National parks in Sweden, Nordic nature
Interest in Swedish nature skyrocketed during the pandemic, with most nature tourism businesses quickly fully booked. Nature walks, forest bathing, and various courses where people spend time in nature were constantly on people's minds when they met. Many expected a decline as restrictions were lifted, but the interest in Swedish nature remains significant.
The deep forests, the scent of moss and trees, the clear drinkable water in babbling brooks, the barren mountains, and the silence, the soundless silence. And you know what? You don't need to book a spot in the national parks. We have 30 fantastic, distinctive national parks in Sweden. In this article, we look at 10 of them. A national park represents the finest and most valuable areas of Swedish nature, providing inherent protection.
Why make a bucket list for National parks in Sweden?
The purpose of creating a bucket list is to ensure that the trip happens. Holidays or free time can easily be filled with other activities. But many feel their best when close to nature, in the mountains, in the forest, or near water. Sweden is a great place to recover in nature.
Each park promises experiences for avid explorers and nature lovers. From the high reaches of Lapland's dramatic 'fjälls' to the coastal havens along the Baltic Sea, the opportunities for adventure are as varied as the landscapes themselves.
In northern Sweden, parks such as Sarek and Abisko offer rugged mountain terrain and pristine glacial landscapes. Here, a challenging yet rewarding adventure awaits, with opportunities for high-altitude trekking, encounters with majestic wildlife, and immersion in the rugged beauty of Lapland.
For those seeking a coastal escape, parks such as Kosterhavets and Haparanda Skärgård reveal a maritime paradise. The archipelagic labyrinths offer seascapes dotted with islands, sea kayaking opportunities, and the chance to explore the rich marine life that thrives beneath the waves.
Inland, parks such as Tiveden and Fulufjället are a haven for those enchanted by ancient forests, vast bogs, and cascading waterfalls. The unique geological formations, such as the giant boulders in Tiveden or Sweden's highest waterfall in Fulufjället, add an extra layer of intrigue to the exploration.
This guide acts as a compass for those wishing to navigate Sweden's national parks, offering insights into the specific wonders that each park has to offer. Want to see where the park is located? Click on our map!
As the seasons change, so does the character of these parks. Winter transforms the landscapes into a serene snow-covered wonderland, opening up opportunities for cross-country skiing and experiencing the ethereal beauty of the Northern Lights in the far north.
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Sarek National Park
Sweden's majestic mountains and wildlife!
Sarek National Park is located in the Jokkmokk municipality in Lapland and is the most dramatic and grand national park of them all. The park is a high-altitude area with mountains over 2000 meters and almost 100 glaciers.
It is not the easiest park to hike or navigate for the inexperienced hiker. The valleys consist of a diverse landscape with lots of winding streams that connect to Sarek's main artery, Ráhpaädno. The park is also known for its wildlife, including large moose, reindeer, and many predators. The area has been shaped by the ice age, and Sarek is part of the Laponia World Heritage.
Beyond its daunting terrain, Sarek is a refuge for remarkable wildlife. Encounter majestic moose, iconic reindeer, and various predators roaming freely in this untamed wilderness. The park provides a raw and authentic experience, emphasizing the primal beauty of Lapland.
Sarek National Park beckons adventurers seeking an exhilarating challenge amidst its high-altitude landscapes. This destination offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature in its most unfiltered form, making it a magnetic draw for those yearning for a genuine and thrilling wilderness encounter.
Abisko National Park
Lapland's wilderness and "Lapporten" gateway
Abisko National Park is located in Norrbotten County in Lapland, one of Sweden's first national parks inaugurated in 1909 after more than 30 years of lobbying.
The park is characterized most by the famous Lapporten, marking the entrance to vast wilderness and the northern mountain world. During both summer and winter, you can hike or ski through the valley on the Kungsleden trail, and maybe take the green or white ribbon.
What sets Abisko apart is its unique geographical position, often providing ideal conditions for observing the mesmerizing Northern Lights. The clear, crisp nights in Abisko make it a prime location for catching this celestial display, adding an enchanting dimension to the park's appeal.
Abisko's landscapes feature Scandinavia's largest mountain lake, captivating waterfalls, and birch-clad hills. Visitors can relish the experience of being surrounded by unspoiled nature while exploring the park's diverse ecosystems.
In addition to its natural wonders, Abisko houses the Abisko Scientific Research Station, offering insights into the Arctic environment. This convergence of scientific exploration and pristine wilderness makes Abisko a multifaceted destination, inviting all who venture here to partake in the remarkable stories etched into its landscapes.
Kosterhavet National Park
Swedens underwater wonderland
Kosterhavet is located in Bohuslän in Västra Götaland, inaugurated on September 9, 2009, and is one of the most recently established national parks, but the first for the sea, as the park consists of only 2% land.
Kosterhavet is designated as Sweden's most species-rich sea area with its 6,000 different algae and animals underwater; the park also hosts Sweden's only cold-water coral reef. There are many entrances to the park and various ways to experience it – you can snorkel, swim, fish, paddle a kayak, take a boat trip, or land on an islet or Valfjäll and go on a summit hike.
What sets Kosterhavet apart is its accessibility, offering multiple entry points for diverse experiences. As a vital link in preserving Sweden's marine ecosystems, Kosterhavet stands as a testament to the delicate balance between human interaction and the preservation of underwater marvels in this corner of Scandinavia.
Fulufjället
Nordic peaks, Njupeskär waterfall, and Old Tjikko
Fulufjället National Park is located in Dalarna near Idre and Särna. In the park, you'll find Sweden's highest waterfall, Njupeskär, at a whopping 93 meters.
Over millennia, water has formed a gorge. The sound of the fall is deafening and creates a mist in the valley, benefiting lichens and mosses. From December to March, ice climbing in the fall is permitted.
Fulufjället National Park is unique in that it is bordered by cliffs forming a plateau, preventing reindeer from climbing up and grazing, thus further benefiting mosses and lichens that grow there.
On the mountain, you can also visit the world's oldest tree, "Old Tjikko," at 9,550 years old. There are some tours both at the waterfall and on the mountain, offering a fantastic view from the top.
Söderåsen
Ravines, cliffs, and diverse landscapes in Skåne
Söderåsen National Park, situated in Skåne, Sweden, beckons with its rugged terrain and geological marvels. Carved by ancient forces, the deep ravines and soaring cliffs create a dynamic and challenging environment, drawing adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Hiking trails meander through the park, offering diverse landscapes and panoramic views from peaks like Kopparhatten. Rock climbers are enticed by the dramatic cliffs, providing a thrilling challenge against the backdrop of Söderåsen's raw and untamed beauty.
Lake Odensjön adds a serene touch to the park, offering a quiet retreat for picnics and fishing. The park's accessibility makes it a convenient escape for those seeking a break from urban routines, providing a gateway to the rugged charm of Skåne.
Söderåsen National Park serves as a canvas for exploration, where the untamed landscapes invite discovery and a connection with the powerful forces that shaped the region. It stands as a dynamic playground, luring those with a spirit of adventure to uncover the unrefined allure that defines this unique Swedish destination.
Stora Sjöfallet
Glaciers in Northwestern Lapland
Stora Sjöfallet National Park, located in the Lapland region of Sweden, is a captivating destination offering rugged landscapes and a unique glimpse into the northern wilderness. Covering vast areas of Norrbotten County, the park is known for its dramatic scenery, including expansive wilderness, towering mountains, and impressive glaciers.
Visitors are drawn to Stora Sjöfallet for its raw and untamed beauty, providing a chance to experience the wild side of Sweden. The park offers excellent hiking opportunities, with well-marked trails leading adventurers through diverse terrain. As one explores, they encounter the striking contrasts of the northern ecosystems, from dense forests to high mountain plateaus.
What sets Stora Sjöfallet apart is its unique blend of natural elements. Glaciers within the park contribute to its distinctive character, creating a landscape shaped by the forces of ice over millennia.
Store mosse
Unique wetlands and bogs
Store Mosse National Park, nestled in the heart of Jönköping County in southern Sweden, offers a captivating journey into the largest bog area in the country. This expansive park beckons nature enthusiasts and explorers alike with its unique blend of wetlands, raised bogs, and rich biodiversity.
Travelers are drawn to Store Mosse for its remarkable landscapes, providing a chance to witness the dynamic interplay of water, vegetation, and wildlife. The park boasts well-designed trails and boardwalks that guide visitors through the fascinating bog environment, creating an immersive experience for those eager to discover the secrets of this diverse ecosystem.
What sets Store Mosse apart is its status as a vital habitat for numerous bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature photographers. The park's wetlands provide nesting grounds for rare and migratory birds, adding a vibrant touch to the serene surroundings.
Beyond its ecological significance, Store Mosse National Park invites visitors to appreciate the delicate balance of nature and the importance of preserving these wetland ecosystems. The park serves as a living testament to Sweden's commitment to conservation, offering a tangible connection to the wonders of the natural world in a distinctive and accessible setting.
Tyresta nationalpark
Nature close to Stockholm
Tyresta National Park, situated in Stockholm County, Sweden, is a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking a harmonious blend of ancient forests and serene lakes.
Visitors come to Tyresta for its well-preserved old-growth forests, showcasing a diverse range of plant and animal life. The park boasts a network of well-marked trails, offering both novice and experienced hikers the chance to explore the enchanting woodlands and discover the unique ecosystems that thrive within.
What sets Tyresta apart is its ancient landscapes, where towering trees tell tales of centuries gone by. The park's diverse terrain includes marshlands and pristine lakes, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching.
Eriksberg
Safaris in Blekinge
Eriksberg National Park, located in Blekinge County, is a magnet for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. This park stands out for its diverse landscapes, offering a mix of dense forests, open meadows, and pristine lakes that serve as a playground for native wildlife.
A major attraction at Eriksberg is its wildlife safaris, providing visitors with an opportunity to observe and capture glimpses of red deer, fallow deer, and wild boar in their natural habitat. The park's well-maintained trails offer a chance to explore the vast territory, immersing visitors in the dynamic behaviors of the resident fauna.
Eriksberg sets itself apart by prioritizing wildlife conservation and sustainable practices. Serving as a sanctuary for endangered species, the park actively contributes to the preservation of biodiversity in the region. This commitment to environmental responsibility adds a meaningful layer to the visitor experience, allowing them to engage with nature while supporting ongoing efforts to protect Sweden's unique wildlife.
Haparanda skärgård
A coastal oasis for nature enthusiasts
Haparanda Skärgård National Park, located in Norrbotten County, stands as a remarkable destination along the coast of northern Sweden. This national park beckons visitors with its unique combination of coastal beauty, archipelago charm, and rich marine life.
One of the primary draws to Haparanda Skärgård is the opportunity to explore the archipelago's diverse landscapes by boat. Visitors can navigate the maze of islands, discovering hidden coves, sandy beaches, and picturesque vistas that define the rugged beauty of the northern coastline.
What sets this national park apart is its vibrant mix of sea and archipelago environments, offering a haven for marine enthusiasts and those seeking a coastal adventure. The park boasts a thriving ecosystem beneath the waves, with diverse marine species and intricate underwater landscapes.
