Enjoying the outdoors in Sweden means immersing yourself in vast forests, sparkling lakes, and expansive archipelagos that offer both solitude and adventure. With the country’s "Allemansrätten" or Right of Public Access, everyone is free to roam nature responsibly—whether hiking through pine-scented woodlands, picking wild berries, or setting up camp by a quiet lake. National parks like Abisko in the far north offer stunning opportunities for hiking, skiing, and witnessing the Northern Lights in winter or the Midnight Sun in summer. In central and southern Sweden, extensive trail networks like the Sörmlandsleden and Kungsleden guide outdoor enthusiasts through varied terrain filled with wildlife and unspoiled scenery.
Sweden’s coastal and island regions are equally enchanting for outdoor lovers. The Stockholm Archipelago, with its thousands of islands, is perfect for kayaking, sailing, and cycling between quaint villages and rocky beaches. In the west, the Bohuslän coast offers world-class sea kayaking among granite islands and hidden coves, while the southern province of Skåne invites exploration of rolling farmland and sandy shores. Even in urban areas like Stockholm and Gothenburg, green spaces, city parks, and nature reserves are never far away. With its clean air, strong outdoor culture, and deep respect for nature, Sweden is a haven for those seeking both peaceful escapes and active adventures in the great outdoors.
Things to do in Sweden:
1. Hiking the Kungsleden Trail
The Kungsleden ("King’s Trail") is Sweden’s most famous long-distance hike, stretching over 400 km through the Lapland wilderness. Hike through arctic tundra, birch forests, and between snowcapped peaks.
2. Kayaking and Canoeing in the Archipelagos
Explore the countless islands of the Stockholm Archipelago, Gothenburg Archipelago, or St. Anna Archipelago by kayak. Paddle between islets, camp on rocks, and watch the sunset over calm waters.
3. Cross-Country Skiing in the North
Sweden’s vast snowy landscapes are ideal for cross-country skiing. The Vasaloppet Trail is legendary, and areas like Dalarna and Jämtland offer stunning terrain for winter sports.
4. Wild Camping and Outdoor Cooking
Thanks to the Right of Public Access, you can wild camp nearly anywhere in nature. Build a fire (where allowed), pick berries and mushrooms, and cook over open flames surrounded by peaceful forests.
5. Cycling in the Countryside and Along Coasts
Sweden has scenic bike routes like:
• Kattegattleden – Sweden’s first national bike route along the west coast
• Göta Canal Route – a relaxing ride through historic locks and lake towns
• Sydostleden – through rolling fields and coastal villages in the south
6. Dog Sledding and Snowshoeing in Lapland
In winter, head to Swedish Lapland for dog sledding under the northern lights or snowshoe treks across frozen forests and fells. Stay in wilderness cabins or Sami tents.
7. Fishing in Lakes, Rivers, and Coastal Waters
Try fly fishing in northern rivers for trout and salmon, ice fishing in winter, or coastal fishing for herring and perch. Sweden has over 100,000 lakes and endless rivers to explore.
8. Watching the Northern Lights
Travel north of the Arctic Circle to places like Abisko National Park or Kiruna for some of Europe’s best aurora viewing—especially between September and March.
9. Rock Climbing and Ice Climbing
Climb granite crags in Västervik or Bohuslän on the west coast. In winter, try ice climbing frozen waterfalls in Åre or Rjukan, a short hop over the border in Norway.
10. Canoeing in Forested Lake Districts
Paddle through serene, forest-surrounded lakes in Värmland, Dalsland, or Småland. These regions offer peaceful waterways, excellent for multi-day canoe camping trips and wildlife spotting.
