By
Sweden, a land of pristine beauty, is home to a myriad of lakes that offer breathtaking views, historical significance, and recreational activities. Whether you're an avid angler, a history buff, or someone who simply wants to bask in nature's beauty, the lakes of Sweden have something for everyone.
Let's embark on a journey to discover these natural wonders.
The Most Popular Lakes in Sweden
-
Lake Vättern
Location: South-central Sweden
How to get there: Easily accessible by car or train from major Swedish cities like Stockholm and Gothenburg.
Lake Vättern is arguably the most scenic of all Swedish lakes. With scenic lighthouses, vast farmlands, and sweeping sections of white sandy beach, its beauty is unparalleled. The town of Hjo, built almost entirely of wood, offers a glimpse into Sweden's old-world charm. Here, you can:
- Take steamboat tours of the lake.
- Enjoy paddle-boarding, a popular way to explore the lake.
- Visit the beaches near Hjo for a refreshing swim.
-
Lake Vanern
Location: Central Sweden
How to get there: Direct trains from Stockholm and Gothenburg.
Lake Vanern is Sweden's largest lake and has been pivotal to the country's growth. The lake's surroundings are picturesque, with castles dating back to the 13th century. Highlights include:
- Amazing sunsets that paint the sky in hues of orange and pink.
- A series of locks and canals built in the 1800s, facilitating transportation.
- Fishing opportunities in its bountiful waters.
-
Lake Malaren
Location: Close to Stockholm
How to get there: A short drive or train ride from Stockholm.
Lake Malaren, once part of the Baltic Sea, is now a freshwater lake surrounded by forests and golf courses. It's known for:
- Unique bridges and small towns along its shores.
- Its history, as it became landlocked in the 10th century.
- Offering a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of all the activities in Stockholm.
-
Lake Storsjon
Location: Central Sweden
How to get there: Accessible by car or train from major cities.
Lake Storsjon is renowned for its legendary creature, the Lake Storsjon Monster. But beyond myths, the lake offers:
- Stunning views of rolling hills and forests.
- Opportunities for fishing, both in summer and winter.
- A chance to delve into local folklore and legends.
-
Lake Hjalmaren
Location: Close to Stockholm
How to get there: A brief drive from Stockholm.
Lake Hjalmaren is a popular recreational destination, especially for city dwellers. It boasts:
- Picturesque forests and fields surrounding the lake.
- Ideal conditions for game fish like pike.
- Expansive views that offer a sense of relaxation.
-
Lake Tornetrask
Location: Northern Sweden
How to get there: By car or train, though it's quite remote.
Lake Tornetrask is unique for its soft, spongy land. It's a part of the Abisko National Park and is known for:
- Its breathtaking views of the Aurora Borealis.
- Winter activities like ice-fishing and dogsledding.
- Its misleading name, which translates to 'Swamp Lake'.
-
Lake Hornavan
Location: North-central Sweden
How to get there: By car, situated between Norway and the Gulf of Bothnia.
Lake Hornavan is surrounded by some of Sweden's most popular national parks. As the country's deepest lake, it offers:
- Stunning views, especially during the short-lived spring and summer.
- A variety of accommodation options, from luxury to rustic.
- Guided tours that take you into the heart of Sweden's wilderness.
-
Lake Akkajaure
Location: Northwestern Sweden
How to get there: By car, about 50 kilometers from the Norwegian Sea.
Though man-made, Lake Akkajaure is one of Sweden's largest reservoirs. It's known for:
- Its depth, making it one of Sweden's deepest lakes.
- Stunning alpine views.
- Activities like fishing, boating, and swimming.
-
Lake Asnen
Location: South-central Sweden
How to get there: By car, situated between the Baltic and North Sea coasts.
Lake Asnen is famous for its archipelago that's home to over 1,000 Swedish islands. It offers:
- A haven for bird-watchers at the Getna Gard wildlife preservation area.
- Kayaking and fishing opportunities in its waterways.
- A chance to spot wildlife like otters, moose, and ospreys.
-
Lake Siljan
Location: Province of Dalarna, central Sweden
How to get there: By car or train.
Lake Siljan stands out for its gentle hills and forests. It's known for:
- The island of Solleron, a destination for sports enthusiasts.
- Quaint towns with unique architecture and old-world charm.
- A chance to step back in time and experience Sweden's rich history
-
Lake Uddjaure
Location: Northern Sweden
How to get there: By car, situated in the Lapland region.
Lake Uddjaure is a pristine body of water surrounded by dense forests and rugged landscapes. It offers:
- A serene environment, perfect for relaxation and meditation.
- Opportunities for fishing, especially for Arctic char.
- A chance to experience the untouched beauty of Swedish Lapland.
-
Lake Orsa
Location: Central Sweden
How to get there: By car or train, close to Lake Siljan.
Lake Orsa is smaller than its neighbor, Lake Siljan, but equally captivating. It boasts:
- A rich biodiversity, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
- Winter activities like ice-skating and snowmobiling.
- The Grönklitt Bear Park, where you can see brown bears in their natural habitat.
-
Lake Dellen
Location: Central Sweden
How to get there: By car, located in the province of Hälsingland.
Lake Dellen is unique due to its twin lakes, North and South Dellen. It offers:
- Crystal clear waters, perfect for boating and fishing.
- Legends of a meteor impact that supposedly formed the lakes.
- Picturesque towns like Bjuråker and Norrbo along its shores.
-
Lake Bolmen
Location: Southern Sweden
How to get there: By car, located in the province of Småland.
Lake Bolmen is the largest lake in southern Sweden. It's known for:
- Its 365 islands, one for each day of the year.
- A rich history, with ancient ruins and artifacts found nearby.
- Activities like fishing, especially for pike and perch.
-
Lake Stora Le
Location: Western Sweden
How to get there: By car, situated in the Dalsland region.
Lake Stora Le is a narrow, elongated lake surrounded by dense forests. It offers:
- A tranquil environment, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Opportunities for canoeing and kayaking.
- A chance to explore the Dalsland Canal, a series of lakes and waterways.
-
Lake Övre Kårtyllasjön
Location: Central Sweden
How to get there: By car, located in the province of Dalarna.
Lake Övrekjäla is a hidden gem, less frequented by tourists. It boasts:
- A serene environment, perfect for relaxation.
- Opportunities for fishing and bird-watching.
- A chance to experience the untouched beauty of central Sweden.
-
Lake Sommen
Location: South-central Sweden
How to get there: By car, located in the province of Småland.
Lake Sommen is known for its clear waters and numerous islands. It offers:
- A rich history, with ancient rock carvings found nearby.
- Activities like fishing, especially for trout and pike.
- The Torpön Island, a popular destination for tourists.
-
Lake Ivösjön
Location: Southern Sweden
How to get there: By car, situated in the province of Scania.
Lake Ivösjön is Scania's largest lake and is surrounded by lush greenery. It's known for:
- Its rich biodiversity, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
- The Ivö Klack nature reserve, a popular spot for hiking.
- A chance to explore the unique flora and fauna of southern Sweden.
-
Lake Rogen
Location: Western Sweden
How to get there: By car, located near the Norwegian border.
Lake Rogen is a glacial lake with a rugged landscape. It offers:
- A chance to explore the Rogen Nature Reserve.
- Opportunities for fishing, especially for Arctic char and brown trout.
- A unique landscape, shaped by glaciers over millennia.
-
Lake Helgasjön
Location: Southern Sweden
How to get there: By car, situated in the province of Småland.
Lake Helgasjön is surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills. It's known for:
- Its clear waters, perfect for swimming and boating.
- The Kronoberg Castle ruins, a popular tourist attraction.
- Activities like fishing and hiking along its shores
The Activities to Enjoy on the Lakes in Sweden
Sweden's lakes are not just for admiring; they're for diving into (literally and figuratively)! Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or someone seeking tranquility, these lakes offer a plethora of activities.
Fishing
From pike to perch, the lakes are teeming with fish. Rent a boat, cast your line, and wait for the magic to happen.
Swimming
The crystal-clear waters of these Swedish lakes are perfect for a refreshing dip, especially during the warm summer months.
Boating
Rent a canoe or kayak and paddle your way through serene waters, exploring hidden coves and islands.
Hiking
The areas surrounding the lakes offer numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging treks.
Camping
Set up camp by the lakeside and sleep under the stars. The sound of gentle waves will lull you to sleep.
Skiing
During winter in Sweden, some of these lakes freeze over, offering opportunities for cross-country skiing.
Snowshoeing
Explore the snowy landscapes surrounding the lakes with a pair of snowshoes.
Birdwatching
With a rich biodiversity, these lakes are a haven for birdwatchers. Spot rare species and enjoy the symphony of chirps.
Wildlife viewing
From moose to otters, you might encounter some of Sweden's iconic wildlife during your visit.
Planning a Trip to the Lakes in Sweden
When to go
The best time to visit depends on the activities you're interested in. Summer (June to August) is ideal for swimming and boating, while winter (December to February) is perfect for skiing and snowshoeing.
Where to stay
From luxury resorts to rustic cabins, there's accommodation to suit every traveler's needs. Consider renting a caravan from Campervan Sweden for a unique experience.
What to pack
Pack according to the season. Swedish Summers require light clothing and swimwear, while winters call for warm layers and snow gear.
How to get around
While some lakes are accessible by public transport, renting a camper or a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.
The Future of the Lakes in Sweden
Sweden's lakes face challenges like pollution and climate change. However, with conservation efforts in place, there's hope for the future. Sustainable tourism plays a crucial role in preserving these natural wonders for generations to come!
FAQ
How many lakes does sweden have?
Sweden has over 97,500 lakes with a surface area of more than 2 acres (8,100 m²), and among them, 22,600 have a surface area of over 10 hectares (0.1 km²). This means that Sweden has the fifth most lakes in the world, after Canada, Russia, Finland, and Norway.
What are the most popular lakes in Sweden?
Sweden is home to numerous lakes, with Vättern, Vanern, and Malaren being among the most popular.
Can I fish in these lakes?
Yes, many of Sweden's lakes offer excellent fishing opportunities. However, ensure you have the necessary permits.
Is it safe to swim in the lakes?
Most of Sweden's lakes are safe for swimming. However, always check local advisories and be cautious of currents.
Sweden's lakes are a testament to the country's unparalleled natural beauty. From activities to simply soaking in the views, there's something for everyone. So, why wait? Dive into the enchanting world of Sweden's lakes and create memories that will last a lifetime.
