Southern Sweden's Countryside & Coast - 7 Days

Highlights

• Tour the Österlen countryside and stay on a farm
• Explore nature reserves, national parks, and islands
• Take boat tours, hike coastal cliffs, and go horseback riding

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Malmö, Transfer to Österlen, Farmstay & Spa

Välkommen! Welcome to Sweden! This Scandinavian country has a lot going for it. Not only is it known for its innovation in various fields like technology, design, and sustainability, but it also boasts immense natural beauty. Sweden's south, in particular, features a scenic coastline, unspoiled national parks, pleasant rivers, medieval cities, green meadows, and more. You'll see such highlights on a weeklong tour of the region.

The adventure kicks off in Malmö, a lively coastal city across the Öresund Strait from Copenhagen. Malmö's history dates back to the 1200s, and its residents hail from 170 countries, making it a melting pot of cultural diversity. Upon arrival, a driver will meet you at the airport, and from there, you'll drive about an hour to the southeastern end of the country and the Österlen, a bucolic region known for its centuries-old cottage, boutiques, and farm hotels. Your destination is one such farmstay, Örums Nygård, which is nestled in the countryside and boasts its own spa.

Day 2: Visit Smygehuk & Ystad, Dinner & Theater

In the morning, your driver will pick you up for a day trip to visit some highlights around the Österlen. Your first stop is the fishing village of Smygehuk. Located in the coastal county of Skåne, this charming locale sits at the southernmost point of Sweden. Here you can visit the harbor and snap photos of the incredible sea views before moving on to the next destination.

After Smygehuk, you'll continue to Ystad. This medieval port town is full of history, which is seen in its cobbled streets, sun-dappled squares, centuries-old churches, and colorful timber-and-brick homes. Upon arrival, enjoy a traditional Swedish lunch at one of the local eateries. Then hop on a bicycle and ride around town, stopping at museums, galleries, and major landmarks. One highlight is Greyfriars Abbey, a Franciscan monastery dating to the 13th century. Continue riding along the waterfront outside of town, where you can explore the countryside and the area's 25 miles (40 km) of sandy beaches.

Day 3: Transfer to Kalmar, Boat Tour

After breakfast, you'll transfer up the southeast coast for about 3.5 hours to Kalmar. Located on the Baltic Sea, this city has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, and even today its Gamla Stan (Old Town) is filled with buildings dating from the 16th-17th centuries. The most famous landmark here is the moat-fringed Kalmar Castle, a Renaissance-style fortress dating to the 13th century. It is the city's oldest landmark and has been the site of major historical events, including the formation of the Kalmar Union between Denmark, Norway, and Sweden in 1397.

Upon arrival, you'll get an overview of Kalmar and its history on a boat tour around the harbor area. During this 1.5-hour excursion, you'll enjoy stunning coastal views as your guide points out historical landmarks in the city skyline and on the shore. You'll travel down canals right alongside Old Town, and of course, you'll pass by the famous Kalmar Castle. At the end of the tour, you'll transfer to your hotel in the city and will have the rest of the day free.

Day 4: Day Trip to Öland

Leave early on a full-day trip just across the water from Kalmar to Öland. Sweden's second-largest island is filled with both natural beauty and historical landmarks. It boasts 75 nature reserves, hundreds of miles of unspoiled coastline, and well-preserved castles and fortress ruins. The idyllic scenery and pleasant weather have made Öland a favorite of visitors, including the Swedish royal family, who've made this island their summer getaway for over 100 years.

When you arrive on the island, you'll head to the historic ruins of Eketorp, an Iron Age fort located on the southeast end of Öland. Then, leave the car behind and continue on a scenic bike ride through rolling countryside, quaint villages, and along the stunning seascapes. End the day with a visit to Grankullavik, a fishing village that's popular in the summer due to its calm waters and beaches. Here, you'll learn about the island's rich maritime heritage and enjoy a fresh and delicious seafood feast.

Day 5: Transfer to Helsingborg, Horseback Riding in Söderåsen National Park

In the morning, you'll leave Kalmar on a 3.5-hour drive west through Sweden toward the west coast and the seaside metropolis of Helsingborg. You'll break up the drive with a stop in Söderåsen National Park, one of Northern Europe's largest protected woodlands. Covering an area of 6 square miles (16 sq km), this national park is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Its diverse landscapes include lush forests, soaring cliffs, and sparkling streams. You'll see it all on a 2.5-hour tour through the wilderness on horseback.

After the excursion, you'll continue on to Helsingborg. This charming city, located in the idyllic province of Skåne, has a fascinating past, much of which is immortalized in its well-preserved Old Town. Add to that a wealth of culture and magnificent coastal nature, and you have a dream destination offering something for everyone. Regarding food, Helsingborg's culinary culture focuses on local, seasonal produce. If you have a sweet tooth, try the city's famous pralines and licorice. Once here, you'll check into your hotel and have the rest of the day free to explore.

Day 6: Day Trip to Kullaberg Nature Reserve & Vineyard Tour

Today's day trip takes you to one of the crown jewels of Skåne province: the Kullaberg Nature Reserve. Located on a peninsula, this 29-square-mile (75 sq km) reserve is known for its rugged coastline and dramatic sea cliffs. On a hike along its famous Mölle Trail, you'll witness the majesty of this region and see its resident wildlife, which includes red deer, foxes, wild boars, and grazing horses and sheep. This circuitous route covers 5.3 miles (8.5 km) and takes two-to-three hours to complete. During the walk, you'll pass cultural landmarks like the Kullen Lighthouse, which dates to the early 20th century.

When the hike is over, you'll get back in the car and head just outside the park to Södåkra Vineyard, a charming 18th-century farm. During a group visit, you'll tour the facility and taste the vineyard's award-winning wines. Throughout the experience, you'll learn about the history of viticulture in the area, plus take a stroll of the vineyard to see the grapes. At the end of the tour, you'll return to your hotel in Helsingborg.

Day 7: Depart Sweden

Unfortunately, the adventure has come to an end. If there's time, you can cross over the strait to Copenhagen for a few final hours of sightseeing. Stroll the pedestrian street and shopping district of Strøget, or walk along the scenic Nyhavn (New Harbor) waterfront. Here, you can admire the 17th-century canal lined with colorful historic homes and where old wooden ships are moored. There are also famous medieval castles like Rosenborg and Frederiksborg. At the appropriate time, you'll transfer back to Helsingborg and the airport, where you'll catch your flight home. As they say in Sweden, farväl!

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