Why Sweden is the new summer paradise

5 highlights for Sweden

The right of public access

The so-called ‘Allemansrätten’ is the freedom to roam: in Sweden, nature is there for everyone! The right of public access allows you to move about freely almost anywhere, pick berries or rest by secluded lakes. Camping for a night or having a barbecue is also permitted almost everywhere. The golden rule is simple: ‘Do not disturb, do not destroy.’ In nature reserves or in prohibited areas, you will find a sign. For hikers, this means a sense of freedom that is hard to find in Central Europe. You experience the same freedom when swimming: in almost every small lake, you can go for a swim for free at any time, in any spot.

Coastal rest area with picnic tables on green lawn surrounded by granite rocks and vegetation, overlooking water inlet under blue sky.

Network of hiking trails

Here at Eurohike Walking Holidays, we offer five hiking holidays in Sweden! Generally speaking, Sweden boasts a dense network of countless hiking trails, which is why the country is considered a true paradise for nature lovers. Over 13,700 kilometres of marked trails stretch across the entire region – from the gentle, picturesque archipelagos along the coast to the deep, untouched forests in the vast inland areas. Whether you’re looking for relaxed, leisurely walks or challenging trails, the long-distance trails Österlenleden, Gotaleden, Bjäre- and Kullaleden are particularly worth highlighting, as is the fascinating Nordic mountain landscape around Funäsfjällen, which never fails to inspire hikers.

Comfortable temperatures

Whilst southern Europe often suffers from extreme heatwaves, in Sweden you can usually enjoy pleasant temperatures of 20°C to 25°C in July and August. This is the ideal climate for active days out in nature. The air is clear, the sun shines for much longer thanks to the northern location, and a refreshing dip in the nearest lake is never far away. The light is particularly intense around midsummer: experience the sun not setting until around 10.30 pm. But it isn’t automatically cold in the north. Climate change is evident here too; it has been getting steadily warmer over the last few decades, with peak temperatures of up to 30 degrees possible. However, these spells are rarer and significantly shorter than in the south.

Tylösand Beach with rows of woven windbreaks on golden sand, dunes on the right, and blue sea under clear sky.

The country of 100,000 lakes

A slight exaggeration: with around 100,000 sparkling lakes and a seemingly endless archipelago coastline, water is your constant and faithful companion in Sweden. For you as a hiker, this geographical feature offers an invaluable bonus: almost every one of your walks provides the perfect spot for a leisurely picnic right on the idyllic shore or a welcome opportunity to take a dip in the crystal-clear water after a long hike. Enjoy this unique combination of active exercise and pure refreshment in an unspoilt natural setting that is second to none. Sweden’s vast water landscapes are just waiting to be discovered by you.

White motorboat with red trim on a trailer at a lake shore in Funäsfjällen. Mountains and forests visible across the sparkling water.

‘Fika’ – the Swedish coffee break

For you, hiking in Sweden also means soaking up the authentic Swedish way of life with all your senses. The famous ‘fika’ – that obligatory and much-loved coffee break with a fresh cinnamon bun, known as a ‘kanelbulle’ – is therefore a must-have in every hiker’s rucksack. It is that special moment of tranquillity when you consciously savour the profound silence of Nordic nature and recharge your batteries for the next stage of your journey. Whether on a sunny rock or beneath shady conifers: this tradition combines enjoyment with slowing down. Treat yourself to this precious break and experience how your body and mind, in harmony with the Swedish wilderness, find new strength for the journey ahead.

Stalboms Confectionery Falkenberg Halland

Österlenleden - the magic of southern Sweden

Gentle hills, vast coastal landscapes and idyllic woodlands and meadows: on your walking holiday along the Österlenleden, you’ll immerse yourself in the unspoilt beauty of the Swedish countryside. This long-distance hiking trail is a particularly charming section of the famous Skåneleden (Skåne Trail). It offers you the perfect blend of relaxing moments on gleaming white sandy beaches and impressive panoramic views.

You’ll be hiking through Skåne, a province steeped in history on the southern tip of Sweden, which has only been part of Sweden since the 17th century and still exudes its own unique, almost Danish charm.

Your route takes you all the way along the south coast, past rugged cliffs and picture-postcard villages. You’ll really feel the power of the elements, particularly on the stretch between Ystad and Alunbruket, whilst the wild sea remains your constant companion. A little tip for all the crime fiction fans among you: in the picturesque town of Ystad, you can follow in the footsteps of Inspector Kurt Wallander – it was here that bestselling author Henning Mankell brought his world-famous crime novels to life.

Österlenleden

8 Days

Poppies along the hiking trail in Skillinge

Österlenleden with Charm

8 Days

The Skåne region in southern Sweden

Two hikers with backpacks walking through lush green forest with ferns and large old trees on the Skåneleden trail at Stenshuvud.

Two hikers sitting on rocky summit at Stenshuvud, overlooking green forests and blue Baltic Sea coastline under cloudy sky.

Ales Stones megalithic monument with standing stones arranged in ship formation on green grass under dramatic cloudy sky at sunset.

Two people sitting on large coastal rocks at Stenshuvud, having a picnic by the calm sea under overcast sky.

Wooden footbridge crossing Verkeån stream in a lush forest. A person stands on the bridge surrounded by dense green trees and foliage.

Mother and daughter hiking on grassy hillside in Brösarp at sunset. Both wear backpacks and walk through golden meadow with forest in background.

Paraglider with blue canopy flying over green pasture with grazing sheep. Sandy hills and blue water visible in background under clear sky.

Gotaleden - hiking through the idyllic west

Discover the perfect blend of urban charm and unspoilt nature on the Gotaleden long-distance hiking trail. Your hike begins in the lively port city of Gothenburg, which captivates visitors with its romantic canals, first-class shopping on Kungsportsavenyn and the famous Liseberg amusement park. Be sure to visit the charming Haga district and enjoy a traditional cinnamon bun there.

From the town, the route takes you through stunning nature reserves with flowering meadows, straight into the heart of western Sweden. Along the way, you’ll encounter cultural highlights such as the majestic Nääs Castle on Lake Sävelången and the magnificent Nolhaga Castle with its English garden.

Your destination is the charming town of Alingsås: enjoy a typically Swedish evening amongst historic wooden houses and cosy cafés.

Gotaleden

5 Days

Gotaleden long-distance walking trail

Funäsfjällen - Wilderness and vastness

On the border with Norway, the Funäsfjällen in northern Sweden welcome you to a nature experience in a class of its own. Hike from Funäsdalen to Fjällnäs across endless, treeless plateaus, refresh yourself with crystal-clear water from wild mountain streams, and let the deep silence of the mountain landscape wash over you. A highlight of your trip is the chance to encounter reindeer, which are often seen here in the wild.

Your trails will lead you to sparkling waterfalls, secluded moors and panoramic peaks, where you’ll repeatedly encounter the deeply rooted traditions of the Sami people. Cosy mountain huts invite you to stop for a break, treating you to regional cuisine and insights into Sami culture. After an eventful day, charming hotels provide the ideal setting to recharge your batteries with excellent cuisine and peaceful tranquillity.

Funäsfjällen - Sweden's Nordic mountain world

8 Days

Two hikers with backpacks crossing a rocky stream in Funäsfjällen, Sweden. Green tundra and rounded mountains under blue sky.

Calm lake reflecting snow-capped mountains in Funäsfjällen, Sweden. Green vegetation lines the shore, with birch trees and blue sky with clouds.

Cascading waterfall flowing over rocky terrain in Funäsfjällen, Sweden. Green birch trees frame the view with snow-patched mountains in background.

White reindeer with antlers walking on mossy ground in Funäsfjällen, Sweden. Birch trees and green mountain landscape in background.

Blue lake with green reeds in foreground and dense coniferous forest on the shore under a cloudy sky in Funäsfjällen, Jämtland.

Red trail markers on poles in Funäsfjällen tundra landscape with moss, rocks, and distant mountains under blue sky in Jämtland.

Smaklig Måltid!

Anyone who goes hiking in Sweden soon realises that food here is more than just a source of calories. It is a moment of tranquillity, often shaped by what nature provides right in front of the tent or by the campfire. Fish is the star of the show.

In a country with over 100,000 lakes and a seemingly endless coastline, fish is an essential part of life. Whether it’s perch caught yourself straight from a mountain lake, a trout roasted over the fire, or the classic salmon – fish is the ultimate hiking food. It’s light, nutritious and connects you directly with the wilderness around you.

A cold beer (often a Ljus Lager) is the perfect way for many hikers to round off a successful day’s walk. In Sweden, you’ll often find Lättöl (light beer, up to 2.25%) or so-called Folköl (folk beer). With an alcohol content of up to 3.5%, it’s the ideal companion for the early evening: refreshing, light and available everywhere in supermarkets. It goes perfectly with the saltiness of fried fish and quenches your thirst after a dusty trail. Please note, however, that the light beers from the supermarket do not taste as we are used to in Austria or Germany. Mellanöl (medium-strength beer, 3.5%–4.5%) or Starköl (strong beer, over 4.5%) are only available at Systembolaget (liquor store) or in restaurants and bars.

Plate of surströmming with potatoes, onions, and herbs beside a beer bottle and glass, with Swedish flag and flowers in the background.

The open-air kitchen

Even though fish and beer make the perfect combination, Swedish outdoor cooking has a few other essentials that no rucksack should be without:

Crispbread: the indestructible classic. It weighs next to nothing, keeps forever and, with a tube of Kalles Kaviar (cod roe paste – you either love it or hate it!), tastes just like the North.
Home-cooked food: This is the umbrella term for honest, down-to-earth home cooking. Think of meatballs with lingonberries or hearty stews that warm both body and soul.
Coffee break outdoors: No Swedish day is complete without fika. Even out on the trail, a strong coffee and perhaps a crumpled kanelbulle (cinnamon bun) from your rucksack are simply a must.

My tip for the hike: if you’re frying fish, take a small tin of lemon pepper and a knob of butter with you. That’s all it takes to turn a simple catch into a gourmet meal in the great outdoors. Remember the right of public access!

Skål and bon appétit!

Display case with open-faced shrimp sandwiches on white plates, garnished with lettuce and tomato. Labels show Swedish names in Kungsbacka.

Culinary delights at Hotel Riviera Bastad

Large glass bowl filled with cooked orange prawns on a white tablecloth, surrounded by blue candles, glasses, and white plates.

Bjäre- & Kullaleden - coastal dream: Båstad – Helsingborg

Embark on an unforgettable hiking journey from peninsula to peninsula, perfectly combining the highlights of Bjäre and Kulla. Your adventure begins in idyllic Båstad, taking you along sparkling stretches of coastline and deep into the gentle, green hinterland. On the famous Kullaleden reveals its most diverse side: Discover hidden pebble coves, hike through fragrant forests and let yourself be enchanted by the charm of quaint fishing villages. A special highlight awaits you in historic Mölle, where the view stretches far across the Öresund to Denmark. The crowning finale is Helsingborg, with a visit to the magnificent grounds of Sofiero Castle.

Small beach house on the coast of Toreko

Bjäre- & Kullaleden

8 Days

Two women having a picnic at a wooden table on a pebble beach at Vikens Havsbad. Yellow beach huts and the sea are visible in the background.

Enjoy Swedish-style waffles along the way

During your stop on the outskirts of Båstad, be sure to visit the traditional Solbacken’s Waffle Mill, a rather special waffle café. You’ll love the little red cottage on the hill. To get there, head to Italienska vägen (Italian Way), just up the hill. The wonderfully fragrant waffles with jam and coffee can be enjoyed in the cosy wooden cottage or on one of the terraces at various levels – with a magnificent view of the sea. Check the opening times beforehand, as these vary depending on the season.

Tip: Try the traditional Swedish cloudberry jam. Known as the ‘gold of the north’, this jam is made from rare, amber-coloured cloudberries and has a tart, slightly nutty and very intense flavour. It is often served slightly warmed and topped with cold whipped cream on a waffle.

Bjäre- & Kullaleden

8 Days

Waffle café Solbackens Waffelbruk Bastad

Two people sitting on a pier at Vikens harbor watching moored boats. Red and white motorboats are docked along wooden posts under a clear evening sky.

Man in red shirt with backpack and sunglasses standing on pebble beach at Hovs Hallar, Sweden, with rocky coastline and sea in background.

Two hikers walking on sandy coastal path with trail marker, dune grass, and sea view under clear sky in Sweden.

Two hikers walking on a wooden boardwalk through golden autumn wetland on Skåneleden trail in Sweden under overcast sky.

Dirt path framed by trees leading to traditional Swedish farm buildings with red roofs in Kullaberg. Wooden fence lines the sunny meadow.

Midsummer in Sweden

Midsummer is a traditional Scandinavian festival celebrated every year on a Saturday between 20 and 26 June. The eve of the festival, known as Midsummer’s Eve, is considered a particular highlight. Celebrations usually take place outdoors, as the nights remain light. Alongside Christmas, Midsummer is the most important festival of the year.

The focus is on light-heartedness, a connection with nature and a sense of community. Life and the warm season are celebrated with family and friends. Flower wreaths in the hair, the decorated midsummer tree and traditional food make this festival a truly special experience. Most Swedes head to the coast or the countryside this weekend to celebrate in style amidst nature.

TO THE BLOG

Flower wreath for Midsommar in western Sweden

The best walking holidays in Sweden

All Eurohike Walking Holidays in Sweden

Paying in Sweden

Payment methods in Sweden are highly digitalised – so much so that many shops and cafés no longer accept cash at all (“cash-free”). Don’t rely on cash! These days, a trip to Sweden is virtually impossible without a working credit or debit card (with contactless payment capability).

Swish is by far the most important payment method in everyday life in Sweden. It is a mobile app linked to your phone number and bank account. It is used for everything from flea markets and restaurants to money transfers between friends. Important for tourists: to use Swish, you must have a Swedish personal identity number and a Swedish bank account. As a visitor, you will therefore unfortunately not usually be able to use Swish.

Credit and debit cards are the norm for travellers. Visa and Mastercard are accepted everywhere, often even for very small amounts such as a single bread roll or the fee for a public toilet. Contactless payment is available almost everywhere. In Sweden, entering your PIN is standard practice; signatures are rarely or never used, and in most cases are not even an option.

Mobile payments (Apple Pay / Google Pay): As the infrastructure for contactless payments is widely available, you can pay easily almost anywhere using your smartphone or smartwatch.

Cash is becoming increasingly less common in Sweden. The official currency is the Swedish krona (SEK). Euros are only accepted in very rare cases (near the border or in some tourist shops), and usually at an unfavourable exchange rate. Many signs in shop windows state: ‘Vi hanterar ej kontanter’ (We do not accept cash).

The word SWEDEN spelled out with colorful pebbles arranged on sandy beach surface in western Sweden.

More blogs about the north

Jeska Hearne Lobster Swa

April 29, 2025

Midsummer & white nights in Sweden

Of all the countries in Europe, only Sweden and Finland still celebrate Midsummer so extensively that they even observe a special public holiday to recover after the sleepless Midsummer Night. While June 24 has long been a holiday across much of the Christian world — for at least 1,500 years — only in Sweden does the celebration include the iconic maypole. Midsummer is one of the most important holidays on the Swedish calendar, second only to Christmas in significance. During this time, nearly all Swedes head to the coast, visit family or friends, and typically leave the city behind. As a result, big cities tend to become very quiet. The best time to travel to Sweden is from mid-June to mid-August at the latest.

January 21, 2025

Lifestyle & Health

Healing Cold

As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop below freezing, many of us feel the urge to cozy up by the fireplace. Some even escape to warmer climates to avoid the cold. But did you know that the cold has numerous benefits for both our physical and mental health? Frosty temperatures can have remarkably positive effects on our bodies. Cold exposure is used therapeutically in several medical fields and has long been a go-to in professional sports for rapid recovery after intense training. The water therapy invented over 130 years ago has been making a real comeback in recent years – ice bathing is more popular than ever. Discover how you, too, can benefit your body and mind with the power of the cold in this article.

November 12, 2024

Lifestyle & Health

Forest bathing for body and soul

In today’s fast-paced world, where constant busyness and availability often take center stage, the desire for a peaceful oasis grows stronger. Forest bathing, a practice originating from Japan, invites us to find this tranquility in nature. This isn’t merely a stroll through a nearby wooded area; rather, it’s a mindful immersion in the forest that engages all your senses and helps you find inner calm. The deliberate gaze up into the treetops, the gentle rustling of leaves, and the cool, fresh air of the forest create a unique atmosphere that lets you forget the stresses of daily life and provides lasting benefits for both body and mind. Studies have shown that forest bathing reduces the production of stress hormones, strengthens the immune system, and activates the parasympathetic nervous system, also known as “rest-and-digest”. This form of slowing down not only provides a deep sense of well-being but also enhances our resilience to stress. Discover with us the powerful impact of the forest—a mindfulness practice that offers far more than just relaxation. In our next blog post, learn how the forest heals both body and mind.

June 4, 2024

Off to the north

As the summer heat intensifies in this region, prompting even the most resilient walkers to seek refuge by lakes and rivers, it becomes the perfect opportunity to venture towards northern destinations. Countries like Norway, Sweden, Scotland, and Ireland beckon with their cooler climates, offering a refreshing escape from the sweltering temperatures of Central Europe. Embracing the great outdoors in these regions during the summer months allows for invigorating activities amidst pleasantly milder temperatures. Let's now delve into why the north is an ideal choice for a hiking holiday in summer, offering a fantastic opportunity for a rejuvenating break and highlighting the exciting experiences awaiting you while hiking in the north.

Bird's eye view of two hikers in nature, forest, lake

Jonas Ingman

April 16, 2024

City, countryside, hiking pleasure in Sweden

Maritime flair, vast natural landscapes, magnificent fresh air and a harmonious balance between peaceful hiking paths and special features close to the city. A particularly relaxing time-out between city and countryside awaits on a wonderful long-distance hiking trail in Western Sweden – namely Gotaleden. Since 2020 this hiking trail has been offering amazing moments of peace, enjoyable coffee breaks, dreamy natural and recreation areas and in particular – the unmistakable charm of Sweden. We will now tell you what you can expect while hiking along the Gotaleden, which natural paradises and gourmet treasures you shouldn’t miss and which other highlights the long-distance hiking trail near the city has in store for you.

April 12, 2022

Midsommar, a colourful festival in the north!

Have you ever been to Sweden? If not, the time of the summer solstice, also known as "Midsommar", might be just the right time to travel to Sweden. Midsommar is a Scandinavian celebration that takes place every year on the Saturday between 20 and 26 June. The day before is known as Midsummer's Eve. The time of year is particularly suitable for the Midsummer Festival, as it hardly gets dark and the celebration takes place mostly outdoors in the countryside. We wanted to know what makes the Scandinavian "Midsommar" so special, how it is celebrated and what delicious food is served on the occasion. One more thing: the best way to experience this colourful festival in the north is by foot – on a walking holiday in Sweden.

November 23, 2021

5 tips to get more hygge in your life

Have you ever heard of hygge? In recent years, this term has been repeatedly associated with happiness, cosiness, contentment and more comfort in life. Exactly the things we wish for in everyday life. To enjoy a little more time – consciously and without distractions – with family or friends. To have a harmonious home and to lead a life that simply makes us happy. That all sounds wonderful and very simple, doesn't it? But on some days, the hustle and bustle of everyday life gets in the way, and it may not be as hyggelig as you would like. Especially now, in the winter season, we would like to bring a few cosy hygge moments to you. Maybe there is a tip or two for more hygge in your life that will bring you more relaxation and happiness? We will now share our five tips that are guaranteed to provide more quality of life and small moments of happiness in everyday life.

Traditional Norwegian wooden cabin with grass roof beside flowing river in Jotunheimen National Park, surrounded by dense forest and hills.

June 28, 2021

Team on Tour

Head to the north: a tour through Norway’s most beautiful National Park

This time I didn’t head to the classic southern climes, but to the far north, namely to Norway. I’ve never travelled so far ‘up’ for Eurohike but the long journey really was worth it! Norway is stunning: high mountains with glaciers, endless fjords, forests, marshes, turquoise green and deep blue lakes, lonely highlands and lovely farmland with red wooden huts. To explore the hiking tour Norway, 8 days for our guests I spend a few days in the Jotunheimen National Park and in the Sognefjord area.

Hiking in summer: things to note

30 degrees in the shade, the sun shines with full force, and the beads of sweat run from your forehead. That’s the height of summer! The swimming pools are overcrowded and the lakes overrun. Why not take refuge in the higher elevations, where the temperatures are more pleasant and perhaps a cool breeze blows? Good idea! However, there is a lot to consider when hiking in summer. Because it often happens quicker than you think, that before you know it you have sunstroke and are as red as a tomato. Find out all you need to know below!

April 3, 2019

Southern Sweden: The Skåne region

Hallå enchanting southern Sweden! The Skåne region is also lovingly called the ‘breadbasket’ of the country. Guessing the reason for the nickname is not difficult – Skåne provides Sweden with valuable grain from the region’s fertile farmlands. But there are not only cereal fields to see. Skåne is a true patchwork quilt of various ‘patches of landscape’. There is a lot to discover! Learn more now and be spellbound by Sweden’s southernmost region! Finally we present our hiking holiday Österlenleden, 8 days. During your walking holdiays in Sweden you can fall in love with everything this unique region has to offer.

October 17, 2018

Team on Tour

Franziska in Southern Sweden

There I acquainted myself with the holiday on the Österlenleden offered by Eurohike and in addition got to know sections of two brand new holidays – Skånelden and Kullaleden. In Skåne – this is the name of the area – a few exciting days awaited with a very tight but nevertheless wonderful itinerary. Everything I have experienced there, you find out below.

Do you prefer cycling?

Cycling or island-hopping by bike in Sweden is also a wonderful experience: endless expanses, heavenly tranquillity, friendly people, enchanting landscapes and pleasant temperatures are convincing more and more of our guests to take a cooler break from the height of summer. Whether it’s a Loop Tour Stockholm, Island Hopping around Stockholm, a Stockholm cycle tour-based in one hotel, cycling from Stockholm to Copenhagen, cycling along Sweden’s west coast - Kattegatt Route, or discovering our new cycle tour on the Sydkustleden cycle path.

A good bike is one of the most important pieces of kit for a successful cycling holiday. With our bikes from Eurobike Cycling Holidays, we guarantee you the utmost comfort and, of course, safety on roads and cycle paths.

Would you rather bring your own bikes? Then set off on your adventure to the north, get on your bikes and take one of the many ferry routes between Germany and Sweden or Germany, Denmark and Sweden.

Cycling in Sweden

View from a car ferry deck in western Sweden with vehicles parked in rows. The wake trails behind the ferry in turquoise water.

5 highlights for Sweden

The right of public access

Österlenleden - the magic of southern Sweden

Gotaleden - hiking through the idyllic west

The aesthetics of vastness

Funäsfjällen - Wilderness and vastness

Smaklig Måltid!

The open-air kitchen

Bjäre- & Kullaleden - coastal dream: Båstad – Helsingborg

Enjoy Swedish-style waffles along the way

Midsummer in Sweden

The best walking holidays in Sweden

Paying in Sweden

More blogs about the north

Do you prefer cycling?