Autumn in Sweden is magical. As the days grow shorter and the morning mist lingers in the forests, the landscape transforms into a palette of red, gold, and orange hues. The air smells of pine, moss, and damp leaves. The Swedes like to embrace this time of year, by taking advantage of what nature has to offer! This is the perfect time to fill your baskets with mushrooms, berries, and even truffles.

Allemansrätten: Sweden’s right of public access

Thanks to the famous Allemansrätten, everyone in Sweden can explore the outdoors freely. This also means you are allowed to collect wild food, as long as you respect private property and nature. Autumn is the ideal season to take advantage of this unique right and discover Sweden’s forests while gathering your own ingredients.

Berries: from blueberries to cloudberries

Swedish forests and wetlands are full of berries. From small wild blueberries and bright lingonberries to the unique cloudberry (hjortron) that grows in marshy areas, there is always something to pick. These berries are perfect for eating fresh or for making jams, pies, and traditional Swedish dishes. You probably know the lingon berry jam from the famous Swedish meatballs dish! 

Mushrooms: the gold of the forest

Autumn and mushrooms are inseparable in Sweden. Beloved varieties include chanterelles, porcini (Karl Johan), and yellowfoot mushrooms (trattkantarell). Bring a small knife and only pick mushrooms you can identify as some are poisonous. Mushroom picking in Sweden is both a sport and a culinary adventure, and nothing beats a fresh mushroom soup or omelette after a morning in the woods.

Truffles: Sweden’s hidden treasure

Did you know Sweden also has truffles? On the island of Gotland, truffle hunting is a popular activity in October and November. Guided by trained dogs, local experts search for these aromatic delicacies. The highlight is a tasting, often paired with local cheeses and bread. For those seeking a truly unique culinary experience, a truffle hunt in Sweden is unforgettable.

Practical tips for a Swedish autumn adventure

• Best time to go: october and November are ideal for berries, mushrooms, and truffles.
• Where to forage: forests, wetlands, and lakesides. For truffles: mainly Gotland.
• What to bring: baskets, knives, sturdy shoes, and warm clothing.
• Guided tours: for beginners or those who want the best spots, hiring a local guide is highly recommended.

At Travel.se, we offer trips that immerse you in Sweden’s autumn harvest. From berry and mushroom foraging to exclusive truffle hunts with expert guides, let us know what you are looking for, and we'll make sure you'll find it!