Explore Österlen on Two Wheels

Discover a Different World in Sweden's Österlen Region. The rolling countryside dotted with green meadows and yellow rapeseed fields, the black-and-white half-timbered houses, the red poppies swaying in the wind, and the blue sea in the background all create an exotic atmosphere.

Discovering Österlen by bike is a treat. One of the great advantages is all the small friendly roads that wind through the landscape. You'll bike through apple orchards, fields, and meadows. Sometimes you'll come across dramatic cliffs that drop into the sea, and other times you'll find soft, sandy beaches that blend into the waves of the Hanö Bay. Along the way, you'll pass by inns serving delicious food, wineries, farm shops, cafes, and galleries. If you've been biking for a while, you might be tempted by a lavish cake buffet, a specialty in Österlen. The area is home to hundreds of artists and craftsmen; it was here that the first Konstrundan was organized in 1969. Art, ceramics, and silverwork can be found along the roads, as well as in many picturesque fishing villages and towns. The Danish heritage is evident in the architecture and gives a cozy feeling.

Stay at the charming Hotel Turistgården in Simrishamn as your base for your cycling holiday. This 17th century former merchant's house has now been transformed into a family-friendly hotel, offering personalized service and a peaceful environment. Take a stroll through the beautiful Rose Garden, boasting over 300 varieties of the beloved flower, which is a must-see attraction on its own. These are just a few of the many wonderful cycling routes that Österlen has to offer, so be sure to ask the hotel staff for more recommendations.

Day 1 - Welcome to Hotel Turistgården and Österlen

hotelHotel Turistgården, Simrishamn

restaurantCoffee, tea and homemade on arrival

directions_bikeabout 30-40 km

Upon arrival at the Turistgården in the quaint seaside town of Simrishamn, you'll be welcomed with freshly baked pastries. Then, you can hop on a bike and take a leisurely tour of the area. The idyllic town actually has the largest fishing harbor in Sweden. Treat yourself to an ice cream down by the harbor and observe the local life. Restaurants are abundant, so you're sure to find just what you're craving.

Day 2 - Skillinge, Brantevik and a Grand Medieval Fortress

hotelHotel Turistgården, Simrishamn

restaurantBreakfast and lunch to go

directions_bikeAbout 30-40 km

Start your day by cycling south along the sea towards Skillinge. On the way, you'll pass the fishing village of Brantevik, and you may decide to stop here for a bite to eat with sandwiches and coffee that the Tourist Lodge has packed for you. After about a mile, you'll reach Skillinge, and on a warm day, the sea will surely call you for a refreshing swim.

From Skillinge, take a leisurely ride on scenic back roads to the grand medieval castle of Glimmingehus. Enjoy a guided tour and listen to entertaining tales about life in the castle and how any potential attackers were kept at bay. Stop by the nearby Bolshögs small church from the 12th century. Then, head back towards Simrishamn, where you can relax with a refreshing drink in the Rose Garden.

Day 3 - Kivik - Apples and Beautiful Heaths

hotelHotel Turistgården, Simrishamn

restaurantBreakfast and lunch to go

directions_bikeAbout 30-40 km

Our suggestion for today is to cycle north to Kivik. Turn towards Stenshuvud National Park, park your bike, and hike up to the majestic peak along a path in the lush leafy forest. 97 meters above sea level, you'll enjoy a stunning view along the coast and over Hanö Bay. Continue to the beautiful beach dunes. After your hike, you can relax with a swim from the beautiful sandy beach. The perfect place to enjoy your packed sandwich.

The mostly pleasant climate has made Kivik a center for Swedish apple cultivation. Just south of the village is Kivik's cider mill, where you can visit the House of Apples, stroll through the gardens, dine at the Kärnhuset restaurant, and buy cider from the farm shop. The old fishing village of Kivik has unusually well-preserved and maintained older buildings. A walk in the old quarters near the harbor is an experience. It was here that the eccentric writer Fritiof Nilsson Piraten spent his summers.

In the northern outskirts of the town lies Vitemölla Badhotell, a classic seaside hotel that offers a true nostalgic experience. Built in 1913, the hotel's glass veranda provides an elegant setting to enjoy high-class dining and reminisce about times gone by. Continue your journey towards Haväng and Ravlunda shooting range just north of Kivik, where you'll find charming biking opportunities along small gravel roads. The coastal landscape is breathtaking, with the sea always within reach. The area also boasts cool beech forests and is home to one of the country's longest and most beautiful sandy beaches, stretching all the way to Åhus.

Day 4 - Breakfast and Departure

restaurantBreakfast

If the weather permits, enjoy your breakfast in the hotel's rose garden. Well-fed and content, it's time to head back home. Welcome back to Österlen!