Everyman’s Right could be a populist political movement, men’s dating etiquette or the name of a rock band. Although it’s none of those. It’s a legal concept giving everyone a chance to enjoy outdoor activities and collect natural products in the country’s forests, fells, lakes and rivers with few restrictions.
Walk, ski or cycle freely in the countryside except in gardens, near homes, in fields…and where there are angry trolls.
Stay or set up camp temporarily in the countryside…as long as your tent and sleeping bag are color coordinated.
Pick wild berries, mushrooms and flowers…as long as we don’t have to hear endless boring stories about your secret gathering spot.
Fish with a line and rod…Ha! Ha! you think you’re actually going to catch something with those!
Row, sail or use a motorboat on waterways with certain restrictions…like not using binoculars when watching nude bathers.
Walk, ski and fish on frozen lakes, rivers and the sea…have you lost your mind?!
Disturb other people or damage property…unless they are singing depressing, melancholy tango songs.
Disturb breeding birds…or breeding humans.
Disturb game animals…unless one is chewing on you.
Leave litter…unless it will be an important archeological discovery in the future.
Cut down live trees…unless one attacks you first.
Disturb the privacy of people’s homes…unless they invite you over to see their collection of stuffed wolverines.
Fish or hunt without the relevant permits…and don’t engage in Wife Carrying without a permit either.