Selånger - Bräcke
- 9 days, self-guided -

OVERVIEW

The St. Olav Path, or S:t Olavsleden, is the world’s northernmost pilgrim path, stretching 580 km from Selånger in Sweden to Trondheim in Norway. The trail leads over mountains, through deep forests and along lakes, passing historic sites connected to the legacy of St. Olav. It is often called Scandinavia’s answer to the Camino de Santiago in Spain. The St. Olav Path begins in Selånger, near Sundsvall on

Sweden’s east coast. The landscape here has a surprisingly mild, almost Mediterranean character in summer. From there, the trail leads through peaceful forests, along mirror-like lakes and quiet countryside roads. This first part has more asphalt than the other stages of the trail. More experienced hikers may choose to combine some of the shorter stages–ask us for the options.

01. Travel day – Overnight in Selånger or Sundsvall

Choose a hotel in Sundsvall or a B&B in Selånger near the official starting point.

02. Selånger – Matfors (ca. 20 km)

The route starts at the ruins of Selånger Church, where Olav Haraldsson began his journey to Norway. Easy walking through farmland.

03. Matfors – Stöde (ca. 24 km)

A lovely walk along Lake Stöde with quiet spots to rest or swim.

04. Stöde – Viskan (ca. 17 km)

Easy walking through green countryside towards the geographical centre of Sweden.

05. Viskan – Fränsta (ca. 17 km)

A pleasant day with a visit to Fränsta Church, home to a 13th-century statue of St. Olav.

06. Fränsta – Borgsjö (ca. 13 km)

Through quiet country roads to Borgsjö, known for the legend of St. Olav’s spring.

07. Borgsjö – Lombäcken (ca. 17 km)

Forest paths and gradual climbs. Overnight in a simple forest cabin without electricity.

08. Lombäcken – Bräcke (ca. 26 km)

Continue through woods and villages to Bräcke, a former railway town with a Wild West feel.

09. Travel day

Your accommodation is just a short walk from Bräcke train station, with onward connections to Stockholm.

Optional

You can divide this stage into two walks: Matfors – Stöde (ca. 26 km) into Matfors – Nedansjö (ca. 10 km) and Nedansjö – Stöde (ca. 14 km).

Most meals are included, but this depends on the accommodation chosen at each location. We are happy to walk through the itinerary with you so you know exactly which meals are included where. Gluten-free or vegetarian meals are possible (may cost extra). Vegan meals are available in most places, but might be challenging for some accommodations - but we can help with menu options. If meals are not available, either a restaurant is nearby or a kitchen is available for self-catering.