Hike the Heritage: 3 UNESCO Adventures in Sweden

Hike in Laponia – Arctic nature and Sámi culture

Laponia is one of Europe's largest protected natural areas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It lies above the Arctic Circle. Recognised for its exceptional natural and cultural values, the landscape has been shaped by the living traditions of the Sámi culture and reindeer husbandry for thousands of years.

Laponia is the perfect destination for hikers seeking vast mountain landscapes and multi-day adventures in stunning natural surroundings. Trails lead across open fells, through birch forests, and alongside glacial rivers, offering sweeping vistas and a sense of space that is hard to find elsewhere in Europe. You may even spot reindeer grazing or golden eagles soaring overhead along the way.

When to go hiking:

Summer in Laponia is the classic hiking season, when the mountain trails open beneath the midnight sun. In winter, Laponia transforms into a true Arctic landscape, which is perfect for experienced adventurers interested in ski touring, snowmobiling or dog sledding. However, weather conditions can change rapidly at any time of year, so careful planning and local knowledge are essential.

Where to stay:

• Cabins managed by Badjelánnda Laponia Turism along the Padjelantaleden (Badjelánnda Trail)
• Self-service cabins in the Muddus/Muttos National Park, managed by Laponiatjuottjudus
• Find mountain stations, cabins and other accommodation across Laponia, including along parts of the Kungsleden (The King's Trail), on the Swedish Tourist Association (STF) website.

These cabins have a low environmental impact and allow hikers to stay in remote areas. Mobile coverage is limited, so make sure you plan your route before setting out. You can also choose to camp.

Stora Sjöfallet Mountain Lodge is an easily accessible mountain guesthouse and perfect for those who want to experience an authentic yet comfortable mountain holiday. It is located in the World Heritage Site. The nearby towns of Jokkmokk and Gällivare offer a wider range of accommodation, restaurants and visitor services.

Things to do:

Laponia invites you to experience the Arctic year-round through activities such as guided hikes, Sámi cultural experiences, canoeing, fishing, and wildlife encounters. In winter, the landscape becomes a playground for activities including dog sledding, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and Northern Lights adventures.

• Jokkmokkguiderna: nature experiences led by local guides with in-depth knowledge of the region and Sámi culture.
• Ájtte, the Swedish Mountain and Sámi Museum: learn about Sámi culture, mountain life, and northern Sweden's history.
• Naturum Laponia: the official visitor center, offering exhibitions, maps, and practical information.

For more inspiration and practical information about hiking in Laponia and across Arctic Sweden, visit the official tourism website of the region, Swedish Lapland www.swedishlapland.com.

Hike the High Coast – Discover Sweden's dramatic coastline

The High Coast is one of Sweden's most spectacular hiking destinations. Together with Finland's Kvarken Archipelago, it forms a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the land continues to rise after the last Ice Age. The result is a striking landscape of steep cliffs, smooth granite hills, rocky shores and dense forests overlooking the Gulf of Bothnia.

Choose the High Coast if you enjoy varied day hikes with rewarding viewpoints. The trails climb through forests to rocky hilltops before descending to quiet coves and the Baltic shoreline, making every hike feel different.

When to go hiking:

The High Coast is a rewarding hiking destination from spring to autumn. Summer offers long days by the Baltic Sea, while late summer and early autumn bring crisp air, colourful forests, and some of the region's most spectacular views. In winter, the landscape is transformed, offering opportunities for snowshoeing, dog sledding and snowmobile excursions.

Where to stay:

If you're looking for a comfortable hotel, unique accommodation in nature or somewhere to stay right on the trail, the High Coast has plenty of memorable places to spend the night.

• The Hotel High Coast: located beside the iconic High Coast Bridge and offers panoramic sea views.
• FriluftsByn: Located at the foot of Skuleberget, this outdoor hub offers cabins, campsites and hostel accommodation, with the High Coast Trail and Skuleskogen National Park just steps away.
• Glamping Höga Kusten: Sleep in a fully equipped safari tent surrounded by forest. Available in both summer and winter.

Things to do:

Explore the coastline by kayak, cycle along picturesque roads, visit fishing villages and experience the local cuisine and culture. Depending on the season, you can enjoy a combination of activities such as hiking, kayaking, mountain biking, fishing, wildlife experiences and boat trips through the archipelago.

• Naturum Höga Kusten: Find out about this UNESCO World Heritage Site by exploring the exhibitions, maps and practical information, before setting off on the trails.
• High Coast Kayak: Join a guided kayaking tour or explore the archipelago at your own pace by renting equipment.
• Ulvön: Visit this island, which is known for its fishing heritage, beautiful archipelago scenery, and its famous fermented herring dish, surströmming.

The High Coast is also home to farm shops, art galleries, and museums, and Skule Naturscen hosts concerts and festivals throughout the summer. For more hiking inspiration and practical visit the official High Coast tourism website: https://www.hogakusten.com/en

Hike Southern Öland – Orchids, Birdlife and the Great Alvar

Southern Öland offers a completely different hiking experience. Instead of mountain peaks, you will find wide-open landscapes, limestone plains, grazing animals, stone walls and traditional villages. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has been shaped by humans for over 5,000 years. At its heart lies Stora Alvaret (the Great Alvar), one of the world's largest alvar landscapes.

If you prefer accessible day hikes at a slower pace, choose Southern Öland. Well-marked trails wind through nature, across the Great Alvar and alongside the coast. There are plenty of opportunities to stop at cosy cafés, farm shops, and local food producers along the way.

When to go hiking:

In Öland, each season reveals a different side of the island. In spring, the Great Alvar is carpeted with orchids and wildflowers, while in summer you can enjoy swimming, lively harbour towns and farm shops. Autumn is marked by bird migration and Skördefesten, Sweden's largest harvest festival. Winter, meanwhile, offers peaceful coastal walks and exceptionally dark skies for stargazing.

Where to stay:

Southern Öland offers accommodation to suit every hiking style, whether you're looking for a boutique hotel, a traditional guesthouse or cottages, campsites and simple shelters across the island.

• The Hotel Magasin 1: a boutique hotel in Mörbylånga and a convenient base for hikers following the Mörbylånga Trail.
• Gammalsbygårdens Gästgiveri: traditional limestone buildings, homemade food, and a peaceful location near Eketorp Fortress and Ottenby.
• Hotel Skansen: comfortable accommodation with a spa, perfect for unwinding after a day spent outdoors.

Things to do:

Hiking is just the beginning. Depending on the time of year, you can enjoy activities such as birdwatching, guided nature walks, horse riding, tasting local food and drink, and visiting charming farm shops and villages.

• Naturum Ottenby: The visitor centre for southern Öland, offering exhibitions, guided activities, and practical information about the World Heritage Site.
• Ölandsguiderna: Guided walks exploring the island's history, nature, and UNESCO World Heritage landscape.
• Station Linné: A variety of nature experiences throughout the year, including orchid walks, bat safaris and family-friendly wildlife activities.

No visit to Öland is complete without trying Kroppkakor, the island's traditional potato dumplings and one of its best-loved local specialties. You can find trail maps, route descriptions and practical information on Naturkartan. For more hiking inspiration and practical travel information, visit the official Öland tourism website: https://en.oland.se/