Solo Wilderness Adventure in Sarek National Park

A Promising Start

The first day of my solo adventure in Sweden has been nothing short of magical. Leaving Dresden behind, with a bittersweet goodbye to Maximilian and Clara, I embarked on a journey to reconnect with nature in Fulufjället National Park. The flight to Stockholm was smooth, and the train to Jokkmokk offered glimpses of Sweden's stunning landscapes, building anticipation for the wilderness that awaited. The final leg, a bus ride to the park's vicinity, was filled with excitement and a touch of nervousness, typical for a solo traveller venturing into the unknown.


Explore the breathtaking Fulufjället National Park, a natural wonder in Sweden with stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural history.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Krogen Stora Gungan. It was a cozy and welcoming place, perfect for fueling up before a day of exploration. I opted for a traditional Swedish breakfast – crispbread with cheese and a strong cup of coffee. The restaurant's warm atmosphere and friendly staff made me feel right at home, even though I was miles away from my own kitchen in Dresden.

From there, I ventured into Fulufjället National Park. The air was crisp and clean, a refreshing change from the city. The park itself is expansive, a mix of old-growth forests and open moorland, offering a sensory feast. The sounds of birds chirping, the scent of pine, and the sight of endless greenery were incredibly soothing. It was precisely the kind of immersion in nature I had been craving.

I spent the morning exploring the trails near the visitor center. I decided to take the advice from the visitor center and followed the well-marked path towards Njupeskär, Sweden's highest waterfall. The hike was invigorating, with just enough challenge to keep it interesting. The landscape was varied, transitioning from dense forest to rocky terrain, offering constant visual delights.

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

Reaching Njupeskär was a breathtaking experience. The waterfall cascaded down with a thunderous roar, the mist creating a rainbow at its base. I stood there for a long time, simply absorbing the raw power and beauty of nature. It was a perfect spot for photography, and I spent a good hour capturing different angles and perspectives of the waterfall. I only wish I hadn’t forgotten to pack extra batteries for my camera!

For lunch, I returned to Restaurant Krogen Stora Gungan. The lunch menu offered a variety of Swedish dishes, and I chose the salmon with dill sauce, a classic that never disappoints. The restaurant was bustling with other visitors, a mix of locals and tourists, all enjoying the delicious food and the park's ambiance.

After lunch, I explored some of the trails further away from the main attractions. This part of the park felt more secluded, offering a sense of solitude that I deeply appreciated. I came across ancient pine forests, their trees gnarled and twisted by time, each one telling a silent story of resilience. It was humbling to walk among these ancient giants, feeling a connection to the past and the enduring power of nature.

I also made a stop at the park's shop, hoping to find some insect repellent, as I regrettably forgot to pack any. Mosquitoes were definitely out in force. Unfortunately, they were out of stock. I did, however, pick up a detailed map of the park, which will be invaluable for my upcoming hikes.

Dinner was, again, at Restaurant Krogen Stora Gungan. I decided to keep it simple with a hearty bowl of Swedish meatballs, served with creamy mashed potatoes and lingonberry sauce. It was the perfect comfort food after a long day of hiking.

As the day drew to a close, I found a quiet spot near my campsite to reflect on my experiences. The sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape. The air was still and peaceful, broken only by the occasional call of a bird. I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this opportunity to connect with nature and with myself.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit Töfsingdalen National Park. I've heard it's even more remote and untouched than Fulufjället, which is quite a claim! I'm looking forward to the challenge and the opportunity to explore even more of Sweden's wilderness. I'll also need to find some insect repellent at WildSweden, hopefully.

The first day of my solo adventure has been a resounding success. Fulufjället National Park is a truly special place, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, tranquility, and adventure. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Before drifting off to sleep in my tent, I made a few notes in my travel journal, capturing the day's highlights and my feelings. It's a practice I've found helps me to savor the memories and reflect on the experiences.

As I zipped up my sleeping bag, I couldn't help but smile. This trip is exactly what I needed – a chance to escape the everyday, to reconnect with nature, and to rediscover myself in the process. I'm excited for the days ahead and the adventures that await in the Swedish wilderness. Goodnight from Fulufjället!

The quiet of the park is punctuated by the distant rush of Njupeskär, a constant reminder of nature's power and beauty. It's a sound that will surely lull me to sleep, filled with anticipation for the adventures that tomorrow holds.

The stars are incredibly bright here, far from the light pollution of Dresden. I spent a few minutes stargazing before settling into my tent, marveling at the vastness of the universe and my small place within it. It's a humbling experience, one that puts everything into perspective.

I'm also finding that I am missing Maximilian and Clara more than I anticipated. I know they are both fine, but I do miss our evening routines. I will have to remember to call them tomorrow when I have service again.

This solo journey is not just about exploring new places; it's about pushing my boundaries, embracing solitude, and finding a deeper connection with myself and the world around me. And so far, it's proving to be an incredibly rewarding experience.

As I close my eyes, I carry with me the images of the day – the cascading waters of Njupeskär, the ancient pines, and the endless expanse of the Swedish wilderness. These are the memories I will cherish long after I return to Dresden, a reminder of the beauty and power of nature and the transformative potential of solo travel.