Steep cliffs dropping down to the sea, expansive beaches and green forest landscapes give Skåne its varied character: central Skåne is shaped by forests, while the north also has lake districts. One striking viewpoint is in Stenshuvud National Park. From the 97-metre-high summit, you can look out over Hanö Bay; on a clear day, Bornholm is visible.
Coast, forests and wildlife watching
Stenshuvud National Park brings together coastal hills, deciduous forest, heathland and beaches. Trails lead to viewpoints overlooking the sea. Naturum Stenshuvud, the national park visitor centre, is located at the main entrance. An exhibition explores the park, and staff are available to answer questions. Check current opening hours and visitor information before your visit.
At Kullaberg, marked trails lead from the lighthouse at the tip of the peninsula towards Arild or Mölle, through deciduous forests and flower-rich pastures. You can also explore the coast from the water: diving, snorkelling and kayaking are possible, subject to local rules and conditions. The waters around Kullaberg are home to harbour porpoises, which can be watched from the cliffs. Sightings vary by season and are not guaranteed.
Seabirds nest in the Hallands Väderö nature reserve. Harbour seals are often seen on the rocks along the shores; wildlife sightings like these can vary depending on the time of year. Skåne’s nature experiences range from views of the coast and sea to watching wildlife in protected areas.
Hiking trails and circular routes
The Skåneleden trail runs throughout Skåne and covers 1,600 kilometres, with six sub-trails and 113 orange-marked sections. The recreational areas managed by the Skånska Landskap Foundation offer a different way to explore: they have 400 kilometres of hiking trails of varying lengths and more than 100 circular routes through coastal meadows, ravines and beech forests. Skånetrafiken provides maps and information on bus and train connections to help with route planning. As trails and connections may change, it’s worth checking current maps and timetables.
Hikes in the forests around Hovdala by Lake Finjasjön can also begin at Hässleholm Central Station. The station is accessible by bus or train; check current connections before setting off. This lets you choose between long-distance regional trails, circular routes and a specific hiking area for your trip, without having to plan every stage in advance.
History, art and architecture
Skåne’s historic attractions include Ales stenar and Trelleborgen. Ales stenar is an Iron Age stone formation consisting of 59 large blocks arranged in the shape of a 67-metre-long ship. It dates to approximately 500–1000 AD. Trelleborgen has been partially reconstructed: in the 10th century, the Viking king Harald Bluetooth had a Viking fortress built on this site. The city of Trelleborg takes its name from this fortress.
You can explore Glimmingehus on a guided tour or independently. The rooms have sensor-activated information panels and a digital guide. The museum, visitor shop and Borggården café round out the visit; café opening may vary by season. Workshops on medieval crafts and public activities take place in the east wing, known as the Roaster’s House. Programme details may change.
Bosjökloster combines 900 years of history with exhibitions, animal enclosures and gardens in a natural setting by Lake Ringsjön. Exhibitions are held in both the castle and the outbuildings. For a different cultural experience, visit the Skissernas Museum, which houses the world’s largest collection of sketches and preparatory work for public art. Weekly public tours of the temporary exhibition and collection are held in Swedish and English; they are included in the admission price. Dates may change.
Local cuisine
Traditional dishes also tell the story of Skåne’s culinary character. These include spettekaka, goose, smoked eel, Äggakaka and herring prepared with various seasonings. To make spettekaka, batter is drizzled onto a rotating wooden spit. In the past, the cake was traditionally baked over an open fire; today, special rotating ovens are used. If you’re looking for a hotel in Skåne, consider what you’d like to focus on during your trip, whether that’s coastal and nature experiences, hiking, cultural history or local cuisine.
Discover more destinations: Ängelholm, Smedstorp, Osby, Båstad, Trelleborg, Simrishamn, Hässleholm, Skurup, Kristianstad, Kävlinge, Lomma, Sjöbo, Östra Göinge, Helsingborg, Falsterbo, Klippan, Glemmingebro, Höör, Höganäs, Svalöv, Nymölla, Perstorp, Saxtorp, Örkelljunga, Eslöv, Malmö, Lund, Åstorp, Svedala, Burlöv, Bjuv, Hörby, Farhult, Landskrona, Ystad, Staffanstorp, Vellinge, Tomelilla, Bromölla.
For the main travel overview: Sweden.
