Sweden is one of Europe’s most nature-rich countries, with large forests, mountains, wetlands, coasts, islands, and freshwater systems.
## Protected areas - Sweden has a broad network of **national parks**, **nature reserves**, and marine/coastal protected areas. - The country is noted for long-standing conservation policy and public access to nature.
## National parks Well-known national parks include: - **Abisko National Park** — famous for mountain scenery and aurora viewing. - **Sarek National Park** — rugged wilderness in Swedish Lapland. - **Stora Sjöfallet National Park** - **Padjelanta/Badjelánnda National Park** - **Tyresta National Park** near Stockholm - **Fulufjället National Park** — home to Njupeskär waterfall. - **Tiveden National Park** - **Store Mosse National Park** - **Kosterhavet National Park** — Sweden’s first marine national park. - **Ängsö**, **Skuleskogen**, and several others across the country
## Landscapes Major natural regions include: - **Lapland mountains and tundra** - **Boreal forests** across central and northern Sweden - **Lake districts** in central and southern regions - **Archipelagos and rocky coasts** - **Agricultural plains** in Skåne and other southern areas - **Wetlands and bogs** in several inland regions
## Wildlife Sweden’s wildlife may include: - Moose - Roe deer and red deer - Brown bear - Wolf - Lynx - Wolverine - Beaver - Seals in coastal waters - Rich birdlife, including cranes, owls, seabirds, and migratory species
## Nature reserves and urban green space - Thousands of nature reserves protect forests, shorelines, marshes, meadows, and island environments. - Major cities also maintain large urban parks and nearby nature areas, such as **Djurgården**, **Slottsskogen**, and **Tyresta**.
## Conservation themes Important environmental topics include: - Forest management - Baltic Sea health - Climate adaptation - Rewilding and biodiversity protection - Sustainable use of outdoor landscapes
