Discover Österlen's scenic nature

It is no wonder that Österlen is one of Sweden’s most visited areas. Österlen is renowned for its beautiful and sandy beaches, picturesque small fishing villages, and scenic nature. Here are some of my favorite destinations along the coast.

Österlen is found in Skåne, the most southern province in Sweden. It is easily reached from Stockholm, Malmö or even Copenhagen in Denmark. The region stretches from the coastal villages Löderup in the south to Vitaby in the north. Österlen is often called the Swedish version of the French Provence. As in Provence, artists journey to Österlen because of its scenic surroundings and unique light.

Kivik lies in the north of the region. Once a small fishing village, Kivik has developed into a picturesque and vibrant community. Visit the village’s old and historic harbor and buy fresh fish from Bhures, and continue to walk along the narrow street in the old parts of the village. Make sure to stop at one of the many galleries where local and international artists showcase their work.

Just north of Kivik lays the nature reserve called Haväng, which is a beautiful part of the coast. Haväng is a must-visit for those wanting long, sandy, and white beaches. In the middle of the moors and the ocean lay the dunes and the long beaches of Haväng. 

A couple of miles from the city center of Kivik stretches the mountain and nature reserve & park Stenshuvud, which means the "head of stones." The name comes from the mountain’s silhouette that has the shape of a head sticking out from the land into the ocean. After hiking the trails, make sure to stop at the cider brewery Kivik’s Musteri. Österlen is famous for its many apple farms, and the cider from Kivik’s Musteri is brewed from locally grown apples.

South of Kivik lies another small coastal community called Kåseberga. It’s one of the most southern points in Sweden. Visit the beautiful beach called Sandhammar, or the old monument Ale’s Rocks. Ale’s Rocks is an old ship barrow that is situated on a small mountain overlooking the ocean. The ancient monument is made out of 57 quartz sandstones and is one of the country's oldest ship barrows still existing. Not only is the monument itself an experience, but also the view from its location. If your stomach is growling after the hike up and down the mountain, make a stop at one of the small shops selling sandwiches with fried Baltic herring.

Österlen is most vibrant during the summer months, while the whole region goes quieter during the winter. It’s a perfect and memorable destination for most travelers, no matter if you are visiting for the art, nature or the local food.