Things to See in Sweden

The magical landscape of Sarek National Park covers an area of 2000 sq km (780 sq mi). It comprises 100 glaciers and countless peaks, a handful of which are over 2000m (6560ft) high. This is beautiful yet demanding country, only for the tough and experienced (who will need to do their homework thoroughly).

The 4900-hectare (12100-acre) Tyresta National Park is noted for its virgin forest, which includes 300-year-old pine trees. Stockholm is the only European capital with virgin forest so close to it. Tyresta is a beautiful area, with rocky outcrops, small lakes, marshes, and a wide variety of birdlife.

The welcoming and illuminating Ájtte Museum is the highlight of a visit to Jokkmokk; it gives the most thorough introduction to Sami culture anywhere in Sweden, including Sami dress, silverware and an interesting display of 400-year-old shamans' drums.

The 'new' Royal Palace is one of Stockholm's highlights; it was constructed on the site of the 'old' royal castle, Tre Kronor, which burned down in 1697. The north wing of the castle survived and was incorporated into the new palace, but its medieval designs are now concealed by a baroque exterior.

If you're bewildered by the long-armed men, blue whales, sexual imagery and goat-drawn chariots, cross the road to Vitlycke Museum which has a determined go at explaining them. There are handheld computer guides for hire at extortionate prices, but it's much better to catch the English tour, when a knowledgeable human being explains the carvings.