Nature and Greenery in Sweden
If you’re a big fan of the outdoors and nature, Sweden really is the place to be. In 1909, Sweden was the very first county in Europe to protect its greenery and nature with legislation. Nine National Parks were created and officially protected by law, and today there are 28 National Parks to choose from! Not only that, but there are 2500 Nature Reserves in Sweden, and more than 1000 Wildlife Sanctuaries. That makes for 10% of Sweden’s countryside protected by these nature laws.
Bla Jungfrun is one of the uninhabited islands of the Kalmar Strait, located in the vast Baltic Sea. View the shocking red granite cliffs, boulder labyrinth, caves, and deciduous forest, all on one island. Take a ferry from Oskarshamn or Byxelkrok. The island provided boat rides and plenty of hiking along carefully marked trails. People travel from all over the world to see a natural reserve such as this.
Gotska Sandon is another island of the Province of Gotland on the Baltic Sea. Its name means Sandy Island, due to its vast, uninhabited beaches and sand dunes. It was one of the first National Parks of Sweden, and has been that way since 1909. Take a tour boat from the mainland of Sweden, and hike the day away along marked trails. Rent a cabin or pitch a tent, and view the ancient human settlements. If you need tour info, you can visit the National Park Info Center at the Lighthouse.
Djuro is a peaceful archipelago of approximately 30 islands in Lake Vanern, the biggest lake in Sweden. Travel there by private or rented boat, and you’re on your own! There’s an incredibly diverse bird population on the archipelago, including hobby, ospreys, black-backed gulls, and oyster catchers. You may even catch a herd of young deer prancing along the horizon. There’s a travel lodge to rest at, and numerous opportunities for hiking, hunting, and peaceful contemplation.