Scan Magazine | Special Theme | Autumn Experiences in Sweden – Our Top Picks
Adopt the pace of nature Are you looking to experience magnificent natural scenery and combine it with an opportunity to pursue creative activities? Set slap bang in the middle of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Höga Kusten (the High Coast), FriluftsByn might just be the ideal place for you. By Pia Petersso | Photos: FriluftsByn
This open-air village has become the perfect gathering place for adventure and relaxation mixed with the right amount of exhilarating events. FriluftsByn assembles friends, families and retirees eager to explore and get to know the unique nature of the High Coast, each in their own way. “Some choose to hike and paddle, while others opt to go on short trips in the mountains, at sea or in the deep forests,” founder and manager Jerry Engström explains. The area of the High Coast is part of the striking coast of Sweden on the Gulf of Bothnia and is, unsurprisingly, known in particular as an excellent region for hiking. Formerly the marketing director of Fjällräven, the renowned Swedish company specialising in outdoor equipment, Engström founded FriluftsByn in 2013. Today, this open-air village attracts visi48 | Issue 103 | August 2017
tors from all over the world, and in 2016 it was nominated for the Great Tourism Prize. “You’ll find everything from multi-day hiking and kayaking routes to dramatic day hikes and idyllic natural beaches just around the corner,” says Engström.
With its location in the heart of the High Coast, FriluftsByn is a particularly good base for adventurous families as there are plenty of activities suitable for children just around the corner. Why not go hiking along the family-friendly Höga Kusten stigen (the High Coast trail) that begins at FriluftsByn? Or look for beavers during a paddle tour or perhaps go for a peaceful boat trip? “However, make sure to set aside some time to just hang out in FriluftsByn as well. There are plenty of large tents here, along with barbecue areas and much more to discover for the whole family,” Engström finishes.
In addition to inviting visitors to take part in exciting adventures in nature, FriluftsByn organises many different types of innovative events, ranging from cocktail and architectural competitions to running and hiking festivals throughout the year. Among the 27 cottages in FriluftsByn, some are fully equipped and others have access to service houses and lounge areas. Naturally, there are also camping and tent sites, so it is easy for visitors to choose the level of comfort themselves.
Jerry Engström.
Web: www.friluftsbyn.se