Water is central to Sweden’s geography. The country has a long Baltic coastline, a west coast on the Skagerrak and Kattegat, and vast inland lake and river systems.
## Major lakes Sweden’s largest lakes include: - **Vänern** — the largest lake in Sweden and one of the largest in Europe. - **Vättern** - **Mälaren** - **Hjälmaren** - **Storsjön**
## Major rivers Important rivers include: - **Göta älv** - **Dalälven** - **Torne River** (*Torne älv*) - **Lule River** (*Lule älv*) - **Ume River** (*Ume älv*) - **Ångerman River** (*Ångermanälven*) - **Kalix River** (*Kalixälven*) - **Klarälven**
Several northern rivers are important for hydropower, while some remain notable for conservation and fishing.
## Coasts and seas - **Baltic Sea** coastline dominates the east. - **Gulf of Bothnia** borders northern eastern Sweden. - **Skagerrak** and **Kattegat** shape the west coast. - Coastal environments range from sandy beaches in the south to rocky archipelagos in the west and east.
## Archipelagos Notable archipelagos include: - **Stockholm archipelago** - **Gothenburg archipelago** - **Bohuslän coast islands** - Island groups around **Blekinge**, **Småland**, and the Gulf of Bothnia
## Canals and navigation - **Göta Canal** is one of Sweden’s most famous waterways, linking lakes and channels across southern Sweden. - Inland shipping has historical importance, especially through the **Göta älv** system and the great lakes.
## Waterfalls and wetlands - **Njupeskär** in Fulufjället is often cited as Sweden’s tallest waterfall. - Wetland systems, peat bogs, river deltas, and coastal shallows are important ecological zones.
## Beaches and bathing - Popular beach and bathing areas are found in **Skåne**, **Halland**, **Gotland**, **Öland**, and around many inland lakes. - Public swimming culture is widespread during warmer months.
## Water use and recreation Swedish waterways support: - Drinking water supplies - Hydropower - Fishing - Ferries and boating - Paddling and kayaking - Tourism and second-home recreation
