Sweden Basics

SWEDEN BASICS
by Bob Brooke

Sweden is one of Scandinavia’s most affluent countries. There are plenty of smart properties, large cars, big and numerous motor cruisers, the proliferation of sleek trailers, big–sometimes huge–and well-stocked supermarkets, and in the considerable automation of many of its services.

Sweden's vital statistics alone are enough to fire the imagination of enthusiasts of wide open spaces. About 1,000 miles long by 240 miles wide, with 4,000 miles of coastline, 150,000 islands and 96,000 lakes, Sweden has a population of about 8 million. The impact of its landscapes falls somewhere between the hugeness of Finland's horizons and the ruggedness of Norway's heights, yet it has more streamlined and sophisticated amenities than either of its neighbors.

The country’s fluctuating fortunes have left their stamp on the countryside which vies with Denmark especially in the number of churches, castles and manor houses that punctuate the fertile southern farmlands. These southlands are in great contrast to the fells and forests, wild river valleys and immense lakescapes elsewhere. Like their neighbors, the Swedes escape into the countryside at every opportunity, and they’re well equipped to make the most of it, whatever their taste in outdoor activities. Hotel voucher schemes, well-equipped self-catering accommodation, excellent campsites and transport bargains simplify holiday life at all budget levels.

Perhaps due to a sense of loss felt in the shift away from the simple priorities and culture bred by the wilderness, there’s now a considerable movement to reaffirm traditions and to encourage or revive ancient crafts. Thus, folk culture is still strong in many regions and enterprises devoted to hemslojd or cottage industry proliferate' and range from regional organizations dedicated to maintaining high standards and researching forgotten skills to small workshops in the countryside, often set up by fugitives from city life.