The patchwork quilt of farmers’ fields that is the central part of the region is famous in Sweden for its fresh produce and this small region is dotted with quaint villages and bustling small towns. And best of all, the countryside here is always nearby and easily accessible.
Catch a boat
Västervik on the south east coast is as pretty as pretty can be. And the archipelago of the same name on its doorstep isn’t bad either. Between June and August, you can catch a ferry from town into the midst of the 5,000 islands that fan out from the town’s harbour. You should do this.
Beach life in southern Sweden
Miles of sandy beaches and sand dunes? In Sweden? It’s true. Swedes love their beaches here in the south and you will too if your conference or meeting is close to some of the gorgeous beaches. You can sun and beach it up at Tylösand, Mellbystrand, Varberg and Laholm in Halland on the west coast, as well as on the east coast at Skanör, Sandhammaren, Haväng and Åhus.
Stenhuvud National Park
Stenhuvud National Park is on the south east coast in the Österlen area. ‘Stenhuvud’ means ‘Sten’s head’ in English. The ‘head’ is actually a 97 metre-tall hill looking out over the Baltic Sea and on a clear day offers fantastic views of the Danish island of Bornholm. Take the guided tour to make the most of your trip here.
Österlen
The area of Österlen in southern Sweden is a fabulously beautiful place famous for its undulating, lush landscapes. Noteworthy towns include Kivik on the north coast, renowned for its apples and cider making, Simrishamn on the south coast and Tomelilla in the middle of the province. Also look out for the famous south-coast town of Ystad, the setting for Henning Mankell’s books about detective inspector Kurt Wallander. And yes. There are mile long sandy beaches just outside town – just like in the television series.
Hovs Hallar
Hovs Hallar is a nature reserve comprising coastal cliffs that offer fantastic views across the Kattegat and Laholm Bay on the west coast. It is part of the Bjäre Peninsula, located between Båstad and the fabulous seaside resort of Torekov. Here you can see spectacular broken precipices, sea stacks and caves and you can hike its advanced 3 km trail. Guided tours are available.