Hike, traditional food, guided wood burning outdoor sauna

A day tour in Stockholm County offers a rare glimpse into Swedish traditions, combining nature, cuisine, and relaxation. Priced affordably, this 1-day experience is centered around a guided hike through virgin forest just 20 minutes from the city. It includes cooking traditional outdoor food, enjoying sauna bathing with influences from around the world, and sharing stories with like-minded travelers. The tour starts with a meet-up at a designated location, where luggage and clothing are stored, before heading into the serene wilderness. Limited to 8 participants, this small-group experience promises personalized attention and a genuine connection to Swedish outdoor culture.

While the focus is on relaxation and culture, it’s important to note that the tour is best suited for those prepared for a moderate walk and outdoor conditions. It’s not ideal for travelers over 95 years old, but anyone with comfortable shoes and an interest in nature will find this trip both invigorating and soothing.

Key Points

• Guided hike through virgin forest to a secluded lake, just 20 minutes from Stockholm.
• Cooking traditional forest food over an open fire in a forest shelter, with options for swimming in summer or walking on ice in winter.
• Relaxation in a Swedish outdoor sauna, with influences from around the world, designed for deep relaxation.
• Small group size limited to 8 participants ensures personalized guidance.
• Includes practical tips on sauna clothing and what to bring, such as comfortable shoes, water, and socks.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows full refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Forest and Lake in Stockholm County

This tour starts with a gathering at a meet-up point, where participants leave luggage and change into suitable outdoor clothing. The hike through Nackareservatet takes about 30 minutes and reveals the beauty of virgin forest, a peaceful landscape just a short distance from the city. The path leads to a secret lake, a quiet spot protected by a typical forest shelter, where cooking over an open fire becomes the highlight.

In summer, visitors can take a dip in the lake, enjoying the refreshing water while the food cooks. During winter, the option to walk on the ice when conditions allow adds a seasonal twist. The guide fosters a warm atmosphere, sharing stories and creating a sense of connection. This part of the experience emphasizes being in the moment and appreciating nature’s simplicity.

Cooking Traditional Forest Food in Nature

At the lakeside shelter, the group learns about traditional Swedish forest cuisine. Cooking over open flames, participants prepare typical dishes, engaging with local culinary traditions. The activity combines hands-on experience with storytelling, providing insights into how forest food has been part of Swedish life for generations.

The outdoor kitchen setup allows everyone to participate, fostering camaraderie and a shared sense of achievement. Whether in summer or winter, the food is a focal point, offering a tasty reward after the hike. The experience highlights the importance of connecting with nature through food, a core element of Swedish outdoor culture.

Sauna Bathing with Global Influences

After returning from the lake, the group heads to an outdoor wood-burning sauna. The guide leads a Swedish sauna experience designed to help guests forget daily worries and find deep relaxation. The sauna’s design incorporates influences from around the world, making it a unique fusion of styles.

Guests are advised to bring clean cotton underwear or swimwear if they prefer not to be naked under the towel provided. The guide ensures everyone feels comfortable and explains the best practices for sauna bathing. Many participants find this part of the tour not only physically rejuvenating but also mentally freeing, often resulting in new perspectives on relaxation rituals.

The Guide’s Approach and Group Atmosphere

The tour’s guide plays a central role in creating a friendly, engaging environment. With a focus on making everyone comfortable, the guide shares stories and insights, making the experience both relaxing and enlightening. The small group size fosters genuine conversations, often leading to new friendships.

Guided in English, Swedish, or Danish, the tour’s personable guide helps participants focus on the essentials of life—relaxation, community, and nature—while enjoying a fun and invigorating atmosphere. The guide also pays close attention to safety and comfort, ensuring that all participants are at ease during the hike, cooking, and sauna.

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Practical Details and What to Bring

Participants should arrive with comfortable shoes, water, socks, and suitable outdoor clothes. The tour provides a large towel for sauna bathing, but guests are encouraged to bring a dry towel if preferred. It’s advisable to wear bikini or swim trunks for those wishing to swim in summer. The experience is designed to be accessible, but it involves a moderate walk and outdoor exposure, making proper clothing and footwear essential.

The tour departs from Vantvägen 42 or Vantvägen, with the exact meeting point depending on the booking option. The activity lasts about one day, and the group size is limited to 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

The Seasons: Summer and Winter Variations

In summer, the tour emphasizes swimming in the lake and enjoying the warm weather while cooking and relaxing outdoors. The water offers a cooling break during the outdoor activities. In winter, the focus shifts to walking on the ice and experiencing the cold landscape, with the sauna providing a warm refuge afterward.

The flexible nature of the experience allows participants to enjoy the forest and lake whatever the season, with the guide adjusting the activities accordingly. This seasonal variety makes the tour appealing year-round, providing different but equally authentic experiences.

Comparing Similar Experiences in Stockholm

This guided hike, traditional food, and sauna experience stands out for its small group size and personalized approach. Similar offerings include forest bathing, polar plunges, and kayaking tours, but this experience’s combination of nature, communal cooking, and deep relaxation creates a well-rounded immersion into Swedish outdoor traditions.

The tour’s focus on authenticity and local culture, combined with the outdoor sauna influenced by global styles, offers a distinctive way to connect with nature and relax the mind and body.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour the Most?

This experience suits adventurous spirits who enjoy moderate outdoor activity, foodies interested in traditional Swedish cuisine, and those seeking relaxation beyond typical spa visits. It is ideal for travelers who appreciate small-group interactions and want a meaningful, hands-on outdoor experience.

While not designed for high-intensity hikers or those with mobility concerns, most outdoor lovers will find this tour both accessible and deeply satisfying, especially those eager to learn about local customs and unwind in nature.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Reservations can be made with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility in planning. The reservations are pay-later, allowing travelers to secure their spot without immediate payment. The tour is conducted in English, Swedish, and Danish, ensuring clear communication for diverse participants.

The tour’s limited size ensures a cozy, intimate atmosphere, making it a memorable way to explore Stockholm County’s natural side, guided by knowledgeable locals.

Stockholm’s Outdoor Culture in a Day

This guided hike, traditional food, and sauna experience captures the essence of Swedish outdoor living. It combines nature, culinary tradition, and relaxation into one seamless day, perfect for those wanting to disconnect from busy city life and reconnect with both nature and themselves.

The virgin forest and secluded lake offer a peaceful retreat, while the wood-burning sauna elevates the relaxation aspect. The guide’s friendly, informative approach ensures a comfortable pace for all, making this tour accessible and enjoyable.

Whether you’re seeking cultural insights or simply a chance to unwind, this tour provides an authentic taste of Swedish outdoor customs in a beautiful natural setting close to Stockholm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I bring for the sauna experience?
Bring clean cotton underwear or swimwear if you prefer not to be naked under the towel provided. A dry towel is optional but recommended if you want one after the sauna.

How physically demanding is the hike?
The hike lasts about 30 minutes to the lake and back. It’s suitable for most people with comfortable shoes and a moderate level of fitness but involves walking in forest terrain.

Can I participate in winter?
Yes, in winter, the tour includes walking on the ice on the lake when possible, offering a seasonal variation. The sauna provides warmth afterward, making it a cozy winter activity.

Are there any age restrictions?
The experience is not suitable for people over 95 years old due to physical activity and outdoor conditions.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides speak English, Swedish, and Danish, ensuring clear communication for a diverse group.

Is this experience suitable for families or groups?
With a maximum of 8 participants, it’s ideal for small groups, friends, or families who enjoy outdoor adventures and cultural activities together.

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