Jämtland–Härjedalen is Sweden’s highest region, surrounded by spectacular nature. Four-fifths of the area lies more than 500 meters above sea level.

In summer, the region offers simple pleasures like hiking and fishing, as well as more adrenaline-packed activities such as rock climbing and white-water rafting. Wildlife is abundant, and with a bit of luck, you might spot a moose—or even a bear. In winter, many come for the ski slopes, but Jämtland has more to offer: cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and dog sledding adventures.

Östersund provides nightlife and entertainment for those who need a break from the wilderness. It’s the largest city in Jämtland, with a slightly more luxurious vibe than usual. Stunning mountain views and close proximity to nature enhance its charm, and the city center is known for its wide selection of restaurants and cafés. July is a lively month in Östersund, when the Storsjöyran festival takes place — Scandinavia’s largest music festival. For family fun, visit Äventyrshuset with car tracks and climbing walls, or Boda Borg, where teamwork is put to the test. Children will love Storsjöbadet, an adventure pool with slides, caves, and pools. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the multi-activity center, which offers volleyball, basketball, boule, skateboarding, and athletics — or perhaps a round of golf with the mountains as your backdrop.

In Storsjön, a 400-year-old legend tells of a lake monster. Hundreds of documented sightings exist — take a spot at one of the observation points around the lake and see if you are lucky enough to witness it yourself.

Åre, with its 350,000 visitors annually, is a well-known winter paradise. It has slopes for beginners, family-friendly areas, and Dreamparks for advanced skiers, as well as night skiing. You can try downhill skiing, slalom, or simply enjoy the après-ski. Åre isn’t just about skiing — the surrounding mountains and lakes allow for white-water rafting, hiking, and paragliding. Take the cable car to Åreskutan’s summit for a breathtaking view. In Station Åre, choose from a wide variety of restaurants, and if nightlife is on your agenda, the area boasts numerous bars and clubs.

Outside Östersund and Åre, you’ll find smaller municipalities with fewer attractions but plenty to offer. Strömsund is known for its rich outdoor life, including hunting and fishing, and is home to Sweden’s longest cave, Korallgrottan. If visiting in July, don’t miss the Dundermarknaden fair. Hotingtravet is another popular event. Ragunda is famous for Döda Fallet (The Dead Fall) and its Thai pavilion, but also has a moose enclosure. Above all, it offers peace and tranquility in unique and beautiful landscapes such as Bräcke, with its high mountains and deep valleys. Hike the Jämtland Triangle through pristine mountain scenery with reindeer and other wildlife. For thrill-seekers, try downhill mountain biking in Lofsdalen.

Härjedalen is a fishing paradise. Find your own spot for stream fishing along the seven-mile-long Vernan River. Other prime locations include Norrälven and Hoan, where you can catch trout or grayling for dinner. Group tours are available to find the best fishing spots, and evening fishing is an option if your day is filled with other activities. For those seeking more than freshwater fish, there are excellent hunting opportunities.

The variety of activities is vast: kayak on the rivers, take a helicopter trip to Skarsfjället and hike its summit, climb Funäsberget, or go on a beaver safari. Bring the family to Frösö Zoo, home to over 700 animals, as well as a circus and amusement park for extra fun. Travel back in time at Jamtli Historieland, living the life of a farmhand or maid in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Get up close with moose at Moose Garden, or learn and play at the Härjedalen Mountain Museum, which combines activity with history about the Sami people and mountain farmers. For quirky museums, the region offers treasures like the Tomtemuseum (Santa Museum) or Mus-Olles, which houses 150,000 objects collected over a lifetime.