Information from VisitSweden.se:
“The Right of Public Access” or “Allemansrätten” as we call it, gives everyone the freedom to roam and explore the beauty of our country. As long as you don’t disturb and don’t destroy, you are welcome to enjoy Sweden’s nature as much as you want.
The Right of Public Access is a principle, protected by the law, that gives all people in Sweden the freedom to roam free in nature. Sleep on mountaintops, by the lakes, in quiet forests or beautiful meadows. Take the kayak out for a spin or experience the wildlife firsthand. Pick berries, mushrooms and flowers from the ground – all completely free of charge. The only thing you have to pay, is respect for nature and the animals living there.
The freedom to roam in Sweden means that you have the right to walk, cycle, ride, ski and camp on any land with the exception of private gardens, near a dwelling house or land under cultivation. We call it ‘Allemansrätten’. Literally, it translates to “The all mans right” which means that everyone has the right to roam in the Swedish nature.
The Right of Public Access is a unique right, but with this right comes responsibilities – to take care of nature and wildlife and to show consideration for landowners and for other people enjoying the countryside. The Swedish Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sums up the Right of Public Access in the phrase ‘Don’t disturb – Don’t destroy’. Keep these words in mind when exploring the Swedish nature.
Read more on VisitSweden.se.
Photo Credits: Ulf Lundin/Imagebank.sweden.se.
