Touring SUP in Sweden – 5 magical routes in 2025
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Do you dream of gliding over the mirror-like Swedish nature with your SUP? Sweden offers some of the world's most spectacular waterways for SUP touring, from deep forest lakes to dramatic archipelago landscapes. After 18 years of experience helping paddlers discover Sweden's waters, we at Kona Sports have collected the five most magical routes for 2025 - perfect for those who want to experience authentic Swedish nature from the water.
Whether you're an experienced touring paddler or just starting to dream of longer SUP adventures, we'll guide you through everything from safety planning to choosing the right equipment. Each route has its own character and challenges, but all share the same reward: unforgettable nature experiences that unite body, movement and gear in perfect harmony.
Table of contents
- Safety and planning for SUP touring
- Vättern Archipelago – Sweden's Caribbean
- Dalsland Canal – through locks and forest lakes
- The bays of the High Coast – dramatic rock formations
- Bohuslän's interior – protected fjords
- Siljan's tour – a classic Swedish idyll
- Packing list for touring paddling
- Frequently asked questions and answers
Safety and planning for SUP touring
Before diving into the amazing routes, solid planning is essential for successful SUP tours. As experienced touring paddlers, we know that preparation is the key to safe adventures on the water.
Always start by checking the weather forecast at least 48 hours before departure. Marine weather reports provide detailed information on wind strength and wave height. For SUP touring, we recommend a maximum wind strength of 5 m/s for beginners and up to 8 m/s for experienced paddlers.
Safety equipment is non-negotiable. An approved life jacket should be worn at all times, and The Swedish Lifesaving Society also recommends a wetsuit when the water temperature is below 15 degrees. A quality lifeline keeps you connected to the board in the event of a fall.
Always let someone know your planned route and expected return time. Pack a waterproof bag with extra clothes, food, water and first aid in a waterproof backpack . For longer tours over 10 kilometers, a stable touring SUP like the Cruiser Air is optimal with its combination of stability and gliding function.
Basic safety principles:
Always check the weather and wind before setting off. Strong winds can turn a simple trip into a dangerous experience. Never paddle alone as a beginner and always inform someone about your route.
Always wear a life jacket and a lifeline, regardless of your swimming ability. Cold water can quickly impair your ability to swim even short distances.
Always pack extra clothes and food. What starts as a short trip can become longer if weather or conditions change.
Lake Vättern Archipelago – Sweden's Caribbean
The eastern archipelago of Lake Vättern is not called the Caribbean of Sweden for nothing. The crystal clear water and white sandy beaches on islands like Jungfrun create an almost tropical feeling in the middle of Sweden. For SUP touring, the area offers perfect conditions with sheltered bays and exciting island hopping.
The special character of Lake Vättern demands respect. The lake can quickly go from mirror-like to meter-high waves. Never paddle out in westerly winds over 4 m/s as waves build up across the 40 kilometer wide lake.
The best time for paddling on Lake Vättern is May to September, with the warmest water in August. Pack light wind protection as the islands lack natural shelter. For overnight stays, there are wind protections on several islands, but check the public right of way rules for the Vättern archipelago in particular.
Dalsland Canal – through locks and forest lakes
Dalsland Canal offers a completely different kind of SUP touring – leisurely paddling through Sweden’s most beautiful lake system. With its 250 kilometers of continuous waterways and 31 locks, it is a paradise for touring paddlers seeking variety and adventure without the vagaries of the sea.
Paddling through locks requires technique. Always pull over to the side before the lock and carry your SUP past – never try to paddle through when the gates open. The lockkeepers are helpful and happy to give tips on sights along the route. Choose a lighter touring board that is easy to carry when crossing locks.
Dalsland's forests create a magical play of light over the water, especially in high summer when the midnight sun illuminates the deep forests. Pack mosquito nets for evening camping and be prepared for morning fog that may linger until the morning. GPS or compass is important as the lakes have many inlets where it is easy to paddle wrong.
The bays of the High Coast – dramatic rock formations
The High Coast offers Sweden's most dramatic coastal paddling with steep cliffs rising directly from the sea. For SUP touring, the area is unique with its sheltered bays between spectacular granite formations. The land uplift after the ice age has created a landscape unparalleled in the rest of Sweden.
The High Coast's unique geography creates its own wind patterns. Mornings are often calm, while afternoons can bring thermals from the land. Therefore, plan longer distances in the morning.
For multi-day trips there are plenty of natural harbors and shelters. The archipelago home accepts guests for overnight stays and often offers a sauna – perfect after a day on the water. Pack extra warm even in summer when the cold currents of the Bothnian Sea can cause sudden drops in temperature.
Bohuslän's interior – protected fjords
The Bohuslän archipelago is known for its bare cliffs and open seas, but for SUP touring, it is the sheltered fjords inland that offer the best experiences. Here you paddle in calm waters surrounded by picturesque fishing villages and dramatic coastline without being exposed to the waves of the open sea.
The tide affects paddling more here than on the east coast. Plan your route so that you are paddling with the current. At high tide, the current in the strait can be strong enough to make paddling against the current very challenging.
Bohuslän's unique archipelago culture makes touring here more than just paddling. Each fishing village has its own character and history. Take time to explore Smögen, Hunnebostrand and Kungshamn. For SUP enthusiasts who want to combine paddling with culture, this is unbeatable.
Siljan's tour – a classic Swedish idyll
Paddling around Lake Siljan is a classic Swedish touring challenge that attracts paddlers from all over the country. The 60-kilometer tour takes you through the heart of Dalarna with its red cottages, green meadows and deep cultural traditions. For SUP touring, Lake Siljan offers perfect conditions with its relatively sheltered location.
Midsummer in Dalarna makes the Siljan trip extra special. Book accommodation well in advance as all of Sweden gathers here. For the complete experience, pack traditional food like crispbread and butter. The right SUP choice makes all the difference for a comfortable long trip.
Packing list for touring paddling
Proper packing is crucial for successful SUP touring. After years of guiding, we at Kona Sports have developed the ultimate packing list that balances safety with practical weight. Everything should fit in or on your SUP without affecting balance.
Safety equipment:
- Life jacket (always on)
- Strap
- Whistle
- First aid kit waterproof packed
- Mobile phone in waterproof case
- Compass or GPS
Clothing and protection:
- Wetsuit or drysuit depending on the season
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Change in waterproof bag
- Windproof clothing
Food and drink:
- At least 2 liters of water per person
- Energy bars and snacks
- Lunch for full-day tour
- Thermos with hot drink for colder weather
Technical equipment:
- Spare paddle or divisible paddle
- Pumping equipment for inflatable SUP
- Repair kit
- Waterproof maps
For touring paddle boarding, we recommend quality equipment that will last over time. A good touring SUP, stable yet fast, makes all the difference between a tiring and an enjoyable trip.
Packing principles:
Heavier items should be placed centrally and low on the board for best balance. Important items such as first aid and cell phones should be easily accessible.
Use drybags for anything that shouldn't get wet. Double plastic bags work in an emergency, but dedicated drybags are much safer.
Distribute your weight evenly and test your balance before embarking on longer trips. An unbalanced SUP is tiring to paddle.
Frequently asked questions and answers
How far can you SUP in one day?
A normally trained person can comfortably paddle 10-15 kilometers in half a day. Experienced touring paddlers can manage 20-30 kilometers in good conditions. Wind strength, waves and currents significantly affect the distance. Start with shorter trips and gradually build up your endurance. A touring-optimized SUP that glides well saves energy on longer distances.
Which SUP is best suited for touring in Sweden?
For Swedish touring, we recommend a SUP between 11'6" and 14' with good volume for stability and cargo space. Inflatable touring SUPs like the Cruiser Air combine ease of transport with excellent performance. Important features are a pointed nose for better glide, sufficient width for stability (at least 30") and attachments for packing.
When is the best time for SUP touring in Sweden?
May to September offer the best conditions with warmer water and more stable weather. July-August has the warmest water temperatures but also the most other paddlers. Early summer (May-June) often brings more stable winds and fewer mosquitoes. Autumn can offer fantastic colors but requires more clothing for the cold.
Do I need a permit to paddle SUP in Sweden?
The right of way applies to SUP paddling, which means free paddling in most waters. Some nature reserves may have restrictions during the breeding season. Private jetties may not be used without a permit. When camping, the usual right of way rules apply . Always check local regulations for the specific area.
How safe is SUP touring for beginners?
SUP touring is very safe with the right preparation. Start in protected waters, always wear a life jacket and a lifeline, never paddle alone as a beginner. Take a SUP course to learn safety techniques. Choose days with light winds and avoid open sea initially.
What do I do if the weather deteriorates during the tour?
Always put safety first. Seek shelter on the nearest beach and wait out bad weather. Always have a plan B and know alternative landing sites along the route. Pack extra clothes and food for unexpected stops.
How do I carry the pack on the SUP?
Use the board's own D-rings and bungee systems to attach gear. Keep essential items like safety gear within easy reach. Place heavier items centrally and low for best balance. Always test balance with full gear before heading out on longer trips.
Sweden's magical touring routes are waiting to be discovered from your SUP. Each route offers unique experiences that unite body and nature in a way few other activities can match. With the right planning, safety considerations and equipment, adventures await that will create memories for a lifetime.
As we say at Kona Sports: "Stand up people. Stand up life." Now is the time to get out and discover Sweden's most beautiful waterways from your SUP.