Outdoor Activities

5 short favorite family walks in Docksta over the summer + 1 wild hike

These five easy and brief walks for families and nature lovers of all ages encourage them to explore spots and rich natural areas nearby Docksta, Skuleberget, and the national park Skuleskogen.

The suggestions omit all other challenging options that present rough terrain and steep segments. The paths are kid-friendly, but don't worry; you won't risk losing the best.

What could be more relaxing than to take a quiet stroll along a short segment of the Höga Kusten Trail track to reach Per Olsbo's shelter and picnic there amongst birdsong and a stunning view over the Docksta fjord?

The highlighted routes are perfect to enjoy the outdoors during spring and summer. Take all the time you need during your holiday to fully appreciate this stunning section in the heart of the World Heritage Site by embarking on one of the walks.

 

Here is my list of suggested family-friendly walks to take during your holiday in Docksta

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The descriptions of the routes on the maps begin from the marina.

#1 walk (or bike ride)

Naturum Museum Höga Kusten

This is the place to start learning more about Höga Kusten's inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List and to get information material and maps regarding the area's natural and scenic treasures, including its flora and animals.

On the walk to the museum at the feet of Skuleberget Mount, there is a lot of excitement for children. Just in front of the museum, there is a beautiful play area for the youngest: is on the theme "Höga Kusten" (...and also very much likes those a little too old). It’s a great spot for spending time together with your family.

The Naturum Höga Kusten Museum provides both permanent and temporary exhibitions about nature and geology within the World Heritage Site, coastal living, and the history of the High Coast. It has a modern and playful approach for guests with its distinctive information bars and activities. In the spaces of the museum, there is an educational playroom with information about animals and nature that is very fun for children.

👉 Here's how to make this stroll into an unforgettable hike inside the Skuleberget natural reserve if you want to extend the walk and reach the mountain's summit. (P.S. if you walk with children from the museum, the LYNX path uphill is recommended, and proper shoes, too :)

 

#2 short walk

Vibyggerå old church and the small lake in the woods

The church is located in Sätra, on the southern border of the village, immersed in pastures and meadows that open to the boundary of the surrounding forests. From there, starts the path that leads to Ullånger along the Höga Kusten Leden and that allows you to reach the beautiful wind shelter of Per Olsbo. From the opposite side of the church, the country road goes back to some farms and then goes into the forests surrounding Herrestaberget.

The old church of Vibyggerå is made of stones and lacks a bell tower, like many medieval churches in the area. It was likely built in the late 1200s or early 1300s. Beautiful seventeenth-century frescoes adorn the inside. The altar was built in 1771. The triumph crucifix is from the Middle Ages, while the pulpit was constructed in 1740.

While the church isn't constantly available for visits, the Vibyggerå parish hosts a number of events in the spring and summer that let you tour it inside.

TIP 👉 If you continue along the paved road to the farms to the right of the church, go back a little to Sätra, where you can enjoy a view of the fjord and surrounding fields. If you stick to the same road, it will cross the woods, and in a little more than a kilometer, you will arrive at the lovely pond Sätratjärn on the left. From there, the road is marked, where you can make a stop and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the place.

 

#3 walk (or bike ride)

Docksta fjord (sunny side) “ut till Solvik”

This walk is the favourite for those who live in Docksta, which runs along the paved road that, from the end of the fjord, rises south along the coast opposite the village. It is a quiet path, made of a pleasant ascent, that crosses forested sections, holiday cottages areas, and panoramic points along the fjord. It is also ideal for cycling, but above all, it is excellently exposed to the sun, which can be for a long time, even in the afternoons and long summer evenings.

Starting from the marina, take the seafront to the shipyard, cross a small river on a bridge, and continue along the road that crosses the cultivated fields. Turn left, rising a little. Then continue to the left at the intersection, before turning to the right definitively on the road that leads you along the fjord to the south.

After about three kilometers, the road defines itself, taking you directly in front of Fäberget Mount and at the junction of the Docksta and Ullånger fjords. You choose how long to wander, and you can return whenever you'd like.

 

#4 mini-hike

Per Olsbo wind shelter

The section of the Höga Kusten Leden that leads to the shelter begins near the old church. This is a beautiful walk that, after first crossing the fields around the church and entering the woods, heads left to the panoramic spot over the fjord, where you may stop for coffee (I brought it ☕ with you in a thermos) and take in the view.

You can read a more thorough account of this amazing hike to the wind shelter right here > I highly recommend you walk it if you happen to be in Docksta 👍

 

#5 hike

Skuleskogen seaside

This is a really rewarding hike - suitable for walkers of all levels, over this unique seaside paths on the High Coast drawn between the forests and the coastline within the national park. You can immerse you in ancient woods, taking a forest bath along the magnificent well-signed path that is carved out of the forests just a short distance from the bay's water.

It is the walk to take first thing in the morning, when the sun rises in the east, and shines through the tree branches while walking a few steps from the ocean. There are several rest spots along the way for when it’s time to stop for breaks, and you have the option of swimming along the sandy beaches. Leave your car or, even better take the bus to the South entrance of the park: this walk starts from the sandy bay of Kälaviken and heads toward Näskebodarna along the coast.

P.S. 👉 These pathways along the sea into the national park are ideal for Nordic walking if you enjoy using your sticks.

You can download a map of the national park here and read about an excursion that is a little more challenging but will take you to some of Skuleskogen's most breathtaking locations here.

 

…plus one wild trail at Vårdkallberget

This last suggestion is for those looking for more of natural features, and it's a real family-friendly wilderness experience immersed into a rocky pine forest just a few walks from the village.

You can start hiking up the path in Myre. You can walk or drive there (parking is available prior to the antenna) starting from the marina.

Read here first a dedicated description of this amazing hike at Vårdkallberget Mount in Docksta, then pack a light rucksack, lace up your hiking shoes, and head out onto Vårdkallberget summit along its wonderful family-friendly wild trail!

“He" wind shelter at Vårdkallberget - Photo ©: courtesy by ArkNat

 

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TIP 👉 Spend your time in the woods, taking your time. Tie your hurry and stress to trees. Enjoy a relaxing SKOGSPAUS >

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TIP 👉 The wilderness in Höga Kusten is usually approachable, but don't overlook the basics of hiking gear and preparation >

 

SET YOUR BASE CAMP TO EXPLORE THE HÖGA KUSTEN WORLD HERITAGE SITE:

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These waterfront Airbnbs are situated just a step away from the Skuleberget Mount and close to Skuleskogen National Park.

Based in Docksta for your vacation, you can walk to the trails that lead you to the summit of Skuleberget Mount, and you will be close to the national park Skuleskogen. You can also easily get around by car or by bus, and you will be in the ideal location to start exploring the area. 👉 Take a look at our vacation Airbnb accommodations by the seaside >

Tommaso De Rosa

See my host profile and contact me on Airbnb

If you would like assistance planning your stay in one of our waterfront accommodations at the marina, need hiking advice at Skyleskogen Park or Mount Skuleberget, or have any other questions regarding things to do on the High Coast during the summer, please contact me via the Airbnb chat. You are welcome :)

_Tommaso

Please write me by email or WhatsApp at +46.763136909

 

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Other recommended outdoor activities:

Exercising outdoor in Docksta, connecting with the High Coast Nature

If you like the idea to exercise outdoor, the area of the Skuleberget in Docksta delivers many training "playgrounds": you will see how is simple to really re-connect your body with the Nature!

 

What means to train in an outdoor natural setting

You can walk, run or swim in the Nature of the Höga Kusten - in some cases even cross it by bicycle (many dirt roads pass through woods and natural areas), or do your phisical exercise sessions as well.

Outdoor, you can bring with you a pair of nordic walking poles, a rubber band or your TRX straps, but you will hardly be able to carry into the woods that pair of kettlebells you use at home or your barbell. And you won't really need it.

Here we are talking about using for training the outdoor space and above all what it contains - stones, rocks, trees or logs.

These outdoors opportunities will break your indoor workout routines, putting your exercising easily out of your comfort zones: be prepared to adapt your workouts to the different environments, weather, temperature and terrain but also to definitely live memorable sessions and to have great rewards!

 
 

Green exercising in a nutshell

No gym floor (except for the naked earth), no pumping music (except for the song of the birds or the rustle of the leaves with the wind), no artificial lights (except for sunshine or moonlight), no air conditioner (except for a fresh northerly breeze): what seems to be missing is there.

A creek is your motivator, a steep hill is your opponent, the forest sets your circuit training, the soft sand of a beach challenges your body's movements.

These natural settings will let body enters into its own dimension, taking out what's inside and what is really able to do.

Look around and activate your fantasy because it is plenty of natural objects you can utilize:

  • grass, or sand on which to exercise or lay down

  • stones of different sizes and weight to lift

  • rocks to climb

  • tree branches to pull yourself up or trunks to carry…

    …use all them and you will transform the ways and the tools you exercise with!

Take good care of the natural environment when you’re training, respecting flora and fauna but the environment as a whole too.

 
 
 

Re-energize your body in the Höga Kusten. Strictly outdoor.

If you're based in Docksta, there are spots that are perfect to set your outdoor training sessions in the Nature one step away from your front door (and from the piers of the Marina, too).

 
 

Start from the basics

 
 

#POWERWALKING #NORDICWALKING #JOGGING

There is no better ways to improve your fitness than a brisk walk in the wood. From the old church at Vibyggerå, a couple of kilometers along the trail to south that follows the Höga Kusten Leden will bring you to a beautiful view point over the Dockstafjärden. At the Per Olsbo's shelter you will have a perfect spot to enjoy your set of bodyweight movements and to rest for a pause. On the way out, the path in the forest is slightly sloping. On the way back, we bet you'll want to jog along it! (Start planning your walk there: FREE DOWNLOAD info & map to reach the shelter from Docksta)

 
 
 

#CYCLING #MTB

Enjoy cycling following the sunny terrain road that leads you by the seaside along the Dockstafjärden and the feet of the Vårdkallberget mountain. It’s hilly but enjoyable: it will challenge your legs without being a strenuous phisical activity.

 
 
 

#GROUNDING #EARTHING

Combine your outdoor training activities with sessions to re-ground yourself in the nature walking barefoot: why grounding will boost your body energy in discovering 7 wild spots around Docksta >

 
 
 
 

BOOST your fitness at an higher level

#HIKING #TRAILRUNNING

Whether you’re hiking or trail running lover, there are so many paths at Skuleberget that will attract you like magnets training outdoors.

Start exploring these 5 big trails to reach the summit of the mountain and stop to enjoy a total body workout session along the way.

Enjoy the wildside of the Skuleberget but remember that you are a “guest” in a protected natural area. Respect its rules: i.e. here is not the place to lift and move stones and pay attention to don't damage the natural ground of the forest or its plants and bushes, neither to interfere with fauna’s lifes. Live the mountain but have care of its beauty :)

 
 

Photo: copyright © Marcus Lindberg Höga Kusten Träning

 

#WORKOUT #CIRCUITTRAINING

Every Monday and Wednesday - all year long and any weather conditions - you can commit to the outdoor phisical exercising classes by Marcus Lindberg (Instagram @marcuslindberghkt) in Berg (Docksta). It's circuit training, it's group, it's functional full body workout and absolutely… the sessions aren't held in an ordinary fitness playground but it is quality training over the top standards. You will practice with the elastic hooked to an old tractor or a bulldozer, moving stones, carrying heavy hoses of fire hydrants, lifting long iron pipes planted in the sand but also using dumbbells and kettlebells under the careful and expert guidance of Marcus. 100% outdoor and extra-fun for everyone at any fitness level and abilities!

 

Photo: courtesy & copyright © Marcus Lindberg Höga Kusten Träning

 

Hiking, grounding, trail running, exercising in the High Coast are instants mood boosters: all you have to do is get out and go to re-charge your body spending time in Nature

 
 

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Re-connect with nature: ground your bare feet in the Höga Kusten

The Höga Kusten in Sweden is an amazing destination to re-connect your body (and mind) with the Nature.

It will be beautiful to spend more time outdoor and, if you need a recharging power break, to boost all its benefits with an effective practice that you can easily combine with your walks, hikes or runs.

That practice is named grounding your body: it is simple, anyone can do it almost anywhere, and requires no special skills.

Grounding is highly recommended for everyone and particularly to whom spends a lot of the life in artificial environments.

(Sailors are included since spending most of their holiday time on a floating boat and very little time walking on dry land :)

 

Why grounding

When you walk barefoot on the Earth, you start an effective antioxidant process with health benefits: through your feet resting on the ground, you absorb free negative electrons from the Earth. You are “grounding” (or earthing) your body.

Research supports re-grounding practices as an essential element for boosting our overall health and well-being, improving sleep, and decrease stress.

If you spend much time indoors, the more you can walk barefoot on the ground in Nature, the better.

 

TO LEARN MORE

 

How grounding

The sand - or the stones of a beach close to the water, the grass covered with dew, the hard surface of a rock, even soil or mud are ideal to walk barefoot.

Asphalt, wood, plastic (as the rubber or plastic soles of your shoes) are not suitable since they will not allow the electrons to pass through.

Take off your hiking shoes and socks: let the skin of your feet come into contact with a natural surface of the ground

Take off your hiking shoes and socks: let the skin of your feet come into contact with a natural surface of the ground

Practice it by standing barefoot, walking few steps or laying: anything that allows your body to connect directly with on a natural ground.

Grounding technique in a nutshell: kick off your shoes, put your feet down and put pressure on the ground, take few steps.

Pay attention to the sensations that the feet transmit to the body: how it feels to put your foot on the ground and then lift it again.

How does your body feel with each movement and when your feet touch the ground?

Stop and stand up, maintaining a conscious contact with the ground.

How does the surface feel against your feet?

Give your feet a variety of sensory inputs, even walking on different natural surfaces or moving on surfaces that have different temperatures.

Be mindful with your breathing, keep it slow and silent, shut your mouth and breathe through the nostrils only, prolong a bit your exhales. Calm your mind and relax your body. You’re there and now.

 

What means grounding in the High Coast

Enjoy every step re-grounding yourself into the amazing Höga Kusten outdoors

Get rid of your shoes and walk barefoot, or even just put your feet on the bare earth where it uplift the most.

Take your time for your own grounding session when you go hiking one of your favorite trails at the Skuleberget mountain, or have a stop to enjoy it while you're running in a cozy forest along the Höga Kusten Leden, or simply laying on that sunny beach close to the southern entrance of the Skuleskogen national park. You can find a place for grounding almost everywhere.

 
 

7 suggestions for stunning wild grounding spots around Docksta:

 
 

Earthing where the sea meets the shore

  1. Laying on the rocks at the summit of Vårdkallberget that you reached after a beautiful walk in the forest (get the map here).

  2. Walking on the wide and smooth rocks of the Slåttdalsberget mountain within the Skuleskogen national park.

  3. Grounding with a great view on the red Nordingrå granite rocks along the southerly sunny segments of the Höga Kusten Stigen at Skuleberget (get the map here).

  4. Again at the Skuleberget, taking a pause at the shelter facing to south that you find along the Kalottastigen path on the summit (it’s marked with red dots).

  5. Hike along the segment of the Höga Kusten Leden two kilometers south of the old church in Docksta, and enjoy a mindful session with a fantastic view over the Dockstafjärden at the Per Olsbo's shelter (get the map here).

  6. Bury your feet a little beneath the sand’s surface of the beaches you find at the Kälaviken bay (Skuleskogen) or at the Storsand beach (Nörrfallsviken)

  7. Simply find a tree and hug it or snuggle up in its roots.

 
 

SHARE YOUR #OUTDOORS PASSION:

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Nordic walking is a fun fitness activity for sailors in the High Coast

hiking and nordic walking on the Skuleberget
Explore the High Coast from Docksta Havet's piers

Nordic walking is a fun and effective fitness activity that crews can integrate into their existing nature walks during their summer cruise on the High Coast

Walking is especially important to rebalance the many hours we spend sitting, working, driving or at home. And of course, after a few days of sailing, a refreshing nature walk can be a great opportunity to "break" the routine aboard. The crews of boats that target the High Coast summer, usually plan several day trips or walks on the beautiful shorelines during a cruise.

Many boats choose to stop a couple of nights in Docksta just for the opportunity to explore Skuleberget mountain. A hike to the top or to the cave, a visit the Naturum Höga Kusten Museum and the area south of Skuleskogen National Park or just the discovering of the surrounding area of Docksta are an excellent opportunity to involve the crew and the family in a different and exciting afternoon.

We noticed that some crews, particularly from Finland, integrate this technique of Nordic Walking into their nature walks, making use of the poles similar to those used in skiing.

Nordic Walking is a form of aerobic training of great effectiveness, which involves much of the upper-body muscles as well as a great overall cardiovascular workout. It activates more core muscles than normal walking, automatically enhancing the strength, muscle power, balance, stability and increased endurance by using the poles.

The technique involves "just" the inclusion of poles in the normal and natural walking. On YouTube you find several videos which - at various levels - illustrate the Nordic Walking technique and how you can experience it.

The specific poles for Nordic Walking are very lightweight and come in two types; one piece non-adjustable version and telescopic adjustable versions. The telescopic poles are adjustable in length according to your height and thus can be easily placed on board. The appropriate equipment should include: the poles, normal hiking shoes and outdoor clothes for walking or trekking.

The possibility to choose the intensity and difficulty of routes makes it an activity suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. There are several opportunities to practice nordic walking in the surroundings of Docksta so... it's time to moore the boat and take a (nordic) walk! :)