Everyone knows that Scandinavia is a harsh land with special, rather harsh climatic conditions. However, at the same time, the region is distinguished by a certain beauty, and therefore attracts many tourists from all over the world. One of the countries worthy of our attention is Sweden. This prosperous European country welcomes thousands of guests every year. The nature of Sweden deserves a special story. It will be discussed in today's article.
Climate
The Gulf Stream has created a temperate climate in Sweden. However, it should be immediately noted that this is typical only for the southern and southwestern regions of the country. For example, in Stockholm, the average January temperature is -3°C, in July this figure is 18.5°C.
If we talk about the northern, eastern and western regions of the state, then the winters there are already colder. Summers are quite cool and not too long. A small part of the north of the country is located in the Arctic Circle. Therefore, the subarctic climate dictates its conditions there. Here, the average temperature in winter is about -15°C. It goes without saying that the snow does not melt here for half a year.
Distinguishing Features
In general, the peculiarities of the nature of Sweden are such that on its territory the most beautiful green fields, picturesque and alluring islands of the south, the harsh and gloomy tundra of northern Lapland, hills and forested rocks of the west border. At the same time, the majestic shores of the calm Gulf of Bothnia and just a giant system of lakes with a great variety of wild animals will not leave anyone indifferent.
Now let's focus on the most beautiful places in the country, having studied them in as much detail as possible.
Mount Oreskutan
This mountain is located in the central province of the state called Jamtland. It rises above sea level by 1420 meters, 1048 of which are above the surface of Lake Ore. Translated from the Old Norse language, the name of the mountain is translated as “tip”.
This peak is densely covered with green grass in summer. The rarest species of plants grow here, various birds nest. You can watch all this beauty without harming nature along the trails specially created for walking.
The nature of Sweden is such that in winter this mountain, due to 100% humidity, transforms into almost a monolithic glacier, abundantly covered with snow. Because of this, many tourists here prefer to spend their time skiing. The top of the rocky system is topped by a restaurant called "Bistrologist" from which you can see the picturesque panorama of the surrounding horizon.
Protected by the State: Ristafallet Waterfall
This miracle of nature is located on a river bearing an interestingname Indalsalven. The waterfall can be reached along the E14 highway. Its height above sea level is 355 m. This powerful stream of water divides the forest into northern and southern parts. Interestingly, the southern part of the waterfall is not visible from the northern one, and vice versa. The water falls from a height of 14 m. A little higher and lower from the waterfall you can meet fishermen catching grayling or trout.
Due to the fact that a special and even humid climate has formed near the falling water mass, here you can find a specific ecosystem that is under state protection. Rare species of lichens grow in this zone and animals listed in the Red Book live. It is worth saying that here the nature of Sweden has never been affected by man.
If desired, the waterfall can be seen in one film called "Roni, the robber's daughter." It was based on a novel written by Astrid Lindgren.
The country's largest waterfall
This body of water is called Tannforsen. It is 22 km away from the Ore resort and has a total height of 38 m. At the same time, the fall height is 32 m. The amount of water in the waterfall varies depending on the season. In the last century, more than once, the issue of starting to use this natural property as a source of electrical energy was brought up for public discussion. However, the Swedish people are still against this idea.
21 species of rare and endangered lichens grow around the waterfall. They can't be found anywhere else.on the European continent.
From February to April, tourists have access to visit the cave located directly under the waterfall.
Abisko
This is the name of the national park, spread out in the province of Lapland. It is located in close proximity to the border with Norway. The territory of the park starts from Lake Turnetresk and runs 15 km to the south-west. The total area of this legally protected land is about 77 km2. The park was founded in 1909.
It is here that the nature of Sweden, the photo of which is given below, has been preserved in its original form. However, its resources are used for scientific purposes. In 1935, the Abisko Research Station was merged with the Swedish Academy of Sciences. In summer, you can enjoy white nights in the park, and in winter you can enjoy the northern lights.
Hello from outer space
Lake Siljan is another asset that Sweden's nature can boast of. In short, this reservoir is a huge crater formed after a meteorite fell to earth 370 million years ago. Over the years, this depression has been covered with a thick layer of limestone. The lake has an area that allows it to take the seventh line in the ranking of the largest lakes in Sweden.
Its uniqueness lies in the fact that there are many islands on it, the longest of which is no more than 7.5 km.
Animal world
The nature of Sweden, the description of which includes not onlyflora, but also fauna, is diverse. For example, to meet a squirrel, it is not at all necessary to go to the forest, since it is quite possible to see it within the city.
There are many brown bears in the forests, which, despite their clubfoot, move very quickly. Another animal similar to a bear is the wolverine. This hunter has a powerful jaw and large teeth. He has practically no enemies. Moves quickly and silently, but lives only ten years.
Besides, the nature of Sweden is rich in hares, elks, foxes, muskrats and American minks.
