Improving your health annually tops the list of New Year's resolutions according to surveys from the YouGov opinion institute in both UK or United States of America and nature plays a crucial role in human health and well-being according to World Health Organization (WHO). At the same time, it shows several studies to nature on prescription has positive effects on both cardiometabolic and mental health. Sweden, the first country in the world to recommended by doctor, has a lot to offer travelers who want to relax and enjoy nature and adventure. Here are some tips for nature experiences in Sweden that can make 2026 a memorable year.
- Arctic fox safari – a unique nature experience in northern Sweden
- Sweden's new enjoyable 10-kilometer wine race
- Scandinavian Winter Swimming Championships 2026
- Warm fellowship with ice-cold dips
- New self-guided hiking experience – freedom, nature and recovery at your own pace
- Discover sustainable solutions in northern Sweden
Stekenjokk plateau and the Vildmarksvägen road that runs through the landscape. Photo: Jamtland Härjedalen/Flickr
Arctic fox safari – meet the Arctic fox on the Stekenjokk Plateau
The shy arctic fox is for many a symbol of the vast, bright mountains of northern Sweden and now you have the chance to meet the little animal in its natural environment. The species is still endangered, but on the Stekenjokk plateau in Jämtland, the population has increased steadily in recent years and starting in 2026, guided evening tours will be offered through the protected Sami cultural landscape where participants can look for the arctic fox with powerful binoculars. During the experience, visitors not only get a chance to discover the shy, beautiful animal – they also get an insight into the sensitive mountain ecosystem that we humans share with nature. For more information visit Arctic fox tours with the organizer Lia Ranch
The Wilderness Trail (Visit Sweden)
Winter, wine and running fun on the Kulla Peninsula
Arilds Vineyard on the Kullaberg Peninsula. Photo: © Apelöga (Download)
Skåne, one of southern Sweden's most exciting wine regions, launches Kula Peninsula Winter Wine Run – a 10-kilometer race where the experience, rather than the competition itself, is the focus. It is all about enjoyment as competitors run along beautiful winter landscapes with several stops to taste local wines along the way. Participants start simultaneously from four different locations, which also serve as wine and tasting stations, creating a smooth flow without long queues. Inspired by the French Marathon du Médoc Creative attire is encouraged. After the finish line, a shower awaits at the hotel, followed by dinner and an awards ceremony. The event will be held on January 24th in collaboration with local actors such as Kullabergs Vineyard, Arilds Vineyard and Hotel Rusthållargården. For more information visit: https://www.kullahalvontrailrun.se/winter-wine-run/ (Swedish)
Scandinavian Winter Swimming Championships 2026
Photo: Olaf Schneider (Download)
To voluntarily step into an ice floe requires a bit of courage and determination, but to then swim 20, 50, 100 or even 200 meters among ice floes is to take the challenge to the next level. Between February 27 and March 1, visitors can follow and cheer from the edge of the ice floe at the Scandinavian Winter Swimming Championships in Skellefteå. There is also the opportunity to take part in a program full of cultural experiences such as poetry readings and musical performances performed by artists standing in an ice cave. More info: https://www.vintersim.se/
Warm fellowship with ice-cold dips in Umeå
Photo: Umeå Cold Bath
Over the past year, a growing community of cold bathers has invited both locals and visitors to take a refreshing dip every Sunday in the Umeälv River in northern Sweden. What started as a voluntary initiative has now become a tradition, with a sauna built entirely from recycled materials – perfect for those who want to warm up before or after a dip in the icy Umeälv River. For those who want a little extra experience, there is also a guided ritual with fire, ice and traditional Swedish fika. More information: Sunday swim in Umeå
New self-guided hiking experience in the High Coast
High Coast Hike – Sweden's second largest hike. Photo: Friluftsbyn Höga Kusten/imagebank.sweden.se (Download)
Now Nature Travels, specialists in Nordic outdoor and adventure travel, is launching the experience Self-guided hike on the High Coast. The new experience invites guests to discover the unique landscape of the High Coast, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hike allows guests to explore established hiking trails that are clearly marked and well maintained. Daily hikes follow parts of The High Coast Trail (a 135 km long Sweden Signature Trail) and World Heritage Trail (a 100 km long route). For more info. visit https://www.naturetravels.co.uk/hiking-sweden-self-guided-hiking-on-the-high-coast-lf47ts1.htm
Discover the sustainable solutions of the future in Skellefteå
The Crystal Sauna – art installation and sauna in one. Photo: Skellefta.se
From May 27 to June 9, Skellefteå in northern Sweden will be transformed into a vibrant meeting place for innovation and sustainability. Based on Skellefteå 2030 strategy brings together residents, businesses, researchers and decision-makers to explore solutions to tomorrow's challenges. Expo Skellefteå focuses on environmental, economic and social sustainability, with an extra emphasis on social cohesion. Here you can participate in discussions, see demonstrations and take part in projects that aim to create real impact – both locally and globally.
The event will also be the inauguration of Wasteland Climate Action Park, a unique meeting place for art, architecture, climate research, industry and social inclusion. Highlights include the artwork Crystal Sauna by the internationally recognized architectural duo Bigert & Bergström – an experience that inspires and arouses curiosity.
Nature and social interaction on prescription through The Swedish Prescription
Through the initiative The Swedish Prescription Sweden could become the world's first country on prescription. A list of scientifically proven health-promoting activities across Sweden is now available to download for doctors and patients worldwide. The list is divided into three areas; nature, lifestyle and culture and the activities, which have been shown to contribute to positive health effects, are supported by Yvonne Forsell, Professor Emeritus at Karolinska Institute – one of the world's leading medical universities. To read more about the initiative and which health-promoting activities are on the list, visit The Swedish Prescription
Nature on prescription in the Nordic countries*
In Sweden a majority have not heard of nature on prescription (66%). A full 63 percent would follow a doctor's advice to spend more time in nature and almost half (48 percent) would consider asking their doctor to nature on prescription.
In Denmark is there a large majority who have not heard of nature on prescription (81%). A full 65 percent would follow a doctor's advice to spend more time in nature and almost half (48 percent) would consider asking their doctor to nature on prescription.
In Norway is there a large majority who have not heard of nature on prescription (74%). A full 63 percent would follow a doctor's advice to spend more time in nature and almost half (49 percent) would consider asking their doctor to nature on prescription.
In Finland is there a large majority who have not heard of nature on prescription (77%). A full 67 percent would follow a doctor's advice to spend more time in nature and more than half (55 percent) would consider asking their doctor to nature on prescription.
*Survey methodology: The survey was conducted by the opinion and market research company YouGov between June 24 and July 3, 2025 via online surveys/panels with + 9 000 respondents, 18+ years and up in different markets: Denmark (1 003 respondents), Finland (1 016), France (1 023), Germany (1 016), Netherlands (1 025), Norway (1 021), Sweden (1 012), Great Britain (1 037) and the United States (1 005). A parallel survey was also conducted in the UK with general practitioners as respondents (147 people).
