Skåne Adventure Road Trip - 5 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Copenhagen, Drive into Sweden & Visit Malmö

Welcome to Denmark! Touchdown in Copenhagen, where you'll pick up a rental car for your Swedish self-drive adventure. Start by driving east into Sweden, across the Öresund strait to Malmö, a diverse city home to residents from over 170 countries. Spend some time exploring the city's landmarks, which include Renaissance-style Malmöhus Castle and the Turning Torso, one of the tallest buildings in Scandinavia. Wander through ancient town squares and visit the Form/Design Center, which celebrates modern art and architecture. 

Next, drive east to Löderup, where you can check into Örums Nygård, a family-run farmstay and spa. Set on Österlen, the cozy hotel has a restaurant where you can gorge on traditional Swedish cuisine and a spa for a relaxing evening. During the summer, you can also enjoy barbecues and entertainment at the property's Svinarojtaren's Lodge.

Day 2: Drive to Ystad, Cycling Tour & Dinner at Villa Strandvägen

Start the day with a drive to nearby Ystad, a seaside town featured in many Swedish films and TV programs. Ystad is loved for its sandy beaches, rolling Skåne countryside, and cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered medieval houses. Popular activities include a tour of Ystad Studios, Scandinavia's biggest film studio, the 13th-century Ystad Monastery, and the Ystad Art Museum. 

With its stunning scenery and well-maintained bike paths, Ystad is also the perfect place to take a cycling tour. Rent a bike to explore the countryside and coastline, following a path along the beach or trails through the forest. Dine in style at Villa Strandvägen to end the day—sample local specialties, including fresh seafood dishes, all made with ingredients from the on-site garden.

Day 3: Horseback Riding in Söderåsen National Park & Drive to Helsingborg

This morning, drive north to Söderåsen National Park, one of Northern Europe's largest protected woodlands. Set in the heart of Skåne, the park covers over 6 square miles (16 sq km) of thick deciduous forests, soaring cliffs, and sparkling streams. Stop at the Naturum Visitor Centre in Skäralid to learn about the park's geology, plants, and wildlife.

Continue to explore Söderåsen on a horseback riding tour, where a guide will lead you through the beach forest of Kopparhatten while providing insights into the park and its history. Afterward, drive west to Helsingborg on the west coast, Sweden's ceramics district. Wander the old town, visit a pottery barn, and take in views of the majestic Sofiero Castle and Gardens.

This evening, delve into Helsingborg's culinary scene, which focuses on local, seasonal ingredients. Enjoy freshly-caught muscles at Bara Bara restaurant, a favorite spot for evening drinks. Alternatively, Möllebacken Restaurang & Café has been running since 1912 and boasts spectacular views over the water toward Denmark—be sure to try their famous waffles.

Day 4: Kullaberg Nature Reserve Hike & Södåkra Vineyard Visit

Soak up Skåne's coastal views today on a hike in Kullaberg Nature Reserve. Follow the Mölle Trail, a circular hike that starts and ends in the small town of Mölle. The walk is approximately 5.3 miles (8.5 km) and follows a well-marked trail through some of the most scenic areas of the reserve, including the Kullaberg cliffs, which offer sweeping sea views. You'll pass a historic lighthouse on the way; look out for wildlife, including seabirds, puffins, guillemots, and seals sunbathing on the rocks.

In the late afternoon, experience the beauty of Kullahalvöns at Södåkra Vineyard, a charming 18th-century farm nestled in the landscape near Skälderviken. Tour the vineyard and taste their award-winning wines, which have received multiple gold medals. Learn about the entire wine production process, from grape to bottle, before returning to your hotel for a final, restful evening.

Day 5: Depart Skåne

Today your Swedish adventure comes to an end. Drive back to Copenhagen, where you'll drop off your rental car in time to board your homebound flight. Safe travels!