Sweden
Stately forests, swirling rivers and moody mountains make Sweden an unforgettable holiday destination. The country lends itself to extraordinary natural experiences and visitors are spoiled for choice with fishing, skiing, dog-sledding, white water rafting, hiking and golf among the activities on offer.
The three major cities - Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmo - offer very different flavours. Experience the cool of Stockholm, the maritime history of Gothenburg and the cultural diversity of Malmo. Each city has an abundance of parks, museums, historical sites, restaurants and shopping, and the main attractions are central and easily accessible.
Sweden has an incredible 100,000 lakes, not to mention countless rivers, and so sailing is a way of life. The country is interspersed with canals and these are well maintained; they provide an ideal boating holiday. Boats and cruisers can be hired or visitors can bring their own. Many places also offer canoes for hire. Cruises, some in vintage steamers, are operated from Stockholm around the 30,000 islands off the coast.
Sweden also offers fabulous fishing, with pike, perch, and rainbow and brown trout being among the freshwater species. The salmon season opens at the beginning of spring but sea-trout can be caught year-round. Summer is the best time for char and grayling, and these are commonly found in the north. Fishing is generally free along the coast and in the larger lakes, but a special permit is required to fish elsewhere.
Ice-fishing adds something extra to standard fishing. Tours of varying lengths are on offer on the west coast and in the south.
Sweden has become known as one of the world's finest golfing countries. More than 300 courses are dotted throughout the country, including Bjorkliden, which is the world's most northern course. Many of the courses are less than an hour's drive of each other. The favorable climate in the south means courses there can be played on longer than in the north, and courses on the coast can be played on almost year-round,
A string of majestic mountains makes up Sweden's northwestern border, and many of these offer exceptional alpine skiing conditions. There are slopes to suit all skill levels and tastes. At Riksgränsen, 200 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, midnight sun skiing is available from mid-May to mid-June.
Sweden is an outstanding country for hiking, which is permitted in most areas of the country,. The north offers remote and challenging tracks, while the south is full of culture trails. All routes are well laid out, such as Kungsleden (the King's trail) from Abisko to Hemavan, which takes walkers past Sweden's highest mountain - Kebnekajse. Walks in the 2000sq km Sarek National Park in Lapland offers magical views over the Rapaälven river and its delta. Trails with different themes are also on offer, including Pilgrimsleden (the Pilgrim trail) in Dalsland in Sweden's southwest. Hikers should be aware that the weather can change quickly and prepare accordingly.
Hot air ballooning is a popular activity, and a great option for romantic getaways. The small town of Granna has been a ballooning capital since explorer Salomon Auguste André set off from there in an attempt to reach the North Pole in a balloon. Balloon rides offer unsurpassed views, and are one of the best ways to discover Sweden.
Sweden has hundreds of miles of beaches, particularly on the west coast, and there are numerous water-skiing and windsurfing centres. Skindiving is popular on the rocky coasts and islets in the west, and the variety of rapids makes white-water rafting an appealing option.
Countless companies offer standard tours and design-your-own options, so families visiting Sweden can tailor trips to suit their tastes.Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmo have city tours covering the main sights. Road trips are available, and these are plenty of special interest tours, such as art and ice-climbing options.
Tennis is a great holiday activity option. The Swedes excel at the sport and opportunities to play and watch abound. Bastad is the tennis mecca of the country. Cycling is also popular, particularly in the south, where visitors can pedal along canals and through charming villages.
Self-catering houses, cabins and apartments are a popular option for visitors. Stay in a seaside resort, a ski village or in the countryside and enjoy the stunning scenery the country has to offer. Check out all our accommodation options to Taylor and Design your perfect holiday in Sweden today.
