Sweden – Top spots to experience the myth-filled protected nature
In Sweden, the mysterious places that tell of her history and culture are entirely free and accessible to everyone thanks to Freedom to Roam, Sweden´s sustainable way of accessing nature. Come, be spellbound by the places and experience where fairy tales, culture, and nature meet across Sweden.
Åsnen National Park – Småland
Åsnen National Park, with its unspoiled nature and forests, lakes and wetlands, is steeped in mythological tales. Enter via the park’s ‘Trollberget’ (Troll Mountain) entrance and explore the rocks and boulders where trolls are said to celebrate Christmas. Legend has it that there’s a hidden chamber full of gold and silver – though it’s yet to be found.
Tresticklan National Park – West Sweden
Stretching between the lake of Stora Le and the Norwegian border, Tresticklan in Dalsland is steeped in Viking mythology and boasts the largest roadless, uninhabited pine forest region in southern Sweden. You can walk for days through uninterrupted wilderness, passing crystal-clear lakes and epic scenery. And with its dramatically high mountain ridges, it’s no surprise that a giant named Bore is said to have lived in the caves at ‘Bore Kulle’ (Bore’s hill).
Tyresta National Park – Sörmland
Even though it’s only 45 minutes by bus from central Stockholm, Tyresta National Park is a world away. Southern Sweden’s largest old-growth forest, Tyresta is fit for a fairytale, complete with thick, knotty pines, moss-covered landscapes, and Stockholm’s scenic archipelago. Legend has it that a flame-bearing character called ‘Lyktgubben’ haunts Tyresta’s darkest enclaves, attempting to lead visitors astray.
Kittelfältet Nature Reserve – Värmland
Location of the filming of Kiln´s video trailer, Kittelfältet’s unique topography goes back to the Ice Age, with water-filled potholes left by receding glaciers. Walk the one-kilometre-long ‘Dödisgropar’ loop that passes Sundstjärn, the largest of these glacial relics. Surrounded by old-growth pine trees, Sundstjärn’s turquoise waters cast a magical sheen on the whole landscape. Part of the EU’s Natura 2000 protected areas, Kittelfältet boasts several hiking trails for all experience levels.
Östergötland – Their mysterious beings tell their stories – Southern Sweden
Östergötland has to be experienced. But rather than you taking our word for it, we will hand over to those better suited to the job. Let us introduce our mystical beings who will describe in their own words their experiences of some special places in Östergötland – the Stone troll in Kolmården forest – Little Grey at Öna the Tomte – Fairies at Drabbisdal and the Mermaid in Lake Vättern.
