Skåne County sits at Sweden’s southern tip. It blends coastal vistas, medieval towns, rolling countryside, and modern architecture. If you plan a trip here, these six spots bring out its soul.
1. Lund Cathedral (Lunds domkyrka)
In the city of Lund, this cathedral is more than a church — it’s a symbol of Scandinavian history. Its origins date to the 12th century, and over time it has been rebuilt and extended.
Step inside to see a grand crypt, medieval frescoes, and the famous astronomical clock from 1425. On many days, guided tours go below ground to the crypt, showing the medieval stonework. The cathedral also hosts concerts, especially organ recitals, which bring a magical echo in its hushed halls.
Its location in Lund’s old town means you can combine a stroll through cobbled streets, local cafés, and university vibes with your visit.
2. Sofiero Castle & Gardens
A gem just north of Helsingborg, Sofiero Castle is set on a promontory by the sea. The gardens are the star attraction. They are planted with thousands of rhododendrons, azaleas, and seasonal blooms.
In spring and early summer, the gardens burst with colour. The palace includes exhibitions and a café. Walking paths lead you along terraces with sea views, and in summer there are outdoor concerts held in the castle grounds. If you love nature and gardens, this place is a must.
3. Kullaberg Nature Reserve & Kullen Lighthouse
This is a place for adventurers and nature lovers. The Kullaberg peninsula juts into the sea, with steep cliffs, caves, and dense forest trails,
At its tip stands Kullens fyr (Kullen Lighthouse), one of Scandinavia’s brightest beacons. You can hike from villages like Mölle up to lookout points, explore coastal cliffs, and even descend into sea caves when the tide and paths allow.
On clear days the views stretch across water, islands, and sometimes Denmark’s coastline. Photographers love the rugged contrast of sea and rock here.
4. Stenshuvud National Park
In the southeastern part of Skåne, this national park reaches about 97 m above sea level—modest in height but grand in experience.
The park lies right by the Baltic Sea and is traversed by part of the Skåneleden trail. As you hike, you pass through beech forest, heathland, and open ridges. On the summit ridge you get panoramic views over sea and land. The coastline below has hidden coves and beaches. Because the surrounding countryside is relatively flat, the elevation gives a refreshing vantage point.
If you stay in Simrishamn or nearby, a day trip into Stenshuvud brings you nature, calm, and good walking.
5. Ales Stenar (Ale’s Stones)
Often called “Sweden’s Stonehenge,” Ales Stenar is a megalithic monument of 59 boulders arranged in a ship-shape pattern, perched on a cliff above the Baltic Sea.
Visitors walk up from the village of Kåseberga, enjoying sea views and cliffs along the way. The stones date back more than a thousand years and their purpose is debated—some say sun calendar, others say burial site or maritime marker. Whatever their origin, the view from among the stones at sunset or sunrise is unforgettable.
6. Foteviken Museum (Fotevikens Museum)
On the Höllviken peninsula, this living history open-air museum recreates a Viking Age settlement.
You walk among reconstructed longhouses, see craftsmen at work, and witness reenactments of Viking life. The museum also researches local history and holds cultural events. It is more immersive than a standard museum: you get to feel the space, see historical crops, tools, and sometimes costumed presentations.
Because Skåne was historically linked with Denmark and the wider Baltic world, Foteviken gives context to how people lived, traded, and travelled centuries ago.
Planning Tips & Seasonality
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early autumn (May to September) gives you the best weather, blooming gardens, open trails, and longer daylight.
- Connectivity: Skåne is well connected by train, road, and through the Öresund Bridge to Denmark.
- Combine themes: Use cities like Malmö, Lund, or Helsingborg as bases and then day-trip to the nature and historical sites.
- Footwear & gear: Trails in Kullaberg and Stenshuvud can be rugged or windy. Good walking shoes, layered clothing, and rain protection are smart.
- Guided tours: Some places, especially Foteviken or castle tours, offer guided or themed walks—check their schedules ahead.
- Sunset & views: Ales Stenar and the lighthouse tip of Kullaberg are especially beautiful at sunset or early morning.
Skåne County has a rare balance of sea, forest, archaeology, and living heritage. These six spots touch on nature, history, art, and scenic beauty. If you explore them, you’ll feel the heart of southern Sweden.
