From artists and food lovers to design enthusiasts and slow-travel seekers, Sweden’s southeastern corner is becoming one of Scandinavia’s most desirable summer destinations.
For decades, international visitors heading to Sweden have focused on Stockholm’s islands, Gothenburg’s archipelago, or the forests of the north. Yet among Swedes, one region has long enjoyed an almost mythical reputation: Österlen, a picturesque corner of Skåne in southern Sweden. Now, as international media increasingly highlight the region’s appeal, Österlen is attracting attention far beyond Sweden’s borders. Located along the southeastern coast of Skåne, the area combines rolling countryside, white-sand beaches, fishing villages, apple orchards, art galleries, and some of the country’s most acclaimed restaurants.
A Landscape Unlike the Rest of Sweden
Visitors arriving in Österlen are often surprised. Instead of the dense forests and rocky coastlines associated with much of Sweden, the region feels almost pastoral. Gentle hills stretch toward the Baltic Sea. Yellow rapeseed fields bloom in spring. Long sandy beaches such as Sandhammaren are frequently compared to those of northern Europe’s best coastal destinations. Small villages like Kivik, Simrishamn, Brantevik, and Skillinge offer colourful houses, harbours, cafés, and galleries that seem designed for slow exploration. The area’s distinctive scenery has inspired generations of artists, writers, and designers, helping create a cultural identity that remains strong today.
Sweden’s Creative Summer Retreat
Many Stockholm residents refer to Österlen as Sweden’s answer to Provence or Tuscany. During the summer months, artists open their studios to visitors, pottery workshops welcome guests, and design boutiques appear along winding country roads. The region has become synonymous with craftsmanship, local food production, and a slower rhythm of life. Unlike some European resort destinations, however, Österlen retains a relatively understated character. Luxury exists here, but it is usually expressed through quality materials, excellent food, beautiful architecture, and a deep connection to nature rather than ostentation.
A Food Destination in Its Own Right
Food has become one of Österlen’s strongest attractions. The region benefits from fertile farmland, orchards, fisheries, and a growing community of chefs committed to local ingredients. Kivik is famous throughout Sweden for its apple production, while farm shops and artisan producers can be found throughout the countryside. Among the area’s culinary highlights is Vyn, the acclaimed restaurant created by chef Daniel Berlin near Skillinge. Awarded two Michelin stars, it has helped establish Österlen as one of Scandinavia’s most exciting gastronomic destinations. The restaurant focuses heavily on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients that reflect the surrounding landscape. Elsewhere, visitors find bakeries, farm cafés, seafood restaurants, organic farms, and country inns serving food that celebrates Skåne’s agricultural heritage.
Beyond the Villages
Although many visitors come simply to relax, Österlen offers plenty of opportunities for exploration. Popular attractions include:
• Ales Stenar, Sweden’s famous prehistoric stone ship monument.
• Stenshuvud National Park, with coastal hiking trails and panoramic sea views.
• Glimmingehus, Scandinavia’s best-preserved medieval castle.
• Mandelmanns Trädgårdar, one of Sweden’s best-known organic farms.
• The historic towns of Ystad and Simrishamn.
Cycling, hiking, swimming, and road-tripping are among the most popular activities, especially during the long Nordic summer days.
The New Face of Nordic Travel
As travellers increasingly seek authenticity, sustainability, local food, and meaningful experiences, Österlen seems perfectly aligned with modern travel trends. The region is not built around major attractions or theme parks. Instead, its appeal comes from atmosphere: the ability to spend a day wandering between fishing villages, stopping at a bakery, visiting an artist’s studio, swimming in the Baltic Sea, and ending the evening with a memorable meal overlooking the coast. For many Swedes, this has always been the essence of Österlen. The rest of the world is only beginning to discover it.
Suggested Online Sources
Far & Close Guide to Österlen
New York Times article
Visit Sweden
Vogue – Guide to Skåne and Österlen
