The Road to Serenity: Vidya’s Self-Drive Adventure in Sweden with Thrillophilia
“They say travel changes you,” a friend once told me, “but it only works if you let it.” At the time, I smiled politely, unsure if I truly understood what she meant. But standing at the edge of Lake Vättern in Sweden, surrounded by silence so profound it felt almost sacred, I finally did. This trip was about finding the spaces within myself that had long been forgotten.
When I first came across the idea of a 14-day self-drive tour through Sweden, I was intrigued but hesitant. I had always travelled with the comfort of guides, pre-planned itineraries, and bustling group dynamics. The thought of navigating unfamiliar roads in a foreign country felt overwhelming. Yet, there was something beautiful about the promise of freedom - of charting my own path through the serene landscapes of Sweden, stopping where my heart desired, and embracing the unknown.
The decision was not immediate. It came after weeks of scrolling through travel blogs and gazing at pictures of Sweden’s pristine lakes, quaint towns, and fairytale castles. “Why not?” I finally told myself one evening. And just like that, my journey began - not just to Sweden, but to rediscover a side of me I had not met in years.
Stockholm is Indeed a City of Stories
From the moment I stepped off the plane at Stockholm Arlanda Airport, I knew this trip was going to be special. The fresh air smelled of possibility. As I settled into my hotel and took my first walk along Drottninggatan, the bustling shopping street of Stockholm, I could not help but smile. The colourful storefronts, the hum of conversations in Swedish, and the aroma of fresh pastries filled the air.
The heart of the city lay in Gamla Stan. While wandering its cobblestone streets, I felt transported to another era. At the Royal Palace, I paused and imagined centuries of history unfolding in its grand halls. The amber glow of streetlights illuminated medieval buildings, and I found myself whispering, "This feels like a dream."
Later that evening, I found a cosy corner in a café overlooking the water. A kind barista, hearing my hesitant Swedish, smiled and said, “It’s okay, you can use English!” We chatted about the city, and she recommended I try a slice of kladdkaka (a gooey chocolate cake) that melted on my tongue. It was a simple moment but one that set the tone for the rest of my journey: warm, welcoming, and full of small and joyful surprises.
Castles, Candy, and Crystals
Leaving Stockholm, I felt a sense of excitement mixed with curiosity. The open road stretched before me, leading to Vadstena and then Kalmar, each stop an invitation to discover more.
Vadstena was like a page out of a storybook. The castle by Lake Vättern stood majestic and its reflection was shimmering in the water. A soft breeze carried the scent of pine, and I took a moment to just sit by the lake and let its serenity wash over me.
In Gränna, I indulged my inner child by visiting confectionery stores famous for polkagrisar (the iconic striped candy canes of Sweden). Watching the candy makers twist and shape the sugary treats was mesmerizing, and of course, I could not leave without buying a bag or two for the road.
Moving forward, Kalmar offered a glimpse into the rich history of Sweden with its 800-year-old castle. But it was Glasriket, the kingdom of crystal, that truly fascinated me. Watching master glassblowers transform molten glass into exquisite pieces felt like witnessing magic. “Each piece tells its own story,” said a craftsman as I admired a delicate vase.
A World Apart in Öland
Driving to Öland, I was greeted by miles of coastline that seemed to stretch endlessly. The island felt like a world apart, with its natural beauty untouched and timeless.
Here, the Borgholm Castle ruins stood as a reminder of a grander past, while Solliden Palace was a proof of elegance and grace. But what moved me most was Stora Alvaret, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Standing there amidst the vast limestone plain, I felt small yet connected to something much larger than myself. The wind whispered through the grass and carried with it centuries of history.
I spent hours walking along the beaches on the island, collecting seashells and letting the waves lap at my feet. It was a day of simple pleasures, but one that left an indelible mark on my heart.
Small Villages, Big Connections
The charm of Sweden is not just in its landmarks but in the everyday moments that make you feel at home. In Ystad, I walked through narrow streets lined with colourful cottages.
I stopped for a plate of hot Swedish meatballs at the roadside stall and ended up in a delightful conversation with the stall owner. “Life here is simple,” she said with a warm smile, “but it is a good kind of simple.” Her words stayed with me as I explored more of the countryside.
In the fishing village of Kåseberga, I tasted freshly smoked herring while watching the waves crash against the shore. The laughter of the locals was infectious, and for a moment, I felt like I belonged.
As the trip progressed, I discovered myself in the silence of Sweden’s landscapes. Driving through forests near Sunne or standing by Lake Vänern, I felt an overwhelming sense of peace.
One particularly emotional moment came in Dalarna, where I visited the Grannas Dala Horse Workshop. When I watched the artisans paint the iconic wooden horses, I thought of how traditions carry stories across generations. It reminded me of my own family and the traditions we cherish.
Read more: Thrillophilia Sweden Reviews