Hiking vacations in Sweden

Walking vacations in southeast Sweden are usually pretty easy going with gently rolling fields and curious cattle in the Sörmland countryside or a few slippery rocks around Stockholm’s islands, the only things presenting any notable challenges. Routes will often be flexible – ranging from 2km to 20km – which gives you the chance to factor in more time at the beach if the weather’s warm or dive into a spa if things are looking a bit grim.

Self guided walking vacations are great for families or small groups (four people) as they give you the chance to walk from one locally run B&B to the next. Luggage transfers, detailed route notes and 24hr emergency backup give confidence as you bridge the gap between DIY and guided alternatives.

Many of the walking routes that we suggest lead through pine forests to beaches, lakes and historic manor houses or farms with hundreds of trails to be found in and around the city of Stockholm – which is good news for those who don’t want travel too far. Island hopping is also par for the course in this area of Sweden as there are more than 2,000 islands in the Stockholm Archipelago. Boats, public transport and bridges let you extend the distances covered as you find out more about traditional Scandi lifestyles outside of the big city.

Although high season – mid-Jul to mid-Aug – guarantees everything will be open, and island boat services will be running, one of the best time to go walking in Sweden is actually around mid-Jun. Nature explodes into life as the first real heat returns to the south after the colder, darker days of winter. If you're happy to share walking trails and midsummer nights, Jul-Aug are the best months to go walking in Sweden for warmer weather with lovely beaches, such as Sandvik in Stendörren Nature Reserve and Kömote on the Sörmlandsleden hiking trail, offering scenic swim spots in the not so bracing Baltic.

Midsummer (first Friday after June 21st) is a big cultural festival in Sweden. Maypoles are erected in Dalarö, Mariefred, Trosa and Utö to coincide with traditional celebrations, including singing, dancing and eating lots of pickled herring, usually washed down with beer and aquavit. Take note: Many hembygdsgårdar (folklore museums) and island cafes/snack bars may close down for the day, so pack your own provisions if you’re going out for a midsummer walk.