Hike, traditional food, guided wood burning outdoor sauna

If you’re considering a day trip that combines light adventure, cultural insights, and genuine relaxation, this tour in Stockholm County might just be the kind of experience you’re after. From scenic forest walks to cooking over open fires and finishing with a traditional Swedish sauna, it promises a blend of outdoor fun and culture that’s hard to find elsewhere.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? First, you get to explore a pristine, virgin forest only 20 minutes from the city, which means you’re escaping urban life without going too far. Second, the opportunity to enjoy traditional Swedish food cooked outdoors over an open fire adds a warm, authentic touch. But, as with all outdoor activities, it’s worth noting that this tour may not suit everyone—especially those who prefer a more structured, indoor experience or have mobility concerns.

This tour works best for those curious about Swedish traditions, looking for a mix of light hiking and cultural tasting, and comfortable with outdoor elements. It’s not geared toward travelers with mobility issues or those seeking high-intensity physical activity, but if you enjoy nature and authentic local experiences, it’s a charming choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Swedish experience: Combines nature, food, and sauna into one memorable day.
• Proximity to Stockholm: Located just 20 mins from the city, making it easy to access.
• Guided walk: The hike through virgin forest offers tranquility, nature insights, and scenic views.
• Open-fire cooking: Prepare traditional forest food over an open fire, adding a rustic touch.
• Unique sauna experience: Finish with a guided outdoor sauna session that blends Swedish traditions with global influences.
• Small group setting: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Day in the Swedish Forest – What to Expect

Meeting and Preparation

Your adventure begins at a designated meet-up point, where you’ll leave your luggage and change into suitable outdoor clothes. This initial step keeps things simple and straightforward, preparing you for the day ahead. The meeting point’s coordinates (59.2895, 18.2605) are easy to find, and the host offers two options for starting locations, providing some flexibility to suit your plans.

The Forest Walk

Soon after, you’ll set out for a 30-minute hike through the serene Nackareservatet—a protected natural area renowned for its undisturbed virgin forest. We loved the way the guide creates a laid-back yet informative environment, sharing stories about Swedish nature and traditions while keeping the group comfortable. The scenery is truly impressive, with towering trees, quiet paths, and the promise of a secluded lake ahead.

Reaching the Secret Lake

At the end of the hike, you arrive at a hidden lake, which is the highlight of the journey. Here, you and your fellow hikers will cook traditional Swedish food over an open fire, protected by a typical forest shelter. Depending on the season, you might take a refreshing swim in summer or walk on the ice in winter—both options adding a fun, vigorous element to the experience.

The guide emphasizes sharing stories and enjoying each other’s company, making the lunch break more than just about food—it’s about connection and appreciating the natural world around you. Reviewers mention the delicious, straightforward forest food and the enjoyment of being in such a pristine setting, which amplifies the overall experience.

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The Return Hike

After lunch, you’ll retrace your steps, walking back through the forest, soaking in the peacefulness of the surroundings. The 30-minute return hike is a good way to digest and reflect on the earlier sights and flavors. The pace is relaxed, making it accessible even for those without extensive hiking experience.

The Sauna Experience

The final part of the day is dedicated to the outdoor sauna, a cherished Swedish tradition. The guide makes sure everyone feels comfortable, offering tips for sauna bathing—whether you prefer to stay clothed in clean cotton underwear, bikini, or swim trunks. Many reviews mention how the sauna session helps them shake off any residual stress, with the guide ensuring a safe, respectful environment.

The sauna itself is guided in a way that encourages deep relaxation. It’s not just about sweating; it’s about letting go of everyday worries in a natural, invigorating setting. The influence of global sauna traditions makes this experience even more intriguing, blending Swedish authenticity with a modern twist.

Overall Vibe

Throughout the day, the guide’s friendly, knowledgeable approach makes the experience feel personal and engaging. Sharing stories, enjoying the views, and sampling delicious food creates a rich tapestry of cultural and natural pleasures. Many travelers have noted that the experience often leads to new friendships, thanks to the intimate group size and relaxed atmosphere.

The Practical Details: Price, Group Size, and More

The tour is priced reasonably considering the scope—an entire day of guided hiking, outdoor cooking, and sauna bathing. It’s limited to small groups of up to 8 participants, which helps foster a cozy, personal experience. You’ll need to bring comfortable shoes, water, appropriate outdoor clothing, and socks. The guide recommends light clothing for sauna bathing, like cotton underwear or swimwear, and advises that it’s not suitable for people over 95 years old.

Booking is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later, with a full refund available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility is handy if your travel plans are still in flux.

What does the experience cost?

While the exact price isn’t specified here, reviews describe the value as good, given the combination of physical activity, culture, and unique relaxation. It’s a full-day experience that leaves you with a new appreciation for Swedish traditions and outdoor living.

Accessibility and Suitability

It’s primarily suited for those who enjoy moderate outdoor activities and are comfortable in nature. If you’re up for some walking, fresh air, and the novelty of outdoor sauna, you’ll likely find this tour enriching. It’s not designed for travelers seeking high-intensity adventures or those with mobility restrictions, but the relaxed pace and friendly guidance make it accessible for most.

Why This Tour Might Be Perfect for You

This experience offers an authentic taste of Swedish outdoor tradition combined with a peaceful hike in untouched forest. It’s ideal if you want a genuine cultural experience without the crowds, with the added bonus of a unique sauna session. If you’re curious about how Swedes unwind in nature or love sampling traditional food in scenic surroundings, this will hit the mark.

It’s also a good pick for travelers looking to connect with like-minded people in a small group. The guided storytelling and shared meal foster a sense of community. Plus, the chance to enjoy nature so close to Stockholm is priceless—perfect for a day away from the city’s hustle.

Final Thoughts

This guided hike, outdoor cooking, and sauna experience offers a well-rounded mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. The combination of a scenic forest walk, traditional food cooked over open fire, and a guided outdoor sauna creates a memorable day that balances fun and wellness. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guide ensure you’ll feel cared for, making it more than just a typical outdoor activity.

While it’s not overly strenuous or lengthy, this experience is a great way to slow down, enjoy Swedish nature, and learn about local traditions in a relaxed, friendly environment. If you’re someone who appreciates authentic experiences, enjoys nature, and is open to a bit of outdoor adventure, you’ll probably find this tour both enjoyable and meaningful.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this experience offers a genuine glimpse into what makes Swedish outdoor life special—simple, calming, and connected to nature.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally relaxing and family-friendly, it’s best suited for older children who can handle a moderate walk and outdoor conditions. It’s not specifically designed for young kids or very elderly travelers.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, warm clothes, and socks are essential. For sauna bathing, lightweight cotton underwear or swimwear works well. Bring a towel if you prefer to have your own after the sauna.

How long does the whole experience last?
It’s a full-day activity, with the itinerary covering a hike, outdoor meal, and sauna. Exact start times vary, so check availability when booking.

Is transportation included?
Transportation isn’t specified, but the meeting point is close to Stockholm, with options to start from different locations. You’ll need to make your own way there.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is flexible with “reserve now, pay later” options.

Is the sauna clothing optional?
Not necessarily. You can wear clean cotton underwear, a bikini, or swim trunks—whatever makes you comfortable. The guide encourages proper sauna etiquette but respects personal comfort.

Are the guides fluent in English?
Yes, guides speak English, Swedish, and Danish, ensuring clear communication for international travelers.

If you’re looking for a day that balances outdoor adventure with cultural authenticity in Stockholm, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s especially good if you want to see a side of Swedish life that’s peaceful, traditional, and a little bit invigorating.

You can check availability for your dates here: