Plan the summer road trip in Småland

We begin our Småland round trip in southern Småland – in Älmhult, where IKEA was once born. Today, the IKEA Museum is located in the same building where the world’s first IKEA store opened in 1958. Here you encounter the story of Ingvar Kamprad and learn how Småland entrepreneurship grew into a global brand. An interactive museum that shows the journey from Småland roots to today’s modern, democratic design.

By Lake Åsnen, you are met by water, silence, and an inland archipelago with hundreds of islands, bays, and straits. This is also where Åsnen National Park is located, where north and south meet in a landscape rich in wildlife and birdlife – not least the osprey. The area offers paddling, cycling, hiking, and swimming, but also plenty of space for stillness, presence, and time at nature’s own pace.

At Huseby Bruk, you step into a living manor house life from the 19th century—often described as a Swedish Downton Abbey. Visit the manor with its preserved rooms and salons, stroll through the park and gardens, and explore the ironworks environment with its museum and exhibitions. Sit down at the café by the riverbank and experience a place where history feels close at hand.

The glassworks in the Kingdom of Crystal each have their own unique character. Mouth-blown glass has been produced here since 1742. Today, as a visitor, you’ll encounter both everyday glass and world-class art glass, and you’re welcome right up close to the furnaces to watch it being created. At some glassworks, you can even try glassblowing yourself.

After a stop in Kalmar, the road trip continues smoothly as you cross the bridge over to the island of Öland. On the island, a true gem awaits, filled with charming farm shops, flea markets, and cozy cafés. Here, you’re surrounded by a landscape that truly invites you to spend time outdoors, whether you want to hike, cycle, or simply enjoy the view. Since Öland is an island, there are also plenty of beautiful beaches and perfect spots for a refreshing swim.

Continue north along the coast and stop in Oskarshamn – the place of islands and lakes. From here, during the summer season, you can book a spot on the boat that goes to Blå Jungfrun – the beautiful island and national park located in the Baltic Sea between Oskarshamn and northern Öland. Blå Jungfrun is an isolated island with a magnificent silhouette. The gray-blue granite dome rises 86 meters above sea level in the Kalmar Strait, and its appearance has contributed to Blå Jungfrun becoming the legendary Blåkulla of fairy tales and folklore.

Visit the charming town of Vimmerby – Astrid Lindgren’s hometown. Through her books, Astrid has touched people all over the world, and it was here, in the small town of Vimmerby, that she laid the foundation for her authorship. Näs, Astrid’s childhood home, is today a visitor center with exhibitions, guided tours, gardens, and a restaurant.

Experience Lake Sommen from a wood-fired steamship. S/S Boxholm II is one of Sweden’s oldest – and last – wood-fired steamships and has operated on the lake since 1904. From timber transport to passenger experiences – let yourself be fascinated by the history and the tranquil lake. During the summer, day and evening cruises are offered to charming hidden gems along Lake Sommen.

Enjoy the sun at Bryggan on the northern shore of Lake Munksjön, where Bryggan Café and Bistro – listed in the White Guide – attracts visitors with great food. Right nearby, the pier stretches out into Lake Vättern, a popular promenade with waterfront restaurants offering something for every taste.

Habo Church is known for its paintings that cover the entire interior of the church. The first church is believed to have been built as early as the 12th century, but it gained its current appearance in 1723. The church is open daily during the summer. Guided tours are recommended and can be booked in advance.

Explore Vandalorum, a vibrant museum set among the fields of Värnamo, where contemporary art and design are displayed in inspiring environments. Combine your visit with a meal at Vandalorum Restaurant, which serves dishes made from organic and locally sourced ingredients – a perfect break amid art and creative experiences.