Attractions in Skåne – 7 nature experiences you shouldn't miss

Skåne may not be the first landscape that comes to mind when you hear the word wilderness, but the southernmost part of the country offers an astonishing variety of natural types. Here you will find deep beech forests, dramatic rock cliffs, rolling ice age landscapes and miles of sandy beaches. Going hiking in Skåne is rarely about climbing high alpine peaks, but rather about discovering how the landscape changes character in just a few miles.

Getting the most out of your excursions requires proper preparation. The weather in Skåne can change quickly from calm sunshine to sea winds and persistent rain. Whether you're planning a light family outing or a more demanding day trip along the Skåneleden, a well-thought-out level of equipment is crucial to the experience. In this guide, we take a closer look at seven fantastic nature experiences in Skåne, complete with tips on accessibility, hiking length and what you should bring in our backpacking category .

1. Söderåsen – Skåne's highest point and mighty rift valleys

Söderåsen National Park is one of southern Sweden's most famous natural gems. Here, mighty cliffs, babbling streams and magnificent beech forests dominate, creating an almost magical atmosphere. At Kopparhatten, which at 212 meters above sea level is one of the highest points in the area, you are greeted by a mile-wide view of the Skäralid valley.

Practical information

• Accessibility: Good accessibility at the main entrance in Skäralid with paved trails and information center. However, the deeper slopes require walking in hilly terrain.
• Length of walk/trail: From short accessible loops of 1 kilometer to the more demanding Kopparhattsrundan of approximately 4 kilometers or the Gul loop of just over 7 kilometers.
• Gear tip: The terrain is steep and rocky in places. A sturdy pair of hiking boots will provide the necessary footing as you navigate wet tree roots and boulders. Also, pack a reliable rain jacket in your daypack , as the microclimate in the valley can change quickly.

2. Kullaberg – dramatic cliffs and sea views

At the far end of the Kulla Peninsula in northwestern Skåne, Kullaberg rises like a mighty horst towards the Kattegat. The area is known for its steep rock formations, hidden caves and the iconic lighthouse at Håkull (highest point approx. 188 m above sea level). Here, salt-splashed sea views are combined with exciting geology and traces of both nature and culture, including the famous artwork Nimis.

Practical information

• Accessibility: Varied. Some trails near the lighthouse and the roads are easily accessible, while the descents towards the caves and cliffs require good balance and sure-footedness.
• Length of walk/trail: The hiking trails vary from 2 to 8 kilometers. The Kullaleden trail (part of the Skåneleden trail) stretches around the entire peninsula for those who want a longer challenge.
• Equipment tip: A good water bottle is a must as the climbs are intense and your heart rate will rise quickly. Are you interested in bird life or want to look for porpoises out at sea? Bring a compact pair of binoculars that easily fit in the side compartment of your pack.

3. Ale stones – Sweden's largest ship settlement

On a barren ridge above the idyllic fishing village of Kåseberga on the south coast of Österlen lies Ale stenar. This is Sweden's largest and best-preserved shipwreck, built up of 59 large boulders in the formation of a ship measuring a full 67 meters in length. The site not only offers historical questions about its origin, but also a magnificent view of the sea and the landscape.

Practical information

• Accessibility: Relatively easy to reach via an uphill climb of about 600 meters from the parking lot in Kåseberga. The gravel road can be steep but is well trodden.
• Length of walk/path: Approximately 1.2 kilometers round trip from the village up to the crest where the stones stand.
• Equipment tip: Kåsebergaåsen is known for its fresh winds. Even on warm summer days it can be quite windy at the top, so a windproof jacket or sweater is always a good idea to pack.

4. Forsakars ravine – deep primeval forest and roaring waterfalls

Near Degeberga on the eastern slope of Linderödsåsen you will find Forsakars Ravin. The approximately 40-meter-deep ravine was carved out by meltwater at the end of the last ice age. Here the Forsakarån River flows into the bottom and forms Skåne's two highest natural waterfalls. The surroundings are characterized by lush beech forest, moss and an almost dramatic silence that is broken by rippling water.

Practical information

• Accessibility: There are fixed paths and boardwalks, but the steps down into the ravine are steep and can be slippery in wet weather.
• Length of walk/trail: The short loop around the ravine is about 1 kilometer, while the longer trail measures around 2.5 kilometers.
• Equipment tip: Choose shoes with good tread patterns. The humid climate in the gorge makes rocks and ledges slippery. A light daypack with extra change and snacks will make the trip much more enjoyable.

5. Hallamölla – Skåne's highest waterfall

In the nature reserve around Verkeån in Österlen lies Hallamölla, which with its combined height of just over 23 meters is Skåne's highest continuous waterfall. The site dates back to the Middle Ages when there was a mill here. Today, visitors are greeted by a calming natural landscape where the river winds its way through deep forests and open meadows.

Practical information

• Accessibility: Easily accessible via a nearby parking lot with short walks to the falls themselves.
• Length of walk/trail: The walk from the parking lot to the falls only takes a few minutes, but the area is connected to extensive hiking trails along the Verkeån River that can be hiked for hours.
• Equipment tip: Perfect destination for a family picnic. Feel free to complete your pack with a comfortable sleeping pad to sit on during your break by the river.

6. Tykarpsgrottan – underground limestone hike

For those who want to experience something completely different than forest and coast, Tykarpsgrottan just outside Hässleholm offers a fascinating insight into history. This old limestone mine has been mined since the Middle Ages and offers an impressive network of underground passages, pillared halls and halls where stonemasons once toiled to extract material for castles and farms.

Practical information

• Accessibility: Guided tours are available in the mine. The passageways are wide but the floor can be uneven and damp.
• Length of walk/trail: Guided hike of approximately 45–60 minutes in a controlled but cool environment.
• Equipment tip: The temperature in the cave stays a stable 7–8 degrees all year round. Even though it's the height of summer above ground, you'll need a warm sweater or windbreaker when you step below the surface.

7. Brösarp Hills & Sandhammaren – ice age landscape and sand dunes

We finish in two different but iconic environments in Österlen. The slopes of Brösarp offer the classic, hilly pasture landscape shaped by the ice sheet and which in spring glows yellow with mountain ash. Just a drive south you will find Sandhammaren – one of Sweden’s absolutely most beautiful sandy beaches with miles of fine-grained sand and protective pine forests.

Practical information

• Accessibility: Easy hiking in the hills of Brösarp via marked paths (although the hilly terrain makes your heart rate rise). Sandhammaren has good accessibility from parking to the shore via forest paths.
• Length of walk/trail: Everything from short coastal walks to several-mile hikes along the Skåneleden trail.
• Equipment tip: On the coast and open slopes, the sun and wind play a big role. Sunglasses, sun protection and a spacious water bottle are indispensable companions.

Summary: The right equipment for your Skåne adventures

Exploring the nature of Skåne doesn't require expedition-heavy gear, but a basic level of equipment can make the difference between a tiring and an enjoyable day. Invest in a comfortable daypack that holds the essentials:

1. Hiking boots or sturdy shoes: For secure footing in ravines and on rocks.
2. Shell jacket/rain jacket: To withstand rapid weather changes on the coast and in the forest.
3. Water bottle: To keep your fluid levels up during active hours.
4. Binoculars: For spotting wildlife, birds, and views from a distance.

Plan based on your own ability, respect the right of public access and enjoy everything that Skåne's unique natural landscape has to offer!