Countryside pleasures
Ideas for restful and adventurous activities
CONTENTS: Feature – a tranquil tour of Skåne Cycling Riding Beach life, sailing, diving Paddling Walking Eco-tourism, bird-watching, national parks Climbing, caves, paragliding, downhill skiing Golf Fishing, hunting Map Tourist information centres
C OU NT RYSIDE EVENTS
Although a relatively small region, Skåne is the host – past and present – for many entertaining and prestigious countryside events, many of them annual. They have an international flavour that attracts participants and spectators from all over the world. The Scandinavian Masters golf tournament has been held several times at various golf courses in Skåne. Keep your eyes peeled to make sure you don’t miss the next one!
The Solheim Cup golf tournament (the women’s equivalent to the Ryder Cup) has been held at Barsebäck Golf & Country Club. The annual Falsterbo Horse Show attracts the international dressage and showjumping elite to Skåne.
4-7 8-9 10-11 12-13 14-15 16-17 18-19 20-21 22-23 24-26 27 28
In addition to these examples, you’ll find countless well-known art tours, the world’s biggest cod fishing festival, sensational sandcastle competitions and much, much more. You can find the latest information about events at www.skane.com.
The Flyinge Days and many major dressage shows are audience-friendly equestrian events that attract great interest even beyond Sweden’s borders.
Published by: Position Skåne | Produced by: Navigator | Cover photography: skane.com@sydpol.com | Other photography: Position Skåne © Thomas Althin p. 25, Position Skåne © Flyinge AB p. 10, Position Skåne © Lasse Davidsson p. 7, Malmö Turism, Alexander Brandel p. 21, Anders Ekstrand p. 26, Karl-Einar Löfqvist p. 7, Lasse Modin p. 3-5, 9, Position Skåne © sydpol.com p. 2-3, 5-11, 13-20, 22-24, 26, Position Skåne © Helene Toresdotter p. 2-3, 10, 12 | Prepress: Printing 2005 | Errors and omissions excepted
2 | Skånska upplevelser
Welcome to the best of both worlds Skåne is both remote and accessible. New, but still familiar. Exciting and reassuring at the same time. And with the European continent within easy reach. What other province boasts more than 150 nature reserves and three national parks, offering journeys of discovery both great and small? There’s adventure for everyone here. The contrasts create variety and excitement. From the wilderness highlands and the extensive forests to billowing hills, the sea and wide sandy beaches in the blink of an eye. A highly diverse landscape that stimulates your curiosity and your inner child. Park the car and get to know nature on foot or by bicycle on one of the many trails that criss-cross the whole of Skåne. There’s ample accommodation along
the route in guesthouses, hotels, youth hostels and cottages.
as well as the Ystad-based Inspector Wallander film series.
Traditional and inventive The food traditions in Skåne mean you definitely needn’t bother packing lunch or cooking dinner. The numerous authentic restaurants, cafés and inns guarantee that your visit turns into something special, far from convenience food and ready meals. Skåne also brings you close to culture. Craftspeople and artists have open studios in rural settings. And there are the poets, writers and, not least, the filmmakers. Skåne has been the setting for many major Swedish films, among them Bergman’s “The Seventh Seal”, and Astrid Lindgren’s “Ronja the Robber’s Daughter” and “The Brothers Lionheart”,
Relax and unwind On your own, with a guide or with friends you can ride, paddle, climb, sail, play golf, explore caves or dive as the mood takes you – all year round! You can even carve down well-prepared pistes on the northeastern slopes of Hallandsåsen. The sea, lakes and streams offer fishing of all kinds. If you have a strong hunting instinct, there are great opportunities for bagging game, both fur and feather. Wherever you choose to stay when you visit Skåne, adventure is just round the corner.
Countryside pleasures | 3
– F E AT U R E –
A tranquil tour of skåne A warm spring morning in late May. It’s just after eight, and the long stretches of sandy beaches are deserted. One earlymorning bather is swimming in the still water, and a little further out two kayakers glide past, paddling with a dreamlike rhythm. The red, elegantly streamlined craft seem to be melting, shimmering like a mirage, into the sea. There’s the tang of seaweed and salt on the warm breeze as we bowl along the water’s edge on good, firm sand towards the fishing village of Vitemölla. 4 | Countryside pleasures
– F E AT U R E –
Äpplets hus (the House of Apples) in Kivik is near Stenshuvud. After sampling some cider accompanied by delicious snacks we work our way upwards towards the national park area – a long and gruelling climb that demands great concentration. We then get to the summit of the mountain on foot. The scent of woodbine accompanies us through the shady beech forest.
“The heat haze bathes the whole landscape in a strange light” We’re on a cycling holiday in Skåne, starting at Haväng in Österlen, where we arrived yesterday. Ahead of us lies a week’s pleasurable pedalling, all the way along the coast to Malmö, staying at youth hostels, guesthouses, hotels and farms. Skepparpsgården youth hostel in Haväng is one of Skåne’s typically idyllic places – a half-timbered farm in a nature reserve that’s enchantingly, heartachingly beautiful. We don’t have time to do anything more than unload the cycles from the car before we’re pedalling towards the undulating hills of Brösarp. Then we aim for Alunbruket in Andrarum with its coffee house, said to be the oldest in Skåne. Visitors have been able to enjoy a coffee here since 1930. The pleasantly winding asphalt roads lead through extremely varied scenery, from sweeping heaths with grazing horses to beech forests and countryside with stately spruce and pine.
The park alternates between forests, orchid meadows and sandy heaths. The summit of the ancient rocks is like a bald head. The vista over eastern Skåne really opens out from here on a clear day like today. A CRIME TO RUSH Österlen seems at its most beautiful in the evening. The heat haze bathes the whole landscape in a strange light as much later we roll south towards our overnight accommodation in the fishing village of Brantevik – after finding time to fit in a couple of unscheduled visits to both the gallery and the pottery. Pedalling at a comfortable speed we pass soft goldenyellow rape fields, and lush meadows with well-fed cattle that ruminate indolently while staring at us. The farms, with their whitewashed Skåne longhouses, have flowers in their window boxes, and everything is redolent of a timeless idyll. Discovering Skåne from the saddle of a cycle takes its own time, and we’re definitely not in a rush...
A VISIT TO THE APPLE KINGDOM After our coffee break we pedal on, past the magnificent Christinehofs Slott (castle), to Ravlunda bränneri (distillery), where we briefly wallow in nostalgia with a visit to the moped museum. The churchyard in Ravlunda, also worth a visit, is the resting place of legendary author Fritiof Nilsson Piraten. The epitaph on his gravestone means: “Below lie the remains of a man who habitually put off everything until tomorrow. However, he gave this up eventually, and actually died on 31 Jan 1972.” But now it’s a new day, and having reached the Vitemölla strandbackar nature reserve we say farewell to the sea for a while, and take the main road to Kivik and the Apple Kingdom. Countryside pleasures | 5
– F E AT U R E –
RESTFUL AUTUMN WALKS Barely six months later it’s time to see the landscape again, this time on foot and starting in the west. Fleeting mists cover the Kullahalvön peninsula, which this morning looks as if it’s merging with the sea here, where the Öresund and the Kattegatt meet. Breakfast at the fine old Grand Hotel in Mölle is leisurely. The summer tourists have long since left, and now the little coastal community is slowly returning to normal. MÖLLE BY THE SEA At the foot of Kullaberg is Mölle, a very well known seaside resort at the turn of the last century. Its “broadminded” resort life put the spotlight on Swedish sin far beyond the country’s borders. We are a few enthusiasts who deliberately chose this autumnal setting for a long weekend, to enjoy a wonderful combination of comfortable accommodation, food, walking and culture. Skåne is perhaps at its most beautiful in the autumn, when you have the countryside – beaches, forests and plains – almost entirely to yourself. There’s a good choice of inns and cafés that are open all year, so it’s quite safe to leave your packed lunch at home. BETWEEN SEA AND SKY Today’s about Kullaberg, one of more than 150 nature reserves in Skåne, whose majestic gneiss cliffs rise almost 70 metres straight out of the sea. We’re carrying light packs with a map and guidebook. The path winds its way
6 | Skånska Countryside upplevelser pleasures
through the dense beech forest, whose leaves are now changing colour slowly to russet and gold. The path eventually leads past the golf course, with perhaps the best view in Sweden, and up to Kullen lighthouse. Despite the grey weather, several golfers are out, totally absorbed by the little white ball. There’s been a beacon on Kullaberg for centuries, and the brightest lighthouse lamps in Sweden still flash there, day and night.
“A wonderful combination of comfortable accomodation, food, walking and culture” We meet two enthusiastic rock-climbers on the way down into one of the deep ravines, and a little further on catch a glimpse of a solitary angler on a rocky ledge, his long spinning rod held in one hand. It’s easy to spend hours by the lighthouse, just being. Listening to the sea. Meditating. By now the sun has begun to gradually disperse the veils of mist, and the contours of the landscape emerge. Somewhere far below, where waves break against the steep cliffs, is Nimis, the controversial artwork constructed from thousands of pieces of flotsam and jetsam by artist Lars Vilks. But we can’t make it down there today. On our way back we see some divers entering
– F E AT U R E –
the water from a small boat. The wildlife underwater is said to be something quite special out there, and there’s even a nature trail beneath the surface for divers with experience and curiosity. GOURMET SKÅNE ALONG THE SKÅNELEDEN Skåne is ideal for relaxed walking. The province has a good network of way-marked trails, and all the by-ways seem to be just made for long, leisurely walks. Next morning we continue by hire car to Genarp and Häckeberga on the Romeleåsen ridge to continue our walk along the Skåneleden. Our starting point is Häckeberga Wärdshus, where we’ve also booked accommodation. The restaurant is included in the Culinary Skåne programme with almost 30 others that enthusiastically sustain Skåne’s culinary culture. With this evening’s five-course menu in mind, we have a spring in our steps as we head for The Lodge. Our journey of adventure through Skåne continues. Tomorrow we head northwards for a day with the Icelandic horses at Wisseltofta farm, outside Osby – wild Viking-style riding in the deep forests.
Cenneth Sparby, former inhabitant of Västerbotten (northern Sweden), travel editor and cookery book author – and now a freelance writer – relishes constant movement. He describes with particular affection destinations and sights where muscle-power is essential. Cenneth walks, cycles, skis, inlines and kayaks to get closer to new environments and people. He has a particular preference for Skåne, a province he constantly returns to in his travels and feature stories.
Countryside pleasures | 7
C YCLI N G
Strenuous slopes and leisurely plain Skåne has more than 800 kilometres of way-marked cycle trails, giving you virtually unlimited opportunities to explore every corner of the province. The season is long, and you can cycle from early spring until late autumn. The majority of routes offer easy cycling suitable for all the family.
DID YOU KNOW that Skåne gives you the chance to try something out of the ordinary in the countryside? In the long valley from Björnstorp to Veberöd, beneath the Romeleåsen ridge, a track with old railway inspection cycles winds through the beautiful countryside, by turns forest and open views. 8 | Countryside pleasures
For those that seek them, the Skåne landscape also offers tough challenges
FOR MORE INFORMATION about everything you need for a cycling holiday in Skåne, visit www.skane.com/cycling
The island of Ven, in the middle of the Öresund, is just one of many cycling paradises in Skåne Wherever you are, there’s always a beautiful view
Österlen is simply made for enjoyable trips for “foodies” that combine relaxing cycling with luxurious lunches and generous gourmet dinners. The closeness to water, pretty villages, beautiful stately homes, fabulous views, ridges and open scenery are typical of southern Skåne – crammed with things worth seeing and never far from a cosy restaurant, inn or café where you can relax and let your pedalling muscles recover. “Bathing trips” If you want to combine a cycle tour with pleasurable dips, you could choose the south coast, with Skanör and Falsterbo, or make your way to the Bjärehalvön peninsula and northwest Skåne, where you are faced by the sea on three sides. Well-known resorts such as Torekov, Kattvik, Vejbystrand and Mölle tempt you with beaches, sea swimming and the scents of summer. The Hallandsåsen ridge, which forms the eastern boundary of the Bjärehalvön peninsula, offers real challenges if you want to conquer it on a bicycle. If you’re exploring on Bjärehalvön peninsula you mustn’t miss
the view at Norrvikens Trädgårdar, on the slopes of Hallandsåsen north of Båstad. Tougher tours The Hallandsåsen and Söderåsen ridges offer much tougher cycling in places. Northeast Skåne also has challenging terrain, not least for mountain bikers. This is where you’ll find the deepest forests, the most sparkling lakes and the true wilderness. A real Skåne smorgasbord for cyclists! The large former military training area near Hovdala Slott (castle), outside Hässleholm, is now a recreation area with walking and cycling trails. There are not only pleasant tours but also enjoyable routes for mountain bikers seeking something exciting.
Cycling maps with some eighty suggested routes are on sale in local tourist information offices in Skåne.
Cycling tours often follow narrow roads between vast cornfields Countryside pleasures | 9
FOR MORE INFORMATION about trekking, visit www.skane.com/riding
Skåne has some thirty trekking companies catering for both beginners and experienced riders. You can ride anything from docile Icelandic horses to Russian Basjkir horses captured from the wild. Or why not ride a pony with the children? Many companies offer treks with themes such as local history, art, food or adventure. For some people, an evening ride in the sunset is the perfect option.
The Skåne countryside offers many delightful settings, not least in Östra Göinge
For others, a weekend package with food, massage and accommodation is just the ticket. If you want to ride through deep forests, one suggestion is Göingebygden, where the wilderness is a constant presence. If you prefer more varied countryside, the Bjärehalvön peninsula is a good option. The open landscape of Österlen offers trekking and more in
The Flyinge Days at Flyinge, the Swedish National Stud with an open house and horse show for the whole family, attract thousands of visitors every year.
the picturesque hills of Brösarps backar, down towards the sea. Learn the right way to ride All over Skåne you can find numerous riding schools where experienced guides will give you your first lessons or help you polish your existing skills. There’s everything from day courses to slightly longer riding camps where you can learn to ride in the company of like-minded people. Skåne also gives you the chance to try Western-style riding, which requires a slightly different technique and balance. If you don’t actually want to ride, but still want to experience the countryside, a horse-drawn carriage is an excellent option.
TRADITIONAL HORSE EVENTS Skåne has many traditions involving horses. Two events that attract elite riders as well as visitors from all over the world are the Falsterbo Horse Show (July) and Flyinge Days (November).
10 | Countryside pleasures
Haväng (Österlen) is a favourite spot for keen riders. And there are more...
RI D I N G
Thrilling riding and tranquil treks Many people think Skåne is at its most beautiful from a little above head height: riding a horse along mossy paths, through a dense spruce forest, turning off at a luxuriant long valley, galloping over meadows or sandy beaches. This is a typical trek in Skåne.
DID YOU KNOW that Skåne is famous for its topquality horse breeding, not least Arabian thorough-
The horse is a friend that can help you get close to nature in Skåne
breds? Kullatorp, near Skurup, is one of Sweden’s oldest Arabian stud farms, with a history dating back to the 1100s. In addition to breeding horses, Blommeröds Arabstuteri outside Höör also holds annual meetings at its racecourse. Countryside pleasures | 11
B E ACH LI FE | SAI LI N G | D IVI N G
Sun-drenched sand and rugged rocks More than 400 kilometres of sandy beaches and rocky coastline. Fresh winds from the Öresund and the Baltic. Beautiful fishing hamlets and some thirty harbours offering mooring for visitors. It’s no surprise that sailors, surfers and swimmers make pilgrimages here.
DID YOU KNOW that the people of Skåne are very fond of cold baths? Each year, hundreds of people take a New Year’s Day dip at Åhus, and all round Skåne there are plenty of places for open-air swimming. One example is Bjerreds Kallbadhus, with Sweden’s longest sea-bathing pier, which extends 574 metres out into the sea. Several places also offer the opportunity to take a trip with friends in a wood-fired sauna boat. 12 | Countryside pleasures
Sandy beaches stretch like a long string of pearls along the coast of Skåne
FOR MORE INFORMATION about beaches, sailing and diving, visit www.skane.com/activities or www.skane.com/sailing
Norra Hamnen in Helsingborg is an excellent alternative to the pretty fishing hamlets
Skåne is perhaps most famous for its long, gently shelving, child-friendly sandy beaches. But its lakes also offer excellent bathing. For example, Vaxsjön, north of Höör, is a small idyllic lake set amid the forest with crystal-clear water, jetties and diving platforms. Experience water in different ways Skåne is surrounded by water on three sides, which creates excellent conditions for wind and waves. Mölle is famous among surfers, but the Ängelholm, Ljunghusen and Vik shorelines also offer interesting challenges. Along Skåne’s long coast there are opportunities for sampling diving and snorkelling, with courses for beginners as well as the more advanced. For example, you can snorkel below the rocks at Kullaberg, where the marine wildlife offers close contact with starfish, mussels, crabs, ballan wrasse and flatfish, to mention just a few. When there is ice on the lakes of Skåne, the countryside offers great long-
distance skating. Krankesjön, Immeln and Ivösjön are all good lakes to try. Sail to the sights Skåne’s coast has many picturesque fishing hamlets and beautiful marinas. There are also easily accessible harbours in towns and other places along the coast that are well worth a visit, particularly if you want to go to sailing school or try sailing small craft. These harbours give you access to Skåne’s top-class attractions. For example, if you put in on the island of Ven you can rent bicycles and head for Tycho Brahe museum. In Norra Hamnen in Helsingborg you moor virtually in the middle of town, which offers outstanding shopping.
The waters of Skåne offer numerous activities, for example kite-surfing
All over Skåne there are places where the marine life makes diving a total experience
DON’T MISS THESE PLACES TO SWIM Knivsåsen outside Dalby, Haväng (Kivik), Falsterbo, sea bathing at Ängelholm, Täppet (Åhus), Ribersborg (Malmö), Morgonbryggan (Torekov), Sandhammaren, Stenshuvud National Park, Hovs Hallar
Countryside pleasures | 13
The rolling landscape is a perfect setting for the journey
FOR MORE INFORMATION about canoe and kayak touring in Skåne, visit www.skane.com/activities and www.kanotguiden.com
A pit stop, at Bäckaskogs Slott (castle) for example, can really put the finishing touch on a trip
An area renowned for its excellent paddling is the upper Helgeån river from the border with Småland down to Osbysjön, a lake offering exciting and varied paddling with some small rapids just to make things interesting. The lower reaches of the Helgeån and Kristianstad’s Water Kingdom offer kayaking and boat safaris with a great variety of species both above and below the surface. Some thirty species of fish, along with kites, sea eagles, Montagu’s harrier and black terns are just a few examples of the travelling companions you may acquire. Relaxing lakes Immeln is one of the more popular lakes for paddling in Skåne. The lake system is in the old “snapphane” country on the border between Skåne and Blekinge, a location in the Swedish-Danish war of the late 1600s. Coniferous forest dominates the area, which is sometimes called southern Sweden’s last true wilderness. Ivösjön is Skåne’s largest, deepest and, according to many, most beautiful lake. You can go ashore along beautiful creeks, or on islands and islets in the 14 | Countryside pleasures
almost circular lake, which has the island of Ivön at its centre. You can hire everything you need for a family day-trip or a longer exploration of the whole lake. Exciting sea Paddling along Skåne’s coast usually requires a kayak and experience, but guided tours are also available. Paddling along the coast of Skåne is very varied, and can be combined easily with cultural and countryside excursions. A favourite for many people is the voyage round the island of Ven, which has a beautiful
coastal strip. Another option is to paddle from Torekov to Hallands Väderö. Stay a while in the harbour and stock up with traditional bread and herring before leaving!
POPULAR PADDLING WATERS Immeln – Halen, Helge å, Rönne å, Ivösjön, Verumsån, Almaån, Kävlingeån, Rökeån, Björkaån, the lakes around Örkelljunga
You can paddle your kayak along virtually the whole length of Skåne’s coast
PAD D LI N G
Rip-roaring rapids and scenic splendour The countryside of Skåne is full of small lakes and rivers that are particularly suitable for canoe outings. If you’re looking for a challenge, explore one of the larger lakes or the sea along the coast. Paddling in Skåne makes you almost one with nature.
There are plenty of jetties, barbecue sites and sheltered spots by the water’s edge
DID you know that Skåne has well over 200 waterside cafés, restaurants and inns? Either by lakes or rivers, or along the coast, and that doesn’t even include the cities of Helsingborg and Malmö. Tomarps Gård (by the lake at Råbelövssjön) and Bäckaskogs Slott (castle, by the lake at Ivösjön) are just two examples that offer culinary delights. Countryside pleasures | 15
WALKI N G
Walk along beaches, or among beeches To experience the pristine Skåne countryside at close quarters doesn’t require high-tech equipment. All you need is comfortable footwear, and perhaps a map to make it even easier to find all the tranquil footpaths that lead out into the lush countryside.
Båstad Kust
till Ku
stle den
Kust till Kustleden
Ängelholm Höganäs Åstorp
Ås
till
Åsl
Hässleholm
ed
en
Nord till Sydleden
Helsingborg
Kristianstad Höör
Landskrona
Ås
Eslöv
Åhus till
Nord till Sydleden
Köpenhamn
Sölvesborg
Ås
le
de
n
Skåne has all kinds of environments for walkers. The map shows all the Skåne trails.
Staffanstorp
ste rle nle
de n
Lund
Malmö
Ö
DID YOU KNOW that in Sweden everyone has the right of access to the countryside? This privilege, unknown in many other countries, is called “allemansrätt” and is the legal right of access to open country and private land. However, this must not infringe on other people’s rights. It requires responsibility and good judgement. You must not damage the countryside or wildlife, and you must be considerate to landowners and other people in the countryside. The keywords are: do not disturb, do not destroy. You can find more information at www.allemansratten.se
Tomelilla
Nord till Sydleden
Skanör Falsterbo
Ystad Trelleborg
Österlenleden
Simrishamn
SKÅNELEDEN
V
Kust till Kustleden
FOR MORE INFORMATION visit www.skaneleden.se, www.strovomraden.se and www.skane.com/hiking. Information about accessibility for disabled people is available at www.turismforalla.se
SKÅNELEDEN
Ås till Åsleden
äst
Helsingborg
The sweeping sandy beaches are perfect for walks all year round
Helsingborg
Kristianstad
Köpenhamn
Skåneledskartorna är utgivna av Position Skåne AB i samarbete med Stiftelsen för fritidsområden i Skåne 2007 års upplaga
Kristianstad
Köpenhamn
Skåneledskartorna är utgivna av Position Skåne AB i samarbete med Stiftelsen för fritidsområden i Skåne 2007 års upplaga
Walking maps can be purchased at the nearest tourist information centre in Skåne and at www.skane.com There are plenty of opportunities to recharge your batteries
The landscape of Skåne offers more than just variety. The countryside is also easily accessible thanks to many new waymarked trails, well-sited picnic areas and viewpoints. There are great opportunities to relax and unwind from city life. Impressive Skåneleden One of the most beautiful trails is the Skåneleden, which consists of 1000 kilometres of way-marked long-distance trails from coast to coast and from north to south. You can go from the undulating hills of eastern Skåne through the beautifully forested northeast, via the pillared halls of the beech forests, to the dramatic rocky coasts in the northwest. The Skåneleden offers two types of settings for walking. You can stay closer to civilisation among country villages, where cosy cafés offer delicious sustenance, or along the coast, where pretty fishing hamlets are waiting to feed you. Or you can go where the wilderness and your proximity to nature are more obvious. Whichever your
choice, there are ample campsites and shelters where you can get some wellearned rest. Accessibility for all There are plenty of interesting shorter outings in the countryside that start from a car, bus or train and return to the same place. The advantage of Skåne is that you’re never far from civilisation, even when you’re in the middle of the forest. Skåne has over 150 nature reserves with footpaths, jogging tracks, barbecues and bathing places. Many cottages, fishing jetties and footpaths have been made accessible to the disabled. The newly opened Fulltofta nature centre on Ringsjön lake at the heart of Skåne, is a fine example. The area is an ancient cultural landscape with stone walls, field enclosures and massive oaks. Its forests are home to ancient monuments, cultural relics and refreshing springs. Skåne is far from flat in the billowing hills of Brösarp Countryside pleasures | 17
FOR MORE INFORMATION about country walking, nature reserves and national parks, visit www.strovomraden.se and www.skane.com/activities. Information about accessibility for disabled people is available at www.turismforalla.se
The wildlife of Skåne is varied and rich in species, particularly in the Kingdom of Water in Kristianstad
Skåne has three impressive national parks. In the lush national park at Dalby Hage and Söderskog you can encounter everything from roe deer and hedgehogs to yellow wood anemones and the Skåne corydalis. Söderåsen national park is northern Europe’s largest continuous and protected deciduous forest area. The deep rift valleys and hardwood forests have a unique abundance of varieties, and Kopparhatten gives you
an excellent view over the whole show. Sweden’s most southern national park is at Stenshuvud. One suggestion is to combine your visit with outings to the delightful harbours at Kivik and Simrishamn. Certified eco-tourism The internationally famous Kingdom of Water at Kristianstad is just one example of what you can experience with the
Falsterbonäset in Skåne’s southwestern corner is a paradise for bird-watchers
help of Skåne’s eco-tourism organisers. More than 260 species of birds have been observed in the area, and there are at least 40 species of fish. You can take part in everything from birdwatching safaris and riverboat adventures to survival courses and guided nature tours where you can see the biological diversity. Outstanding bird-watching More than half a billion migrating birds pass through southern Sweden every autumn. That’s why Skåne’s southwest corner is one of Europe’s best places for seeing birds on the wing. Falsterbonäset gives you a front-seat view of the spring and autumn migrations.
Kopparhatten in Söderåsen national park offers a unique viewpoint over the landscape
UNUSUAL OBSERVATIONS The red kite, the emblem of Skåne, is one of several bird species that are found almost exclusively in Skåne. In fact, Skåne is home to the largest red kite population in the whole of Europe. 18 | Countryside pleasures
ECO -To U RIS M | bird -watching | national parks
Wonderful wildlife and exciting exploration Sixty-seven different beetle species in a single tree stump on the island of Hallands Väderö. Thousands of birds of prey in one day above the seaside meadows at Falsterbonäs. There’s no doubt that the wildlife of Skåne and its national parks is diverse, singular and remarkable in many ways. And most remarkably of all, it’s available to everyone.
On the beach below Knäbäckshusen on Österlen. On the skyline, the Stenshuvud national park extends into the sea
DID YOU KNOW that eco-tourism offers experiences provided in an ecologically sustainable way? Ecotourism combines development with protection, which helps conserve nature and culture. “Naturens bästa” – Nature’s Best – is a symbol of quality ecotourism in the Swedish countryside. More information about eco-tourism is available at www.naturesbest.nu.
FOR MORE INFORMATION about climbing, caves, downhill skiing, paragliding and ballooning, courses and guides, visit www.skane.com/activities
Downhill at Vallåsen on the northern slopes of Hallandsåsen
Kåseberga is just one of many popular locations for paragliding
Thirty kilometres northwest of Helsingborg, ancient rocks rise from the sea and create one of Sweden’s most exciting climbing areas. The cliffs at Kullaberg offer more than 700 climbing routes along an almost ten-kilometre stretch of coast. Kullaberg is a playground throughout the year for people with all kinds of interests. Decide for yourself whether you want to study birds in peace and quiet, or test your limits on challenging climbing routes. Söderåsen’s deep rift valleys and cliffs also offer exciting climbing.
Enjoyable downhill skiing Vallåsen and Sydalpin Kungsbygget, on the northern slopes of Hallandsåsen, offer excellent downhill skiing. There are long runs on various gradients, from easy to moderate, and chair- and towlifts, snow cannons, lighting, ski hire, ski school and restaurant. In a nutshell, everything a family needs for a day on the slopes. Pleasant cave adventures Along the shoreline at Kullaberg you’ll find plenty of caves that you can
Tykarpsgrottan, the cave where the film “Ronja the Robber’s Daughter” was made, attracts visitors from all over the world
explore on your own or with a guide. Skåne’s most famous cave is the 10,000square metre Tykarpsgrottan outside Hässleholm, which fascinates visitors with its mysterious pillared halls and labyrinths. There is an excellent open-air museum and accommodation in cosy cottages. Dizzying flights Paragliding has become a popular activity in Skåne in recent years. If you’re experienced, sample the paragliding from Kåseberga, Barsebäck or the steep shorelines of the island of Ven in the middle of the Öresund. You can also try ballooning in several places in Skåne.
FAMOUS LANDMARK Kullen lighthouse, at the tip of Kullaberg, is Scandinavia’s most powerful lighthouse in some of the world’s busiest waters. Falknästet (”Falcon's Nest”), the annexe, can be hired for wedding and other functions. 20 | Countryside pleasures
At first, Skåne seems to have a relatively flat and gentle landscape. But appearances can deceive. If you’re looking for adventure, the countryside of Skåne offers exciting challenges above and below ground.
climbing | caves | paragliding |
Adventures above and below ground
downhill skiing
The beautiful cliffs of Kullaberg provide climbing for beginners and pros alike
DID YOU KNOW that one of Scandinavia’s best free-climbing areas is just east of Kristianstad, in the middle of the beautiful deciduous forest at the southern end of the island of Ivösjön? Kjugekull offers climbing on more than 500 large boulders scattered through the forest. Freshly made waffles and restorative coffee are available at the nearest café.
GO LF
Challenging chips and pleasant putts Describing Skåne as a golfer’s paradise is hardly an exaggeration. You have more than 70 courses to choose from within an hour’s travel from the middle of the province. Picking your favourite is as difficult as selecting dishes from a Skåne smorgasbord. It’s a matter of personal taste.
DID YOU KNOW that many of Skåne’s 70-plus golf courses are included in the Golf in Skåne programme? These courses let you book your start time on the internet well in advance and combine accommodation and courses to suit your requirements. Visit www.skanegolf.com for more information.
Putting beneath the apple blossom at Lilla Vik golf course in Österlen
FOR MORE INFORMATION about golf in Skåne visit www.skane.com/golfing and www.skanegolf.com
Falsterbo golf course winds along the shoreline within sight of the seals on Måkläppen
Skåne’s golf courses aren’t routine courses. We’re talking about the very best in Sweden. Courses that have involved and created Swedish stars such as Annika Sörenstam and Jesper Parnevik. Many of the courses include shorelines with rolling white sand dunes. Enjoy life away from the course, too For the newly enthusiastic golfer who enjoys it more when there’s less of a crowd, Skåne has ideal courses inland. The holes at the string of high-class courses at Vittsjö, Örkelljunga and Hässleholm wind between groves of leafy trees. All over Skåne many exclusive golf packages are available that combine play on fine courses with accommodation and food in inns, gourmet restaurants and stately homes. Häckeberga Slott (castle) manor house is just one example where After Golf and a brandy in front of the fire are as important as a low score.
Experiences for the whole family Skåne has golf courses and activities suitable for the whole family. If you rent a cottage at Borstahusen, near Landskrona GC, with two 18-hole courses close by the Öresund, you’re also close to Skånes djurpark (zoological park) and Söderåsen national park with its Kopparhatten viewpoint. Unique challenges As a golf fan you definitely mustn’t miss a visit to Barsebäck. This course is considered to be the best in Sweden by journalists, pros and golf course architects. Also recommended is the old King’s course at Båstad GC. And don’t miss Vasatorp, a successful course on the Ladies European Tour, Falsterbo, one of Sweden’s few true 18-hole links courses and Kristianstad GC, which offers variety in both play and terrain.
More than 70 courses within an hour’s travel
The 19th hole can take many delicious forms
Countryside pleasures | 23
FOR MORE INFORMATION about fishing and hunting in Skåne, visit www.skane.com/fishing and www.skane.com/hunting
The countryside offers adventures for all ages
Few regions offer such a rich variety of fishing as Skåne, whether you’re a happy amateur or an experienced angler. Sea and coastal fishing is free, and inexpensive fishing licences can be bought for more than 30 rivers and some 40 fishrich lakes. You can stay anywhere from intriguing ancient villages to magnificent stately homes. Many opportunities All over Skåne there are many attractive fishing opportunities. One example is the river Helge å, Sweden’s most species-rich
fishing water, with common freshwater fish as well as salmon and salmon trout. You can also fish for cod a few kilometres off the mouth of the river or enjoy life in nearby Åhus, the coastal resort renowned for its huge sandy beaches and delicious ice cream. Another option is the area round Höör, where you can try first-class put-and-take fishing for rainbow trout, salmon trout and char in a picturesque setting. Fishing is just one part of the adventure Skåne’s major cities are good starting
The Almaån river in Hässleholm is just one of many waters that attract fly-fishers
points for a fishing trip with friends. Helsingborg, for example, offers excellent nightlife as well as sea fishing. If you and your friends want to try something different, sample fishing for pike with fly and fishing tube outside Tosteberga Ängar with a guide. This is Skåne’s only archipelago. In Hanöbukten bay, outside Simrishamn in Österlen, the conditions are ideal for coastal fishing and trolling for trout and salmon, and world-class angling is available here.
GRILLED PIKE PERCH For 4: 350 g pike perch fillets 100 g bacon 12 asparagus spears 200 ml avorio rice 2 shallots about 0.5 l chicken stock 2 tbs butter 100 ml grated Parmesan Many record catches have been logged in the waters of Skåne
24 | Countryside pleasures 24 | Skånska upplevelser
Dice and fry the bacon. Fry a finely chopped shallot. Add the avorio rice and chicken stock. Cook until al dente. Stir. Remove the pan from the heat. Add the butter and grated Parmesan. Allow to stand for 2 min. Fry the asparagus in the bacon fat. Mix with chopped shallot, parsley, olive oil and lemon juice. Grill the pike perch steaks fillets on both sides under a high heat. Finish in the oven at 90°C. The recipe comes from Culinary Skåne (www.culinaryskane.com) where you will also find exciting food/accommodation packages.
FIS H I N G
Difficult to catch, delightful to eat Skåne offers amazing opportunities for fishing enthusiasts. Skåne’s beautiful, pristine countryside offers peace as well as exciting experiences. Best of all, you can combine your stay with so many other activities.
Fishing from the coast is a popular and rewarding activity in Skåne
DID YOU KNOW that you can fish all year round in Skåne? In the sea, herring and cod fishing are best in the winter – also a time for prime coastal fishing for sea trout. Spring offers garpike and other challenges. In summer and autumn, mackerel and flatfish are a good option. Fresh water, with some thirty rivers and forty lakes, is at its best in the spring and autumn for pike, perch, salmon trout, salmon, etc. The eel feasts take place along the Åhus coast in November, and the Skanör herring market is held in mid-summer.
The Skåne countryside offers a wealth of exciting and invigorating experiences for hunting enthusiasts
FIS H I N G | H U NT I N G An angler’s heaven Few fishing waters are as varied as the Öresund. In spring, summer and early autumn you can catch salmon trout from the beautiful coast, while March is the prime month for salmon and salmon trout in the rivers of Skåne. The bestknown river is probably the Rönne å, with a sea trout record of almost 10 kg. The record for pike in the Lödde å, one of Europe’s best-known pike rivers, is over 20 kg. Cod fishing in the Öresund is at its best in winter and early spring, with its climax in the cod fishing festival (January), the world’s largest three-day fishing competition.
Trolling in the waters outside Simrishamn is world-famous in fishing circles 26 | Countryside pleasures
Relaxing hunting Skåne is the destination with a difference for hunting enthusiasts. The lush countryside is as varied as it is rich in animal life. You can try activities such as deer stalking and pheasant and duck shooting. There is also battue for wild
boar, which has become incredibly popular. Several of the stately homes and estates in Skåne arrange hunting combined with accommodation and food. Wild boar hunts and duck and pheasant shoots are organised mainly as one-day events, usually with lunch in the hunting lodge or shooting box and dinner in the evening.
Hunting, accommodation and excellent food are combined at Häckeberga Slott (castle), for example
Tourist Information Centres BROBY, See Östra Göinge BROMÖLLA Tourist Information Centre Hermansens g 22, 295 31 Bromölla Tel +46 (0)456-82 22 22 www.bromolla.se BRÖSARP’s Tourist Information Centre Vägstationen, Albovägen 2 277 50 Brösarp Tel +46 (0)414-735 90 BÅSTAD Tourism Torget, Köpmansg 1, 269 21 Båstad Tel +46 (0)431-750 45 www.bastad.com DEGEBERGA Tourist Information Centre (Jun-Aug) Tingsv 21, 297 31 Degeberga Tel +46 (0)44-13 45 78 www.kristianstad.se ESLÖV Tourist Information Centre (Jun-Aug) Norreg 9, 241 33 Eslöv Tel +46 (0)413-628 80 www.eslov.se FALSTERBONÄSET Tourist Information Centre Östra Hamnplan 2, 236 38 Höllviken Tel +46 (0)40-42 54 54 www.vellinge.se HELSINGBORG Tourist Information Centre* Rådhuset Drottningg, Box 1241, 251 12 Helsingborg Tel +46 (0)42-10 43 50 www.helsingborg.se First Stop Sweden * Bredgatan 2 (by ferry terminal), 252 25 Helsingborg Tel +46 (0)42-10 41 30 www.firststopsweden.com HÄSSLEHOLM Tourism* Hässleholm Kulturhus, Vattug 18, 281 31 Hässleholm Tel +46 (0)451-26 73 00 www.hassleholm.se
HÖGANÄS Tourist Information Centre Stadshuset, (Town Hall), Centralg 20, 263 82 Höganäs Tel +46 (0)42-33 77 74 www.turism.hoganas.se HÖRBY Tourist Information Centre On the square: Gamla Torg 5, 242 31 Hörby Tel +46 (0)415-181 80 www.horby.se HÖÖR Tourist Information Centre * Järnvägsg 8, 243 30 Höör Tel +46 (0)413-275 75 www.turisthoor.com KLIPPAN Tourist Information Centre Storgatan 46, 264 80 Klippan Tel +46 (0)435-282 00 www.klippan.se KRISTIANSTAD Tourist Information Centre* On the square: Stora Torg, 291 80 Kristianstad Tel +46 (0)44-13 53 35 www.kristianstad.se KÄVLINGE Tourist Information (Jun-Aug) Center Syd, Löddeköpinge Tel +46(0)46-73 90 01 www.kavlinge.se LANDSKRONA PLUS AB Tourist Information Centre Storg 36, 261 31 Landskrona Tel +46 (0)418-47 30 00 www.landskronaplus.se LUND’s Tourist Information Centre* Kyrkog 11, 222 22 Lund Tel +46 (0)46-35 50 40 www.lund.se MALMÖ Tourist Information Centre* Centralen, Skeppsbron, 211 20 Malmö Tel +46 (0)40-34 12 00
Stortorget 9 | SE-211 22 Malmö, Sweden tel: +46 (0)40-20 96 00, fax: +46 (0)40-20 96 10 | www.skane.com
Skånegården * Bunkeflov 40 230 44 Bunkeflostrand Tel +46 (0)40-34 12 01 www.malmo.se
OSBY Tourist Information Centre Lars Dufwa, by road number 23, at petrol station Statoil Marklunda, 283 91 Osby Tel +46 (0)479-165 51 www.osby.se PERSTORP’s Tourist Information Centre See Hässleholm Tourism www.perstorp.se RÖSTÅNGA Tourist Information Centre (Apr-Sept) Nackarpsdalsv. 5, 260 24 Röstånga Tel +46 (0)435-913 53 (+46 (0)418-47 50 15 other times) www.svalov.se SIMRISHAMN Tourist Information Centre* Tullhusg 2, 272 80 Simrishamn Tel +46 (0)414-81 98 00 www.turistbyra.simrishamn.se SJÖBO Tourist Information Centre Biblioteket (library), Söderg, 275 80 Sjöbo Tel +46 (0)416-272 01 www.sjobo.se SKURUP Tourist Information Centre* Stora Torgg 4, 274 34 Skurup Tel +46 (0)411-53 60 58 www.skurup.se JOHANNA MUSEUM Tourist Information Centre (May-Sept) Sandåkra 6, 274 92 Skurup Tel +46(0)411-427 80 www.johannamuseet.se SMYGEHUK Tourist Information Centre (May-Sept) Köpmansmagasinet, 231 79 Smygehamn Tel/fax: +46 (0)410-240 53 www.trelleborg.se
TOMELILLA Tourist Information Centre On the square: Gustafs Torg 16, 273 30 Tomelilla Tel +46 (0)417-181 18 www.tomelilla.se TOREKOV Tourist Information Centre Hamnplanen 2, 260 93 Torekov Tel +46 (0)431-36 31 80 www.torekov.se TRELLEBORG Tourist Information Centre* Hamng 9, 231 42 Trelleborg Tel +46 (0)410-73 33 20 www.trelleborg.se YSTAD Tourist Information Centre* On the square: S:t Knuts Torg, 271 42 Ystad Tel +46 (0)411-57 76 81 www.ystad.se ÅHUS Tourist Information Centre* Järnvägsg 7, 296 31 Åhus Tel +46 (0)44-13 47 77 www.kristianstad.se ÄNGELHOLM Tourist Information Centre On the square: Stortorget, 262 32 Ängelholm Tel +46 (0)431-821 30 www.turist.engelholm.se ÖRKELLJUNGA Tourist Information Centre Storg 2, 286 80 Örkelljunga Tel +46 (0)435-551 58 www.orkelljunga.se ÖSTRA GÖINGE Storg 4, 280 60 Broby Tel +46 (0)44-775 60 68 www.ostragoinge.se *Displays a blue and yellow i sign. The others display a green i sign. Updated on 15 Oct. 2007.