Although the name of the small rocky islets, "skerries", comes from the ancient Scandinavian word "sker", which means "rock in the middle of the sea", there are such islands also in other countries, not only in Sweden. They are found in Norway, and even in Russia. But, perhaps, only the Swedes managed to turn the creations of Mother Nature into a national treasure and a tourist attraction.
The Swedish skerries are located off the coast near the city of Gothenburg. They look like bizarre-shaped giant gray stones with juicy greenery and bright fragrant flowers breaking through. Sometimes one can even find local berries here. Most commonly, the skerries are covered with moss and lichen. Shrubs and scrubby trees also grow here, but rarely. The main difference between the skerries in Sweden and other countries is the rare thickets of wild rose. Bright berries adorn the gloomy gray rocks like a scattering of precious rubies. The modest northern beauty of the skerries has long fascinated the Swedes. They are happy to come here every weekend. A quiet and peaceful holiday away from the bustling metropolis, what could be more pleasant?
The Swedish skerries are also appreciated by foreign visitors, who like to come here to fish or just take a boat trip along the picturesque unusual islets. For more than 150 years, almost 2 million tourists visit this natural wonder every year.
The "white nights" season is especially popular among travelers. Tourists can stay right on the skerries, in one of the country houses that are rented out for the summer by locals and companies. Some islets have restaurants serving traditional Swedish food made with fresh fish. For music and fun, tourists can always go to the nearest city of Gothenburg, walk around the medieval fortress, visit museums and galleries, or go to the famous Liseberg amusement park.