Hestra is a small community in the highlands of Sweden’s Småland. The area is known for its miles of forests, desolate swamps and calm waters. The town lies at the foot of Isaberg. Here, a ski slope was built in 1937, only a few years after the sport had come to Sweden. Soon after, ski tourists traveled here by train from Gothenburg, as well as other cities, and Hestra started being called “Småland’s Åre”. Many locals were also attracted to the new sport and in 1938, the Hestra Ski & Sports Club, was founded. The nature around Hestra invites more than just skiing. There are hiking trails with beautiful picnic areas, winding rivers for paddling and lakes that are perfect for long-distance skating in the winter. Our best advice? Go ice-skating on Northern Vallsjön Lake and then light a bonfire next to the log shelter.