Solo Wilderness Adventure in Sarek National Park

Homeward Bound, But Not Before One Last Adventure

As my incredible solo journey through Sarek National Park comes to an end, I find myself filled with a mix of emotions. There's a sense of accomplishment and gratitude for the experiences I've had, the challenges I've overcome, and the stunning landscapes I've witnessed. But there's also a touch of sadness, knowing that this chapter is closing. Before heading back to Dresden and reuniting with Maximilian and Clara, I decided to make the most of my last day in Sweden, seeking out a bit more of its natural beauty and a taste of its cultural charm.

The morning began early, with a final pack-up of my camping gear. The tent, sleeping bag, and all the essentials that had been my companions for the past nine days were stowed away, ready for the journey home. I took one last look around the campsite, a silent thank you to the wilderness that had been my home. I made sure to leave no trace behind, a practice deeply ingrained in me. It's a small way to honor the earth that has given me so much.

With a bittersweet farewell to Sarek, I set off towards Norra Kvills National Park. The journey itself was a welcome change of pace. After days of navigating rugged terrain, the smooth roads and comfortable bus ride felt like a luxury. I used the time to reflect on my adventure, mentally cataloging the photographs I had taken, the moments of awe, and the quiet solitude that had nourished my soul.

Norra Kvills National Park: A Primeval Forest

Arriving at Norra Kvills, I was immediately struck by the contrast to Sarek's vast, open landscapes. This national park, one of the smallest in Sweden, felt like stepping into a fairy tale. The air was thick with the scent of pine and damp earth, and the sunlight filtered through the dense canopy, creating an ethereal glow. I decided to have breakfast at Restaurant Krogen Stora Gungan, as a treat. It was quite charming and quaint and the food was lovely! I had some salmon and coffee, really hit the spot before a long day.


Experience the breathtaking beauty and diverse wildlife of Norra Kvills National Park, a true gem of Sweden's natural landscape.

The park is known for its old-growth forest, untouched for over 150 years. Towering pines, some over 350 years old, stood as silent witnesses to the passage of time. Fallen logs, covered in moss and lichen, lay scattered across the forest floor, creating a tapestry of textures and colors. It was a place of quiet beauty, where nature reigned supreme.

I followed one of the well-marked trails, winding my way through the primeval forest. The silence was broken only by the rustling of leaves and the occasional call of a bird. I imagined what it must have been like to walk these woods centuries ago, when wolves and bears roamed freely. It was easy to feel a connection to the past, a sense of continuity that stretched back through generations.

The trail led me to Stora Idgölen, a small forest lake known as Trollsjön. Water lilies floated on the surface, their white blossoms adding a touch of elegance to the scene. I sat on a rock by the shore, listening to the gentle lapping of the water and the buzzing of insects. It was a moment of perfect tranquility, a chance to simply be present in the moment.

The forest is a place of transformation, where we can reconnect with ourselves and with the natural world.

After a few hours of exploring Norra Kvills, I felt refreshed and rejuvenated. The park's small size belied its profound beauty. It was a reminder that even in the most unassuming places, we can find wonder and inspiration.

A Sweet Detour: Stockholm's Old Town

With the tranquility of Norra Kvills still lingering in my mind, I made my way to Stockholm. I had allocated some time for a quick visit to Gamla Stan, the city's charming Old Town. I was keen to soak up some of its atmosphere and visit Old Town Polkagriskokeri AB. The train journey was smooth and relatively quick, and soon I was stepping out into the bustling streets of the capital.

Gamla Stan is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, lined with colorful buildings that seem to lean into each other. The air was filled with the sounds of tourists chattering in different languages, street musicians playing traditional tunes, and the clatter of horse-drawn carriages. It was a vibrant and lively place, a stark contrast to the solitude of Sarek.

I wandered through the streets, admiring the architecture and soaking up the atmosphere. I passed by Stortorget, the historic main square, where the famous Christmas market is held each year. Even without the market, the square was full of charm, with its ornate buildings and bustling cafes.

My destination was Old Town Polkagriskokeri AB, a traditional candy store specializing in polkagris, a Swedish peppermint stick. I had read about it and was eager to try this iconic treat. The store itself was a feast for the eyes, with jars of colorful candies lining the shelves and the sweet scent of peppermint filling the air.


Discover the charm of Old Town Polkagriskokeri AB, a candy store and handicraft museum where Swedish sweets come to life.

I watched as the candy makers demonstrated the traditional art of polkagris making, pulling and twisting the hot sugar mixture into long, striped canes. It was a fascinating process, a glimpse into a craft that has been passed down through generations.

Of course, I couldn't leave without buying a bag of polkagris. The peppermint flavor was strong and refreshing, a perfect reminder of my time in Sweden. I also picked up a few other traditional Swedish candies, planning to share them with Maximilian and Clara when I got home.

I decided to also have lunch at Restaurant Krogen Stora Gungan in Stockholm as well. The menu here was a bit more extensive and modern, which was a welcome change. I had some herring and potatoes, a staple in Sweden. I also had some wine, which was a lovely way to celebrate the end of my trip.

As I sat there, savoring the flavors of Sweden, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences I had had over the past nine days. From the rugged wilderness of Sarek to the charming streets of Stockholm, Sweden had offered me a journey of discovery, both of the country itself and of my own inner strength.

Homeward Bound

With a final stroll through Gamla Stan, I made my way back to the train station, my heart full of memories. The journey home would be long, but I knew that the experiences I had had in Sarek and beyond would stay with me forever.

As I write this, sitting in my hotel room near the airport, I'm already planning my next adventure. Perhaps it will be a family trip to Iceland, or maybe another solo trek in a different corner of the world. Whatever it is, I know that I will continue to seek out new experiences, to challenge myself, and to embrace the beauty and wonder of our planet. Until then, I'll cherish the memories of Sarek and the sweet taste of polkagris, reminders of a journey that nourished my soul and reminded me of the power of solitude and self-discovery.

I'm eager to see Maximilian and Clara tomorrow. I have so many stories to share, so many photos to show. I know they'll be excited to hear about my adventures, and I can't wait to be back in their arms. After all, as much as I love solo travel, there's nothing quite like coming home to the ones you love. It has been an amazing adventure, but now, it's time to go home.

This concludes my series of blog posts about my solo adventure in Sarek National Park. Thank you for following along on my journey. I hope that my experiences have inspired you to seek out your own adventures, to embrace the unknown, and to discover the beauty that lies within yourself and the world around you.