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The largest of the Scandinavian countries and arguably the most geographically diverse, Sweden boasts a staggering 100,000 lakes. It borders on Norway in the west, on Finland in the north-east, on the Gulf of Bothnia in the east, on the Baltic Sea in the south. Much of the country is sparsely inhabited, with Lapland lying beyond the Arctic Circle and Norrland consisting of some of the densest forest in Europe. The country that brought you IKEA, Greta Garbo and Absolut Vodka can almost be forgiven for letting the smorgasbord, the Volvo and all those zinc-creamed tennis fans out. Visitors can experience the magic of age-old traditions, historical sites and breathtaking settings in practically every part of this unique country. The most popular tourist destination is the Swedish capital, Stockholm. The grand old city by the water is known for its unique wonders such as the Vasa Ship; its elegance and grandeur, typified by the Royal Palace and surrounds, and its wonderfully preserved Old Town, "Gamla Stan", with 13th-century roots, subterranean vaults, church spires and narrow, cobbled laneways. Just a short distance to the north of Stockholm, lies the town of Uppsala, with its colossal Cathedral - not only Scandinavia's largest but also tallest church. Uppsala is a university town, steeped in academic tradition. A walk through the old town dominated by its churches, castle views and dignified old centres of learning, are balanced by open gardens, parks and canal views.
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