Land based activities

Vässarö has a whole set of nature instruction trails, but most of them are in the Swedish language. They are intended to teach the scouts names and facts of Swedish plants and animals.

Of course you are welcome to use them, but our capacity to help you with names other than Swedish or Latin is very limited. Trails and activities that you can handle without knowing Swedish are the following:

The Knot Box

Identify and tie some 30 different knots. The box contains instructions, ropes on which to practice and ready made knots to identify.
Duration: 1-3 hrs

The Nature Walk

A walk that demonstrates the different types of nature we have on the island. Discussing the difference between wet and dry areas, much or little sunlight, what lives and grows here and there. Not primarily concerned with naming plants but at understanding how they are adapted to survive in their respective habitats. The trail goes along the southern part of the island, and it is possible to swim at various places along the way. Normally a Programme staff member guides the group leader along the trail the day before the activity, and then the group leader guides his/her own group. Discuss this with the Programme staff during the planning. There are magnifying glasses at the Programme Office that you may borrow.
Duration: 2-3 hrs

The Obstacle Course

Climb, crawl and balance your way around the obstacle course (old and worn clothes are recommended!).
Duration: 30 minutes

Orienteering

A big sport in Scandinavia. Our programmes suit both the beginner and the advanced user of the map and compass. Maps may be borrowed at the Programme Office. Please consult the Programme staff for a demonstration of the different options.
Duration: 1 hour to half a day

The Trapper Trail

At the turn of the century North America trappers hunted animals for their fur. They would hike along a trail which was carefully planned for their ingenious traps. For efficiency they built bridges, lifts and ladders adapting and utilising the native habitat for their benefit. This trail demonstrates some aspects of their lifestyle together with their various devices. Along the trail we also talk about the nature we see around us. The traps are adapted to animals native to Sweden, and are prohibited by law. Naturally, they are safely secured and cannot be used "properly". The walk is guided by a Programme staff member.
Duration: 2-3 hrs.

The Rope Works Box

Learn to whip and splice ropes. Instructions and tools can be borrowed and the Programme Office sells the materials necessary for different examples.
Duration: 1-3 hrs

The "Träck -Track"

Not only "footprints" but other types of evidence left by various animals native to Sweden. Finishing with a memory test for those who paid attention! There is a booklet available about the animals.

Vässarö International Friendship Award

Get to know participants from other camp groups! Gather a patrol of 5-8 scouts/guides with members from at least 3 different countries. Together you carry out at least five assignments given to you. When this is accomplished you will receive a Friendship badge.

Water studies

A backpack with magnifying glasses, buckets and bag nets. You create your own activity along the shore, looking at plant and animal life in the water.
Duration: 2-3 hrs

Work for Vässarö!

Vässarö is owned by the scouts and maintained by volunteers only. All scouts are invited to do their share for the island. There is always work to be done! If your group wants to help out for half a day, just let us know and we will tell you what you can do.