Blekinge & Småland, Sweden

The provinces of Blekinge and Småland make up most of Sweden’s southeastern Baltic coast. In Blekinge, the Baltic’s rocky coastline begins, stretching all the way to northern Sweden and forming a major part of the appeal of a holiday in Sweden. North of Blekinge, its archipelago gives way to Småland’s mostly flat, only moderately indented coast by Swedish standards, fronted by numerous small islands. Just a few kilometres offshore lies the long island of Öland, connected to the mainland by a bridge at Kalmar .

Blekinge is also known as the Garden of Sweden. The towns of Sölvesborg, Karlshamn, Ronneby and Karlskrona are strung along the coast, with its archipelago of mostly wooded, small rocky islands. Founded in 1680 right in the middle of the archipelago, Karlskrona grew into what is still Sweden’s largest naval base. One offshoot of this tradition is the exceptionally wide range of water sports on offer. Numerous canoe rental stations provide a starting point for unforgettable coastal trips by sea kayak.

Småland is one of Sweden’s most varied regions in terms of landscape. The characteristic Swedish combination of rocks, forests and water is especially pronounced here in a compact area. Just a few kilometres from the Baltic coast, numerous mostly small, unspoilt inland waters can be found. Småland has a particularly large number of traditional holiday homes. Most are privately owned and scattered throughout the extensive forest areas.
Sweden’s “Kingdom of Crystal” lies in the coastal hinterland of Småland and comprises numerous glassworks, each with its own distinctive style and — like Orrefors and Kosta Boda — an international reputation.
The provincial capital, Kalmar, is dominated by its castle, which dates back to the time of Gustav Vasa, founder of the Swedish Empire.
Kalmar is also the starting point for a drive across the six-kilometre bridge to the island of Öland. The island stretches 137 kilometres from north to south and is no more than 16 kilometres wide. With little rain and plenty of sunshine, it consists largely of limestone; its southern part, with its agricultural landscape, is a World Heritage Site.

Blekinge and eastern Småland, including the island of Öland, are among the most popular holiday regions on Sweden’s Baltic coast. The area has plenty of holiday accommodation, mostly holiday apartments and campsites in the many small seaside resorts along the Baltic coast and in the surrounding countryside.