Self-Guided The Osterlen Way Coastal Hiking Tour

Your journey begins in the historic coastal town of Ystad, one of Skåne’s most charming destinations. After checking in to your hotel, take time to explore the atmospheric streets of this town founded around the year 1200. Ystad is known for its cobbled lanes and distinctive half timbered houses that reflect centuries of local history.

Fans of Henning Mankell’s Wallander detective stories may enjoy discovering several well known filming locations throughout the town. A visit to a local café such as Fridolfs Patisserie offers the chance to try the famous Wallander pastry or a classic sillamacka. Enjoy a relaxed evening in this cultural gateway to the Österlen region.

The first hiking stage of the Österlen Trail begins along the shoreline outside Ystad. Walking beside the coast, the trail soon reaches the Sand Forest where tree planting projects have helped stabilize the shifting sand. Continuing eastward, you pass the mouth of the Nybroån where the flowing water constantly reshapes the outlet.

Beyond Nybrostrand the path climbs gently into the Hammar hills. In spring the landscape bursts into color with blooming marigolds and honeysuckles. The highlight of the day is Ale Stenar, Sweden’s largest stone ship monument standing proudly on Kåsebergaåsen. After exploring the mysterious stone formation, descend to the small harbor village of Kåseberga where you may enjoy dinner overlooking the sea.

Leaving Kåseberga behind, today’s route follows pleasant coastal paths toward Löderups Strandbad. Here the trail briefly turns inland before returning to the sea at Sandhammaren, one of the most beautiful beaches in Sweden. Vast sandy shores and impressive dunes stretch along the coastline, creating a peaceful setting.

The walk passes several well known bathing spots including Mälarhusen, Sandby beach, Borrby beach and Kyhls strandbad. Swimming opportunities appear frequently, so bringing swimwear is recommended during warm weather. By late afternoon you reach the charming fishing community of Skillinge, whose maritime heritage dates back to the 9th century.

Small art studios and local restaurants offer a welcoming atmosphere to end the day.

Today’s stage is shorter, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the coastal villages along the route. Leaving the Skillinge area, the trail continues north through scenic countryside and quiet shoreline paths. Stops can be made in small communities such as Gislövshammar, Brantevik and Örnahusen, each offering glimpses of traditional coastal life.

The surrounding landscapes are known for their birdlife, making this stretch especially appealing for bird watchers. For those interested in history, a detour to the medieval castle of Glimmingehus is recommended. By afternoon you arrive in Simrishamn, a lively harbor town characterized by colorful houses, narrow streets and inviting local shops.

This is the longest stage of the journey, so it is wise to bring enough food, snacks and water for the day. The trail leads through a varied landscape of meadows, forests and beaches while connecting several small fishing villages including Baskemölla and Vik. A highlight is the climb up Stenshuvud mountain, the most demanding section of the route.

From the summit, expansive views open across Hönö Bay and the surrounding coastline. After descending from the national park area, the path continues through Kivik’s well known apple orchards. Upon reaching the village of Kivik, a refreshing glass of apple juice provides a fitting reward after the day’s longest walk.

The hike begins along the coastline near Kivik’s well known marketplace before continuing toward the Vitemölla hiking area. This section offers peaceful walking beside the sea and through open natural landscapes. Gradually the route turns inland and crosses the wide heathlands of Ravlunda.

The scenery changes once more as you approach the rolling hills around Brösarp, a distinctive feature of the Österlen countryside. These gentle hills create a striking contrast with the coastal terrain experienced earlier in the journey. By late afternoon you reach the small village of Brösarp where a comfortable hotel awaits, providing a relaxing place to reflect on the day’s scenic transitions.

The final day leads into one of the most tranquil environments of the region. The trail enters Skåne’s beautiful beech forests where sunlight filters softly through the canopy. Walking alongside the Verkeån stream, you may notice abundant birdlife and, if fortunate, even trout spawning in the river. The peaceful forest paths create a calm atmosphere as the journey approaches its conclusion.

The route then continues across open pastures and passes through Christinehof’s eco park. Here you encounter the historic Andrarum alum mill, an important reminder of the region’s industrial past. By afternoon you arrive in Alunbruket, where the final evening celebrates completion of the Österlen Trail.

Your Österlen Way adventure concludes this morning after breakfast in Alunbruket. Reflect on the diverse landscapes encountered during the past week, from coastal dunes and fishing villages to orchards, forests and rolling countryside. A transfer to Brösarp bus station is included after check out. From there, local buses connect to nearby transport hubs where onward journeys can be arranged.

Many travelers continue toward Simrishamn or Malmö before heading to Copenhagen Airport for international flights. As the journey ends, you depart with lasting memories of Sweden’s Österlen coast and the rewarding experience of completing this scenic section of the Skåne Trail.