Solo Wilderness Adventure in Sarek National Park

Whispers of the Wild

Today was a day of unexpected encounters and breathtaking landscapes in Sonfjället National Park. Leaving the familiar comfort of marked trails behind, I ventured deeper into the heart of Sweden's wilderness, a place where the whispers of nature speak louder than any human voice. It was a day that reminded me why I crave these solo adventures, a chance to reconnect with the raw beauty of the world and find a sense of peace in its solitude.


Discover the untouched beauty of Sonfjället National Park in Sweden, a paradise for nature lovers with hiking trails, wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes.

The morning began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Krogen Stora Gungan. I find it somewhat amusing that I keep returning to the same restaurant, but the truth is, it's conveniently located and offers a comforting start to my days. I savored a traditional Swedish breakfast, fueling up for the day's hike. The thought of the vast wilderness ahead was both exhilarating and a little daunting. I made a mental note to buy insect repellent, as I was starting to regret forgetting it in Dresden.

With my backpack prepped, I set off towards Sonfjället National Park. The journey itself was a treat, with winding roads cutting through dense forests, teasing glimpses of the majestic mountain in the distance. As I approached the park, the landscape transformed into a tapestry of lush greenery and rugged terrain. I could sense the wildness in the air, a primal energy that both humbled and invigorated me. I was excited to see what the day would bring. I was hoping to spot a bear, but I knew that the chances were slim. Still, the possibility was enough to keep my senses heightened.

The wilderness holds answers to questions we have not yet learned to ask.

My first stop was Nyvallen, a charming summer grazing farm nestled at the foot of Sonfjället. The sun-kissed farmhouses and the gentle sound of cowbells transported me back in time. I watched as mountain cows and goats grazed peacefully on the slopes, their presence adding a touch of pastoral beauty to the dramatic landscape. Nyvallen is one of the natural starting points for exploring Sonfjället, and it was easy to see why. I took a moment to breathe in the fresh mountain air, feeling a sense of connection to the land and its history.

From Nyvallen, I embarked on a hike towards the summit of Sonfjället. The trail wound its way through forests and over rocky terrain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. The landscape was dotted with large boulders and glistening lakes, remnants of the last ice age. I paused frequently to capture the beauty with my camera, trying to preserve the memories of this incredible place. The climb was challenging, but the solitude and the stunning scenery made it all worthwhile.

As I ascended, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer scale of the mountain. Sonfjället, with its peak reaching 1,278 meters above sea level, dominates the landscape, a silent sentinel watching over the wilderness. It's known to be one of the roughest national parks in central Sweden, and I could definitely sense the truth in that. The trails were rugged, and there were hardly any facilities for visitors, making it a true test of self-reliance.

The park is renowned for its wildlife, particularly its population of brown bears. While I knew that spotting a bear was a long shot, I couldn't help but scan the landscape with hopeful eyes. I was also on the lookout for elk, lynx, and other creatures that call this park home. I've always been fascinated by wildlife, and the thought of encountering one of these magnificent animals in its natural habitat filled me with excitement.

I continued my hike, the only sound the crunch of my boots on the trail and the occasional call of a bird. I paused by a small, pristine lake, its surface reflecting the surrounding mountains like a mirror. I sat on a rock, taking in the view and enjoying the silence. It was a moment of pure serenity, a reminder of the restorative power of nature. I feel like I could have stayed there for hours, lost in my thoughts and the beauty of the landscape. But the day was getting on, and I wanted to reach the summit before heading back.

As I neared the top, the landscape became more barren, with fewer trees and more exposed rock. The wind picked up, and I could feel the chill in the air. I pulled out my extra layers of clothing, grateful for the foresight. The final stretch to the summit was steep and challenging, but the anticipation of the view kept me going. And then, finally, I reached the top.

The panorama from the summit of Sonfjället was simply breathtaking. I could see for miles in every direction, a vast expanse of forests, lakes, and mountains stretching out to the horizon. The sky was a brilliant blue, dotted with fluffy white clouds. I felt like I was on top of the world, a tiny speck in the midst of this immense wilderness. I spent a long time soaking in the view, taking photos, and simply enjoying the moment. It was a culmination of all the hard work and preparation, a reward for venturing into the unknown.

The descent was just as rewarding, with new perspectives on the landscape and a sense of accomplishment. I made my way back to Nyvallen, feeling tired but exhilarated. As I reached the grazing farm, I noticed a group of people gathered around a guide, who was pointing out something in the distance. I was curious, so I wandered over to see what was happening.

To my surprise, the guide was showing the group a bear! It was far away, but I could clearly see it through my binoculars, a large brown figure moving through the trees. I couldn't believe my luck. After a day of hoping and searching, I had finally spotted a bear in Sonfjället National Park. It was a truly magical moment, a reminder of the wildness that still exists in this world.

With the sun beginning to set, I made my way back towards Funäsdalen, my heart full of memories. I decided to treat myself to dinner at Restaurant Krogen Stora Gungan again, savoring the flavors of Swedish cuisine while reliving the day's adventures. I also thought about stopping by Bar Bruno, but I decided to save that for another night. I think I'll be too tired anyway. I was also keen to get some rest, as tomorrow I'll be heading to Djurö National Park.


Discover the vibrant cocktail scene at Bar Bruno in Gothenburg, where expertly crafted drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await you.

As I reflect on my time in Sonfjället National Park, I am struck by the power of nature to inspire and rejuvenate. The park's rugged landscapes, abundant wildlife, and sense of solitude offer a unique opportunity to reconnect with the natural world and find peace within oneself. It's a place where you can truly escape the hustle and bustle of modern life and immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquility of the wilderness.

I am looking forward to tomorrow's adventure at Djurö National Park, an archipelago in the middle of Lake Vänern. I've heard that it's a remote and isolated place, with rocky shores and dense forests. It sounds like the perfect place to continue my solo wilderness adventure. I'm also planning to visit Apans Andra Hand, a shop in the area. Who knows what treasures I might find there?

Before heading to bed, I took some time to jot down my thoughts and experiences in my notebook. Writing has always been a way for me to process my adventures and share them with others. I hope that my words can inspire you to explore the natural world and discover the beauty that lies within.

Until tomorrow, sleep tight, and dream of wild places.