The Blomsterstigen trail

Six kilometers of easy mountain hiking around Skurdalshöjden. Panoramic views in all directions from the Temple of Winds at the summit. The trail starts and ends in the middle of the village.

A trail with history

After the railway to Storlien was inaugurated in 1882, Dr. Ernst Westerlund began his summer practice here. He quickly recognized Storlien's suitability as an air health resort. Patients flocked from all over Sweden, as well as from Norway, Finland, and many other countries, to be treated by the "miracle doctor." Starting in 1888, the "air guests" stayed at the newly built hotel owned by the Selander family during the summer months. The doctor—and all the flowers—arrived in July.



The spa hotel was located on the plateau northeast of the railway station—where Fjäll-lyorna now stand. It was expanded over the 30 years that Dr. Westerlund practiced in Storlien. The hotel was known by various names: Norska Hotellet, Nya Hotellet, Storliens Sanatorium, Storliens Pensionat, and from 1905, Högfjällspensionatet.

Dr. Westerlund's treatment method focused on unlocking the patients' own healing power and encouraging them to take responsibility for their recovery. He prescribed "regimens"—regular life patterns—often involving strict diets, practical work, and rest. However, the most important thing was to "get exercise"! It was well-known that spending time and walking at high altitudes was a powerful stimulant for both body and mind, preferably at heights above 600 meters above sea level.

The doctor introduced the system of benches for resting. Many benches were donated by satisfied patients and were given names. Engineer Danielsson from Östersund oversaw the work of paving the path that runs around Vargklyftan and beyond. Patients were prescribed to walk to a specific bench, depending on their strength. They could either head towards the "Top," where the Temple of Winds now stands, or along the "Flower Path." The doctor often sat on his slightly secluded bench to observe whether the patients followed his instructions—which were often quite unique!

On the doctor’s orders, patients were eventually asked to carry a stone and place it at the spot we now call Ernstkumlet. Feel free to do the same, and have a great hike!