Allemansrätten — The Right of Public Access

The Allemansrätten (Right of Public Access) is enshrined in the Swedish Constitution (Regeringsformen, Chapter 2, §15) and is one of the greatest laws in the world. It guarantees everyone — Swede and tourist alike — the right to move freely in nature and stay overnight. There is no comparable law in Central or Southern Europe.

What Is Allowed

• Hiking, cycling, skiing, riding anywhere in the open countryside — forests, mountains, beaches, meadows, even over private land (as long as it's not fenced or cultivated)
• Camping for 1–2 nights in the same place, at a reasonable distance from homes (at least 70 meters) and with privacy (not directly at the house)
• Picking berries and mushrooms — blueberries, lingonberries, cloudberries, chanterelles, all free (except protected species like orchids)
• Swimming in lakes and the sea — practically everywhere
• Boating on lakes and rivers (non-motorized free, motorized with restrictions)
• Making fires — but only with great caution, on rock or sand (not on moss!), and never during forest fire risk (Eldningsförbud — communicated via app and radio and MUST be observed)
• Picking flowers — except protected species

What Is NOT Allowed

• Camping on cultivated fields, in gardens or on fenced private land
• Leaving trash — "Inte störa, inte förstöra" (Do not disturb, do not destroy) is the motto
• Motorized vehicles off-road
• Cutting or damaging trees
• Hunting without a license
• Fishing in lakes and rivers without a Fiskekort (fishing license) — sea fishing is free!
• Dogs must be leashed from March 1st to August 20th (breeding and setting time)
• Making noise near homes or disturbing privacy

The Allemansrätten is the foundation of the Swedish nature experience — and a privilege based on trust. The golden rule that every Swedish child learns: Leave the place as you found it — or better. Swedes trust that visitors will respect nature. Please confirm this trust.