Hiking in Österlen - The best trails

Hiking in Österlen is an extraordinary experience where the beauty of nature and the richness of culture meet at every step. Österlen offers a variety of hiking trails that provide a unique insight into the charming landscape and history of Skåne. Here, I guide you through the best trails and my personal favorites to make your hiking experience in Österlen as inspiring as possible.

Why hike in Österlen?

Österlen is known for its rolling hills, rugged cliffs, and beautiful coastline. Hiking in Österlen means discovering everything from dramatic sea views to tranquil forest paths. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a beginner, Österlen offers trails for everyone – and each stage presents natural experiences unique to this part of Skåne. Since I also grew up in Österlen, I have fantastic tips that I’d love to share with you.

The Best Trails for Hiking in Österlen

Here is an overview of some of the most spectacular and popular hiking trails in Österlen. These trails allow you to explore different aspects of the area and give you a chance to truly take in the green landscape.

Skåneleden – A Perfect Trail for Hiking in Österlen

When you want to hike in Österlen, Skåneleden is one of the best options. Skåneleden consists of a network of trails that pass through Skåne’s most beautiful nature reserves and connect many of the most famous spots in Österlen.

Favorite Section: Brösarp to Kivik (14 km)

One of my personal favorites is to start in Brösarp and hike to Kivik. Along the way, you pass Brösarp’s hills, where the landscape features gentle slopes that are incredibly beautiful in the spring. Along the route, you’ll find farm shops and lovely picnic spots, and once you reach Kivik, you can visit Kivik’s Cider Mill for a refreshing tasting experience. I’ve hiked this route several times, and it’s truly incredible, especially in spring and autumn when the colors are at their most vibrant. Don’t forget to take a moment to enjoy Haväng; if the water’s warm, just dive in!

Difficulty Level: Medium
Duration: About 4-5 hours, depending on pace.
Tip: Hike in late summer to experience apple season in Kivik.

Stenshuvud Nationalpark – Hike in Österlen

Stenshuvud National Park is another favorite for anyone who loves hiking in Österlen. The park offers a combination of dense forest, open cliffs, and one of the most impressive views over the Baltic Sea from the top of Stenshuvud. The trail to the summit is steep but well worth the effort.

Favorite Hike: From the Summit to the Beach

My favorite here is to take the trail up to the top of Stenshuvud to enjoy the view and then follow the trail down to the beach. Ending the hike with a swim is both refreshing and memorable.

Difficulty Level: Easy to Medium
Duration: About 2-3 hours for a round trip at a relaxed pace
Tip: Visit early in the morning to experience the park at a quieter pace.

Verkeån Nature Reserve and Haväng – A Magical Place for Hiking in Österlen

Verkeån Nature Reserve is a fantastic place for those who want to hike in Österlen and experience enchanting forests and idyllic pastures. Here, Verkeån winds through the landscape and leads you to the beautiful beach at Haväng.

Favorite Route: From Verkeån to Haväng at Sunset

Ending a hike at Haväng at sunset is an experience I highly recommend. Here, the beach and the sea open up before you in a stunning display of light and shadow.

Difficulty Level: Easy to Medium
Duration: About 3-4 hours, depending on break times
Tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy the nature at Haväng.

Hallamölla – A Magical Hiking Experience at Skåne’s Highest Waterfall

Hallamölla is a hidden gem for those who want to hike in Österlen and experience something truly special. It is also Skåne’s highest waterfall, and the hiking trail here offers a spectacular natural experience with steep cliffs, rushing water, and a sense of wilderness. This is a perfect spot for a shorter hike that still delivers a solid dose of adventure.

Favorite Hike: Loop from Hallamölla to Alunbruket

A fantastic hiking route is to start at Hallamölla waterfall and then follow the trail toward Alunbruket, where you can explore the remnants of the old alum industry and enjoy a coffee at the charming Alunbruket café. The hike takes you through lush forests and across open meadows – a perfect mix for nature lovers.

Difficulty Level: Easy to Medium
Duration: About 2-3 hours
Tip: Visit in the spring when the waterfall is most impressive and the surrounding nature is in full bloom.

Sandhammaren – A magical coastal walk

For a beach hike, Sandhammaren is a perfect choice. Here, you can experience one of Sweden’s most famous beaches and walk through a landscape of sand dunes and sea breezes. This coastal hike is ideal for those who want to hike in Österlen and enjoy the sea.

Favorite Hike: From Sandhammaren Lighthouse to Mälarhusen

One route I love is from Sandhammaren Lighthouse, continuing along the coast toward Mälarhusen. Here, you can feel a sense of freedom, with the beach stretching endlessly before you.

Difficulty Level: Easy
Duration: About 2-3 hours, depending on the route
Tip: Pack a warm sweater, as the sea winds can be chilly even in summer.

Ale's Stones – A Historic Hiking Experience in Österlen

Ale’s Stones is a must for anyone who wants to experience history and culture while hiking in Österlen. This shorter hike takes you from the village of Kåseberga up to Ale’s Stones – an impressive Iron Age stone ship formation, with a fantastic view over the sea.

Favorite Route: Kåseberga to Ale’s Stones at Dusk

Hiking up to Ale’s Stones at sunset is a magical experience. The light over the sea and the ancient stones casting long shadows over the cliffs create an almost mystical atmosphere.

Difficulty Level: Easy
Duration: About 1 hour
Tip: Visit in the evening to enjoy a stunning sunset.

Hiking in Österlen at Sunrise and Sunset

To maximize your hiking experience, I recommend planning time to enjoy both sunrises and sunsets. There is something magical about watching the sun rise over the sea or disappear beyond the horizon while standing on a hill or by the beach.

Sunrise: Knäbäckshusen is a fantastic place for a sunrise. The beach is surrounded by beautiful wooden houses, and the sea shifts in pink and orange as the sun rises. You can capture truly amazing photos here.
Sunset: Ale’s Stones is a perfect spot for a sunset. Here, you get a panoramic view of the landscape, and the stones cast long, mystical shadows.

Tips for a Successful Hike in Österlen

Hiking in Österlen requires a bit of planning to make the experience as enjoyable as possible. Here are some tips to make your hike smooth and enjoyable:

Pack the Right Gear: Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a light backpack with water and snacks are essential for a full experience.
Map or App: Download the Skåneleden app or bring a physical map, even though the trails are well-marked.
Respect for Nature: Österlen is a natural treasure, so stick to marked trails and leave no litter behind.

Vandra in Österlen with an overnight stay

If you’d like to combine a hike with a hotel package or simply don’t want to think too much about where and how to hike, then my tip is to book a hiking package. Several hotels in Österlen offer hiking combined with meals and accommodation, perfect for adding a touch of luxury to your stay in Österlen! Check out the hiking package at Farmors Lycka.

Hiking in Österlen Is an Unforgettable Experience

Whether you’re here for a short hike or a longer adventure, Österlen has something for everyone who loves hiking or simply being in nature. By hiking in Österlen, you experience a beauty and tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere. Here, wild beaches, lush forests, and historic monuments await you. All are available for you to explore. So put on your hiking boots, pack your backpack, and let Österlen take you on a journey you’ll never forget.

Interested in other hiking trails in Skåne? Click here to read my top tips for hiking in Skåne.