Exploring the Wilderness of Sarek National Park with Family

Island Dreams: Gotska Sandön

As our incredible journey through Sarek National Park drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. Excitement for what lay ahead, tinged with a little sadness that our wilderness adventure was ending. But Sweden had one last surprise in store for us: a day trip to the enchanting Gotska Sandön National Park. This remote island promised a unique blend of tranquility and natural beauty, the perfect way to reflect on the memories we'd made.


Explore Gotska Sandön National Park, Sweden's hidden gem with breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and endless outdoor adventures.

Our final day in Sweden began, not with the rugged trails of Sarek, but with the gentle sway of a boat. We bid farewell to the mainland and set sail for Gotska Sandön, an island national park known as one of the Baltic Sea's most isolated spots. The journey itself was therapeutic, the vast expanse of water offering a chance to reflect on our Sarek adventure. Aisha was particularly excited, her eyes glued to the horizon, eagerly anticipating our arrival. Hans, ever the pragmatist, double-checked our daypacks, ensuring we had everything we needed for a day of exploration.

We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Krogen Stora Gungan. The restaurant had a rustic charm, and the traditional Swedish dishes were a delight. Aisha especially enjoyed the plättar (pancakes) with seasonal jam, while Hans went for the classic Biff Rydberg. I savored the moment, appreciating the warmth of the restaurant and the delicious food.


Experience authentic Swedish cuisine amidst the scenic beauty of Djurgården at Restaurant Krogen Stora Gungan.

Nature is not a place to visit. It is home.

After breakfast, we set out to explore the island. Gotska Sandön, I learned, is essentially a sand island, and it lives up to its name with stunning beaches and expansive dunes. The island has a fascinating history, once rumored to be a pirate base in the Middle Ages. It later saw periods of sheep farming and agriculture, but today, it's primarily a haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts. We decided to explore the island's famed beaches. The sand was incredibly fine and white, a stark contrast to the rugged landscapes we'd traversed in Sarek. Aisha immediately kicked off her shoes and ran towards the water, giggling with delight as the waves tickled her toes. Hans and I followed at a more leisurely pace, enjoying the feeling of the soft sand beneath our feet.

The island felt deserted, and it was incredibly serene and peaceful. We walked hand in hand, watching Aisha play by the shore. The beaches stretched for miles, and we saw very few other people. It felt like we had the whole island to ourselves. We spent hours beachcombing, collecting seashells, and building sandcastles. Aisha, of course, was the architect of our elaborate sandcastle, complete with moats and turrets. Hans, ever the engineer, helped reinforce the structure, while I documented our creation with my camera.

For lunch, we enjoyed another meal at Restaurant Krogen Stora Gungan. The menu was a gastronomic tribute to Swedish culinary history, and we relished the opportunity to savor authentic, additive-free cuisine. I tried the Kroppkakor, traditional potato dumplings, while Hans opted for the strömming, Baltic sea herring. Aisha, predictably, went for another round of plättar.

In the afternoon, we ventured inland, exploring the island's unique ecosystem. Gotska Sandön is home to diverse flora and fauna, including a colony of grey seals. We hiked through breezy pine forests, the air filled with the scent of pine and sea salt. It was a refreshing change from the alpine landscapes of Sarek. While the island isn't teeming with mammals, we kept an eye out for mountain hares and various bird species. We also learned that Gotska Sandön is home to several rare insects and plants, including the Kashubian vetch and various orchids. Unfortunately, we didn't spot any seals during our hike, but Aisha was fascinated by the diverse array of seashells.

As evening approached, we decided to visit the Tiki Room, a unique bar on the island. It was an unexpected surprise, a tropical-themed oasis in the middle of the Baltic Sea. We enjoyed some refreshing drinks and soaked in the relaxing atmosphere. Aisha loved the exotic music and the colorful décor, while Hans and I appreciated the chance to unwind after a day of exploration.


Discover Tiki Room in Stockholm - a vibrant cocktail oasis with exotic drinks and a lively atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Before heading back to the mainland, we enjoyed a final dinner at Restaurant Krogen Stora Gungan. The food was, once again, exceptional, and the service was warm and welcoming. As we savored our meal, we reflected on our incredible journey through Sarek National Park and our delightful day on Gotska Sandön.

As we boarded the boat back to the mainland, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we'd shared as a family. Sarek had challenged us, tested our limits, and rewarded us with breathtaking beauty. Gotska Sandön had offered us a moment of peace, a chance to reflect, and a reminder of the simple joys of life.

This trip to Sarek National Park, culminating in our visit to Gotska Sandön, has been more than just a vacation. It's been an opportunity to reconnect with nature, strengthen our family bonds, and create memories that will last a lifetime. As we prepare to return to our home in Bamberg, I know that a part of my heart will always remain in the Swedish wilderness. I am already planning our next adventure, perhaps exploring the Franconian Switzerland region closer to home. But for now, I'll cherish the memories of our Swedish escapade, the vast landscapes of Sarek, and the serene beauty of Gotska Sandön.

As our boat pulled away from the shores of Gotska Sandön, I watched as the island faded into the horizon. The setting sun cast a golden glow over the landscape, painting a picture of tranquility and peace. It was the perfect ending to an unforgettable adventure.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Bamberg. It will be a long trip, but I know that we'll be carrying the memories of Sarek and Gotska Sandön with us, memories that will inspire us and remind us of the importance of family, nature, and adventure. As I drift off to sleep tonight, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've shared. Sweden has given us a gift, a treasure trove of memories that we'll cherish forever. And as we return to our daily lives, I know that we'll carry the spirit of Sarek and the serenity of Gotska Sandön with us, reminding us to embrace the beauty of the world and the importance of connecting with nature and each other.