Hiking in Sweden

Hiking in Sweden is an adventure from north to south. The regions range from the flat south to the rugged north, so there is something for everyone. The trails suit all levels of difficulty and are divided into sections, so you can always find a stage that fits. Good equipment is essential, as the weather in Sweden can be changeable. Thanks to Sweden’s right of public access (allemansrätten), you can move freely in nature and explore the many well-marked trails, which are lined with hostels, mountain stations and huts, some of them run by the Swedish Tourist Association (STF). The only important thing is not to disturb local residents and to respect nature.

Lapland

Lapland and northern Sweden offer unforgettable hiking. This is where you will find some of the most beautiful trails in Northern Europe. One of the highlights is the Kungsleden (King’s Trail), a royal classic that stretches for around 440 to 470 km (depending on how it is measured) from Abisko National Park to Hemavan and takes about a month. There are numerous entry and exit points, so you can also shorten the hike. Along the way you can enjoy breathtaking views of mountains, streams and rivers, and explore the Laponia UNESCO World Heritage Site and its four national parks. Kebnekaise, Sweden’s highest mountain at around 2,100 metres (its height varies because the glacier on the south summit is melting), is a special challenge. The Swedish Tourist Association runs mountain huts along the route. They charge a fee, are cheaper for members, and many can be booked in advance. Check opening times and prices before your trip. Before setting off, you should also ask experienced hiking guides about the safety of the ascent, as terrain and weather can be unpredictable. Don’t forget to dress warmly and, in summer, to bring mosquito repellent.

Skåne and Småland

The trails in southern Sweden offer a change from those in the north and the interior. Here you will find coastal paths, the deep forests of Småland and the open fields of Sweden’s fertile southern tip. In the southwest, the Hallandsleden connects the coastal region of Halland with the Skåneleden in the south and the Bohusleden further north. Småland has themed trails such as the Emigrants’ Trail, where you follow in the footsteps of the famous Swedish novel series. The Smålandsleden runs through the whole region with a network of 700 km of trails, which you can plan with the help of an app.

Gotland – Sweden’s largest island

The Baltic island of Gotland, often called the island of longing, has an 800 km coastline that is perfect for easy hikes. Even beginners can enjoy the dramatic landscape that once inspired the director Ingmar Bergman. A great way to start hiking on the island is the Gotland hiking weeks in spring and autumn, which offer guided walks of 12–24 km. The north of the island has a barren landscape with nature reserves and hidden limestone quarries. In the east, meadows with grazing sheep dominate. The south is open and lush, full of narrow farm tracks and paths close to the water. Did you know that millions of years ago Gotland was a coral reef near the equator? Look closely when you walk at the foot of the cliffs: some stones bear the imprints of shells and other prehistoric creatures.