Fulufjället National Park

In September 2002,within the framework of the International PAN Parks Launch of the first three PAN Parks, I had the opportunity to participate in a fieldtrip to Fulufjället. My visit to the park coincided with the official opening ceremony,which made it for me a particularly lasting memory.

One of my most vivid recollections of the trip is the picnic lunch held at the Roasjoarna fishing camp after we had walked up to the plateau. The September sun shone as we ate our smoked fish, salad and bread. How much more special it all tasted when we were told that the fish had been smoked locally and the flat bread had been baked that morning, using a local recipe, by the mother of our guide.

The vista was wonderful: endless hills and woods, the light constantly changing as rain showers flitted around, so clear I felt that I could count every leaf on every tree. And for me, living in the busy Netherlands, it was almost unthinkable that such peace could exist so close to busy industrialized countries.

Still to come was the lovely waterfall of Njupeskär. The miraculous view of this cascade of pure water was an unforgettable experience and made me understand why the waterfall is the centerpiece of the park’s attractions.

I was also very much impressed by the protective wooden walkway from the new and beautifully designed visitor centre to the base of the waterfall. It’s an enchanting and informative introduction to the history and flora and fauna of this region and is easily accessible to almost anyone with an interest.

When I am writing this, I can feel an urge to go back, to meet the people again, to see the seasons, the changing flora, the way the light is at a particular time of day, to feel the peace. A fascinating area, kind, amiable people, peace, delicious local food and long, long vistas: these are my most lasting memories of Fulufjället, this is why I want to return and explore more of its many faces.

by Sue Clark