A scenic road-trip along the Swedish south coast – 2025

Leave a reply

Earlier this spring, Saturday 29 March, I had the pleasure of taking three visiting friends from India, Gowtham, Mohan and Sanath. on a road trip along the south coast of Skåne, to share a few glimpses of Swedish culture and nature, and to enjoy good conversations along the way.

We began our trip at Emporia [1], one of the largest shopping centers in Scandinavia with around 180 shops and restaurants. The modern architecture, with its stunning curved glass entrances – an amber-colored and a blue, is designed by Wingårdh Architects and opened in 2012.

The Emporia rooftop viewpoint offering panoramic views of Malmö and the Öresund Bridge. The viewpoint sits at approximately 65 meters above sea level and providing a beautiful view, in clear weather 🙂

First stop on the trip was Skanör [2] and Falsterbo [3], 34 km southwest from Malmö. These two idyllic seaside towns are known for their white sandy beaches and pastel-colored beach huts that only the locals, living in the municipality, can buy for around 200.000 SEK. Many are also inherited, to keep in the family.

“It was super cold during the first couple of days—too cold for an Indian like me! But by the time of the trip, I had adjusted enough that Sanath and I even walked into the beach water and took a few photos. Luckily, it was a sunny day, which made things better.” (Mohan)

The area was once a bustling medieval trading hub, today, these towns are a tranquil escape, offering some of Sweden’s finest beaches, birdwatching opportunities, and even a touch of luxury.

In the area you also find Falsterbo Golf Club, one of Sweden’s oldest golf courses, established in 1909, offering a fantastic course with beautiful views.

Falsterbo Horse Show that each summer hosts one of the world’s most prestigious equestrian events.

Sweden’s oldest nature reserve, Måkläppen Sanctuary, open for visitors between 1 November – 31 January. Here you can enjoy bird watching and and wild seal spotting.

Continuing eastward along the scenic coastline, we reached Smygehuk [4] (47 km from Malmö), the southernmost point of Sweden and the entire Scandinavian Peninsula.

The area features Smygehuk Lighthouse that dates back to 1883. During the summer months, there are lots of activities – music, art, culture, and shopping. The winter offers clean, crisp air, spectacular sunsets.

The viewpoint Utkiken is a platform that marks the southernmost point in Sweden, from which one can see Köpmansmagasinet, dating from the early 19th century. Rumor has it that it was once a smuggler’s nest during the Napoleonic Wars. There is a signpost pointing to places such as Berlin, Copenhagen, Stockholm, and the North Pole.

We enjoyed lunch at Sweden’s southernmost café, Café Smyge, with their famous prawn sandwich,

“Lunch at Café Smyge was something new—I couldn’t really figure out the food, but it was interesting! Luckily, we found some Indian food in the evening. I was happy—spicy food always hits the spot.” (Mohan)

After lunch we followed the coastline to Ystad Saltsjöbad [5], about 65 km from Malmö. This elegant luxurious spa resort offers a charming and classic Newport-style experience with sea views, delicious food, and a relaxing spa. The resort has a rich history dating back to the 19th century and is situated just 20 meters from the sea, providing an excellent location for a getaway.

Ystad itself is famous for its medieval streets and as the setting for Henning Mankell’s Wallander crime novels.

Our final stop along the south coast was Ales Stenar [6] (80 km from Malmö), a 1,400-year-old Viking stone ship located on a hill overlooking the sea. Composed of 59 massive boulders weighing up to 5 tonnes each, this mysterious monument is one of Sweden’s most fascinating historical sites. Whether it was used as a burial ground or a solar calendar remains a mystery, but the view from here is breathtaking, especially at sunset.

“At Ales Stenar, the sea view was beautiful. Me and Sanath climbed down from Kåseberga ridge to the seashore and caught a peaceful sunset while walking on the stones near the water.” (Mohan)

Returning to Malmö, we ended our journey at Möllevångstorget [7], a lively square in the heart of the city. Known for its fruit and vegetable market, this area is a melting pot of cultures, packed with international grocery stores, Middle Eastern bakeries, and Asian supermarkets. It’s also home to some of Malmö’s best restaurants, including Kontrast, an Indian eatery serving rich, aromatic curries and flavorful tandoori dishes. My Indian guests approved the authenticity of the dishes 🙂

Gowtham’s “Top 5 things that stood out”:

The roads were smooth, well-maintained, and there was barely any traffic. Everyone followed traffic rules, which made driving feel super calm and safe. Definitely a big contrast to the usual chaos we’re used to back home.
Parking was super easy and organized, with proper spots everywhere. No random squeezing into tight spaces or stressful searches like in India.
Since we were mostly in the countryside along the south coast, it was really quiet and not crowded at all. Most places had very few people around, which made the whole trip feel super relaxed.
The weather was a bit chilly, but overall it was nice. The air felt fresh and clean, and there was zero pollution.
The beaches we stopped by were really well-kept, with clean surroundings and crystal clear (and freezing!) water. Everything just felt very well-maintained and natural.

Mohan’s story:
“Overall, it was a really chill and refreshing experience—very different from the usual road trips in India.

I felt a bit anxious when I landed in Denmark since it was my first foreign trip, but also excited—the air was so fresh and welcoming, I felt like I had stepped into a European movie set.

The Sweden trip was a surprise! Gowtham bro casually told me and Sanath that we could go on a road trip with Ingo, and I was instantly in. I was already hoping to see the Danish countryside, so I was happy we were actually doing a road trip through peaceful, scenic routes.

It was super cold during the first couple of days—too cold for an Indian like me! But by the time of the trip, I had adjusted enough that Sanath and I even walked into the beach water and took a few photos. Luckily, it was a sunny day, which made things better.

I had stopped beach walking and hiking recently back home because of the crowds and poorly maintained spots. But here, it was the opposite—clean beaches, quiet roads, and no traffic. I even picked a few seashells and small stones for my girlfriend—she finds those things cute, and I didn’t want to return empty-handed!

At Ales Stenar, the sea view was beautiful. Me and Sanath climbed down from Kåseberga ridge to the seashore and caught a peaceful sunset while walking on the stones near the water.

Lunch at Café Smyge was something new—I couldn’t really figure out the food, but it was interesting! Luckily, we found some Indian food in the evening. I was happy—spicy food always hits the spot.

And finally, shoutout to Ingo—our 63-year-old young friend who drove more than 300 km like a pro. His energy was amazing. I hope I have that kind of enthusiasm when I reach his age!

I didn’t get much time to explore agricultural practices in Denmark and Sweden, which I’m actually interested in – but hopefully next time.”

Final thoughts
This road trip showcases the diversity of Skåne, from picturesque villages, golden beaches and ancient Viking landmarks to vibrant city culture and mouthwatering cuisine. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, the southern coast of Sweden offers something special for everyone.

See previous posts about sightseeing in Skåne:

Copenhagen Sightseeing: Metro M4 -> Harbor Bus -> Reffen

Leave a reply

M4 Metro Line Copenhagen Central Station to Sydhavn

Many people use the Metro on a daily basis and at M4, that was inaugurated in June 2024, the passengers get the opportunity to experience integrated contemporary art as part of the metro stations Havneholmen, Enghave Brygge, Sluseholmen, Mozarts Plads and København Syd. The artist group SUPERFLEX, the artists Pernille With Madsen, René Schmidt, Christian Schmidt-Rasmussen and Henrik Plenge Jakobsen have been chosen for the art commissions at the stations. The artworks were selected by the Danish Arts Foundation through a competition. The works are supported through donations from the Danish Arts Foundation, VILLUM FONDEN and The Obel Family Foundation.

Each station tells a story through its artwork, reflecting themes of time, space, geology, and water. For instance:

Havneholmen Station. The familiar elements of the Metro – information screens, clocks, benches and travel card stands, have been attached to the walls and ceiling, seeming to defy gravity. In addition. Some clocks at the station run unpredictably, the hands turning at different speeds and moving forward and back, creating a flexible sense of time.
Enghave Brygge Station incorporates elements inspired by the area’s maritime heritage, blending history with modern aesthetics.
Sluseholmen Station showcases works that evoke the fluidity and movement of water, a nod to its proximity to the harbor.
Mozarts Plads Station surprises passengers with vibrant, playful designs that celebrate the community spirit of the Sydhavn neighborhood.
Copenhagen South Station combines minimalist elegance with thought-provoking pieces that invite contemplation.

So, whether you’re a local resident or a visitor exploring Copenhagen, the M4 Metro line offers more than just a ride—it offers a journey through the heart of a city that values innovation, culture, and community.

Harbor Bus Journey from Teglholmen/Sydhavn to Reffen

Copenhagen is a city best experienced from the water. With its canals, harbors, and seamless integration of modern life with maritime history, there’s no better way to explore than by hopping on the Harbor Bus. This floating public transport system offers a unique and scenic alternative to the Metro, bus or bike, and one of the most charming routes is the journey from Teglholmen in Sydhavnen to Reffen – Copenhagen’s famous street food market.

The journey begins in Teglholmen, a rapidly developing district in Sydhavnen (South Harbor). Once an industrial area, it has transformed into a lively mix of modern canal-side apartments, creative spaces, and waterfront cafés. The area is still evolving, with a blend of old maritime charm and sleek new architecture. As the harbor bus sets off, you glide past floating homes and small houseboats.

Shortly after departure, the boat passes Sluseholmen, sometimes called Copenhagen’s Little Venice. The district is built on artificial islands, with narrow canals weaving between colorful townhouses. Inspired by Dutch canal cities, it has a cozy, almost intimate atmosphere, making it one of the most picturesque stops along the way.

Further along, the boat reaches Islands Brygge, a very popular spot in summer. The Harbor Bath is an open-air swimming area, buzzing with locals taking a dip in the clean harbor waters. The area also has parks, cafés, and plenty of space for people to relax by the waterfront or maybe rent an electric Go Boat.

Langebro is one of Copenhagen’s main harbor bridges, linking Christianshavn and the city center. The current version, built in 1954, replaced older bridges dating back to the 17th century. Known for its bascule (drawbridge) design, it still opens for ships passing through.

As the harbor bus moves closer to the city center, passing the Black Diamond – a modern extension of the Royal Danish Library. Its sleek, angular black glass façade reflects the water, creating a dramatic contrast to the historic buildings nearby. A symbol of Copenhagen’s architectural blend of old and new, this is a must-see from both land and water.

Opposite the Black Diamond, the Circle Bridge (Cirkelbroen), designed by Ólafur Elíasson and opened in 2015, is a piece of urban art. The bridge consists of five circular platforms with masts and cables inspired by sailing ships. It was built to improve pedestrian and cycling connections across the harbor. Its swing bridge design allows boats to pass, making it both practical and dynamic. Instead of a straight path, the circles encourage people to slow down and enjoy the view, blending art, function, and history.

The striking BLOX building, home to the Danish Architecture Center (DAC), opened in 2018. Designed by OMA (Office for Metropolitan Architecture), BLOX is a bold, modern structure housing exhibitions, co-working spaces, cafés, and Denmark’s hub for urban innovation.

Knippelsbro, one of Copenhagen’s most iconic bridges, connects Christianshavn with the city center. The current version, built in 1937, replaced earlier bridges dating back to 1618. Designed by architect Kaj Gottlob, it features two distinctive green copper-clad towers, which house the bridge’s machinery and were once home to bridge keepers.
Knippelsbro can open to let ships pass through, maintaining its role in Copenhagen’s maritime life. Today, it’s a key cycling and traffic route, offering stunning views of the harbor.

Soho House Copenhagen opened 2023, is located in a former ferry terminal and customs house built in 1937, is a stylish members’ club. With a rooftop pool, bar, restaurant, and event spaces, it has quickly become a hotspot for Copenhagen’s artists, designers, and entrepreneurs.
Before becoming Soho House Copenhagen, the building was once the ferry terminal for the high-speed boats between Malmö and Copenhagen. For years, these ferries provided a quick connection across the Øresund before the Øresund Bridge opened in 2000.

Inderhavnsbroen opened in 2016, connects Nyhavn with Christianshavn, making it easier for cyclists and pedestrians to cross the harbor. Nicknamed the Kissing Bridge because its two halves meet in the middle, it has faced some technical challenges but remains a key shortcut in Copenhagen’s cycling network.

Nyhavn, the iconic and colorful harbor front, lined with historic buildings and wooden ships. You get a glimpse of one of Copenhagen’s most photographed locations. The atmosphere is lively, with people enjoying drinks, food, music, and the general buzz of this historic port area.

Built in 2008, the Royal Danish Playhouse (Skuespilhuset) is a waterfront theater next to Nyhavn. With its dark oak interiors and a long wooden promenade stretching over the water, it’s a prime spot for theater lovers and sunset watchers alike.

Ofelia Plads, once a ferry terminal, has been transformed into a public space for concerts, art installations, and harbor swimming. Located next to the Playhouse, it offers a relaxed urban vibe with a spectacular view of the Opera House.

Opposite Skuespillehuset and Ofelia Plads, is Papirøen (Paper Island), once known for its street food, art spaces, is now revitalized with new architecture by COBE. The design incorporates gabled roofs and textured brick facades, echoing historic warehouses while providing modern housing and public spaces with rooftop gardens, community squares, and a focus on sustainability.

The Copenhagen Opera House (Operaen) officially opened 2005, was designed by Danish architect Henning Larsen and funded by the A.P. Møller Foundation, which donated it as a gift to the Danish people. The Opera House is one of the most modern in the world, featuring cutting-edge acoustics, a massive cantilevered roof, and an interior adorned with gold leaf and Sicilian marble. Next to the Opera you find a nice park with a café.
The Opera House also hosted the Red Bull Cliff Diving World Series multiple times, where elite divers leap from the roof, plunging 27 meters into the harbor.

Holmen – once a naval base, now home to arts institutions like the Danish Film School—offers a quiet contrast to the city’s bustling core.

The journey ends at Refshaleøen where you find Reffen,

Reffen – Copenhagen’s Creative Street Food and Culture Hub

Reffen officially opened in May 2018, to replace Papirøen (Paper Island), the city’s original street food market, which closed in 2017. After the success of Copenhagen Street Food on Paper Island, there was a strong demand for a new creative and food-centered destination.

Reffen has since become Copenhagen’s famous street food and cultural hub. Once a shipyard, this industrial space has been transformed into a lively area with around 50 different food vendors, bars, and creative workshops. The stalls serve everything from Danish smørrebrød to Thai street food, Italian pizza, Indian curries, and locally brewed craft beer.

Next to Reffen you find Urban Rigger and CPH Village – cool, sustainable student housing.
Urban Rigger – Designed by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), this floating student housing project repurposes carbon-neutral shipping containers, with harbor views, rooftop terraces, and eco-friendly heating.
CPH Village – A sustainable container village designed to foster community living, with compact, affordable housing that minimizes environmental impact.

Whether you like to visit Reffen for a gourmet burger, a locally brewed beer, or just to enjoy the urban beach atmosphere, this is the perfect place to end your harbor adventure after the harbor bus trip from Teglholmen, a way to experience Copenhagen from a new perspective. The mix of modern and historic, urban and maritime, makes this journey a perfect reminder of why Copenhagen is one of the world’s most livable cities.

Street art of Funchal, Madeira

Leave a reply

The history of the painted doors and murals in Funchal, the capital of Madeira, is an intriguing reflection of the island’s rich cultural heritage and the mix of different influences over the centuries.

You find many of the doors and murals along the narrow, cobbled streets of Zona Velha (the old town). One of the most distinctive features is the artistic and decorative style, a reflection of both European traditions and local craftsmanship. Many doors feature wooden panels carved with motifs inspired by Madeira’s natural environment – palm leaves, vines, and flowers.

In the late 20th century, a vibrant street art project was born here, when local artists and residents decided to transform the old, weathered doors of the houses into canvases. Today, these painted doors tell a different kind of story: one of modern creativity, community, and resilience. The project, known as the Arte Portas Abertas (Open Doors Art), has become a symbol of Funchal’s identity. Artists use the doors to express everything from abstract designs to scenes of daily life, and even political or social commentary. The area has become an open-air gallery, that open not just to homes, but to the stories of Madeira itself.

[See also Hiking on Madeira]

Madeira 2024

Leave a reply

A visit to Madeira has been on my wish list for quite some time, to hike along the Levadas, that I heard so much about. I made it as birthday gift to myself 🙂 and travelled with Topas 19-26 October.

Madeira is a stunning island in the Atlantic Ocean, located about 500 km to the west of Morocco. Its often called the Island of Eternal Spring because of the mild climate year-round, with temperatures averaging around 20° C, making it a perfect year-round destination. Its lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and jagged mountains form an exciting backdrop to this volcanic island.

Madeira’s history dates back to the early 15th century when Portuguese explorers, led by João Gonçalves Zarco, discovered it. Over the centuries, Madeira grew as a hub for sugarcane production, and later, a popular port for European trade. Today, the island is famous for its fortified Madeira wine, which is produced using a unique aging process. Madeira also produce Rom and export a lot of bananas but only to Portugal. Because of its small size, it does not correspond to the European criteria, and therefore cannot be exported to other European countries, which is a real shame because it is very tasty

The island is crisscrossed by Levadas – water channels that date back to the 16th century. Initially built to move water from the mountains to the fields below. These days the Levadas serve as pathways for hiking through lush forests, past cascading waterfalls, and over towering cliffs. Some of the most popular hikes include the Levada do Caldeirão Verde, which weaves through the Laurisilva forest (an UNESCO World Heritage site), and the challenging Levada do Rei, offering panoramic views of the island’s rugged interior.

The first three days we stayed at Santa Crux Village Hotel in the small village of Santa Cruz. The picture that looks like a orange juice is a local refreshing drink Poncha, made of 2 parts orange juice, 1 part lemon juice, mixed with rum and honey.

Arrival date – 19 Oct.

Dinner: Recanto da Pitada.

Note: The hiking times and distances are approximate numbers and what my Garmin registered. Some hikes had many height meters.

Day 1 – 20 Oct. Levada do Canical to Porto da Cruz
Time: 2:30 | Distance: 9.20 km

Levada do Canical trail is along the northern coast, following the irrigation canal through a built-up area, observing how levadas are used in daily life. Notice the toilet seats used for the plants 😉

Boca do Risco pass the edge of Madeira, with steep cliffs dropping into the sea, and Porto Santo visible in the distance. Fantastic view! According to Hugo the guide, this popular spot can be very crowded during peak tourist season with up to 200 people at the same time!

The surroundings change to eucalyptus and pine trees. The path leads to the charming coastal village of Porto da Cruz, The last 1.5 km is a 300-meter descent.

In Porto da Cruz, we enjoyed lunch at a restaurant with sea view. It is also possible to take a swim in the natural rock pools. After lunch we visited the local rum distillery. The village is also know for it’s surf community.

Dinner: No documentation

Day 2 – 21 Oct. Morning – São Lourenço Peninsula
Time: 2:00 | Distance: 6 km

Morning hike was along the São Lourenço Peninsula, located at Madeira’s eastern tip and is one of the island’s most striking natural landmarks. The area is a protected nature reserve with a scenic 7-kilometer hiking trail that offers panoramic views that is quite different from the other hikes on the island. The peninsula is as barren as the rest of the island is green. It offers a unique “moon-like” landscape with volcanic rock formations.

Aside from a palm-fringed forestry station with a small exhibition and a café, the area is a semi-desert, Together with Mogens, I climbed to the top at the end of the peninsula, very steep but the reward is another stunning view over the island and ocean.

Day 2 – 21 Oct. Afternoon – Praia da Machico
Time: 1:00 | Distance: 3 km

After the visit to the peninsula, we drove to the edge of Caniçal and followed an old path over the mountain to Praia da Machico. There is a small café on the top. Many height meters and steep after the café descending to Machico and the beach.

Machico has one of Madeira’s few sandy beaches, with golden sand imported from Sahara.

PS. This was my birthday and the group was so nice they sang a birthday song for me in the bus and there was Cava in my room 🙂

Dinner: Restaurante O Professor

Day 3 – 22 Oct. Pico Ruivo, Santana and Funchal

Today we should move to another hotel in Funchal, and the plan was to hike to Madeira’s highest peak: Pico Ruivo (1,868 m) but due to very heavy rain and after approx. 250 m. walk, half the group and I decided to return to the Achada do Teixeira – Mountain Spot Café, at the parking lot, where the trail started, and stay there and wait for the other half. After returning and concurred the weather conditions, a few hours later, they all agreed that it was a bad idea with limited view, very slippery (dangerous) and very wet experience.

On the way to Funchal we visited the small village Santana, famous for it’s A-framed thatched houses, Casas do Colmo, that also offer a glimpse into the local culture.

Arriving to Funchal the sun was shining, Funchal is Madeira’s capital and a blend of history, nature, and culture, named after fennel (funcho in Portuguese), it origins from the 16th century as a bustling Atlantic port for sugar and wine trade.

After checking in, Jan the guide took us on a nice guided stroll around the city center to see the Town hall, the port, Madeira Winery, the Zona Velha (old town) with it’s cobbled stone streets and the special painted doors, etc.

Dinner: A Bica

Day 4 – 23 Oct. Funchal and Monte Palace Tropical Garden

Together with René, I started the day with a visit the Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers’ market) and Praca do Peixe (Fish market), where fish, fresh fruits, flowers, and local crafts are sold. The not so pretty black fish is called Black Scabbard (Espada-preto), a deep-sea delicacy, iconic to Madeira. Didn’t taste it, my mistake.

We took the cable car to the Jardim Tropical Monte Palace (Monte Palace Tropical Garden) – a lush retreat on the slopes of Monte. Visiting the garden was like stepping into another world, where nature, culture, art and tranquility come together. The garden is over 70,000 m² and displays approx. 100,000 plant species from all over the world. The view from here is fantastic, overlooking the terraced hills and the blue waters of the Atlantic.

Wandering through the winding paths, you find koi ponds, waterfalls, and hidden alcoves. The garden is a blend of natural beauty and man-made artistry, with intricately designed tiles, sculptures, and ornate fountains.

At the heart of the garden stands the Monte Palace, a majestic building that houses a collection of art and history. It once belonged to the British consul, Charles Murray, and was later bought by Alfredo Guilherme Rodrigues. He built the big manor house, inspired by German castles and turned it in a popular hotel, which closed in 1943. In 1987 it was bought and turned into the public garden you can see today.

Back in Funchal city we tasted some Madeira wine that is known for its unique production process involving heat and aging. Its rich flavors range from dry to sweet, making it versatile for both sipping and cooking. Renowned for its longevity, even opened bottles last for years.

Dinner: Theo’s

Day 5 – 24 Oct. Balcões viewpoint and Levada Furado
Time: 5:20 | Distance: 20 km

Starting in Ribero Frio we hiked to the Balcões viewpoint from where there is a fabulous view of the highest peaks. After enjoying the view, we return to Ribeiro Frio along the same path and continue to Levada do Furado and later along Levada Portela. Levada do Furado is one of the first levadas built to irrigate farmland in Porto da Cruz. The trail ends with a staircase leading down to Portela.

Dinner: O Americano

Day 6 – 25 Oct. morning: Cascata do Risco, Rabacal and Vereda do Túnel do Cavalo
Time: 2:20 | Distance: 9 km

Morning hike was from Rabacal to the beautiful Cascata do Risco (Risco Waterfall). Even if it was raining a little bit and I was glad I invested in a new rain jacket the other day, the hike was amazing. After the water fall we walked through the 800 meter long Vereda do Túnel do Cavalo that both had a levada canal and a water pipe to produce electricity. Using flash light was an advantage. When entering the tunnel we had rain, at the exit it was blue sky and sun :-O.

Lunch at Cafetaria Panoeste, tasted the Portuguese cake Pastel de Nata (or was it Queijada da Madeira?), according to Hugo the local guide, this place served the best ones on the island.

Day 6 – 25 Oct. afternoon: Raposeira Do Logarinho
Time: 1:40 | Distance: 7 km

After lunch we hiked from the café to Raposeira Do Logarinho, through some rural areas with fantastic views over the landscape, overlooking the sea and the burned trees after a big bushfire some years ago. Ended the hike at a café in Raposeira Do Logarinho for a refreshing Poncha.

On the way back to Funchal we passed Cabo Girão, one of the world’s highest sea cliff viewpoints where you stand on a glass floor and look down 580 meters to the cliff and sea below.

Back in Funchal it was time for last dinner. Good bye Madeira, it was a great pleasure.

Dinner: Restaurante Do Forte

Hiking Söderåsen National Park 2024

Leave a reply

On a sunny September Saturday (21st), I had the pleasure to visit Söderåsen National Park and hike the Hjortesprång Trail (Blue Trail), together with my dear colleagues and friends from India, Jinu and Shiva,

Söderåsen National Park is a beautiful area in Skåne, southern Sweden. It’s known for its rich biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and a variety of hiking trails. The park is part of the Söderåsen Ridge, which is a geological formation that offers rolling hills, deep ravines, and lush forests, making it a fantastic destination for hiking.

We parked at entré Skäralid, where you also find the Naturum Visitor Center that has an exhibition and café, where we bought a very good take-away sandwich for lunch. You can also get snacks, water and coffee/tea to-go.

There are a number of different trails in the area and one of the most popular is the Hjortesprång Trail (Blue Trail), that offers breathtaking views and an opportunity to experience the area’s diverse nature. The trail is a well-marked circular route that is about 8 kilometers. It takes you through some of the most picturesque parts of Söderåsen, with varying terrain that includes open meadows, dense forests, and viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. The trail is suitable for both casual hikers and more experienced trekkers. It can be a bit challenging at times due to the hilly and uneven terrain.

As you hike along the trail, you’ll pass through different ecosystems, including lush hardwood forests, which are home to a wide variety of plants and animals. The trail is particularly beautiful in spring and summer when wildflowers bloom and the forest is green, but it also offers a unique experience in autumn, with the colors of the changing leaves.

One of the key attractions along the trail is Hjortesprånget (“The Deer Leap”). A dramatic viewpoint located at a high point and offers a fantastic view of the Söderåsen Ridge, as well as a deep valley below. The viewpoint is named after a legendary event where a deer supposedly leapt across a ravine.

Hiking Skåneleden Kullaberg 2024

Leave a reply

Kullaberg is a rocky peninsula, located in northwestern Skåne, along the Kattegat coast, just a 1.2-hour drive north of Malmö. This area is famed for its stunning landscapes, dramatic cliffs, rich biodiversity, and world-class hiking opportunities.

After obsessively watching the weather forecast for days, I decided to tackle the Skåneleden Trail on Thursday, 25 July. This summer’s weather has been wildly unpredictable, but my decision paid off — the conditions were perfect.

The natural beauty and diverse landscapes of the Kullaberg Nature Reserve include winding pathways of trails with lush, towering beech forests, fascinating caves and dramatic coastline views.

Just outside the charming village center of Mölle, there is a free parking lot for hikers. The trail starts right next to a chapel, next to the parking lot. Following the orange and blue markers for the north coast.

The first goal, after some serious uphill effort, was Håkull, Kullaberg’s highest point at 187 meters above sea level. The panoramic view from the top is extraordinary, making the challenging hike up (and down) well worth it.

Next detour from the orange trail led me to Josefinelust Beach, named after King Oscar 1’s wife, Josefina, who fell in love with its beauty during a visit in 1865. This area doesn’t have a beautiful pebble beach; it’s also home to some of the caves this area is known for. Note: The path down and up is very steep, with a “stairway” providing some much-needed assistance.

At the very tip of the Kullaberg Nature Reserve stands the key landmark — Kullens Lighthouse. It’s one of the oldest and most powerful lighthouses in Scandinavia, having “Saved lives since 1561.” The current structure, built in the late 19th century, houses a museum and observation deck with fantastic panoramic views. Nearby, the Kullaberg Naturum Visitor Centre offers fun activities and engaging nature and animal exhibitions. One quirky feature was a cigarette voting box asking, “Which animal keeps it cleanest at home: Badger or human male?” 🙂 Another exhibit showcased birdhouses with various items and information on how long these items take to decompose in nature.

While exploring, my Garmin watch ran out of juice. I put it in my pocket with a power bank to charge, but after a kilometer or so, I noticed it was missing. Retracing my steps, I found it! Some kind soul had placed it on a rock in plain sight. Huge thanks to that awesome person!

The trail from the lighthouse back to Mölle, along the south side of the peninsula, is marked with red signs alongside Skåneleden’s orange markers. This section offers more coastal views than the forest trail on the north side.

Next, I reached Ransvik Beach, once notorious as a “stronghold of sin” because it was the first place in Sweden where men and women swam together.

After roughly 15 km, I arrived at the charming fishing village of Mölle. At the end of the pier in the small harbor, I treated myself to a well-deserved dinner at Systrarna på piren, enjoying a fantastic view of the village, sea, and sunset.

Difficulty: Varies from easy to challenging, with some (very) steep and rocky sections.
Terrain: Coastal cliffs, dense forests, meadows, and rocky shores.
Trail Markings: The Skåneleden Trail is well-marked with orange signs and information boards. North trail is marked blue and south is marked red.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer are the most popular seasons, with mild weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn also offers beautiful foliage and fewer crowds.

For maps and inspiration, check out Kullabergs Natur

Canoe adventure and visit to Bäckaskog Castle 2024

Leave a reply

Monday 8 July I was invited by a friend to join a canoe trip on Holjeån, a small creek close to the village Näsum. We rented canoe and equipment from Wetlandi Canoe Center and started from Västanå Kvarn (mill).

Västanå Mill is one of the country’s oldest industrial facilities still in operation. Records (an invoice to the Danes) indicate that there has been a mill here since at least 1380. Although not as old, the stone bridge over the river just south of the mill is still impressive. The bridge is nearly 50 meters long, and since no traffic has been allowed since the 1950s, one can peacefully gaze over the river from the bridge.

Under the bridge we encountered our first challenge. When we should pass the small stream, I got the tip to try and “brake” as much as possible to avoid going to the right, that was apparently not a good idea. Maybe I braked too much since we went to the left and got suck on some rocks. Got loose and could continue to the next challenge.

After approximately 1 km down river there was a log across the river, under water. Since the water level was quite low we could not pass over it without some extra work. Climbed on to the part of the log that was over water and could drag the canoe over.

When entering Ivösjön the sky opened up and there was lots of rain, hale, wind, waves, thunder and lightning. Got a little nervous and we decided to paddle to the shore to take “shelter” (very limited but we were not on the lake). After half an hour it was gone and we could see the sun again and continue to the end station Klackabacken.

The distance from Västanå mill and Klackabacken is 7 km. A narrow river with fantastic and magical scenery.

Download map

On the way home we passed Bäckaskog Castle (Map).

It is a fascinating place. A former monastery, then a castle and now a hotel. It has a museum, an old monastery kitchen, a chapel, a beautiful park and som hiking trails. The night porter, Bosse, told us about the ghost Patrik, 10 years old, who is a friendly ghost that haunt the castle. He got a cold breath from a mun when Patrik saw him die, getting stuck in the water mill. One day Patrik was gone and they never found him. Many years later bones from a child was found in a well… If you visit the hotel and feel a chilled breeze, it could be Patrik.

The last couple of years the castle has been the scenery for the Swedish music program “Stjärnorna på slottet”.

Road-trip along the Swedish south coast, 2024

Leave a reply

The 9 June 2024, I had the great pleasure to guide my friends and colleagues Jinu and Shiva on a road trip along the south coast of Sweden. According to the calendar it was summer but unfortunately that was not the reality this day, 11 degrees and showers.

Starting at Hyllie train station and Emporia shopping center that offer a rooftop viewing platform from where you have great view over Hyllie, Öresund bridge and Malmö.
Skanör and Falsterbo are twin towns. In the Middle Ages, these towns were significant centers of the herring trade, drawing merchants from across Europe. Skanör, known for its fortress and market, and Falsterbo, with its vibrant harbor, thrived due to the abundant herring in the surrounding waters. As the herring stocks dwindled in the late Middle Ages, the towns’ prominence declined. Today, Skanör and Falsterbo are renowned for their picturesque landscapes, historic buildings, and popular beaches, attracting visitors seeking a blend of history and natural beauty.
Falsterbo beach
Smygehuk is a harbour and fishing village located at Smygehamn. It is the southernmost point of Sweden and the entire Scandinavian Peninsula. The area features the Smygehuk Lighthouse, stony beaches, and during summer, it offers various activities including music, art, culture, and shopping. We had lunch at Sweden’s southernmost café, of course a prawn sandwich.
Ystad Saltsjöbad, is a luxurious spa resort. It offers a charming and classic Newport-style experience with sea views, delicious food, and a relaxing spa. The resort has a rich history dating back to the 19th century and is situated just 20 meters from the sea, providing an excellent location for a getaway (sorry, no pictures)
Kivik is a center for Swedish apple cultivation, thanks to its pleasant climate. The region is especially beautiful when the apple orchards bloom in May. Kivik is also known for its apple market, a harvest festival that celebrates Swedish apples and features unique apple art made from colorful apples. The market usually takes place in September and includes a variety of activities and displays.
Kivik Musteri is a family-owned farm and production facility with a history dating back to 1888. It’s known for its extensive apple orchards with over 70 varieties of apples. You can enjoy the museum, guided tours of the orchard, learn about apple cultivation, and explore the production workshop. The farm also has a shop where you can buy locally produced juices, ciders, wines, and other preserves.
Vitemölla, is a tranquil seaside village. It is home to the Vitemölla Badhotell, a historic seaside hotel built in 1913.
Malmö Kalkbrott, also known as Limhamns kalkbrott, is a unique place in Malmö and one of the landmarks. It is a former industrial limestone quarry that has now become a nature reserve managed by the city of Malmö. The area is approximately 1300 meters long, 800 meters wide, and 65 meters deep. Rumor says that the cement in the foundation of the Jesus figure in Rio de Janeiro comes from Limhamn.
Lernacken is a mostly artificial cape located in the Öresund, the sound between Denmark and Sweden. It is situated in the southwest of Malmö, between the suburbs Bunkeflostrand and Limhamn. The area is largely devoid of vegetation, with sparse areas of shrubs and small trees. It’s a notable spot for biking trips and offers great views of the Öresund Bridge starting point. Especially popular viewing point at sunset.

People of India

Leave a reply

India is a diverse country with a population of 1.4 billion people (2022), that is close to 18% of the world population. The people are known for their rich culture, traditions, and hospitality.

India has a variety of religions, over 2 million temples, 22 official languages, many ethnic groups, each with its unique customs, traditions and cuisine. India is also known for its vibrant festivals, such as Diwali, Holi, and Durga Puja.

During my trip in the south west part of the country in October (2023), I was very fascinated by the characters, colors and scenery. Meet some of them here:

The Christmas Card

Leave a reply

Wikipedia: “A Christmas card is a greeting card sent as part of the traditional celebration of Christmas in order to convey between people a range of sentiments related to Christmastide and the holiday season. Christmas cards are usually exchanged during the weeks preceding Christmas Day by many people (including some non-Christians) in Western society and in Asia. The traditional greeting reads “Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year“.
The first commercially available card was commissioned by Sir Henry Cole and designed by John Callcott Horsley in London 1843.

Heard that after 180 years of history, this year (2023) might be the last year people send Christmas cards by “snail mail”, since the postage is going to be very expensive in 2024, due to the decrease in letter correspondence and increase in costs.

Back in the 1980’s I designed and printed Christmas post cards and sent to family, friends and customers. Made by airbrush on paper (except one that is with ink)

In 2011 I started designing digital season greeting cards, playing with Adobe Photoshop:

And Happy New Year cards:

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!