church Masthuggskyrkan. Finish off where you started, the centrals parts, and head to the historic district of Haga where there are plenty of cafes and shops to choose from. You are now minutes from where you started!

City center – Saltholmen
The perfect combination of city and seaside, this route takes you on a day-trip through some of the nicest parts of Gothenburg. Don’t forget to pack a picnic!

Start from Lilla Bommen and cycle along the water. Continue past Röda Sten Art Centre, located in a rougher, developing part of Gothenburg, and further towards Saltholmen. Once there, find your own spot on a sunny cliff, soak up the fresh West Coast air and enjoy your picnic. Head home along a different route via Mariaplan in Majorna, one of the city’s most beloved neighbourhoods, with charming old wooden houses, cafés and second-hand shops line the streets. Next, stop for a break in Slottsskogen city park, a bit of an extra living room for the locals. Finally, steer your bike towards Lilla Bommen via Haga, an old neighbourhood with a cosy small town vibe, and you’re back where you started.

Bridges
This is perhaps the most spectacular of all the five routes. Experience Gothenburg from its main bridges, Göta Älvbron and Älvsborgsbron, and the Ramberget mountain 87 meters above sea level. Getting to the top of this popular lookout point requires a fair amount of pedal power – but the view over the city and its industrial harbour is definitely worth it. For a more modern part of Gothenburg make sure to stop by Frihamnen, a former industrial port undergoing a complete transformation ahead of the city’s upcoming 400th anniversary in 2021. While large parts are still undeveloped, a public sauna and pool are already open to the public.

FISHING
Fishing in Sweden
Fishing in Sweden in its 100,000 lakes, wild waterways and along the coast is a trip of a lifetime. Come hook a salmon, trout or Arctic char.

Sweden’s biggest lake is Lake Vänern (south west) at around 5,600 square kilometres surface area. It’s so big it has its own weather system, and an archipelago of some 20,000 islands. If you’re thinking that this creates fantastic angling possibilities you’d be right; you can go trolling for landlocked salmon and trout, pike and zander. Find out more about fishing rules, guides and areas in Sweden

Southern Sweden features mostly lowland lakes holding pike, zander and perch and coarse species. As you travel northwards, the landscape changes; more rugged, hilly and forest carpeted with thousands of lakes holding pike, perch and carp in the far south, as well as brown trout, grayling and zander.

As you approach the tree line in northern Sweden, where the giant spruce forests end, Arctic tundra, meadows, glaciers and towering mountain peaks take over. Up here the lakes are full of brown trout, grayling and Arctic char.

There is also a good spread of well-stocked put and take lakes in Sweden, mainly in the central and south of the country.

 

River fishing
The big river systems are mainly in the wild north of the country. These are extremely powerful, cutting through the wilderness, creating as they go; slow pools, waterfalls and rapids. And fantastic fishing.

Hiring a guide is a very good idea if you’re fishing in the Arctic Circle because it is sparsely populated, the terrain can be difficult and weather conditions can be extreme. All adding to its exoticism and charm. Species to look out for include brown trout, char and grayling. The other sights to look out for here include the majestic northern lights and midnight sun, as well as the pristine nature.

There are also several other major river systems running through central Sweden, including the river Klarälven.

Going into central Sweden, you’ll find the 200 kilometre-long southern stretch of the river Dalälven. This area around it is a patchwork of meadows, wetlands and marches. And great fishing waters. Cast for big pike and perch and zander. Out of interest, the biggest sweet water zander caught in Sweden in 2010 was caught in this river.

Salmon? Go to the legendary River Mörrumsån in the Blekinge province in southern Sweden. There are around a dozen rivers on this east coast that stretch up to central Sweden with salmon and sea trout in them.

 

Coastline fishing
The long U-shaped coastline of Sweden consists of east, south and west. The east borders Finland and the Gulf of Bothnia and the west coast borders Norway and the North Sea.

Sweden’s east coast is scattered with archipelago islands and skerries. Hire a boat or fish from the shore of an island deep in the archipelago and odds are you will catch a large sea trout or pike.

Off the south coast of Sweden there are fantastic salmon catching opportunities at Hanöbukten and the waters outside Simrishamn. Trolling for salmon here might land you a 25+ kilo fish. Really.

Stay west coast-side for good deep-sea fishing as well as deep water angling straight from the rocky shorelines. Fish for cod, mackerel, garfish and sea trout. The west coast is particularly famous for its seafood and here you can even go on a guided lobster or oyster fishing trip.

HIKING
Hiking in Sweden – an adventure from north to south
Sweden is a hiking paradise. Find your favourite trail – from the rugged King’s Trail in the north to undulating forests and plains of the south.

Levels of difficulty
Sweden offers hiking trails that are suitable for hikers of all skill levels. As many of Sweden’s hiking trails are hundreds of kilometres long, they are broken up into sections, so if you find a trail too strenuous – or maybe not strenuous enough – you will easily be able to exit and hike one more suited to your skill level. This way you can hike at least a portion of any of Sweden’s many hiking trails. It’s important to have the right gear when hiking in Sweden: a good pair of hiking boots, as well as appropriate clothing is always needed.

Lapland & the North
If you’re looking for a multi-day hike that can be undertaken by hikers of most skill levels, the King’s Trail (Kungsleden) is the classic Swedish hiking trail. Stretching nearly 400 km, from Abisko National park to Hemavan, the entire trail takes about a month. But as there are numerous entry-and-exit points, you can tailor your hike. In addition to the breathtaking mountain vistas, bubbling brooks, and foaming rivers of Swedish Lapland, you can also explore the UNESCO World Heritage site Laponia and its four national parks.

Kebnekaise is another of those great Swedish hiking trails, although at 2,106 m, this is Sweden’s highest mountain, so it has a certain cache for hikers looking to put a notch in their belt. While that climb might sound daunting, the 18 km round trip is manageable for most. The best time to tackle this Swedish hiking trail is during July and August, when the marked trail is generally snow-free.

North east Sweden – The High Coast
Sweden’s High Coast Trail (Höga kusten) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that takes you through a landscape that is still rising – it’s going up by nearly one centimetre each year and has risen roughly 300 metres since the Ice Age. Starting in the south at Hornöberget, you’ll hike 130 km through the entire World Heritage Site, ending in Örnsköldsvik. You’ll pass through rich forests, up to the top of mountains, and along sandy beaches, cliffs and meadows. While the entire trail takes about a week to hike you can also choose any of the 13 marked hiking sections. There are cabins and shelters along the trail – they are free to use but cannot be booked in advance.

Central Sweden – Dalarna
Further south, in the Swedish province of Dalarna, the 90 km Vasalopp Trail (Vasaloppsleden) is perfect for hikers in the warmer months. Winding its way through the Vasaloppet Arena from Sälen to Mora, much of the trail follows the path of the world-famous Vasaloppet cross country ski race.

In Dalarna you’ll also find Siljansleden, a 340 km trail that loops around the Siljan and Orsasjön lakes, taking you along old mountain grazing trails. This one is a bit more challenging than the Vasalopp Trail, but like most other hiking trails in Sweden there are plenty of places to jump on or off, so you can choose whether to have a day hike or a longer challenge. Overnight accommodation is found at regular intervals.

West Sweden – Bohuslän and Dalsland
The shoreline along Sweden’s west coast is dramatically beautiful and perfectly suited to hikers who want to hike along the sea. The Bohuslän coast in particular offers not only incredible views to the islands of the Bohuslän archipelago (which you could easily detour to during your hike) but also a gently rolling rural landscape. The hike along the coast takes 2-3 days and while the coastal portion is quite rocky, it should suit most skill levels.

The Pilgrim Path in Dalsland (Pilgrimsleden) takes you through stunning nature and boasts a variety of more than 100 km of trails. The southern section is well-suited for those looking for a less strenuous hike in Sweden, while to the north you’ll find bigger challenges.

South Sweden – Skåne & Småland
Hiking in the south of Sweden has an entirely different feel from the north and central parts of the country. This is where you’ll find coastal trails, the deep forests of Småland, and the open fields that dot the lower half of the country. In the southwest the Hallandsleden trail stretches over 1,000 km of the Skåne region, linking with the Skåneleden trail to the south and the Bohusleden trail to the north – and will take you through the scenery of Söderåsen National Park.

Småland is also where you’ll find theme trails like the Emigrant Trail (Utvandrarleden) – where you’ll pass through the villages and locations found in Sweden’s famous “The Emigrants” series of novels, written by native author Vilhelm Moberg. Sweden’s famous red wooden cottages dot the landscape and the lush forests are as legendary as you’ve heard. Smålandsleden is a 700 km hiking trail, but like most other hiking trails in Sweden, it’s easy to take in sections, so you can do a day hike or one that takes weeks.

Gotland – Sweden’s largest island
The beautiful island of Gotland, in the Baltic Sea, boasts 800 kilometres of coastline that are perfect for a relatively easy ramble – although the landscape changes quite dramatically from north to south.

The far north of the island features a wild and barren landscape dotted with nature reserves and hidden limestone quarries, while to the east you’ll find green meadows filled with grazing sheep along with limestone cliffs. To the south it’s open and lush, filled with narrow country lanes – and you’re never far from the water.

Hiking in southern Sweden – the top trails
Southern Sweden’s best trails will have you immersed in magnificent nature, with a helping of culture completing the experience.

Southern Sweden is idyllic – and in many different ways. This part of the country encompasses everything from the stunning archipelago of the west coast and Gotland’s unique sea stack fields to the deep, enchanted forest of Småland, complete with a myriad of clean lakes. There are plenty of trails to choose from, lasting from a few hours to a week or longer. Most are divided into sections, allowing you to dip in and out or complete a single stretch of your choice.

The climate of Sweden’s south is milder than that of the north, and you can often hike all year round, even though the main season runs from March until October. Bear in mind that the weather is changeable even in summer, which calls for layer-friendly clothing and rainproof outerwear, along with comfortable hiking boots.

As for accommodation, you may be tempted to bring a tent to get the full natural immersion. Thanks to Sweden’s right to roam custom (‘Allemansrätten’), you’re allowed to pitch up a tent for a night or two (with certain exceptions). If you prefer to stay in cabins, hotels or B&Bs, you’ll find plenty of options along the most popular trails.

 

Some of the best hiking trails in southern Sweden:
Gotland
Klintkustleden (Klintkustleden trail)
Known as one of Sweden’s finest coastal paths, Klintkustleden trail takes you along the island of Gotland’s unique coastline, incorporating pine forest, wetland and high cliffs. You’ll also get a cultural fix in the shape of centuries-old castles and fishing villages. Many spots along the trail, which starts at Björkume and ends at Harudden, can be reached by bus and you can find accommodation and food along the way. Some cliff climbs can be challenging but this stunning trail is otherwise a fairly easy hike.

Södra Hällarna and Brucebo nature reserves
Nature reserves of particular interest on the west coast include Visby’s Södra Hällarna trail, which has a wonderful wooden walkway allowing you to traverse its marshy forest. About two hours’ hike north of Södra Hällarna, you’ll find nature reserve Brucebo – a cave-studded oasis, where rare orchids and other type of flora thrive.

Småland
Smålandsleden (Smålandsleden trail)
Smålandsleden is a network of 31 paths (including the John Bauer trail) that stretches some 900 kilometres, allowing you to experience the untouched nature of northern Småland – think lingonberry-rich forests sprinkled with lakes. There are various starting points, some of which are connected to public transport, such as Huskvarna that nestles at the southern tip of Lake Vättern. This path will take you to the quaint city of Gränna – home of the ‘polkagris’, the classic red and white striped peppermint candy.

Franciskusleden (the Francis trail)
Several notable pilgrim paths – most of which are fairly easy to walk – wind their way through the province of Småland. Franciskusleden (the Francis trail) is a good option. Starting at the convent in Byarum and heading north, this 100 km route takes you to Jönköping and the idyllic shores of Lake Vättern, Sweden’s second largest lake. From here, the trail hugs the eastern side of the lake, past Gränna – where food and accommodation is available – and on to the Alvastra Monastery. For the last 10 kilometres, you’ll hike within the tranquil and scenic Omberg Ecopark.

The Emigrant Trail (Utvandrarleden)
The historic Emigrant Trail (Utvandrarleden) takes you through villages and locations featured in the novel suite “Utvandrarna” (The Emigrants series), by famous author Vilhelm Moberg.

Store Mosse National Park
Store Mosse National Park – southern Sweden’s biggest marshland – is a hiker’s paradise, with more than 40 kilometres of walking paths. The shortest is 500 metres long, the longest 14 kilometres. Skogstrollens stig (the path of the Forest Trolls) is a hit with families, while the trail around Lake Kävsjön is ideal for birdwatchers – cranes and eagles are among many species you’re likely to spot. To experience more of the unique nature of Store Mosse, the “Lilla Lövö runt” trail is recommended. Svartgölsleden and Wibecksleden trails are wheelchair accessible.

Camping is allowed in certain parts of the park. Rooms and beds can also be rented at the farms of Svänö and Lövö. With no electricity and with water being fetched from a well, this accommodation is reminiscent of old times.

Another national park, one and a half hour’s drive from Store Mosse, is Åsnen National Park, with walking paths suitable for families.

Öland
Mörbylångaleden trail, also known as “Signaturleden Öland”
The scenic Mörbylångaleden – a five-day, 83 km trail of varied landscapes encompassing forest, arable pastures, wetlands and coast – is southern Öland in a nutshell. The trail consists of five sections and there’s accommodation at each section. There are some basic shops along the way, but make sure to pack enough food and water to last you a day. In addition, this UNESCO World Heritage Site – which applies to all of southern Öland – offers activities such as kayaking and gallery visits.

Eketorpsleden (Eketorp’s trail)
Setting off from Eketorp fort – Öland’s southernmost ancient Iron Age fort – Eketorpsleden will have you immersed in idyllic pastures with little stone mounds guiding the way. This looped trail stretches across a mere 1.6 kilometres through the almost otherworldly terrain of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Stora Alvaret” – one of the globe’s largest limestone plateaus.

Halland
Hallandsleden (the Hallandsleden trail)
The province of Halland is known for its natural beauty and you’ll get to experience plenty of it along Hallandsleden. It’s divided into 26 sections and three sub-trails, clocking up a total of 453 kilometres. Expect varied terrain, spanning open landscapes, deep forest and stunning archipelago. You’ll also get to discover ancient monuments and historical buildings. If you opt for the 36 km trail (difficulty level: “medium”), running from Varberg to Ästad, you have the medieval Varberg Fortress to look forward to, along with high-end accommodation and fine dining at one of Sweden’s biggest vineyards, Ästad Vingård.

Prins Bertils stig (Prince Bertil’s trail)
Named in memory of the Duke of Halland, Prince Bertils stig is an 18 km long stretch that will introduce you to some of the loveliest spots in the city of Halmstad. This largely coastal path – complete with sandy beaches and old stone quarries – runs from central Halmstad towards Tylösand and on to the lush Möllegård nature reserve. Historically significant sights to look out for include the 17th century Halmstad Castle and Möllegård’s Mill, built in 1850. Much of the trail is classified as “easy”, accessible even for prams and wheelchairs. In Halmstad, plenty of accommodation is available.

Åkulla bokskogar (Åkulla beech forests)
The spectacular nature reserve area of Åkulla bokskogar (Åkulla beech forests) is spreading across 50 square kilometres, featuring twelve trails of varying difficulty level and distance. You’ll also find the Hallandsleden trail running through this haven of greenery, inhabited by many endangered species.

West Sweden
Gotaleden (the Gotaleden trail)
In western Sweden, you’ll find Gotaleden, which is made up of nine sections, stretching across 71 kilometres of scenic nature and areas of cultural interest. You’re in for a varied adventure, taking you from central Gothenburg to Alingsås. In between these two charming cities – brimming with things to see and do – you’ll wander through verdant countryside, such as the Delsjön nature reserve.

The trail, most of which is classified as “easy”, has a good choice of accommodation and places to stop for a bite to eat, microbreweries and sights of cultural interest. As Alingsås is the “capital of fika”, make sure to try some sweet baked goods. Thanks to its proximity to cities, Gotaleden is accessible by public transport.

Kuststigen (the Coastal path)
Discover the glorious west coast of Sweden by hiking Kuststigen. Divided into 38 sections and three sub-trails, the route in its entirety runs from Uddevalla to Sotenäs via Stenungsund. Points of interest along the sections, are the island of Bohus-Malmön, the rocky landscapes of Ramsvik and the Anneröd beech forest. Along the easier paths, there are opportunities to stop for a swim. Public transport is available along the entire route. There are several shorter loops suitable for day hikes, which are particularly easy to reach via public transport.

Pilgrimsleden Norra Dalsland (Northern Dalsland Pilgrim Path)
Pilgrimsleden Norra Dalsland introduces you to more than 100 kilometres of spectacular nature and several historic churches. Setting off from Vänersborg and heading north towards Edsleskog, Åmål, the beginning of the trail runs mostly through easy-to-walk country roads, whereas the latter stretch will have you hiking through untouched, hilly landscapes (thus a little more challenging). Accommodation highlights include Upperud 9:9, a one-of-a-kind hotel housed in a historic granary (storehouse for threshed grain), and Happy Celery glass cabins.

Pilgrimsleden Skaraborg (Skaraborg Pilgrim Path)
Hiking along Pilgrimsleden Skaraborg will transport you to medieval times. This 50 km historic trail – classed as “easy” to “moderate” – is dotted with fascinating traces of yesteryear’s pilgrims – keep an eye out for abbey ruins likely to have been used as lodgings. You’ll find these in both Gudhem and Varnhem. As for the nature, beautiful plains give way to lusher terrain in which flora and fauna thrive and rivers flow. Food and accommodation is available along the trail.

The trails of Koön and Marstrand
The island of Koön is a much-loved part of the Swedish west coast, particularly since it’s home to the summer paradise Marstrand, known for its excellent seafood. Three trails of varying difficulty, from 2.5 to 5 kilometres each, snake through the island. They can be combined to form a longer hike and all will treat you to views across the island of Åstol and the spectacular Carlsten’s Fortress.

NATURE
Midnight Sun in the Arctic Circle, Swedish Lapland
Midnight Sun is when the sun never sets in the summer. The Midnight Sun is a 24-hour period of sunlight inside the Arctic Circle in Swedish Lapland.

What is Midnight Sun?
Midnight Sun is a natural phenomenon occuring in the summer months and means that the sun can be seen even in the middle of the night.

Wide awake in Swedish Lapland
The Midnight Sun experience in Sweden might mess with your head for the first few days after you arrive, so pack a sleeping mask if you want to get some shut-eye. Even the people who live in Swedish Lapland have problems sleeping and black out curtains are a big seller. Our advice is to simply succumb to the light and be dazzled into staying vertical for as long as you can to enjoy this unique part of the world. You can sleep when you get home.

Midnight Sun experiences
Past midnight you can get 18 holes in at Björkliden Arctic Golf Course in the Arctic Circle; in fact you can get as many rounds in as you want since there is no sunset.

The more adventurous traveler could always take on the challenge of scaling Kebnekaise, our highest mountain, go skiing, or for the more artistic adventurer how about an ice-sculpting course at the ICEHOTEL.

For your very own midnight sun experience pick a quiet spot with uninterrupted views; which is not a problem in vast Swedish Lapland, and bathe in the rays of the unique and spectacular midnight sun.

When can you see the Midnight sun in Sweden?
Summertime in Swedish Lapland, usually between end May and mid-July. However the further north you go, the longer the Midnight Sun will be last.

Where is the best places to see the Midnight Sun?
You can see the midnight sun in places like Abisko, Björkliden, Gällivare, Jokkmokk and at Riksgränsen between Sweden and Norway. Two of the best places to see the Midnight Sun though is Kebnekaise and Abisko where it’s visible from the end of May until mid-July.

Top nature experiences in West Sweden
Explore the wonderful West Sweden nature on bike, hiking, in a kayak or fall asleep under the stars and wake up to the sunrise in the comfort of a glass cabin in the stunning nature of Dalsland.

The Pilgrim Path
Have you ever dreamt of hiking in tranquil wilderness, deep forests, past calm lakes and medieval churches? Hike the Pilgrim Path (Pilgrimsleden) to experience it all.

Kayaking in Bohuslän
Did you know that CNN has profiled the archipelago of Bohuslän as one of the top 10 great wilderness areas in the world? With clear blue waters, a marine national park, deserted isles and colourful fishing huts it isn’t hard to imagine why. Rent a kayak and explore the area on your own.

Biking along Göta Canal
Biking along the ‘blue ribbon’ of Sweden, Göta Canal, is a great adventure for the whole family. The car-free gravel road, which was once trafficked by horses pulling sailboats along the canal, is now a tranquil biking path with views of the water.

Trandansen Hornborgasjön
Ever seen 30 000 birds dancing together? Visit lake Hornborgasjön in April to witness a unique natural phenomenon by one of Sweden’s most important bird lakes.

The 72 Hour Cabin
Fall asleep under the stars and wake up to the sunrise in the comfort of a glass cabin in the stunning nature of Dalsland. A 72 hour stay in a glass cabin is a unique way to experience the Swedish ‘close-to-nature’ lifestyle.

4 relaxing things to do in Swedish nature
Want to climb a mountain only to have a great view with the coffee? That’s oka

Campfire coffee in the wild
If you are a coffee lover, how to get your coffee fix in the wild? You are in good company, us Swedes drink more coffee than just about any nation in the world. Take a kettle and coffee grounds, pour in water, place over the fire, bring it to the boil and hey presto – a cup of wild coffee.

Apparently, Swedish soldiers perfected this method of getting their coffee hit back in the 18th century. And it still works. There is just one rule – never, ever wash the kettle – it spoils the taste of the coffee.

Meditative exercise
Chopping, stacking and drying wood – in Sweden we call it ‘therapy’. If you are renting a summerhouse in Sweden, the cost of buying firewood for the fire or stove can get expensive. So what to do? As long as you have the owner’s permission, why not chop, stack and dry your own. Nothing sounds like that satisfying ‘thwack’ as the head of the axe splits the wood. And it is great exercise. But there is an art to chopping wood, so check out how to do it properly before getting started.

Wild about swimming
There are 100 000 lakes in Sweden and countless rivers and canals. And a 3 200 km long coastline. You know what comes next. When summer arrives in Sweden, Swedes reach for their swimwear and head out for a day by the lake, or a day by the sea. It is part of the lifestyle. Join them for some city swimming in Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmö.

Standout wild swimming spots include quarry swimming on the island of Gotland in the Baltic Sea, ice swimming in Swedish Lapland and archipelago swimming in the Stockholm and Bohuslän archipelagos. Don’t forget the swimwear.

At one with nature in Sweden
How soul warming would a meditation or yoga session be on a deserted island in the Stockholm or Bohuslän archipelagos? Or waking to a dawn chorus of birdsong in a cottage in a forest glade in the province of Värmland?

These are things that money cannot buy. There are others; skinny-dipping in a lake, picking wild berries, lying on a springy bed of moss, or warming yourself on sun-heated rocks overlooking the sea. These and thousands of other little moments can only happen in Sweden. All you have to do is be here to capture them.

Swimming in the city
There is water virtually everywhere you look in Stockholm. And in fact, the water is so clean and clear that you can go for a swim in the middle of town.

One of the most popular beaches is located in the park Tantolunden on the island of Södermalm. With its proximity to the hip cafés and restaurants of Hornstull, SoFo and Mariatorget it is the perfect summer hangout. There is both a sandy beach and cliffs to lay down on and watch the boats go by. If you prefer staying active you’ll find a beach volleyball court, disc golf course, minigolf and an outdoor gym in the park. Don’t miss the beautiful allotment gardens on the hill above the park. The colourful miniature houses with gorgeous flowerbeds adds to the charm of Tantolunden.

Kayaking with kids in Sweden
The Swedish Freedom to Roam also means Freedom to Paddle. There’s over 200 000 lakes in Sweden and a long coastline to explore by kayak or canoe. If you are out for the first time it might be better and more safe to paddle in sheltered lakes.

Calm waters you find e g in Dalsland and its many rift lakes, bounded by large steep cliffs along the fault margins.

– The lakes are very protected from wind and therefore excellent for canoeing, if you want a safe ride. Paddling on for example Lelången is like paddling on a Norwegian fjord, says Crister Blüme, who organizes the yearly competition Dalsland’s Canoe Marathon and is an experienced local paddler.

There are plenty of operators that rent canoes and kayaks and around hundred camping areas in north Dalsland and Värmland, often with BBQ-areas, windshields, outhouses, pre-cut firewood and trashbins.

Short and long trips
The stretch from Ljöradalen in Norway to Sälen in Dalarna has got a bit of everything for beginners and semi-qualified paddlers.

”You can have some action along the border, with streams and and rapids keeping you on your toes, or just choose to gently drift down the river from Fulunäset,” says Peter Löfstedt at Stöten Camping, that rent canoes and kayaks.

The longest trip is almost 50 km and will take you from the Norwegian Ljöra, that changes name to Görälven on the Swedish side of the border, all the way down to Sälen. On this trip you spend two nights camping, first at the border, then in the nature reserve Hälla. The shortest version is a slow one hour trip down Görälven between Stöten camping and the Kungsleden trail.

Another great region to paddle with kids is Småland, popular also for its other family attractions like Astrid Lindgrens Värld. Getnö is one of the great spots – right on the edge of the national park of Åsnen, Sweden’s 30th national park. Getnö provides a rustic resort where all visitors are very close to nature.

You can also rent a kayak or canoe and paddle in the middle of the capital Stockholm! At Sjöcaféet by the Djurgården bridge you can rent a kayak by the hour, if you wish.

What to remember
Whatever destination you choose there are some general rules and tips to follow: always wear a life jacket and always make sure there are people ashore that knows where you are going. Sit down in the vessel. If you have a small kid sitting in the front of a kayak you might need to put some more weight in the front storage compartment, to stabilize the bow. Grown-ups might love to spend a day in a kayak, but kids needs to have a break every now and then. If your children are 3-4 years old you might consider to rent a canoe or a kayak with a large cockpit in the middle, so they can move a little.

”The length of the trips are depending on your kids age and patience,” says Christina Ingmarsdotter, who guides and organizes paddling courses in Grundsund in the middle of the Bohuslän coast.

”You also need to take breaks so the young paddlers can run around or maybe climb a rock.” She also recommends to camp at least one night along the way. “Kids love camping, but it’s also a good idea to put up your tent in one spot and then return there for the next night, to avoid too much time putting up and taking down the camp. Just remember to ask for permission if you camp in the same spot more than one night.”

Christina Ingmarsdotter’s own favorite trip is a trip around the island Skaftö, a 3-4 day trip with kids, 1-3 with grownups.

“It has mixed Bohuslän scenery, from leafy to barren, and many spots to camp. Bassholmen’s wooden boat museum attracts all ages, there’s restaurants right down by the waterfront and endless possibilities for swimming.”

Winter activities in Sweden
Winter in Sweden can be very cold but it is also the perfect time for some fun winter activities. From dog sledding to skiing, ice skating to snowmobiling there are things for the whole family to do.

Where to go to find Swedish winter
All regions in Sweden have their own winter fun but for lots of snow, a chance to see the northern lights and plenty of dogsledding, skiing and snowmobiling adventures head north to Swedish Lapland.

Skiing in Sweden
You can ski almost anywhere in Sweden wintertime! With more than 100 ski resorts it can be hard to choose where to go, so here are some tips for where to go skiing in Sweden.

Snowmobile
Choose from several types of safari ranging from way-out-there 5-day Arctic Circle safaris, rough terrain mountain safaris, and even family friendly safaris incorporating outings on Caterpillar.

What to expect?
Snowmobile safari can be tailored and can include wilderness lunches, dinner in Sami teepees, saunas, hot tubs, mountain lodges, campfires, ice fishing. You can also rally car, quad and cross bike on ice. Not a bad life.

Some tours suit beginners but you will need to be in good physical condition and have previous snowmobiling experience for the Arctic Circle and mountain snowmobile safaris if you want to make it to the other end in one piece.

It is also advisable to practice a flexible attitude as hazardous snow conditions or ‘unforeseen circumstances’ may alter some plans on tour.

Tips?
Forget the racy smalls. This is a time for thermal underwear. And pack your swimsuit for sauna and hot tub activity plus a toilet kit for, well, you know.

A visit to southern Sweden can involve a trip to Småland, Öland, Malmö in Skåne, or the amazing summer island destination Gotland and its main town, Visby. On the west coast of Sweden you’ll find Sweden’s second largest city Gothenburg, and the region of West Sweden will sure stun you with it’s beautiful archipelagoes.

Halland, Sweden – a coastal haven for foodies and nature lovers alike
Halland, Sweden is an idyllic west coast province boasting a rich foodie culture and a wealth of outdoor activities, not least cycling and even surfing. With a perfect mixture of sandy beaches and lush forests – featuring towering sand dunes and waterfalls – this coastal region is worth visiting.

A haven of coastal living, Halland’s natural landscapes beg to be explored. Regardless of where you set foot in Halland, you’ll find it hard not to be tempted by its outdoor activity prospects, from child-friendly hikes and cycle trails to kitesurfing, stand-up paddle boarding and – for the really committed – the award-winning Kattegattleden cycle and hiking route.

Halland’s outdoorsy vibe shares the limelight with a proud culinary culture based on high-quality, locally produced food. Halland as a whole will also appeal to the culture enthusiast. The historic Varberg Fortress now serves as a museum, and Halmstad Castle is a must-see cultural highlight to weave into your tour of this unique region.

Nestled on Sweden’s west coast between Gothenburg and Helsingborg, this beautiful province has three must-visit towns – Halmstad, Falkenberg and Varberg, each with its own unique character.

Halmstad – the capital of Halland
Halmstad, Halland’s biggest town, has a lot to offer. It serves as an ideal base from which to explore the rest of the province. A draw for outdoor enthusiasts, Halmstad’s abundance of trails will enable you to explore much of its beautiful countryside, on foot or by bike.

A cycling hotspot, Halmstad is the starting point of Kattegattleden – Sweden’s very first national cycling trail. Unsurprisingly to anyone who’s whizzed along this scenic path, it was awarded European Cycling Route of the Year (2018) by the Cycling & Hiking Fair. This unique cycling route extends across 390 km, taking you through the spectacular coastal landscapes of Halland and beyond. It’s divided into eight stretches, and along the way, you’ll be able to refuel at the many eateries in close proximity. Or, check into a hotel for a restful night’s sleep before jumping on your bike for the next day’s ride.

For a less ambitious, yet equally satisfying outing, consider Prince Bertil’s Trail – an easy 18 km hike offering up never-ending seaside views as well as stretches of enchanting forest. Before setting off, you might want to take some extra time to explore Halmstad Castle, the trail’s starting point. The trail will take you to the unique Möllegårds Nature Reserve (Möllegårds Naturreservat). Take the chance to replenish your energy levels with a scoop of delicious family-recipe ice cream at World of Riccardo’s.

Falkenberg – a foodie destination par excellence
Falkenberg is located along the central coast of Halland. It became the first city to win the coveted ‘Worth a Trip’ award given each year by the White Guide, the Nordic region’s premier restaurant guide. Make sure to arrive hungry, as you’ll want to sample the diverse smorgasbord of culinary delights – from artisanal pizza to seafood feasts.

Being a coastal spot, there’s of course a good selection of fish and seafood restaurants,.for instance the beach-front, upmarket Ocean Bar & Grill. If you’re more into innovative dining experiences, head to Köket at Falkenberg Strandbad to sample its highly creative tasting menus.

Varberg – a surfer’s paradise and so much more
The charming destination of Varberg, less than 40 km north of Falkenberg, has year-round appeal but is known as something of a surf mecca in the summertime. And with 2.5 km of sandy beaches, it’s easy to see why. Arriving at the harbour area, you’ll immediately spot the imposing Varberg Fortress, the oldest part of which dates back to the 13th century. Step into the courtyard, and you’ll find the entrance to the must-visit Halland Museum of Cultural History. This sprawling bastion is home to the extraordinary Bocksten Man (Bockstensmannen). This medieval gentleman’s well-preserved remains – including his clothing and oak cane – were found in a bog in the Varberg area in 1936.

Enjoy some of Sweden’s best beaches
Halland is home to some of the country’s most spectacular beaches, complete with soft golden sand and clear water.

Kayaking in Bohuslän
Did you know that CNN has profiled the archipelago of Bohuslän as one of the top 10 great wilderness areas in the world? With clear blue waters, a marine national park, deserted isles and colourful fishing huts it isn’t hard to imagine why. Rent a kayak and explore the area on your own.

Sweden’s first marine national park Kosterhavet National Park is a popular area to explore by kayak with over 12 000 species under and above the surface, of which 200 are unique to this specific area. The National Park include the Koster Islands which also attracts many visitors thanks to their unspoiled, varied nature. Another popular kayaking spot in Bohuslän is Fjällbacka archipelago which you may have read about in the popular Swedish crime novels written by Camilla Läckberg. The area is full off rugged, rocky granite cliffs and turquoise water which is perfect for kayaking. Further out, in the westernmost point of the archipelago, you’ll find the Weather Islands consisting of a few hundred islets with no permanent residents but a rich animal life and beautiful settings for kayaking. Lastly, Lysekil and Skaftö offer Sweden’s wildest kayaking waters and year round-kayaking opportunities – a perfect tour if you’re looking for a more challenging paddling adventure.

Visby, Gotland, a Swedish treasure
Ask any Swede about Visby, Gotland and they’ll probably get a dreamy look on their face. It’s rare to find someone who isn’t fond of this enchanting medieval town, located on the island of Gotland, east of the Swedish mainland.

Whether you’re looking for history, nature, culture, good food or just want to relax on the beach, the town of Visby, on the island of Gotland, has it all. Located in the Baltic Sea, this fairy-tale town is a national treasure. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, characterised as having “outstanding universal value.”

This well-preserved medieval Hanseatic town dates back to the 12th century and contains a number of remarkable church ruins from the period such as the St Clemens, St Nicolai and Drottens ruins, or the St Karin church ruin with its high arches. Visby boasts a number of historic churches as well, including the Sankta Maria Cathedral built at the end of the 12th century.

Visby also has a well-preserved 3.5 kilometre long medieval ring wall with many of its original towers from the 1200s still intact. The wall encircles the centre of Visby and was originally built for protection against both foreign enemies and Swedish assailants from the countryside.

Along the streets of the town are more than 200 buildings and homes dating back to between the 12th and 14th centuries. The Gotland Museum’s Fornsalen (Hall of Antiquities) contains a number of archaeological finds dating back to Viking times. A visit here will help put the town’s long and fascinating history into perspective.

Every summer, Visby celebrates Medieval Week (Medeltidsveckan) with its lively market including music and theatre. All in all, there are some 500 events. It’s the biggest medieval festival in northern Europe and a lively event where people dress up in costumes and recreate life in medieval days. It’s a lively experience for visitors of all ages.

Garden blooms and Visby crafts
In addition to its long history and fascinating ruins, Visby is also known for its gardens, and particularly, the profusion of roses that bloom in the sunny summer months. In addition to the roses and overflowing flower boxes on Visby’s winding, cobblestone lanes, there’s a collection of roses at the 2.5 hectare Botanical Garden, which dates back to 1855. It also has a large collection of exotic trees and plants that flourish in Gotland’s mild climate. There’s no entrance fee for the gardens, which also contain a herb garden and a Gazebo Garden (open-sided pavilion).

With its natural beauty and ancient history, Gotland is a mystical and inspiring place to live that attracts many artists. Their handicrafts are sold in the local Visby shops. Gotland is particularly known for its wonderful ceramics and woollen items. The grey, wool lambskins from local sheep, warm and decorate many Scandinavian homes.

Beaches and scenery
With its 800 kilometres of coastline, Gotland offers plenty of picturesque spots for relaxing and bathing. There are four beaches within just five kilometres of central Visby and a beach promenade makes it easy to cycle there. If you feel like going a little further afield, head for the popular Tofta Beach, located 20 kilometres south of Visby. It is accessible by road or on a designated bike path.

Gotland has more than 100 nature reserves including Brucebo just north of Visby and Ekstakusten to the south. The island’s scenery ranges from dramatic rock formations and barren landscapes to lush vegetation and sunny meadows. And as always in Visby, there is the presence of the mesmerising sea.

GOTEBORG
Sjömagasinet
Sjömagasinet is a must-visit if you’re looking for a gastronomic seafood experience in a unique environment.

Sjömagasinet is located in an old warehouse for the East India Company, dating back to the 18th century. The restaurant is run by Ulf Wagner, awarded Swedish restaurateur of the year in 2016, and his head chef Gustav Trägårdh, awarded Swedish chef of the year in 2010. Both are renowned chefs with long experiences of creating gastronomic experiences. Wagner aims to provide a “total dining experience” meaning that the food, beverages and spiritual fulfillment are equally important at this restaurant.

The restaurant is located right by the waterfront of Göta älv river, creating a relaxing sea side atmosphere with beautiful views. They serve freshly caught seafood in both classic and innovative ways, such as baked halibut, truffle hake with red wine sauce and delicious lobster soup. The menu varies daily depending on what ingredients are available and everything is cooked with seasonal produce for a guaranteed fine dining experience.

Moderna Museet in Malmö
Looking for contemporary art in Malmö? Moderna Museet exhibits art by some of the of the most prominent international and Swedish artists in one of Malmö’s most beautiful buildings.

Moderna Museet is Sweden’s leading museum for contemporary art. The main museum is based in Stockholm, but a filial was opened in Malmö in 2009.

Moderna Museet in Malmö comprises art collections from the start of the 20th century and onwards. The art exhibitions are ever changing, but always with high-quality modern and contemporary art by some of the most important artists of our times. As if that wasn’t enough, Moderna Museet is housed in one of Malmö’s most beautiful buildings – an old power station designed by Swedish architect John Smedberg in 1901. A modern orange part has been attached to the original building, designed by Tham & Videgård Hansson, creating an interesting combination of Swedish architecture designed more than 100 years apart.

Culture, arts and crafts in Skåne
Skåne is a local artist, silver, glass, and pottery hot spot with a long tradition of arts and crafts.

Skåne, the southernmost part of Sweden, is a region with a rich cultural heritage and to this day Skåne is a region of artists and craftspeople. Ceramics, textiles, silver smithing and glassblowing are just of few of the arts practiced here.

As you explore Skåne you will come across small galleries, studios and workshops selling local arts and crafts. A great point of departure is to visit one of the artist-owned cooperatives. Skåne is also home to a number of world renowned practitioners of applied art, some of which have their own galleries and some of whose art can be viewed in expositions all over the world.

Wallåkra Stenkärlsfabrik example is a stoneware factory, restaurant and garden. The pottery here makes traditional stoneware out of clay from its own grounds.

SMALAND
Bruno Mathsson Center, Värnamo
Curious about one of the most prominent Swedish furniture designers of all times? Learn more about Bruno Mathsson’s furniture at the Bruno Mathsson Center, and visit the studio and office where he created many of his designs.

Bruno Mathsson presented a new type of furniture design in the 20th century and soon became one of Sweden’s most prominent furniture designers of all times. The chairs he designed became immensely popular and have become icons for Scandinavian design. It is said that his aim was to provide a new way of sitting, suitable for modern times. In the 1940’s Mathsson paid a longer visit to the USA, where he was inspired to build glass houses. When returning home, he built a glass house adjacent to his childhood home, which is now the Bruno Mathsson Center. Visitors are invited into Mathsson’s office and studio, and can visit an exhibition to view the furniture he designed from the 1930’s onwards, which are excellent examples of Swedish design. A guided tour is recommended for the full experience.

VASTERGOTLAND
Kata Farm and Varnhem Monastery
Curious about architecture from the Viking Age and medieval period? Discover the remains of an old Viking Age church at Kata Farm and visit the majestic Varnhem Monastery dating back to the 12th century.

Kata Farm is part of Västergötlands Museums and is an information building located above a private church dating back to the Viking Age. The name originates from one of the female skeletons found at the site, named Kata. Visitors are invited to walk around the finds and look at the graves through the glass sections in the floor. Especially Kata’s grave with runes engraved in the covering stone. The old church’s crypt still remains and is perhaps Sweden’s oldest preserved room.

Kata Farm is located behind the Romanesque-Gothic Varnhem monastery erected about a millennium ago. Varnhem was a major spiritual, political, cultural and economic centre in the Middle Ages and several Swedish kings have been buried in the graveyard.

Central Sweden is home to capital city Stockholm, the provinces of Dalarna and Värmland, as well as the beautiful city of Uppsala.

DALARNA
The magic is in the hands
Tord Agge is concerned. A “frost” has gotten into the pattern Morfars trädgård (Grandpa’s garden). A frost is a small misalignment, a millimeter or so, that shows when all the colours in a pattern are printed. It may be that the template ended up slightly out of place on the printing table.

Morfars trädgård consists of twelve textile colours, all hand mixed by mixing master Jesper Jobs. He runs Jobs Handtryck along with his wife Åsa. “I’ll have to look into that next time we print,” Tord Agge says, sending a thoughtful gaze out over lake Siljan just outside his window.

As he stands between two 30-meter long printing tables with his side fringe and his thick-rimmed glasses, Tord could easily be a character in the TV show Portlandia. The sturdy tables were built by Jesper’s father Peer Jobs in 1944. Peer founded Jobs Handtryck in Västanvik, near Leksand in that same year. His sisters Gocken and Lisbet drew the patterns. Colourful, optimistic and clearly sprung from the Swedish soil; rhubarb stalks, elderflower and thistles. When WWII ended and Europe breathed a sigh of relief, the textile print shop in Dalarna was an instant success.

And while other textile print workshops have turned to more industrial manufacturing, more digital processing, Jobs Handtryck remains essentially where it started in 1944. They take on a new pattern about once a decade; developing the colors and building the templates is expensive.

“We can’t follow trends. We are slow and must be so. We do know which trends are developing, but there is simply not the time to follow them,” Åsa explains.

 

The home of Carl and Karin Larsson, Dalarna
This colourful artist couple’s house is perhaps Sweden’s most famous home and has become an icon for Swedish interior design.

The artist couple Carl and Karin Larsson decorated their home Lilla Hyttnäs with a personal take on arts and crafts. Immortalized in the watercolor paintings by Carl Larsson, the artistic power couple’s light, colorful style has had an iconic impact on Swedish interior design and family life since the late 19th century. Lilla Hyttnäs, located in the idyllic village Sundborn, is open all year.

STOCKHOLM

Discover Stockholm’s Food And Culture
Do you boast of taste buds, both seasoned and brave? Count on Stockholm to tantalise your palate and take you by surprise! The city’s food culture is a concoction of some of the most loved global delicacies and a variety of traditional and local dishes. The fresh sea trout and salmon from the Baltic sea is something you can only crave for in other European cities.

Explore Stockholm’s History & Music scene
It’s not often that is a city can claim to be the ace of spades when it comes to boasting a glorious music scene and an even greater history. Stockholm doesn’t have to. The city which was once ruled by Vikings and Warships, melodically passed on the torch to numerous modern day pop stars. Home to renowned artists like Avicii, Swedish House Mafia and metal bands like Opeth, the city is a wonderland for audiophiles, with numerous summer music concerts and outdoor gigs taking place frequently.

Stockholm: A hub for art & design
Is there some love for art designed inside your heart? If so, Stockholm is bound to get it pulsating with its numerous globally renowned museums and exquisite designs that can be found on every nook of the city. The city is known for its minimal designs with clean and simple lines. Be it architecture, fashion or anything else, the emphasis on functionality maintains a simplistic yet charming Scandinavian aesthetic.

Experiencing Stockholm’s Nature
A city bound to coddle those who love being embraced by mother nature’s arms. Unlike other European cities, Stockholm portrays an enchanting affair between the pure waters, bare cliffs and the stretch of green across the fourteen islands. The beauty of Stockholm’s lakefront beaches, combined with activities such as pedalling on nature trails and kayaking in the archipelagos, make the city worth visiting.

Technology And Lifestyle in Stockholm
Ever wondered that a country of just 10 million people could be the birthplace of tech giants such as Spotify, Skype or Truecaller? That’s Stockholm for the world. A city that is no stranger to pulling off such phenomenal feats. The Nordic Silicon Valley is a great fit for geeks and adventurers alike. Home to the famed Stockholm Tech Week, the city’s diverse offerings and progressive lifestyle make it one of the most welcoming places to visit.

The Museum of spirits and restaurant, Stockholm
A museum about Swedes’ relationship to spirits? Yes, but the Museum of Spirits is much more than that – there are interesting exhibitions throughout the year and a restaurant serving craft drinks and outstanding food.

The Museum of Spirits is situated on the island of Djurgården. The exhibitions draw both from the history of drinking and art. The collections include some 850 commissioned works by artists such as Andy Warhol, Damien Hirst and Louise Bourgeois for Absolut Vodka, the vodka brand formerly owned by the Swedish state. The waterfront restaurant has been named one of the premier museum restaurants in the world.

SORMLAND
Hiking the Sörmland Trail (Sörmlandsleden)
The Sörmland trail, or Sörmlandsleden, is more than 1000 kilometers long and one of the longest hiking trails in Scandinavia, with many starting points easily accessible by public transport from Stockholm city.

The trail winds through a breath-taking, varied landscape with forests, open landscapes, lakes and coastline. The area surrounding the trail is largely uninhabited, but if you’re lucky you might notice wild animals such as moose or deer keeping you company along the way. Furthermore, there are several historical monuments and nature reserves to explore throughout the trail. Why not pack a tent and stay overnight? Falling asleep under the stars is a memorable experience and you can start your day with a refreshing dip in one of the lakes. If you prefer a softer adventure, the trail is divided into more than 90 sections, ranging between 2 and 21 kilometers, meaning that you adapt the length of the hike depending on how long you’re prepared to walk.

She who controls the furnace
Just before Christmas glassblower Ebba von Wachenfeldt saw a wolf trotting through the snow covered fields outside her house. “We followed it for a bit. The tracks were enormous.”

Now, a few months later, Ebba stands gazing at the same field. There is no wolf. The loud, constant humming of the furnace in the corner of the work shop is the glassblower’s ever present background noise. Ebba von Wachenfeldt’s two colleagues rattle around with their pliers and blowpipes. Glass, as a material, is silent, elegant and malleable – all the tools used to master the material are hard, heavy and dirty.

We meet up in a former schoolbuilding outside Gnesta, in the province of Södermanland. This has been Ebba’s home and workshop for twelve years.

The oldest building, dating from the early 20th century, houses her exhibition area. The newer, 1960’s school building is her workplace and shop. Generous windows allow sunlight to flow freely through her rooms. There is ample space for a warehouse, storage and a studio. But what made Ebba fall for the building at first was something rather unexpected:

“All the electricity! There is soo much here – 200 amps! We only need 60, and even that is hard to come by in ordinary houses.”

She and her husband, an IT-consultant, took possession of the premises and renamed them Skeppsta Hytta. The broadband is useless. The electrical capacity, on the other hand, is wonderfully over sized.

UPPLAND
Uppsala
Uppsala, Sweden, bridges the gap between academia and modern innovation. This vibrant university town has many strings to its historically significant bow.

Known as the Cambridge of Sweden, Uppsala is a vibrant university town located a little north of Stockholm, a mere 35-minute train ride away. Students from across Sweden – and the rest of the world – swell the term-time population of the city, giving it a youthful, international feel. (About 20% of its residents are students).

Many a Swede chooses to live in Uppsala, even if they work in Stockholm. And it’s easy to see why – the city is manageable in size yet has a lot to offer. Historically significant, centuries-old sights stud the townscape and its surroundings. No trip to Uppsala is complete without getting to know its former resident Carl Linnaeus, one of the world’s most notable botanists and scientists. He’s left plenty of marks – floral and otherwise – across Sweden and beyond.

Fast-forward to the present day, Uppsala is considered a key innovation city in which academia and a distinct business culture unite to create a fertile breeding ground for new ideas. Pharmaceutical giant Pharmacia has been headquartered here since 1951. And Maria Strømme – Sweden’s youngest ever professor of technology – founded nano technology innovation Upsalite here.

Historic Uppsala – travel back in time to the Iron Age and the Viking era
Wherever you set foot in Uppsala, you’re bound to stumble upon sights of historical significance. On display within the centrally located Carolina Rediviva, Uppsala University’s library, you’ll find the astonishing 6th century Silver Bible, one of the world’s oldest and most extensive Gothic codices. A stone’s throw away lies Uppsala Cathedral, the burial place of Swedish royals such as King Gustav Vasa, who died in 1560. Other must-see sights include Uppsala Castle and its expansive grounds. A sprawling affair, this key landmark houses three museums: Uppsala Art Museum, House of Peace and Vasaborgen. Don’t miss the opportunity to view the cityscape from high above by joining a guided walk atop the castle roof.

Uppsala University, founded in the 15th century and the oldest university in Sweden, is another draw. The building – bearing the delightfully fancy name Gustavianum – dates back to the 1620s. Even non-students can discover its legacy as it now serves as a museum. Among its highlights, you’ll find the intricately constructed Augsburg Art Cabinet, a fine example of early 17th-century cabinetmaking. Gustavianum also houses a significant portion of Uppsala University’s heritage in the shape of artworks and archaeological finds, both Nordic and classical.

Wander in Swedish botanist Carl Linnaeus’ footsteps
Set some time aside to get to know the 18th-century botanist Carl Linnaeus. The beautiful gardens, historic buildings and excursion trails he’s left behind will give you a good grasp of his work and legacy.

Linnaeus’ Hammarby is the late botanist’s floral haven. A wonderful summertime destination (open May-September), it’s located less than 15 km from the town centre (easily accessible by bike or public transport). Hammarby is home to 40 ‘Linnaean plants’, or their direct descendants, making it the largest collection of his plants anywhere in the world.

What used to be Linnaeus’ garden has now been transformed into a beautiful park, housing a wide array of exotic plants, including the Siberian apple tree that still proudly stands guard in the courtyard. The house itself is one of the best-preserved farms of the 18th century, and, fittingly, some rooms feature walls adorned with blooms and greenery.

Enjoy a meal in the city centre or dine on fresh produce in the stunning countryside
Whatever type of cuisine you happen to fancy, you’ll be able to find it in Uppsala. The restaurant at boutique hotel ‘Villa Anna’ is renowned and award-winning for a reason. The menu is based on locally sourced ingredients (often organic) and while the chefs base their menu on Swedish classics and Nordic cuisine, they take influence from both the Italian and French kitchen, making for memorable dishes. And there are plenty of highly regarded restaurants to discover slightly further afield.

Uppsala & Sigtuna
Uppsala and Sigtuna lie just north of Stockholm and make for a perfect day trip or longer stay.

Uppsala
So, what to do and see in the university city of Uppsala? Kick off with a visit to part medieval, part Gothic Uppsala Domkyrka, or Uppsala Cathedral. Inaugurated in 1435, Gothic re-styled in the 19th century, it is a must see/do in Uppsala.

Gamla (Old) Uppsala, just north of the city, boasts impressive 6th century burial mounds and in its museum you can learn about the legend of the Svea kings and gory human sacrifices (kids love this bit). Go here for Gamla Uppsala Museum, Odinsborg restaurant and Disagården open-air museum.

Carl von Linné
Another ‘must’ in Uppsala is Carl von Linné, Sweden’s greatest ever scientist and father of modern taxonomy. He lived and worked in Uppsala in the 18th century and there are museums, gardens, parks etc dedicated to his memory in Uppsala. Go here for absolutely everything Carl von Linné.

If the kids start dragging their feet, hit the nearest café and treat them to a Swedish classic of pancakes with whipped cream and jam. And then let them loose at Fyrishov Water Park. In addition to its historical charms, Uppsala is Sweden’s fourth largest city with a good range of shops, restaurants and cafés.

Sigtuna
The town of Sigtuna? Quaint? The place is a complete charm-fest and Sweden’s first town (founded in AD 980).

Sigtuna hugs the northern shores of Lake Mälaren and its cobblestone streets are arteries of the almost 1,000 year-old Stora gatan, or main street, with clusters of shops selling Swedish fashion, design and handicrafts.

For the low down on Sigtuna’s history visit Sigtuna Museum for its brilliant exhibitions and displays. For some ancient Viking detective work, pop into the museum or Tourist Office on Stora gatan and ask or a futhark, or key. This will help you unlock the mysteries of the town’s more than 150 rune stones. Careful how you pronounce futhark though.

VARMLAND – A LAKE RICH HEAVEN OF NATURAL BEAUTY
The Alma Löv Museum of Unexp. Art
For a different art experience, visit the Alma Löv Museum, located in the forests of Värmland.

The Alma Löv Museum is a contemporary art museum in the deep forests of Värmland, consisting of a central exhibition hall and ten surrounding pavilions. This low-budget project, with high artistic ambitions, was founded by artist Marc Broos in 1998 and is today run by his daughter Stella Broos. There is also a theatre and a café, open in the summer time.

NARKE
A Pile of Art, Kumla
A Pile of Art is exactly what the name indicates. Beautifully located on a hill, this sculpture park showcases some thirty sculptures with widespread forest, meadow and lakes as backdrops.

Rising 100 meters above the plains outside the town of Kumla, the Kvarntorp Pile is hard to miss. The manmade hill consists of ash remains from the shale oil recovery that took place here 1940–1966. It might sound like an unlikely place for art – nonetheless, this is one of Sweden’s most outstanding sculpture areas. Every year a new work is added to the 30 that are already spread out atop the pile.

Northern Sweden and Swedish Lapland are unique. There is nowhere else in the world where you can sit around the campfire with a Sami guide, sharing stories of the day’s dog sledding adventure. Stay at the world-famous ICEHOTEL or Treehotel for a really special experience.

MEDELPAD
Sundsvall
Sundsvall is one of Sweden’s most fascinating cities, offering not only a cool urban setting but also unique natural landscapes.

Sundsvall – located in the Medelpad province of Sweden’s northeast coast – has everything you could wish for, whether you’re an urban type or more of a nature lover. According to some historians, Sundsvall brought industrialisation to Sweden in 1849. And, boasting a major forestry industry since the early 20th century, it continues to be an important industrial hub.

A town with an eventful past, Sundsvall has been destroyed by fire four times. Following a particularly devastating fire in 1888 – the worst in Swedish history – the city was rebuilt entirely in stone, giving it the nickname Stenstaden (Stone City).

Urban meets wilderness, the best of both worlds
For a healthy dose of culture, visit Kulturmagasinet in the heart of the city. Home to the city library as well as the Sundsvall museum, you’ll find exhibitions that showcase the historical and artistic heritage of the town.

Venture beyond the urban borders, with its diverse range of culture spots and entertainment venues, and you’ll discover that Sundsvall and its surrounding areas boast immense natural beauty. You’re also within easy reach – about an hour and a half drive north – of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Höga Kusten (the High Coast). Höga Kusten is renowned for its granite cliffs and rocks that jut up from the edge of the sea and is a popular hiking destination.

The Sundsvall area’s must-see sites can be enjoyed year-round. Take it all in while hiking, cycling, jogging or – for the slightly more adventurous – whilst enjoying a canoe ride along the many waterways surrounding the city. In wintertime, you can whizz down the snowy slopes of the various ski stations located less than 15 minutes’ drive outside the city centre.

Sundsvall weather falls somewhere between subarctic and cold continental, meaning you’ll enjoy four distinct seasons.

Sundsvall – a hiker’s haven
The famous Swedish walking trail St. Olavsleden will take you from Sundsvall on the east coast and straight across Sweden, all the way to the city of Trondheim in Norway. St. Olavsleden is the northernmost pilgrim trail in the world and you’re likely to meet fellow pilgrims on the way.

Also consider hiking Indalsleden, running along Indalsälven, one of the country’s longest rivers stretching 430 km. This trail offers stunning views from Vättaberget mountain. Take a well-deserved break at Liden’s Old Church – which dates back to the 15th century.

The magnificent Stone City of Sundsvall
A symbol of Sundsvall’s rich industrial heritage, its historic centre – Stone City – is a must-see.

NORRBOTTEN
Kiruna – an arctic city bathed in the Northern Lights
Kiruna – Sweden’s northernmost city – has a lot to offer. This is where to see the Northern Lights and experience the Midnight Sun. It also boasts the country’s highest mountain, Kebnekaise.

Nestling some 200 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle in Norrbotten province, Kiruna is a gem of a city that forms part of Swedish Lapland. This vast area covers about a quarter of Sweden and stretches across the very north of Sweden, Norway, Finland and Russia.

An outdoor enthusiast’s dream destination, Kiruna is surrounded by varied and vast terrain – from deep forests and expansive marshes to lakes, rivers and mountains – including Kebnekaise, Sweden’s highest mountain, towering at 2,106 metres. These landscapes are ideal for activities such as hiking, fly fishing, skiing, snowshoe walking and dog sledding. The city of Kiruna is celebrated as the best place to see the Northern Lights and soak up the Midnight Sun.

Kiruna is fascinating from an urban perspective. This historic mining community – first established in 1900 – is undergoing a transformation due to the impact that the mining has on the area. For the mining to be able to continue, a large part of the city needs to be moved. This involves the physical lifting and shifting of buildings and the occasional demolishing and erecting of others. The modernist Kiruna City Hall – known as “the crystal”– was the first landmark to be completed in this major push to create a new urban landscape.

Kiruna – land of the Northern Lights and Midnight Sun
Kiruna puts on two natural light shows – the Midnight Sun and the Northern Lights. The Aurora Sky Station in Abisko – an hour’s drive from Kiruna – is known as one of the best places in the world to admire this kaleidoscopic display. The spot benefits from relatively low levels of precipitation and cloud cover, and although the electromagnetic interplay between sun and earth – the trigger behind this otherworldly effect – occurs constantly, you’ll only be able to see it when it’s dark from August to April.

If you’re keen to experience the Midnight Sun – the 24/7 sunlight you get summertime north of the Arctic Circle – plan your trip between May and mid-July. You can also combine the experience with skiing as late as midsummer (mid-June) in the popular ski resort Riksgränsen.

Kiruna – an ultimate hotspot for outdoor activities
Take advantage of the long days by setting off on an epic hike along the famous King’s Trail (Kungsleden). The section extending from Abisko to Nikkaluokta takes you through the lake-studded Abisko National Park, with its barren mountainside and high peaks. Kebnekaise is one of the trail’s star attractions and there’s a separate 18 km round-trip trail that will take you up to the top.

With thousands of lakes and numerous major rivers, Kiruna is a fly fishing paradise. The clear waters are inhabited by species such as Arctic Char, pike, whitefish, grayling and salmon. There is a range of guided fishing tours to choose from – complete with fishing licence – lasting from a few hours to several days. Go pike fishing in the flowing water of the Caledonian mountain range or take a short boat ride from Riverside Lodge near the Torne river to fish for grayling and trout. This trip is one of many organised by Lapland Wilderness Tours.

As for wintertime experiences, dog sledding through Kiruna’s magnificent Arctic landscapes is a definite highlight. The friendly huskies are a joy to spend time with and there are various tours to choose from. Family-run Husky Home is one that offers an array of exhilarating experiences, including the opportunity to drive your own dog sled.

 

Treehotel, Swedish Lapland
Have you ever considered sleeping in a bird’s nest, a UFO or in a mirror cube? Probably not, but when it comes to design and architecture in Sweden, everything is possible it seems.

The Treehotel all started in 2010 with Britta and Kent Lindvall’s dream to turn a 1930s retirement home into a guesthouse in their home village Harads, roughly 100 kilometres from Luleå airport in the North of Sweden. The end result was not an ordinary B&B – it turned into a tree hotel complete with seven huts inspired by the film The Tree Lover.

VASTERBOTTEN
Umeå – a cultural hotspot immersed in nature
With world-class museums and universities, Umeå is the cultural capital of northern Sweden – and a European Capital of Culture as well – with magnificent wilderness on its doorstep.

Located near the northeast coast of Sweden, Umeå was founded in 1622 by Swedish King Gustav II Adolf. Today, Umeå is often referred to as the “capital of northern Sweden”, since it’s the largest urban community in the region. It’s one of Sweden’s, and Europe’s, fastest growing cities – well on its way to passing the 200,000 population mark by 2050 (today the number stands at around 127,000).

Umeå is also known as the City of Birches (Björkarnas Stad). Wandering around the city centre, you’ll see why – some 2,300 birches line the avenues. In 1888, parts of Umeå burnt down, leaving thousands of people homeless. When it was rebuilt, birches – whose hard-wood consists of 50 percent water – were planted as a natural fire barricade.

The city has a decidedly intellectual air. It’s home to Umeå University and its sister establishment Umeå Institute of Design, which celebrated its 30th anniversary in 2019 and attracts top talent from Sweden and abroad. It’s been ranked the world’s number one school for product design several times. There are some 32,000 students in Umeå, and this community gives the city a young, vibrant feel.

With easy access to the coast – Umeå is located a mere 15 km from the sea – and with mountains and deep forest on its doorstep, this northern city is also a nature lover’s dream destination. The climate is subarctic, defined by four distinctive seasons, with proper winters and fairly short but pleasant summers – complete with midnight sun. Due to the influence of the Gulf Stream, winters are mild considering the latitude. The average temperature in January is -8°C and 16°C in July.

A city of culture and design
Umeå was named the European Capital of Culture 2014, and for good reason. The city has an entrepreneurial, innovative spirit and a number of highly regarded museums. Väven, which first swung open its doors in 2014, is Umeå’s buzzing cultural centre. This architectural landmark – with its abstract, birch-inspired aesthetic – houses museums, an eminent library, a cinema and several restaurants and cafés. It also hosts events and activities year-round, from concerts to vintage fashion markets. Upstairs, you’ll find the hip hotel U&Me, whose bar and restaurant are popular with the locals.

A city embedded in nature
Surrounded by mountains, forest and endless coastline – Umeå is a draw for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are numerous natural adventures to embark on. Tavelsjöleden hiking trail starts at Väven and will have you trekking over mountains and lakes, discovering caves and other natural highlights along the way – perhaps even the mythical Tavelsjö lake monster. The trail is about 42 km long, linking up with Vindelälvsleden and Vännforsleden.

There are several nature reserves to explore in and around Umeå. Grössjön Nature Reserve is located near the city and offers plenty of variation. The idyllic walking trail circling the lake is about 4.5 km long, and there’s an observation tower for bird watching. Also take the opportunity to explore the beautiful forest and cloudberry-yielding marshland. These nutritious amber-hued berries ripen at the end of summer, and you’re free to pick them as part of Sweden’s right of public access.

Known as Umeå’s Central Park, the area around Lake Nydala is located 6 km from the city centre. You’ll find a 12 km hiking trail as well as mini golf, a boules court and an animal farm – providing perfect family entertainment. There is also a camping site and cabins to hire.

Umeå’s culinary identity
Umeå, like much of Sweden, takes pride in locally sourced ingredients. In Umeå’s case, that translates to reindeer and elk meat, char, whitefish, lingonberry and arctic raspberries. Traditional food products of the region include Västerbottensost – a delicious sharp cheese. Västerbottenpaj – a quiche made with Västerbottensost – is a popular dish, while ’Brännland Cider’ is a locally made drink enjoyed around the world from the USA to Hong Kong.

Umedalen Sculpture Park
Located in the gardens of a former mental hospital, this sculpture park has exhibited art by almost 200 Swedish and international artists.

35 works by artists such as Miroslaw Balka, Louise Bourgeois, Tony Cragg, Antony Gormley, Anish Kapoor and Clay Ketter make up Umedalen Sculpture Park, open year round and free to the public. A unique garden experience by world-renowned landscape architect Ulf Nordfjell completes the experience.

ANGERMANLAND
The High Coast – a UNESCO World Heritage site
The High Coast (Höga Kusten) is a part of the Gulf of Bothnia and characterised by its steep granite cliffs and rocky islands rising from the sea.

UNESCO World Heritage site
The High Coast, in the Ångermanland province of north eastern Sweden, is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its unique and highly scenic land and seascape and its distinctly red Nordingrå granite cliffs and rocks.

On the vertical rebound
Due to a combined process of glaciation and glacial retreat stemming from the last Ice Age 9,600 years ago, the once compacted land is now steeply moving on up and dramatically reclaiming its right to vertical space. Technically, it boasts an approx. 295 m rise or ‘rebound’.

How to do it
The area included on the World Heritage list stretches over 100 km from north to south, with the Skuleskogen National Park at the centre. The High Coast is best explored by foot or bike. But you also get the fantastic views by car, starting from the towns of Örnsköldsvik or Härnösand. In the summertime, there are also boat and ferry tours operating along the coast.

High Coast Hike
The High Coast Hike is a 40 kilometer long hike and folk festival through the highlights of the High Coast. The Hike has quickly become the second largest hike in Sweden and attracts hundreds of hikers from all over the world. Bring your family, friends or colleagues on an adventure and experience the unique combination of coastal mountains, ancient forests and glimmering coastline.

To do
Activities in the area include guided wild bear or beaver safaris, archipelago exploration by kayak, fishing, horse riding, and coastline cycling and hiking. You can also visit Sweden’s second highest waterfall (90 m) at Västanåfallet nature reserve.

A must try
The High Coast is home to Sweden´s most peculiar delicacy, fermented herring. Love it or hate it, the surströmming premiere traditionally takes place in August.