Tyresta National Park
Stockholms län
Tyresta National Park, located about 20 km southeast of central Stockholm in Stockholm County, Sweden, is renowned for its vast untouched forest landscape, which includes some of the oldest pine trees in southern Sweden, dating up to 400 years old. The park spans approximately 19.7 km² and is surrounded by a nature reserve, together forming a protected area of about 47 km². Its terrain features a rift valley landscape unique for the region, with ridge tops dominated by scotch pine and lowlands by Norwegian spruce, alongside broadleaf species like aspen, birch, and alder. The park supports remarkable biodiversity, harboring up to 8,000 animal species, many reliant on the primeval forest habitat. Tyresta also contains several lakes such as Årsjön and Långsjön, and cultural elements including historical buildings in Tyresta by, an old village with 19th-century timber houses and archaeological sites dating back to the Iron Age and Viking period. In 1999, a significant forest fire affected about 10% of the park, but natural regeneration has been ongoing since. The park is managed by the Tyrestaskogen Foundation and offers well-marked trails, including one accessible for strollers, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and recreational visitors.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to explore Tyresta National Park during late spring to early autumn for optimal weather and accessibility. Purchasing tickets or passes in advance is not required, but checking the official website for any temporary closures or guided tours is recommended. There are well-maintained trails suitable for all ages, including stroller-friendly paths. Discounts may be available for groups or educational visits. Parking and public transport options are available near Tyresta by, the park's visitor center area.
Interesting facts
- •Tyresta National Park contains pine trees up to 400 years old, some of the oldest in southern Sweden.
- •The park hosts around 8,000 animal species, four times more than managed forests in the region.
- •About 10% of the park was affected by a major wildfire in 1999, which required extensive firefighting efforts including water drops by six helicopters.
- •Tyresta by, the park's historic village, features timber houses dating back to the 19th century and archaeological remains from the Iron Age and Viking period.
History
Tyresta National Park was established in 1993 as Sweden's 23rd national park, following decades of conservation efforts to protect one of the last remaining old-growth forests near Stockholm.
Initially, local farmers used the forest for subsistence until the early 20th century, when plans for extensive logging emerged but were prevented by landowners preserving key forest areas.
In 1936, Stockholm city purchased the forest to safeguard its natural values.
The park faced threats from development in the 1970s and 1980s, leading to the creation of the surrounding nature reserve in 1986 and the formal national park designation in 1993.
A major wildfire in 1999 burned approximately 450 hectares, challenging conservation but also fostering ecological renewal.
Place Guide
Tyresta byIron Age to 19th century
A historical village within the park featuring well-preserved 19th-century timber houses, traditional farm buildings, and archaeological sites including runestones and burial grounds from the Iron Age and Viking era. It serves as the cultural heart of the national park with visitor facilities such as a café, shop, and National Park House offering exhibitions and lectures.
Old-growth ForestsNatural, centuries old
Extensive areas of untouched coniferous forest dominated by ancient scotch pine and Norwegian spruce, some trees reaching ages of up to 400 years. The forest ecosystem supports a rich biodiversity including many species dependent on primeval forest habitats.
Lakes and Wetlands
Several lakes and wetlands within the park such as Årsjön, Långsjön, and Mörtsjön provide important habitats for aquatic and bird life and offer scenic spots for visitors to enjoy nature and wildlife observation.
Stensjöborg Ancient FortMedieval period or earlier
An archaeological site of an ancient fortification located near Stensjön lake, representing historical human presence and defense structures in the area.
Contact
Phone: 08-741 08 76
