Blomesterstigen in Storlien

ÅRE MUNICIPALITY: BLOMSTERSTIGEN IN STORLIEN. Blomsterstigen is probably the oldest hiking trail in the Swedish mountains, dating back to the late 1800s when it was first used for health and recreation. Dr. Westerlund, known as the “miracle doctor,” believed it was healthy to be above a certain altitude, to get exercise, feel meaningful and being social with other people, and Storlien could provide all that. Dr. Westerlund’s patients came to Storlien to breathe the mountain air and walk on Blomsterstigen. In reality, the so- called “air guests” weren’t very sick; they were wealthy people from the cities who didn’t need to work for their food. Regardless, it marked the start of hiking tourism, for which we should be grateful today. With the introduction of the right of public access and statutory vacation (1938), it became possible for “ordinary” people from the cities to experience the Swedish mountains. Blomsterstigen is an easy mountain hike around mount Skurdalshöjden with panoramic views in all directions from Vindarnas Tempel (Tempel of winds) at the summit. A final bonus tip is to make an additional hike to Brudslöjan (a waterfall on the Norwegian border).The entrance to Blomsterstigen not far from the Swedish king's sports cottage. Photo: A Edholm.Start: Storlien högfjällshotell