May 11, 2024

After a slow start and a nice breakfast at the hotel, I head out again. My knee is still a bit swollen from fluid, but it feels much better, and I think I can—and may—start walking again. As I step out of my room, a not so tall young man with a striking appearance asks if he can help me. It’s actually very welcome, since maneuvering the Wheelie through all the doors and down the long hallway isn’t easy. “You must be the hiker with the injured knee,” he says. “I heard about you.” He tells me he works part-time at the hotel and is from Nepal. He’s doing his Master’s at the nearby university. “If you love hiking, you must visit Nepal someday!”
I can see the pride in his dark eyes. It’s true—Nepal is a dream country for long-distance hikes, though definitely beyond my current budget. He gives me a tip: “Find a local guide, don’t go through expensive tour companies.” That fits perfectly with my travel style. Another dream destination added to the list…

I’m lucky today—the route is all on asphalt and gravel. It’s a long, monotonous road, but I feel my knee getting stronger with every kilometer. No rough trails or steep climbs. After a slightly awkward start, the walk feels great. It’s wonderful to be outside again. The weather’s better too, and I’ve entered Småland—a place I only knew before as the play area at IKEA.

Around 5 p.m., I cook dinner at a stunning picnic spot with a little swimming dock. Swimming though? Still a no-go—it’s too cold for me. I’m definitely not a cold-water hero.
But I’m enjoying this so much. This is amazing! After the warm meal, I walk a bit farther, and just before sunset, I leave the main path and find a wild camping spot by the water. I sleep like a rock.