The world has already embraced all things Sweden, whether that’s slick cars, innovative Scandi furniture or the countless ABBA numbers that graced the charts. So, it seems only right that travellers should succumb to its natural beauty, Viking lore, and Scandinavian charm too. With spectacular scenery around every twist and trail, there’s a lot to love about walking in Sweden whether you’re a relaxed rambler seeking slower-paced walks, or an avid hiker eager to scale the next summit. From the Arctic Circle landscapes of the Kungsleden, Sweden's most famous long distance walking trail, to coastal walks around Österlen Way, there is so much to be appreciated and experienced here. Of course, any keen walker knows refreshments and rest bite are a must and thankfully there are plenty of hearty restaurants and thrumming cities en route, proving that this really is a country that has it all.
- The King’s Trail (Kungsleden)
- The Pilgrim Path St Olavsleden
- Kebnekaise
- The Emigrant Trail (Utvandrarleden)
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The King’s Trail (Kungsleden)
Northern Sweden
Kickstarting our walking in Sweden list is Kungsleden (or The Kings Trail), largely considered to be one of the most beautiful trails in the world. The route takes you through a stretch of dark and brooding forest that coats over 200 miles of epic Swedish landscape, complete with craggy peaked mountains and fast flowing rivers. The alpine surroundings are perfect for exploring year-round, with each season offering a different perspective - not to mention summer here sees nearly 24 hours of sunlight. For the more adventurous and advanced ramblers, it is possible to hike the entire trail (taking around a month to complete) but there are also more manageable sections that are suitable for all ages and abilities. Whatever your hiking style, you can savour some truly spectacular Nordic nature and a real sense of peace.
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The Pilgrim Path
St Olavsleden
This next trail might not be as popular when it comes to walking in Sweden, but it deserves equal recognition. In fact, the St Olavsleden Pilgrim Trail, which passes through both Sweden and Norway, is the northernmost pilgrimage trail in the world. Keen explorers can walk in the footsteps of Norway’s King Olav Haraldsson, who journeyed from Sweden to Norway almost one thousand years ago. The route takes you through sprawling forests, mountainous regions and past countless lakes. Although it might be one for those with a generous timeframe, as this path (in all its glory) takes about a month to complete, there are guided tours, interactive maps and plenty of accommodation along the way to aid your pilgrimage.
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Kebnekaise
Northern Sweden
Don’t let Sweden’s highest mountain (towering to a staggering 6,900ft) deter you from visiting. Although it sounds daunting, this is another Nordic trail suited to most skill levels, so don your best walking boots and get stuck in. You can experience everything from Sami settlements and glaciers to swooping valleys and flat gorges. The best time of year to visit is between July and August, when the trail is (for the most part) snow free. Travellers can choose from one of two routes. For a gentle journey, the Västra leden (or western route) is best, with its only difficulty being its length, while The Östra leden (or eastern route) is shorter but does require a bit more climbing ability and is weather permitting, so be sure to prepare to experience all four seasons in a day.
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The Emigrant Trail (Utvandrarleden)
Southern Sweden
Last up is The Emigrant Trail, or Utvandrarleden, which sees walkers of varying ability journey through southern Sweden’s Småland region. This 80-mile walk, for those that commit to all of it, sees you travel past the villages that many Swedes left behind, as they sought their fortune in the United States between 1850 and 1910. The rocky terrain found here made crop growing nearly impossible, which is why so many fled in search of a better life. Now the path takes you through the unspoilt forests, bordered by age old fences and stone walls, and tells an important story of Sweden’s history. You’ll pass through the well-known hamlets and places that have graced the pages of books, like ‘Utvandrarna' (The Emigrants) by Vilhelm Moberg, as you gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region.