The Right of Public Access

Thanks to the Right of Public Access, everyone is given the opportunity to move freely in the Swedish countryside. Along with the right, there are also obligations to show consideration for animals, nature, landowners, and other outdoor enthusiasts. The main rule is not to disturb – not to destroy.

Photo: Apelöga

Cycling

You are allowed to cycle in nature, but not on someone's property or land that can be damaged. As long as you stay on the marked trails, you don't have to worry about infringing on the Right of Public Access.

Private Road

If you take a detour, you may end up on a private road. A landowner cannot prohibit you from cycling there unless the road is damaged, but always show respect to the landowner by not causing any disturbances.

Camping

It's wonderful to spend the night and camp in the open air, and according to the Right of Public Access, you can camp for a limited number of nights in nature. If a larger group wants to set up camp with multiple tents, you need to ask the landowner for permission. Remember not to disturb the landowner or harm nature. Choose a tent spot on resilient ground and avoid using grazing land, farmland, or plantations. The camping spot should not be too close to residential buildings. Special rules may apply for camping in national parks and nature reserves, so be sure to check before setting up your tent. There are several campsites along the Sydostleden and Sydkustleden that offer nice bookable tent spots. Check the map tool to find them.

Campfires

The Right of Public Access does not automatically grant you the right to make a fire, and you must be careful not to risk spreading fire or damaging nature and wildlife. Use only designated fireplaces and make sure to extinguish the fire completely. You are not allowed to take growing trees or parts of them, including branches, bark, leaves, bast, acorns, nuts, or resin. This means you cannot chop down trees for firewood or building materials for a shelter.

Picking Flowers, Berries, and Mushrooms

You are allowed to pick wild flowers, berries, and mushrooms in nature, but some plants are protected and should not be picked. Keep in mind that there may be limitations in national parks and nature reserves.

Special Rules in National Parks, Nature Reserves, and other Protected Areas

In some areas, the Right of Public Access is limited. Find out the specific regulations for the area you are in, either through signs or by visiting lansstyrelsen.se/skane under the section "Besöksmål" (Visitor Destinations) or contacting the relevant municipality.

Litter

It's never pleasant to arrive at a beautiful spot in nature only to find it littered by someone else. Remember this when you take breaks in nature and always take your own trash with you. That way, no one will be disappointed, and no animals will be harmed. Take the opportunity to dispose of your trash in garbage bins when passing through towns and communities.

Fishing Along the Trail

There are several watercourses suitable for fishing along the Sydostleden and Sydkustleden. However, fishing is not allowed everywhere. When near the sea, it's usually permitted to fish with handheld gear. For all other fishing waters, you need a fishing permit.

You can read more about the Right of Public Access and cycling in Sweden here.