In Sweden, however, it is the experience of living in nature that forms the basis of sleep tourism. “Nature’s motto is to keep it simple,” says Jenny Walker, founder of Walker’s NaturerNature guiding business in Sweden’s West Coast Archipelago. “In winter, on the arid outcrops that characterize the Gothenburg peninsula, few plants are visible, and the birch and pine trees turn their backs to the strong westerly winds. Walking on boulder fields on a winter’s day. , maybe come to the harbor while sunbathing. A seal on one of the skerries is the perfect preparation for a good night’s rest.”
And while traditional sleep retreats focus on relaxing before bedtime, the focus on sleep in Sweden begins at dawn with opportunities for sleep-inducing activities like hiking, kayaking and forest bathing. are
So, after my big night’s sleep, I prepare to hike the Svartsö section of the Stockholm Archipelago Trail with a breakfast of muesli, yogurt, lingonberry jam and cinnamon buns. This unique route of 270 kilometers long passes through 20 islands from Urholma in the north to Landsort in the south.
On Svartsö, an 18km trail takes me around the island, past a large freshwater lake and through a dense snow-carpeted pine forest where I see the odd red squirrel, deer tracks. I give chase and step on a tree that was felled by a beaver bite. The whole day is like one long bathing experience in the woods, and when I go back to my cabin I have little to worry about until dinner, sitting by the fire, and getting a good night’s sleep. isSov found“As they say in the land of sleep.
And I did. It seems that, for me, light exercise in a peaceful environment with few distractions and taking nature’s cue for bed provides the perfect circadian reset.
“Sleep retreats aren’t just about helping people sleep while they’re on vacation,” says Footy, “it’s about allowing a relaxing, holistic and personalized approach to what you’re doing.” With new sleep and wake habits, the goal is to create lasting change.”
I will sleep on it.
—
If you liked this story Sign up for the Essential List newsletter. – A curated selection of features, videos and unmissable news, delivered to your inbox twice a week.
For more BBC travel stories, follow us. Facebook, X And Instagram.