Sweden

Landscape

Sweden extends from southern agricultural plains through broad forest and lake regions to northern mountains and tundra. The Scandinavian mountain chain lies along much of the western side. Rivers generally flow eastward toward the Baltic.

Coastal archipelagos contain numerous islands and rocky skerries. In the north, Abisko represents an upland landscape with mountains, valleys and high-latitude vegetation. These settings differ strongly from the more densely settled southern lowlands.

Climate & seasons

Southern Sweden is temperate, while the north is subarctic. Winters become longer and colder toward the north and at higher elevations.

Forests & seasons

Boreal forest covers large areas, while elevation and latitude limit tree growth in the far north and high mountains. Winters and summer daylight vary greatly along the country’s length. Snowmelt is important for many northern rivers.