Spring in Småland

In spring and early summer, the southeastern Åsnen area transforms into a true sea of blossoms. The apple trees with their pink and white flowers bloom in the meadows, along the roads, and on old stone walls, providing a breathtaking backdrop that evokes memories of past times and makes you long for the upcoming summer.

The Apple Valley, or Äppeldalen in Swedish, is located on the southeastern shore of Lake Vättern and offers ideal conditions for fruit cultivation. Among other places, you’ll find the apple orchards of Rudenstam, where a farm shop and café await visitors. In spring, the valley is especially impressive with over 80,000 blooming apple trees – a true feast for the eyes!

Spring is ideal for birdwatching, but other animals also gradually become more active. Småland offers numerous places where you can experience Swedish wildlife up close.

Around Ottenby, at the southern tip of Öland, lies Sweden’s migration hotspot. After a long flight over the Baltic Sea, most birds stop here before heading further north. And even for non-feathered travelers, there’s plenty to discover around Sweden’s tallest lighthouse!

The landscape of Store Mosse National Park is dominated by the southernmost wetland area in Sweden. The lakes and marshes provide an undisturbed habitat for cranes, moose, and eagles. Right next to the parking lot and the visitor center, Naturrum, there is a 12-meter-high observation tower from which you can overlook the entire region – be sure to bring binoculars!

Åsnen National Park entices with a stunning mix of deep forests, blue coves, and a freshwater archipelago landscape. The region is a true paradise for Swedish wildlife: Have you heard of the Åsnen Big Five? With a bit of luck, you can spot moose, osprey, white-tailed eagle, cranes, and The black-throated diver here.

Valborg (known as Walpurgis in English) is traditionally celebrated in Sweden on April 30th and is the festival where spring is officially welcomed. Large bonfires are lit across the country to say goodbye to winter, and people celebrate with friends and family, often accompanied by lots of singing. Coincidentally, King Carl XVI Gustaf also celebrates his birthday on the last day of April. May 1st is Labour Day and thus a public holiday.

The waffle is given its own day in Sweden, celebrated on March 25th. Many people bring out their waffle irons and serve waffles for the traditional Fika at home. There are no strict rules for how the waffles should be eaten, but they are usually served with jam and whipped cream alongside coffee.