Discover Småland
Ancient forests, red and white houses, and fantastic stories. Green meadows filled with flowers, berries, and lovely scents. Archipelagos, coastlines, and lakes with shimmering waters. Thousands of islands and lots of fun. Charming cities with life, culture, restaurants, and cafes. Discover Småland!
Summer in Småland
Summer in Småland is made for adventure, peace and rural charm. Småland offers summer memories that will last a long time.
Småland Gravel
Discover gravel cycling in northeastern Småland, where Swedish nature and Astrid Lindgren’s fairy tale world come together. Småland, with its forests, lakes and red cottages, is a vibrant part of Sweden and an enchanting cycling destination.
Market gardens
Discover the charming market gardens of Småland and Öland – lush destinations where floral splendor, fragrant herbs and local gardening joy take centre stage. Here greenhouses and garden cafes coexist with knowledgeable staff and unique plants, perfect for those looking for inspiration for their garden or just want to enjoy the greenery.
Camping with the Family in Småland
Experience camping with the family in Småland and on Öland – where adventures await around every corner and nature becomes your playground. Here you’ll find family-friendly campsites with swimming, play areas, animals, and activities for all ages. From forests and lakes to sea and beach, the region offers settings that suit both young and old campers. Pack the caravan, tent, or motorhome – and create memories together.
Nature camping in Småland
Discover nature-close campsites in Småland and on Öland – here, peaceful natural idylls await, where forests, lakes, and the sea meet in perfect harmony. Whether you’re seeking silence by a forest glade, birdsong at dawn, or salty breezes along the coast of Öland, there’s room for both relaxation and adventure for all ages.
Picking strawberries in Småland
Pick strawberries in Småland and Öland. Picking strawberries yourself is a popular summer activity in Småland and Öland and a perfect way to enjoy sun-ripened berries straight from the fields. At several farms you can pick your own strawberries, experience the rural idyll and take a taste of summer home with you.
Dog-friendly accommodations
Are you looking for accommodation where your four-legged friend is just as welcome as you are? In Småland there are several dog-friendly accommodation options where both you and your dog can relax after a day of adventure. From cozy cabins in the forest to comfortable hotels with nice walking trails around the corner – there is something for everyone traveling with a dog!
Birdwatching
Early mornings, misty bogs and the silence suddenly broken by the cry of a crane – birdwatching is a passion that opens the door to nature’s secrets. In the forests of Småland and along the coast of Öland, unforgettable encounters await, ready to be discovered.
Northern Lights in Småland
Seeing the Northern Lights, also known as Aurora Borealis, is an unforgettable experience. Many associate this natural phenomenon with the northernmost parts of Sweden, but the truth is that sometimes it’s possible to see the Northern Lights even in Småland. Here’s a guide on how, where, and when you can catch a glimpse of this spectacular light show in the sky.
The Matchstick area in Jönköping
Welcome to the Matchstick area in Jönköping, a place where history and creativity meet, creating a vibrant cultural environment. Here, old industrial buildings blend with modern art and new expressions, making it one of the city’s most exciting and unique locations. The area holds great cultural value, and its vibrant atmosphere has made it a destination for both art lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Pippi 80 years
In Småland, there is reason to celebrate: Pippi Longstocking, perhaps Sweden’s most famous adventures girl, turns 80 this year. In 1945, the first book about the strong girl with red braids, who lives alone in Villa Villekulla with her monkey and horse, was published. The author, Astrid Lindgren, is from Vimmerby in Småland, where you can still visit her childhood home and experience Pippi’s world up close. But there are also many other brave things to do in Småland.
Spring in Småland
After the long winter, the Swedish spring appears all the more intense. From around April, nature awakens and quickly transforms the landscape into a fresh green – perfect for long walks that give a sense of lightness and a fresh start.
Nature adventures in Småland
Book your nature adventures in Småland. Zipline over the treetops, travel through a joyful river and explore the archipleago.
What to do in Bolmen
Explore some gems around Bolmen and nearby lakes for accommodation, food and activities.
About Bolmen
Lake Bolmen …is certainly completely different from a toilet brush. It may not be for sale, but we welcome visitors from all over the world to come here and experience this beautiful, clean and fantastic lake
Accomodation close to nature
Wake up to birdsong, fall asleep to the wind rustling in the trees – in Småland and on Öland there are accommodations that let you get really close to nature.
The Drinkable Country
Experience natural drinks and beverage production with Småland ingredients in the company of good friends. Welcome to The Drinkable Country.
The Edible Country
Here, local and organic food is cherished and Småland’s nature is often used to inspire local menus. Taste the flavours outdoors or at a local restaurants.
Enjoy a meal in the Västervik Archipelago
Explore the unspoiled islands of Hasselö, Idö and Rågö and when hunger sets in there are many island cafés and restaurant to choose from.
Korrö Health & Gourmet tours
Korrö is a unique combination of history, flavors, and stunning nature. Welcome to something different!
Cities in Småland
Restaurants and bars, shopping and activities, culture and history – the three residential cities in Småland all have a lot to offer!
Marions smultronställen in Småland
The namesake for the places in Sweden that we know as favorite or feel-good spots are called: smultronställen and there are plenty of them in Småland.
Småland for everyone
Småland is a popular travel destination for good reason, both for young and old – here you can experience beautiful landscapes and much more.
Vättern
Lake Vättern is surrounded by the diverse landscapes of the Småland region. Steep banks, dense forests and vibrant towns are found along the southern tip of Sweden’s second largest lake.
Road trip in Småland with Jonas Henningsson
Do a road trip and take the scenic road through Småland, south Sweden. We give you some stops and tips along the way.
Sarah’s nature experiences in Småland
Beautiful hikes, wild animals and scenic accommodations are exactly what you will find in Småland. These are Sarah’s five best tips for Småland.
Kids & family
Småland is a natural playground for all ages, with experiences for young and old in the forest and grounds, in the Wild West and, not least, in Pippi Longstocking’s world.
Health & relaxation
Enjoy health and relaxation in Småland. Treat yourself to a spa experience, a golf weekend, or a relaxing moment in nature. Whether you want to hop on a horse, take a cold bath, or go for a walk in the forest, we have the experience for you.
Accommodation
Stay at a manor, a comfortable city hotel, or a quaint red cottage with white trims. Sleep well in Småland, whether you prefer a castle or a cabin.
Food & drink
In the south of Sweden in the region, Småland locally and organically produced food is cherished. Learn more about what local food in Småland is about.
Design in Småland
Glass, wood, leather, and cast iron are just some of the classic materials used to produce Småland art! Here, you’ll find studios, museums, and gardens that make the experience of color and form complete.
Nature & adventure
Småland is full of nature and adventure. Hiking, cycling, exploring the archipelago, the islands, and thousands of lakes. Here, you’ll find active, action-packed adventures mixed with serene experiences in accessible nature. Welcome to nature experiences in a nearby wilderness.
Culture and history
Once upon a time there were twelve small lands that became Småland, inhabited by independent and headstrong people.
Christmas Markets
‘Tis the season! Get in the Christmas spirit by visiting one (or more!) of Småland’s cosy and atmospheric Christmas markets.
The Right of Public Access
The Swedish Right of Public Access gives us almost unlimited access to nature and unique outdoor experiences – if everyone follows the rules.
Cycling Tours in Småland
Hop on the saddle and set out on a cycling tour in Småland. Whether you wish to cycle on an island or through the forest, there are routes for you.
Watch animals
Småland is home to many animal species – from the smallest dung beetle to the moose, the “king of the forests”. But it’s not always easy to spot animals in the wild. Book a tour in a safari park or with a guide on the open water.
The children’s castle
In the summer, Kalmar Castle belongs to the children. They take over the reigns as knights and princesses, squires and queens.
The Matchstick Museum
The Matchstick Museum in Jönköping, located by the southern shore of Lake Vättern, offers an in-depth look into one of Sweden’s most significant industries. Here, in a charming wooden building from 1848, visitors can learn about both the technical and social history behind the rise of matchstick production – an industry that has shaped both Jönköping and the world.
Farm Shops
The best way to shop for fresh, locally produced food is by visiting a farm shop. Often, the crops are grown nearby, and it’s not uncommon for the freshly bought eggs to come from hens clucking nearby. Depending on the farm’s focus, you can find their own specialties for sale.
Cafés in Småland
Spending time at a cozy café can be one of the most relaxing experiences imaginable. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee, warm buns… or the traditional ‘ostkaka.’ And, of course, the unique ambiance that makes each café a special experience. Here are some gems in Småland and Öland that are truly worth a visit.
Vandalorum
Vandalorum is a modern, international art and design centre in Värnamo, a museum and destination that moves freely between subjects and disciplines.
Flea Market
Flea markets are a treasure trove for those who love to find bargains and unique things with history. Welcome to Småland!
Fish species
In Småland you will find lakes and waterways of various sizes that offer an exceptional variety of species as well as a thriving fish population.
Cycling tour guide
Experience all our cycling routes with our cycling tour guide
Gravel in Småland
Biking around in Småland is an excellent way to discover those hidden spots that make your trip extra special.
Live like a Smålander
Spending time in the spectacular nature is quite natural for us Smålanders. We make a habit of enjoying nature as often as possible – preferably every day.
Activities close to nature
Anyone is free to explore in our nature, but we’ve made it a bit easier for you – here are some nice tips to check out for great nature experiences.
Midsummer in Småland
Midsummer means celebrations and is not only unique to Sweden, but also one of the most loved traditions in the country.
Holiday in Småland
Sara Kroezen, a copywriter based in Amsterdam, has shared her experiences from a holiday in Småland. She travelled with her family, husband Tom and daughters Emma and Mia, to discover Småland like a local – a summer holiday in a typical Swedish cottage in Vimmerby.
Bikehotels
If you want to stay overnight there are several accomodations with cycling package and solutions in Småland.
Flavours of Småland
The flavours of Småland include the traditional specialties ostkaka, isterband and lingonsylt. Here you can learn more about them!
Hyttsill in the Kingdom of Crystal
The combination of the heat from the glowing, molten glass, hearty Småland food, stories, pleasantries and glass-blowing.
The green food
In Småland, green food is at the centre. Locally grown produce is preferred and you can find urban cultivations as well as farm shops on the countryside.
White Guide Cafés
During summers, you find small cosy cafés in every corner of Småland. Here, however, you find a list of the cafés recommended in White Guide 2017/2018.
Parks and gardens
Parks and well-designed gardens are a pleasure for the soul. Here are our tips on beautiful parks and gardens in Småland.
The Furniture District
Bruno Mathsson, Norrgavel, Svenssons in Lammhult and much more. In the furniture district you find unique design and furniture.
Unique Living
Make your visit to Småland one to remember – stay by a lighthouse, in a castle, or on your own island. Find some of Småland’s unique accommodations.
Ostkaka from Småland
Ostkaka is a Småland specialty. Welcome to taste Åsens by Ostkaka, or try baking your own. Here is the recipe!
Småland Beverages
Typical drinks from Småland include apple must, beer from micro breweries and lingonberry squash.
White Guide Restaurants
Restaurants and cafés in Småland with an award in White Guide.
Spa in Småland
Enjoy the serenity in a spa. With the calm countryside close, it is easy to attend harmony and well-being!
Travel through the design districts
There are many myths about the people of Småland, some more flattering than others. One reputation to be proud of is that of the Småland people as inventive entrepreneurs.
Golf Courses
A day on the golf course is both relaxing and stimulating, and the perfect employment for the holidays. Enjoy the views as you play at some of Smålands courses!
Hostels
Småland’s hostels most often are beautifully located and affordable to stay at. Some are close to lakes, some in charming houses.
Bed & Breakfast
Relax in a home away from home. You will always find a cosy B&B along the road while in Småland. Welcome to stay in Sweden for real!
Holiday parks
Do you want the comfort of staying in your own cottage, but in the beautiful nature of Småland? Then a holiday park is something for you. Often, you will find a lot of comfort here, with facilities and activities for the whole family.
Camping
In Småland, camping means staying close to nature – often by a lake or in a bay. Experience what Sweden’s wilderness offers for real.
The dream of a red cottage
There’s hardly anything more Swedish than red cottages with white trim. They’re all over Småland–by lakes, in forests. Why not stay in one on your holiday?
Design Hotels
Småland offers a variety of design hotels that reflect the region’s design tradition and create a unique experience. With a focus on sustainability and quality, they provide insight into local culture and art. Whether you’re seeking a place for relaxation or inspiration, Småland’s design hotels offer an environment that delights all the senses.
Manor Houses
Experience the wonderful atmosphere of the manor houses in Småland! Each manor has its own story and offers enjoyment and relaxation in beautiful surroundings.
Moose parks in Småland
30 000 moose roam free in the forests of Småland, and if you don’t happen to see them in nature, you might just be able to see one in a moose park.
MTB and Pump track
Try cycling on mountain bike paths that go in varied terrain. Or try pump tracks, where you don’t use pedals.
Little Rock Lake Zipline
Take the chance to get a new perspective on nature and life. In the middle of Småland’s forests you find Europe’s longest and biggest zipline adventure.
Crayfish – a genuine Småland tradition
Fishing for crayfish and then having the opportunity to cook or taste the catch is something that far too few people have had the opportunity to experience. Now you have the chance to do something exclusive – experience Småland crayfish fishing!
Isaberg Mountain Resort
Isaberg is a mountain resort and leisure center with closeness to the forest and a lake, with many activities all year around.
Mines and caves
Some of Sweden’s first mines were opened in Småland. They mined for both minerals and different kinds of stone.
Gränna and Visingsö
A day trip to Gränna and Visingsö offers an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the famous candy canes and take in the history.
Guest harbors
From May to September, the Småland coastline is adorned with white hoisted sails and motor foam. Several temporary small communities of floating houses spring up in the guest harbors. Here you can choose your favorite or cruise between several.
Hike in Småland
Hundreds of kilometers invite you to longer or shorter hikes in the Småland landscape.
National Parks
The nature in Småland cannot be described in one sentence. Here there are deep forests, barren bogs, lake and coastal landscapes. The national parks are different from each other, but all offer experiences of wild nature left to fend for itself.
Nature reserves
Cosy coniferous forests, flowering meadows, warm cliffs in the archipelago and lush birch forests. There is protected nature around every corner.
Norra Kvill National Park
Norra Kvill consists of genuine Småland virgin forest. What you get to see here are fallen trees, huge moss-covered boulders and bewitching forest ponds…
Archipelago fishing in Västervik
Västervik with all its coves and islands is one of Sweden’s best places for sport fishing and attracts anglers from all over Europe.
Archipelago in Småland
Archipelago in Småland. Do you dream of rocky islets, thousands of small islands, and gently rolling waves? Småland offers a stunning archipelago environment in the form of the Tjust and Misterhult Archipelagos. Here, you can hop between islands, soak in the tranquility and charm, and enjoy a truly complete southern Swedish archipelago experience.
Horse Adventures
Riding tours and trips in horse-drawn carriages. A harmonious way to travel through Småland’s forests and fields.
Foraging for Berries and Mushrooms
Småland’s beautiful forests are accessible to everyone and are full of delicious berries and mushrooms just waiting to be picked.
Pilgrim trails
Hike through Småland on beautiful small roads, through picturesque villages with meadows and pastures. Enjoy a hike with meaning – stillness and silence.
Kayaking & canoeing
One of the best way to get to know the lakes, seas and waterways in and around Småland is through paddling.
Eagle and seal safari
Västervik’s outer archipelago offers a true wilderness experience. Go on a tour among the isles and see seals and eagles.
Train nostalgia
The railways have played a crucial role in the development of Småland, and even today there are several historic routes where you can travel back in time. From nostalgic railbus tours and steam locomotives to trolleybus rentals and a living railway museum – there is something here for both history buffs and adventure seekers.
Outdoors in Västervik
When it comes to outdoor activities, Västervik is of international top class. Welcome to discover the archipelago paradise.
Store Mosse National park
Enjoy more than 40 kilometres of footpaths and a unique flora and fauna in Store Mosse National Park – Sweden’s biggest bog south of Lapland.
Stream fishing
Fly fishing in flowing water is a challenge that many people want to take on. It takes a lot of patience and persistence to outwit the fish that lurk in the shallow flowing water. When the surrounding environment is wonderfully green and calming, the challenge becomes even better.
Sydostleden
The trail runs through a varied landscape – from the forests and glistening lakes of Småland, towards Skåne with Österlen and Simrishamn.
Småland by bike
Getting on your bike and setting off is a great way to discover Småland. There’s everything here – from short to long cycling routes, bike tours through the Västervik archipelago, to challenging mountain biking adventures. You can bring your own bike or rent everything you need on site. Here, we present some of the highlights of Småland.
Vantage Points
Småland offers diverse landscapes with vantage points that provide stunning views. From sparkling lakes and deep forests to picturesque villages and rolling meadows – there’s something for everyone. Hike to a cliff, visit a lookout tower, or discover a hidden gem and enjoy the beauty of nature. Let Småland’s landscapes become a memorable part of your adventure.
Winter Activities in Småland
Discover winter activities in Småland. Whether you want to hear the snow crunch beneath your skis and feel the rush in your stomach on the slopes, or enjoy a winter hike you are welcome to Småland.
Biking in Mullsjö
Cycling in Småland is both calming and an easily adaptable summer adventure. In the nature around Mullsjö in northern Småland, deep primeval forests blend with open plains and tranquil lakes. For those who want to experience the sensation of cycling, there is a wide range of trails in various environments to choose from. Read our guide below!
The Kingdom of Crystal
More than a million people travel to the Kingdom of Crystal every year to experience the fascinating process of glass making, and not least to buy glass.
Design shops
The best design shops in Småland are often outlets where you shop directly at the manufacturer at bargain prices.
Bruno Mathsson Centre
One of the most prominent and famous Swedish furniture designers throughout the ages is Bruno Mathsson. He was born in Värnamo.
Modern architecture
We always try to build with consideration to the environment and surroundings. It should be functional, but also beautiful, based on ideals of the time. Here we present some buildings with modern architecture found in Småland.
Trolley Cycling
With the wind in your hair you pedal through Småland’s forests and past glistening lakes. When the legs long for some rest, you stop for a swim in a lake.
Fishing Guides
Our local fishing guides know their waters and where the fish usually hide. Book a guide and learn all local fishing secrets!
Fishing camp
The fishing camps are adapted for fishing with good accommodation combined with fine fishing waters. It is possible to rent boats and fishing gear on site and fishing guides are usually on hand.
Fishing in Småland
Whether you prefer sitting in a boat in a silent lake, standing in the middle of a stream or fishing in the sea, you will be able to find what you want.
Diving and shipwrecks
In the deep blue, below the surface, an incredible treasure is hidden. Småland has an amazing underwater-nature.
Boat Tours
With 5000 lakes, numerous streams and a 270 km coastline, Småland offers many opportunities for trips on water.
Blå Jungfrun
Blå Jungfrun is one of those wonderful freaks of nature, totally unlike any of the archipelago’s other islands. Are the legends about the island true?
Beaches
In Småland, there is everything from beautiful sandy beaches and smooth flat rocks, to tiny inland lakes.
Outdoor adventures
In Småland and on Öland, adventures abound. Paddle a kayak along the coast on the open sea or ride a zipline high above the treetops deep in Småland’s forests. For MTB enthusiasts, there are trails and tracks winding through varied terrain, offering both challenges and stunning views.
Åsnen National Park
Deep in the Småland wilderness lies Åsnen – a magical lake with untouched islands, deep forests and a rich wildlife. Here you can paddle through quiet waterways, cycle along winding paths or hike in Åsnen National Park, where nature is left just as it always has been. A place for adventure, tranquility and unforgettable nature experiences.
Fairy tales for children
Enjoy the fantastic children’s stories that have been part of the childhoods of young and old. Meet the characters and walk the same paths as they did.
The Museum of Legends
Look around the fun museum and listen to exciting tales about elves, trolls and giants – just to name a few of the unknowns found in Småland.
Inquisitive kids
Try glassblowing, learn about nature, be a researcher for a day – no adventure is too small for inquisitive children!
High Chaparral
High Chaparral offers genuine settings and professional performances for everyone who has ever dreamt of the Wild West – an action-packed activity!
Sweets from Småland
Treat yourself to Småland sweets on your trip: visit the makers and buy them fresh. Who hasn’t heard of the rock candy from Gränna?
Filmbyn Småland
Filmbyn Småland in Mariannelund embraces Astrid Lindgren’s stories as they were portrayed in the films about Emil of Lönneberga (That Boy Emil), Saltkråkan, and Pippi Longstocking. These classic films have been a part of childhood for several generations of Swedish children, and many surely have memories of the locations, costumes, and props featured in them.
Astrid Lindgren’s World
In Astrid Lindgren’s World, fairy tales come true and children’s favorite characters step straight out of the books. Here, visitors can meet Pippi, Emil, Ronja and many more, see exciting performances and explore the imaginative environments from Astrid Lindgren’s stories. With play, theater and adventure around every corner, it is a place where the whole family can experience the magic of Astrid Lindgren’s world.
IKEA Museum
One of Småland’s newest additions, and at the same time a real Småland classic. Welcome to IKEA Museum in Älmhult.
Rainy Days Ideas
There’s plenty for you and your family to do in Småland when the weather isn’t cooperating
Spellbound
Experiencing forests, historic buildings and legendary places with a story from the unknown makes the experience deeper and an understanding of the cultural heritage greater.
Churches
Medieval churches, cathedrals and other sights that represent the time when they were built. Today they are also popular tourist destinations.
The Land of Legends
The Land of Legends – an enchanting place where invisible creatures and fairy tales take you on a magical journey through the forests.
A Grand tour of Småland
Experience the precious gems of nature and culture in Småland with plenty of time on your hands.
Nostalgia trip
This journey through Sweden is about reliving the moments that many of us grew up with and that still warm our hearts.
Museums in Småland
Discover Småland’s rich history and creative heritage through exciting museums! Whether you want to explore culture, crafts or industrial history, Småland’s museums offer unique experiences where the past meets the present.
John Bauer
John Bauer was a painter from Småland, known for his enchanting, mysterious paintings depicting trolls and the Swedish forests.
Art galleries
Top-class art galleries where the art of Småland meets international works – a must for art lovers!
Kalmar Castle
Your steps echo between the old walls as you walk through the vault, into Kalmar Castle’s courtyard.
The wooden town of Eksjö
Eksjö’s town centre boasts more than 50 listed wooden buildings, making it one of Europe’s best-preserved wooden towns. Wander around old districts!
Picturesque & historical Småland
Our landscape is rich in well-preserved sites where time has stood still. Enjoy a journey back in time and immerse yourself in a lost age.
Astrid Lindgren’s Näs
Näs in Vimmerby was the place where it all started. This is where Astrid Lindgren grew up with her siblings a hundred years ago and where she got the inspiration for many of her stories.
Astrid Lindgren
Most people have strong feelings about Astrid Lindgren and her books. She continually reaches new readers and continues to shape our view of humanity and the world. Her authorship transcends all boundaries – she is read by all generations across all continents.
Åsens by
In Åsens By, Sweden’s first cultural reserve, visitors gain a unique insight into what Småland looked like 100 years ago. Here, children can run freely among the old farmsteads, feed the animals, and experience activities such as riding in a horse-drawn wagon or carding wool. The picturesque area, located near Aneby, is carefully preserved and provides an authentic experience of a time when life was simpler and nature was close.
Go with a Steam boat
To buy a ticket and have a ride with some of the great, old Steamboats is a pleasant family trip during summer time.
Husqvarna Museum
The Husqvarna museum is a popular excursion destination with products such as sewing machines, stoves, fireplaces, motorcycles and garden machinery.
Röttle By Offers Nature and Culture
Three kilometers south of Gränna you will find idyllic Röttle By. A genuine cultural and historical environment with wooden houses from both the 18th and 19th centuries, two historic mills, a dramatic waterfall from the Röttleån River and a quiet marina.
Huseby Bruk
Travel in time at Huseby Bruk outside Växjö, where you step into surroundings from the 19th century. Småland’s Downton Abbey!
PM & Vänner
Award winning restaurant with one star in Guide Michelin. Food based on the cornerstones of forest, meadow and lake.
Cycling in the footsteps of emigrants
Take a bike ride through the rocky Småland that Vilhelm Moberg’s emigrants once left behind. It’s a 130 km long circular route with many overnight accommodations. You choose where you want to start and end, and how long daily distances you want to cycle.
The Kingdom of Crystal is pure magic
Nowhere in the world are there so many glassworks and studios in one place. Glass has been blown here since 1742 and the working method is largely the same now as then. Where the Småland spruce forest opens up, you will find the mills in unpretentious communities. A glassworks tour can take either one or two days.