Exploring the Wilderness of Sarek National Park with Family

Into the Wild: Our Sarek Adventure Begins

After months of planning and anticipation, our family adventure to Sarek National Park has officially begun! Leaving behind the familiar comfort of Bamberg, Germany, we embarked on a journey to the heart of Sweden's wilderness. The flight to Sweden was smooth, and the subsequent train ride offered glimpses of the stunning Swedish countryside, building our excitement with every passing mile. Aisha was particularly thrilled, her nose pressed against the window, narrating every cow, every red house, and every shimmering lake we passed. Hans, ever the pragmatist, meticulously checked our gear, ensuring we were fully prepared for the days ahead. For me, it was a moment of reflection, a deep breath before plunging into the raw, untamed beauty that Sarek promises.

Our first day was designed to ease us into the wilderness gently. We started our exploration with a visit to Töfsingdalen National Park, a prelude to the more rugged terrain of Sarek itself. Töfsingdalen, known for its untouched natural forest and sparkling lakes, offered a serene introduction to the Swedish landscape. It was the perfect place to acclimatize and prepare ourselves mentally for the challenges and joys that lie ahead. As we set foot on the trails, the crisp, clean air filled our lungs, a stark contrast to the city air we'd left behind. The scent of pine and damp earth was intoxicating, a reminder of the pure, unadulterated nature that surrounded us.


Experience the untouched beauty of Töfsingdalen National Park, a natural gem in Sweden offering breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures.

The journey to Töfsingdalen was an adventure in itself. There's no direct road access, which meant we had to hike in. This immediately set the tone for our trip – an immersion into nature that demanded our full engagement. The hike wasn't strenuous, but it was enough to get our blood pumping and our senses heightened. Aisha, initially hesitant, soon found her rhythm, her small boots pounding the trail with surprising determination. Hans, with his sturdy frame and unwavering support, was a constant source of encouragement, ensuring Aisha didn't overexert herself.

As we ventured deeper into Töfsingdalen, the landscape unfolded before us in layers of green and blue. Towering pine trees, some over 400 years old, stood as silent sentinels, their gnarled branches reaching towards the sky. The forest floor was a carpet of moss and lichen, soft and springy beneath our feet. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, creating dappled patterns that danced across the path. We paused frequently, simply to absorb the tranquility of our surroundings. The only sounds were the gentle rustling of leaves, the distant call of a bird, and the soft murmur of our voices.

We soon discovered that Töfsingdalen is a haven for nature lovers seeking solitude and untouched beauty. The park's remote location and lack of facilities contribute to its pristine condition, making it a truly special place. While there are no designated recreation areas or overnight accommodations within the park itself, the possibility of camping nearby allowed us to extend our experience and fully embrace the tranquility of the area. We found a suitable spot just outside the park boundaries, where we pitched our tent and prepared for our first night in the Swedish wilderness.

Setting up camp was a family affair, each of us contributing to the task. Hans, with his engineering mind, took charge of the tent, ensuring it was securely anchored to the ground. Aisha, armed with her trusty spade, helped clear the area of any sharp stones or twigs. I organized our sleeping bags and other essentials, creating a cozy and comfortable space for the night. As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting long shadows across the landscape, we gathered around our portable stove to prepare dinner.

Before heading to Töfsingdalen, we made a stop at WildSweden. It wasn't to book a wildlife tour, but to check out their shop. I was hoping they had some natural insect repellent, since I forgot to pack it! Unfortunately, I was out of luck. We did pick up some sustainably made toiletries, though, which was a nice bonus.


Discover Sweden's breathtaking wilderness through guided tours and outdoor adventures with WildSweden, where nature comes alive.

Our culinary experiences today were centered around Restaurant Krogen Stora Gungan. Conveniently, we ate all our meals there! Located in a charming 1880s-style setting, the restaurant promised an authentic taste of Swedish culinary history. And it delivered! For breakfast, we indulged in a hearty spread of Swedish classics, including crispbread, smoked salmon, and various cheeses. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our day of exploration. Lunch was equally satisfying, with traditional dishes like Biff Rydberg and kroppkakor taking center stage. Aisha, surprisingly, developed a fondness for the kroppkakor, devouring them with gusto.


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

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

Dinner at Krogen Stora Gungan was a celebration of Swedish flavors. We savored dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, each bite a testament to the country's rich culinary heritage. From classic meatballs served with lingonberry sauce to exquisite seafood dishes, there was something to please every palate. The restaurant's commitment to sustainability and quality was evident in every aspect of the meal, enhancing our dining experience even further. The cozy atmosphere and attentive service made us feel right at home, a welcome respite after a day of hiking and exploring.

As we sat around the campfire, sharing stories and laughter, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible experience. The simple act of being together, surrounded by nature's beauty, was a powerful reminder of what truly matters in life. Aisha, her face flushed with excitement, peppered us with questions about the stars, the animals, and the forest. Hans, ever the patient father, answered each question with care and enthusiasm, sparking her curiosity even further.

One small mishap occurred during our dinner preparations. We realized we had forgotten to pack a portable phone charger! It was a minor oversight, but one that highlighted the importance of careful planning and preparation. Thankfully, we had a backup plan – a solar-powered charger that Hans had insisted on bringing. It wasn't as efficient as a regular charger, but it would suffice for the next few days. This little incident served as a valuable lesson, reminding us that even the most meticulously planned adventures can have unexpected hiccups.

As the night deepened, we retreated to our tent, the sounds of the forest lulling us to sleep. Aisha, nestled between us, quickly drifted off, her small hand clutching my finger. Hans and I lay awake for a while, listening to the gentle sounds of the wilderness, feeling a sense of peace and contentment wash over us. The day had been a success, a perfect blend of exploration, culinary delights, and family bonding. We were eager to see what tomorrow would bring, what new adventures awaited us in the heart of Sarek.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, our itinerary takes us to Fulufjället National Park. After another hearty breakfast at Restaurant Krogen Stora Gungan, we'll pack up our campsite and head towards our next destination. Fulufjället is known for its stunning waterfalls, ancient forests, and diverse wildlife. We plan to spend the day hiking through the park, exploring its hidden corners, and immersing ourselves in its natural beauty. We're particularly excited to see the Njupeskär waterfall, one of Sweden's highest waterfalls, and to learn more about the park's unique ecosystem. I'm already envisioning the breathtaking photos we'll capture and the unforgettable memories we'll create.

Before we leave, we plan to visit the Fulufjället National Park shop, hoping to find a portable phone charger and some insect repellent. With a little luck, we'll be fully prepared for the challenges and joys that lie ahead. As I close my eyes, I can't help but feel a sense of anticipation for the days ahead. Sarek National Park and its surrounding areas promise a unique and unforgettable experience, one that will challenge us, inspire us, and bring us closer together as a family. I'm excited to share our journey with you, to document our adventures, and to inspire you to explore the beauty and wonder of the natural world.

The stars shone brightly above us, a celestial tapestry woven across the night sky. As I drifted off to sleep, I whispered a silent prayer of gratitude for this incredible opportunity, for the chance to disconnect from the ordinary and reconnect with the extraordinary. Tomorrow, we venture deeper into the wilderness, ready to embrace whatever adventures may come our way.