…is a tract of land on a long peninsula found just south from Nynäshamn. So close to the city that, with just a quick drive by car or a bus ride to its entrance, one can enjoy the archipelago wilderness that is so special for the Stockholm area. Consisting of over 1000 hectares (about 2,500 acres), Käringboda has the Baltic Sea hugging its northern and southern shorelines. In between, a wild growth of birch, fur, juniper, maple, ash and splendid oak join forces with a cultural farming landscape that live harmoniously together through the seasons.
Photo: The frozen bay is an example of the terrain near Kärgingboda Nature Reserve
Responsibility for the reserve’s upkeep and preservation lies on the shoulders of The Archipelago Foundation in Stockholm County. There is one long access road through the peninsula that covers most of the area and several paths allowing visitors to hike deeper into side areas. Toilets and parking areas are quite adequately spaced along the access road as well as natural beaches can be found for recreation. The foundation has a house that can be rented and used for group activities. This is appropriately named “Sågen”, or sawmill, and had earlier functioned with this capacity.
Winter is probably the least likely time to visit Käringboda, but I found several people out skiing across the bay or, like myself, taking a long walk. I was fascinated with all the majestic oak trees, a reminder of my Ohioan background. I was also attracted to the fact that a few farms actively exist within the reserve and mirrored a commitment to a living cultural landscape where nature and humans co-inhabit peacefully.
Photo: Oak trees in co-existence with a living cultural inheritance and typical of many places in the archipelago around Stockholm.
In spite of the dismal grey of winter, the snow gave indications of deer, fox, snowshoe hare and wild swine activity as these live amongst the sharp hillsides, cliffs and deeply cut valleys of Käringboda. One can only imagine what the place will look like this spring and upcoming summer when everything has leaves and is much greener and alive. Well worth a visit anytime of the year!
