Article: From Spain to the Nordics – with Berta Garrido Zabala
From Spain to the Nordics – with Berta Garrido Zabala
Some people feel drawn to explore new places, climates, landscapes, and ways of life. In this interview, we meet Berta, who followed that pull from Spain to the Nordics. From finishing her studies to building a life surrounded by forests, seasons, and adventures with her dog Atlas, she shares her story of courage and discovery.
Could you tell us what inspired you to move from Spain to the Nordics?
Ever since I was young, I felt a strong pull toward the North, although back then I didn’t realise there was a “north” far beyond northern Spain. I was finishing my bachelor’s degree in Madrid when I got the opportunity to spend a year in Finland. I completely fell in love with Finland, and with the Nordics in general, especially because I had the chance to travel around quite a bit. After my bachelor’s, I moved to Sweden for my master’s degree, and it slowly became home. I’ve been here for almost seven years now, and I truly love living here.
What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced moving abroad?
Without a doubt, being far away from family and some close friends. I’m quite independent and deeply love the life I’ve built with Atlas, but distance means missing important moments back home. Life keeps moving for everyone, and time passes regardless. I sometimes wish there were a way to live this life while also being more present back home.
Do you have any tips for finding the courage to move to a completely new and different place?
Just do it! It might feel scary, and honestly, it probably is! But you’ll never know if it’s right for you unless you try. You can always move back. When I first came to Sweden, I wasn’t sure it was the place for me, and for the first few months, I was convinced I’d end up somewhere else. Then, one day, something just clicked. I’m so glad I gave it time and stayed.
Has the way you spend time outdoors changed since moving to the Nordics? If so, how?
Oh, for sure!! Absolutely. I’ve always spent time outdoors as I grew up with horses, and most of my free time was spent with them. But since moving to the Nordics, the outdoors has become an even bigger part of who I am. I spend countless hours in the forest every day walking Atlas, and I love how close nature is to where I live. You also learn to truly live with the seasons: autumn means mushroom hunting, spring and summer mean paddleboarding. I love camping and hiking all year round, and I enjoy figuring out how to adapt to the weather rather than avoiding it. When life as a PhD student gets intense, I know I need two things: training, and getting lost in nature.
What has been your most memorable adventure with Atlas, and why does it stand out?
Our very first solo road trip through Sweden and Norway. Until then, I had always traveled with other people, but a few years ago I packed the car, took Atlas, and went on our first solo adventure. I still remember the first night camping and thinking, what on earth am I doing sleeping here? But it was such an incredible experience. We explored so many places, slept in the most beautiful spots, and had so much fun. Since then, there have been many more solo trips, but that first one will always stand out.
What dreams or next steps do you imagine for you and Atlas as you look ahead?
Honestly, the list is long! One big dream is to move even further north. From our travels, I’ve completely fallen in love with northern Sweden, and especially northern Norway. We’ve already spent four summers road-tripping through Norway, and living there for a while would be a dream. I’m sure Atlas would love it too. I’m also very set on getting a rooftop tent or a van so we can explore even more. I’m finishing my doctorate this year, which means many new opportunities are opening up. I don’t know exactly where or what’s next, but I do know one thing for sure: whatever comes, we’ll have an amazing time together.
Berta is wearing the Minna Fleece Jacket Green, size M
Berta’s journey reminds us that sometimes the bravest thing we can do is follow the pull of the unknown. Whether it’s moving to a new country, exploring the forests around us, or simply embracing our everyday life — and, of course, cherishing the bonds we share along the way, like her loyal companion, Atlas. Follow Berat and Atlas journey on Instagram here.
Discover more stories of inspiring women here.
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