Swedish Tourist Association

Swedish Tourist Association flag

STF's sign on a hostel

Swedish Tourist Association (Svenska Turistföreningen, STF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting outdoor activities and tourism in Sweden. Founded in 1885, STF plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of the Swedish tourism industry, focusing on sustainable travel, hiking, and the appreciation of Sweden's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

History

The Swedish Tourist Association was established with the aim of facilitating access to Swedish nature and cultural sites for both domestic and international visitors. Over the years, STF has been instrumental in the creation and maintenance of trails, the publication of maps and guides, and the establishment of a network of accommodations, including mountain stations and hostels, across Sweden.

Activities

STF's activities are diverse and cater to a wide range of interests. These include:

• Trail Management: STF is responsible for the upkeep of numerous hiking and skiing trails across Sweden. This includes the famous Kungsleden (The King's Trail) in the north of Sweden, which attracts thousands of hikers and skiers annually.

• Accommodations: The organization operates a variety of accommodations tailored to outdoor enthusiasts. These range from full-service mountain stations to simpler mountain huts and hostels, strategically located in or near areas of natural beauty.

• Education and Courses: STF offers courses and guided tours aimed at increasing knowledge about outdoor life, nature conservation, and cultural history. These activities are designed to enhance the outdoor experience while promoting respect for the environment.

• Advocacy: As an advocate for sustainable tourism, STF works with governmental and non-governmental organizations to promote policies that protect Sweden's natural and cultural environments.

Membership

Membership in the Swedish Tourist Association offers several benefits, including discounts on accommodations, access to exclusive member trips, and a subscription to the STF magazine, which provides information on Swedish destinations, outdoor tips, and articles on environmental conservation.

Sustainability

Sustainability is a core principle of STF. The organization is committed to minimizing the environmental impact of tourism and encourages responsible travel practices among its members and the wider community. This includes promoting the use of public transportation to and from nature areas, the responsible disposal of waste, and respect for wildlife and natural habitats.

See Also

• Hiking in Sweden
• Sustainable Tourism
• Outdoor Activities in Sweden

External Links

Given the constraints, external links cannot be provided.