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The Best Wild Camping Spots in Sweden

2 Comments / Outdoor Activities, Scandinavia, Sweden | Articles / True Scandinavia

Sweden’s natural beauty is hard to beat. With forests, fjords, and arctic tundra, Sweden is the country where you can go wild camping and get away from it all. But if you don’t follow some guidelines, you might find yourself in trouble. The Swedes take their protected nature very seriously—they’ve even made a law that makes it illegal to camp in certain places. Luckily for those who love the outdoors, Sweden is also home to many wild camping spots that are legal and safe to visit. Here, you’ll find plenty of camping spots in Sweden where you can pitch your tent, build a campfire, and get creative with your food. Why Go Wild Camping in Sweden You can have numerous reasons to go wild camping in Sweden. The first one is that it is a very safe country. So, it’s not hard to find a safe camping spot. The second reason is that Sweden has a lot of beautiful places where you can go wild camping. You have many options to camp around stunning landscapes and natural attractions. You can even go hiking or fishing while you are here! If you have never experienced going wild camping before, this would be a great place to start learning about it! There are different animals here in Sweden that pose no threat to humans. You will see them around when you go out looking for them! This is another reason why going wild camping in Sweden is such a great experience for anyone who loves animals or nature more than anything else! Sweden Wild Camping Rules to Follow If you’re looking for wild camping spots in Sweden, you must follow some basic rules: Which Part of Sweden Should you Choose for Wild Camping? If you are a camper visiting Scandinavia, there are many wild camping spots in Sweden that you’ll love. Sweden is so large and diverse that it can be hard to determine which part of it to visit. Here are tips on how to choose where to go wild camping in Sweden: Southern Sweden Southern Sweden is a paradise for those who love nature and the sea. The region offers an immense variety of landscapes, from the rocky coastlines of Skåne to the broad plains of Östergötland. The southernmost part of Sweden also has many islands, from Gotland to Åland and Öland. Central Sweden Central Sweden is the most densely populated region in the country and home to some of its most historical cities, such as Uppsala, Västerås, and Örebro. In this region, you can find many sports facilities such as golf courses, ski resorts, and horse riding facilities. Northern Sweden Northern Sweden is a popular destination for people who want to go on an adventure. The north holds many beautiful spots for wild camping, as it is home to the most beautiful landscapes and natural attractions. 7 of the Best Camping Spots in Sweden Wild camping spots are easy to find in Sweden. They are often located by lakes, forests, and beaches. If you want to avoid crowds, take a look at the following camping spots in Sweden: Gotland Searching for a spot that combines serenity, peace, and the sea? Gotland is one of the best wild camping spots you can find in Sweden. Gotland is a small island blessed with rich history, culture, and natural wonders. There are plenty of things to do in terms of activities, including swimming, fishing, watersports, hiking, and more. Finally, Gotland hosts some of the most beautiful Swedish beaches. Fulufjället National Park Fulufjället is the perfect place to camp if you want to escape the hustle of city life. This National Park is located in the southern part of Dalarna, a province of central Sweden. It is allowed to camp in 3 zones of the park. There are many activities for campers, including hiking, biking, fishing, and canoeing. Skuleskogen National Park The Skuleskogen National Park is one of Sweden’s most popular camping destinations. It boasts stunning views and has a variety of activities to keep you entertained. The park also has a wide range of accommodation options so you can also stay at the campsite for as long as you like. Lijusdal Lijusdal is located in Dalarna. It is the perfect wild camping spot for anyone who wants to explore Sweden’s beautiful countryside. It is close to Hamra National Park. Lijusdal is a very safe place with facilities nearby. This makes it ideal for families or friends who want to spend time together while exploring Sweden’s beautiful landscapes. Glaskogens Glaskogen is a natural reserve with a large grassy field with plenty of shade from the surrounding trees. It is allowed to pitch your tent directly on the grass if you don’t mind being so close to other wild campers. But wooden platforms are also available for rent if you prefer more privacy and comfort. The facilities nearby are good and include a nice cafe where you can have snacks and drinks. This site is convenient for both day trips into town or long walks through the surrounding forest. Kungsleden The Kungsleden trail is a beautiful hiking trail that runs through the Swedish mountains and forests. The trail was built as a route through the mountains in the early 19th century, and it is still functional for people who enjoy hiking and wild camping in Sweden. Skrylle, Malmö If you are looking for an urban wild camping experience, this is the right wild camping spot in Sweden for you! Located near Malmö, this recreation area consists of ten nature reserves and offers everything from luxury to peace. There are many facilities, including swimming pools, playgrounds, sports facilities, and more! It’s also close to the city center that you can easily visit during your stay if you want some culture or shopping opportunities. Conclusion Scandinavian countries are popular wild camping destinations. Sweden could not be an exception. Natives and tourists enjoy sleeping under canvas or camped out in rustic cabins. Whether you are starting

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What Americans need for a Denmark Road Trip

Leave a Comment / Denmark | Articles, Nature Attractions, Outdoor Activities, Scandinavia / True Scandinavia

A Denmark Road trip An amazing Experience

To steal a line from the poet John Donne: there are few feelings better than the splendor of riding into a new place with your best friends. The road trip is as American as it gets. It is predicated on the idea that getting out and moving is good for the soul. There is so much to do in a road trip across Scandinavia. It can be hard to know where to go or what you should see. Especially if your travel time is limited. In response to this problem, here’s an itinerary for a Denmark road trip across those glorious Scandinavian plains. A valid passport If you plan to visit Denmark for an extended period or have other travel plans in Europe, you must have a valid passport. Danish authorities will not grant entry to anyone without one. If you do have one make sure you do not lose it. It’s not guaranteed that your visa will be extended or your travels will go smoothly if you lose your passport while abroad.The validity requirements are pretty straightforward: the passport must be valid for at least three months after your intended date of departure from Denmark. It must be valid for the entire period of your intended stay in Denmark. It also has to have been issued within the past 10 years—no exceptions! A valid driving license You won’t need much to drive in Denmark. If you are a US citizen, the only document you need for a Denmark road trip is a valid driving license. However, as we all know, this does not ensure that your trip will be safe or enjoyable. What does Denmark need from its drivers? First and foremost, an international driving license. This type of license is required for non-EU citizens driving in Denmark. If you already have an international driving license from the US or Canada (or another country), then no additional action is needed on your part. While your state-issued license is good enough to verify that you can drive legally within the US, it is not recognized by other countries—including those in Europe—unless it has been validated by a few formalities with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Your state DMV can give you details on how to get one. Danish phone number or SIM card with data If you are looking to hop in the car and explore the Danish countryside, you’ll probably want a way to stay connected. While you can access WiFi on your phone when you’re out and about, it is important to note that some regions don’t have good coverage. Plus, using your data abroad will cost extra. To avoid being hit with an unexpected bill, it’s common sense to get a local SIM card or a Danish phone number for your trip. Before heading to Denmark, be sure to contact your cell phone provider at home. Ask them about getting a new or temporary SIM card from a Danish network provider. That way all of your calls and texts will be billed in krone (DKK). If they are unable or unwilling to help, look into getting one from a kiosk in Copenhagen Airport or any convenience store throughout the country. Credit card to pay tolls and gas You can drive in Denmark without a credit card and still avoid paying tolls. But if you want to pay for gas, get out of a traffic jam or pass through one of Denmark’s road tolls, you’ll need one. And even if you’re not driving in Denmark, it is a good idea to have a credit card from one of the major networks — Visa or MasterCard — just in case anything breaks down. You might also want to take along an American Express card as well. Some hotels and restaurants prefer AmEx over Visa or Mastercard (but they do charge a higher fee). Snacks In Denmark, most gas stations have vending machines with candy and chips available for purchase. But what if you’re driving late at night? Or on a Sunday? Or on a weekday when all the nearby shops are closed? Healthy snacks like nuts and dried fruit are great for munching on while driving. They’re also good sources of protein and fiber, which will keep your energy levels up throughout the day. Danish krone Denmark is a lovely country in northern Europe with a rich history, beautiful countryside, and a plethora of cultural activities. However, traveling here from other countries can be confusing in terms of currency. Denmark is not part of the Eurozone and therefore uses its currency, the Danish krone (DKK). Exchanging US dollars or other currencies for their equivalent in DKK before arriving in Denmark is imperative to budgeting well. The exchange rate of the DKK to other currencies changes depending on the day. But it tends to stay within a certain range. First aid kit It’s a good idea to pack a first aid kit for your road trip to Denmark. Roads are safe there. But it’s better to be prepared for everything. This will help you in case of an accident, or if someone gets sick or injured. The following is a list of items that you should consider including in your first aid kit: Painkillers and anti-inflammatories (e.g., aspirin, paracetamol), antihistamines (for hay fever and allergies), bandages and dressings, adhesive tape, and scissors. Accessories When preparing for a day trip or weekend excursion, many travelers will automatically think of packing clothes, shoes, and toiletries. But for those planning a Denmark road trip, there are some items that you may want to consider bringing along on your journey as well. These are some of the things that you will need: Decide your Denmark road trip destinations When making a long trip to Denmark, it is always nice to know where the main tourist attractions are. By familiarizing yourself with these points of interest, you can better plan your trip and decide what you want to see. If your travels include

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A Guide to Sailing in Stockholm Archipelago

2 Comments / Outdoor Activities, Scandinavia, Sweden | Articles / True Scandinavia

Sailing in Stockholm Archipelago in Sweden is one of the most popular Scandinavia tourist goals. Stockholm Archipelago attracts more than 2 million visitors annually. Its islands provide a stunning backdrop for sailing holidays, with more than 30,000 islands and islets spread across its waters. Most visitors arrive by boat, either from Stockholm or by ferry from other parts of Scandinavia. The most popular routes are from Stockholm to Vaxholm or Grinda. Others sail from Visby on Gotland or Mariehamn on Aland. You can also take a trip around the island of Saltholmen, where there are many smaller islands to visit along the way. Sailing in the Stockholm archipelago is one of the best ways to enjoy a summer vacation. It’s an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime! Best Sailing Tours in Stockholm Archipelago The Stockholm Archipelago offers some of the most beautiful sailing tours in the world. We’ve rounded up the top three sailing tours in the Stockholm Archipelago that match every budget. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stockholm’s archipelago on a 2.5-hour sightseeing tour. Enjoy stunning views, learn about the history and culture of the region, and see some of the thousands of islands that make up this unique area. This Stockholm Archipelago sailing tour takes you on a journey through some of the most beautiful islands in Sweden. Enjoy a delicious lunch and explore the stunning natural beauty of the archipelago. This full-day sailing tour of the Stockholm archipelago offers a perfect opportunity to experience the stunning natural beauty of the area. An experienced skipper will guide you through the journey, making this an unforgettable adventure for all. Best Time and Areas where you can go Sailing in Stockholm and Sweden Archipelagos Sweden Archipelago is a beautiful area with thousands of islands, ideal for sailing. The main islands you can sail to are: Gotland The largest island in the Baltic Sea, Gotland is a popular sailing and water sports destination. The most popular place to sail on Gotland is the West Coast. You will find many coves with white sandy beaches, clear waters, and small islands there. During summer many festivals take place on the island, including music festivals and medieval markets. Aland Islands The Aland Islands are an archipelago located between Finland and Sweden in the Baltic Sea. They were inhabited by Vikings who used them as a base for their raids against other countries during their time as pirates. Today they are inhabited by over 29,000 people who live on the main island of Åland, also known as Main Island or just Åland. There are many smaller islands surrounding Main Island where you can find marinas where boats for rent and charter are available. Stockholm The capital of Sweden is a great destination for sailing in the archipelago. It is a beautiful city, and so is the water surrounding it. Stockholm is easily accessible by train, bus, or car. Many islands nearby can be reached by boat or ferry and offer stunning views of Stockholm. Gothenburg Gothenburg has plenty of islands that can be visited by boat, including some trendy ones like Alsön, Tjörn and H, singer. There are also many smaller islands that are perfect for day trips from Gothenburg, such as Mathöskolan, Långasjön, and Skärgårdsgrundet. Svarteberget Svarteberget is located in Vaxholm and offers excellent views over Stockholm from its top point. Several other beautiful places around Svarteberget can be visited during a day trip to Vaxholm: Hälsö Island (Hälsöholmen), Kalvholmen, and Storholmen Island (Storholmsholmen). The best time to sail in Stockholm Archipelago If you want to experience the beauty of Stockholm Archipelago in its full glory, then May and June are probably your best bet. The summer months are also popular with tourists, so try visiting during spring to avoid crowds. There isn’t plenty of sunshine in early spring (April) and late autumn (October), but it’s also lovely and quiet. In July and August, you will have trouble finding any room on land or sea: this is when most Swedes and tourists go on holiday. If you don’t mind crowds, these months offer excellent conditions for sailing in the archipelago. The Swedish winter (December-February) can be freezing, but that doesn’t mean you should not visit! There is a lot of snow during this time of year. This means that many of the famous landmarks of Sweden are covered in white. The winter months are also popular with skiers who flock to the mountains for some downhill skiing at resorts such as Åre and Sälen, but there are still plenty of places where you can find solitude if that is what you desire. Is Sailing in Stockholm Archipelago Worth It? The Stockholm Archipelago is one of the most beautiful places in the world. The archipelago offers an endless amount of things to do, but sailing is one of the most popular activities to do in the area. Here are a few reasons why you should consider sailing in the Swedish Archipelago: The scenery is stunning The archipelago consists of over 30 000 islands, large and small, most of them uninhabited. The water is often crystal clear, making it easy to spot wildlife, such as seals and dolphins swimming by your boat. The islands are surrounded by pine forests, and the smell of the fresh forest air fills your nostrils as you approach each new island. There is plenty of wildlife The Stockholm Archipelago has some spectacular wildlife such as whales, dolphins, and seals that live in its waters. You can also spot otters and eagles on several islands and many other birds like cranes or falcons. Also, many fish species live in these waters like salmon or perch that are worth trying when fishing onboard your boat! It is easy to get there from Stockholm Stockholm is a great city with plenty of things to see and do. But if you want something more remote then there’s nothing better than getting away from it all by taking a day trip out

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10 Weird Scandinavian Sports

Leave a Comment / Outdoor Activities, Scandinavia / True Scandinavia

Scandinavia is known worldwide for its healthy lifestyle and love of the outdoors. Scandinavians are big sports fans, whether they watch sports on television or participate in them themselves. With some of the cleanest air and most beautiful landscapes in Europe, who could blame them? Visiting Scandinavia provides many opportunities to explore nature and take advantage of that fresh air. If you are heading to Scandinavian countries like Denmark, Norway, Sweden, or Finland — or even northern European countries like Iceland, Greenland, and the Faroe Islands —maybe you can try out one of these 10 weird Scandinavian sports! Most Unusual sports in Denmark Knattleikr Are you a fan of sports with a long history? If so, check out knattleikr, a 1,000-year-old Viking game. You’ll probably see some similarities between knattleikr and ice hockey or rugby. It was popular in Iceland, Norway, and Denmark from roughly the 10th to the 13th centuries. There were many variations of the game. Sometimes, it was played on a field up to 400 yards long. Players used sticks to pass a ball around while they tried to score goals at each end of the court. Both teams had 15–30 players (depending on how large the field was), but there were no set positions like you might be familiar with in modern soccer or basketball games. Wife Carrying This sport involves carrying your wife across an obstacle course as fast as you can. The winner of this race is entitled to his wife’s weight in beer. If your wife weighs less than 49kgs, then she must wear a backpack weighing 3kgs. There are different ways of carrying your wife, and the most preferred method is called the Estonian Style. That’s when the competitor carries his wife upside down on their back, with her legs wrapped around their neck and her arms clutching their waist. However, couples are also allowed to have their way of carrying. For example piggyback or fireman’s lift, as long as it doesn’t slow them down. The races usually last about 2 minutes, and there are numerous obstacles along the way, including water jumps, sandpits, and log jumps. Synchronized Swimming Synchronized swimming is a famous water sport that takes place in a pool. The sport involves a team of synchronized swimmers performing synchronized routines in the water to music. Routines are choreographed and synchronized, so the moves of the swimmers match the beat of the music. There are also solo events and duets events (where two people perform together). Synchronized swimming is sometimes referred to as water ballet because of how graceful, and elegant it looks to spectators. Most Unusual Sports in Norway Norwegian Knattleikr Now and then knattleikr is still being played at some festivals in Norway. So, here are a few more details. Before the days of basketball and baseball, there was Knattleikr. An ancient ball game played in Iceland and Norway during the medieval period, Knattleikr (pronounced “kah-tlake-er”) was a team sport, not unlike many of the sports we know today. The game occurred on a field, with the two teams using a bat to hit a ball back and forth. The goal? Score more points than your opponent, win by reaching a set score, or be ahead when time runs out. Though its popularity is long gone, Knattleikr lives on in Norwegian folklore as one of the most popular sports in its history. Biathlon Biathlon is a sport that combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. Competitors race over a cross-country skiing course, pausing to shoot at targets along the way. The target is small, and 50 meters away, so this sport relies on precision and speed. It originated in Norway in the 18th century as military training; some historians think it was based on an old Norwegian word for a military exercise. Although biathlon developed into a sport today, it is still used for military training in Norway, Sweden, and Finland. It became part of the Winter Olympics during the 1960s. Buhunden This sport is played by two teams of five players, who try to get a ball into the other team’s goal. The ball is kicked hard, so players need to wear protective equipment like helmets and shin guards to protect themselves from injury. The game is based on an old Viking sport called buhunding. It was first played in Norway around 1000 AD. But it didn’t become popular until the mid-1800s when it became part of a school curriculum for boys. Mountain Racing Norwegians love to stay fit, and they also love the mountains. This combination has resulted in the birth of a sport called mountain racing. Mountain racing involves running up mountains as fast as possible. Races are held all over the country. Some of the most popular include those in Lofoten in Northern Norway and on Mount Ulriken in Bergen. There is something for everyone at these events, from those who want to try their first 10km race to experienced runners who want to test their limits by running up 2000m over 20km. The winners of these races usually finish in under 2 hours! Most Unusual Sports in Sweden Ski Joring A sport of Swedish origin, skijoring is a combination of skiing and horseback riding. The person on the horse is called the jockey, while the skier is called the jor (Swedish for “pull”). Jors are pulled by either a horse or reindeer and may reach speeds up to 20 miles per hour. Skiing at that speed looks very fun, but also is incredibly dangerous! In addition to flying down snowy slopes at breakneck speeds, skiers must also dodge obstacles along the way. This activity could include jumps and obstacles like walls made from snow or ice. That said, it’s for these very reasons that many find this sport too extreme to be worth attempting. Salibandy Salibandy is a type of floorball invented in Finland in the 1920s. The sport became popular in Sweden, Finland, and Estonia during the 1970s, but it didn’t spread

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