Hike the epic Skåneleden trail
From exploring old castles to enjoying Sweden's natural attractions at their finest, the Skåneleden Trail is a hiker's dream. Veerle Witte gets her walking boots on
The Skåneleden Trail is a U-shaped hiking path that crosses the Kullen peninsula in the Swedish province of Skåne. Starting in the medieval town of Helsingborg, it travels through the heart of Kullaberg Nature Reserve at the peninsula's westernmost point, ending up at Utvälinge. The trail winds through some of the country's most stunning natural landscapes including beaches, dense forests and dramatic cliff tops with stunning views. Here are some of the route's top attractions:
Kärnan Tower
Climb the 134 steps to the top of the 115ft high Kärnan Tower and enjoy expansive views across the Öresund strait. For the past seven hundred years, this tall medieval stone tower has watched over the town of Helsingborg.
Helsingborg
Take a dive in one of the town's traditional open-air baths at Kallis or Pålsjöbaden, then warm up in the sauna.
Sofiero Castle
About four miles along the trail lies Sofiero Castle, where you can enjoy beautiful gardens full of hundreds of rhododendron bushes.
By the seaside
Stroll through traditional villages such as Domsten, Viken, and Höganäs, and complete your hike on a high note in picturesque Mölle, one of Sweden's oldest seaside resorts.
Kullaberg Nature Reserve
At the furthermost point of the peninsula lies the Kullaberg Nature Reserve. As well as hiking, the reserve also offers the chance to go kayaking, biking and rock climbing. It's home to the Kullen Lighthouse on the peninsula's westernmost point. From there, the trail winds itself across the most difficult hill terrain within the park — but the hard walking is worth it for the fantastic views across the sea.
From Arild to Utvälinge
The last stage of the hike is a 12 mile or so stretch from Arild, a small, peaceful town with winding alleyways and a beautiful marina, to Utvälinge, one of several brick-built villages in Skåne province. This final leg of the route takes in the town of Skäret with its castle and cafes – don't forget to take a few minutes to taste the famous vanilla biscuits – once a favourite snack of King Gustaf VI Adolf – at the old cafe Flickorna Lundgren På Skäret.
For more information about hiking and outdoor adventures in Skåne, visit visitskane.com
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