Unexpected adventures, tranquil forests, shimmering lakes, and stories from centuries gone by—this was my four-day escape from Copenhagen into the heart of Småland. I want to take you along on this journey, not just as a guide, but as a story of discovering the soulful beauty of southern Sweden, one breathtaking moment at a time.
This journey was made possible through a wonderful collaboration with Visit Småland, who helped me organize this unforgettable trip and connected me with the incredible people behind these special experiences. I’m proud to share the authentic beauty of Småland and grateful for the warm support from the local community throughout this adventure.
Day 1: Leaving Copenhagen — Into the Land of Legends and Views
Lunnabacken
I hit the road early in the morning, my car packed with anticipation and a playlist of folk and country tunes. The drive from Copenhagen to Småland is about three hours, a gentle transition from urban buzz to the quiet embrace of nature. The landscape slowly changed—fields stretching endlessly, dotted with wildflowers and fruit trees that nodded in the spring breeze.
My first stop was Lunnabacken, a magical place I’d read about but which surpassed all my expectations. The heritage museum perched atop the hill is an old pagan site transformed over centuries into a living testament to the land’s deep history. Standing there, I looked out over Åsnen’s archipelago—an intricate mosaic of tiny islands, fjords, and open waters, all framed by blooming fruit trees.
I had the pleasure of meeting Karin from the local tourist board, a warm and welcoming guide to the region’s many treasures. She brought with her a delightful picnic lunch from PM and Vänner i Växjö, and we found a cozy spot outside amidst the historic, centuries-old museum buildings. Surrounded by their charming, weathered facades and under the soft glow of spring sunlight, we sat down to enjoy the delicious food, the atmosphere made even more special by the mild, fresh air and the bloom of flowers all around.
Malva Gård
After soaking in the beautiful scenery, I took a scenic drive along Sirkövägen, a charming, narrow road winding through orchards bursting with pink blossoms that looked like they had been plucked from a fairytale. My first stop was at Malva Gård, an apple farm owned by Björn and his wife Charlotte. They have dedicated their lives to cultivating and preserving traditional apple varieties, and their passion for quality and heritage truly shows in their products.
Björn, with his warm and proud demeanor, welcomed me and shared the story of how they succeeded in making some of Sweden’s best apple juice—so good, in fact, that they have won the first prize at the national juice competition not just once, not twice – but three times! Their cider-like juices, made from single varieties of perfectly ripened apples, were rich, tangy, and full of sunshine, tasting like a pure slice of nature. It was clear that their commitment to craftsmanship and the heritage of apple cultivation has paid off, creating a product that stands out across the country.
Tasting their award-winning juices and learning about their journey was inspiring—an authentic taste of dedication, tradition, and loving stewardship of the land that has become their family legacy.
Åsnen National Park
Later, I visited Åsnen National Park at Bjurkärr—the ancient beech forests beckoned with their quiet, mossy floors and towering trees. I took a short hike, listening to the melodic call of birds, feeling completely immersed in this untouched wilderness.
Teleborg Castle
Next, I visited a place that perfectly captures the essence of Småland’s enchanting landscape—Teleborg’s Castle. When I first saw it, I was captivated by its charming, fairy-tale appearance, nestled amidst the tranquil Swedish scenery. Built in the late 1800s as a wedding gift from Count Fredrik Bonde, the castle’s turrets and elegant exterior seem to have jumped straight out of a storybook, inviting me into a world of history and wonder.
Inside, the castle feels warm and welcoming. It has been carefully restored so that its old charm is clear, but it also offers modern comforts. The rooms are bright and decorated with care, each one telling a bit of the castle’s long history. I loved how cozy and elegant everything was—it was the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring.
From the windows, I could see the lake and the green forests stretching out beyond. The view was calm and peaceful, a perfect reminder of how beautiful this part of Sweden is. I took a walk around the gardens, enjoying the quiet beauty of the surroundings.
Later, I sat down to a wonderful dinner in one of the castle’s large dining halls. The food was fresh and local—seasonal ingredients that made every dish taste special. Eating in such a historic setting made everything feel even more memorable.
As the evening drew in, the castle looked even more magical, lit softly by candles and the warm glow of the room. I felt a deep sense of peace, really appreciating the mix of history, nature, and hospitality around me. Staying at Teleborg’s Castle was a special experience—slow, beautiful, and full of stories waiting to be discovered.
It’s a place that makes you want to relax, enjoy the small things, and connect with the quiet beauty of Småland. If you want to step into a quiet fairytale, this castle is the perfect place to do it.
Since it is an old building with limitations on modifications, there are shared bathrooms and showers available.
Day 2: Mountain Peaks and Rustic Elegance
Jättabacken
The next morning, I woke early, feeling the crisp air of the countryside. Rebecca from Vetlanda and Mats, a third generation local farmer and now a bit of a storyteller, took me up to the top of Jättabacken, a hill that proudly rises 291 meters above sea level. We followed a marked trail through thick, green pines and oaks, listening to Mats share old stories—what we call sagas in the north—about giants and spirits that once roamed these lands.
When we reached the summit, the view of Lake Värnen stretched out before us, endless and shimmering like a mirror reflecting the sky. I sat quietly on the picnic bench, taking it all in—the fresh mountain air filling my lungs, and feeling as if I was standing on the roof of the world, surrounded by stories and the breathtaking beauty of nature.
Wallby Säteri
From there, I headed to Wallby Säteri, a historic estate surrounded by rolling meadows and forests. When I arrived, Magnus, the proud owner, welcomed me and showed me around the incredible facilities. He and his wife have run this estate for over 25 years, and their love for the place is easy to see. Magnus spoke about how they have constantly improved and upgraded the old buildings, always respecting the history while adding modern touches to keep the charm alive. At Wallby Säteri, history and progress blend effortlessly, creating a place that feels both timeless and lively.
Walking through the estate, I could see how much care they put into restoring the old structures, always keeping their authentic character. Magnus shared stories about how they’ve worked to keep traditions alive, even as they make things better. The estate’s history is present everywhere, yet it’s also a place that’s always evolving, driven by love for the land and a desire to preserve the past while shaping the future.
The scenery around Wallby Säteri looked like a painting—large, ancient oaks towering above, wildflowers adding color to the fields. The distant sound of water, maybe from a stream or lake nearby, made everything feel peaceful and in harmony.
Later, I enjoyed a simple but delicious farm-to-table meal made from local ingredients—fresh eggs, seasonal berries, and game. Sitting in the lush green surroundings, I felt a deep connection to the land, tradition, and sustainability that define this special place. Being here felt like stepping into a living storybook, where history, nature, and passion come together perfectly.
Charging my electric car was completely hassle-free during this trip thanks to Sweden’s excellent infrastructure. The high-speed chargers (HCP) along the routes make fueling easy and quick, and all the hotels I stayed at also had their own chargers, so I could recharge conveniently overnight. It made exploring so much more relaxing and enjoyable.
Trakt Forest Hotel
The afternoon unfolded with a gentle, almost sacred stillness. After parking my car at a quiet lot near the entrance, I was greeted by a warm smile and handed the keys to my wilderness cabin. From there, I grabbed a small wooden wagon, perfectly suited for carrying my luggage and supplies, each step feeling like a small adventure in itself. I loaded my belongings onto the cart and began the short, five-minute walk into the depths of the forest. The path was bordered by lush undergrowth and fluttering leaves, and each step brought me further away from the noise of everyday life and closer to pure tranquility.
The trail wound through the woods in a gentle dance, guiding me toward the retreat that awaited—an intimate sanctuary nestled among towering trees. As I reached my cabin, surrounded by the whisper of pines and the quiet hum of nature, I felt a sense of deep peace settle in. This place was more than just a hideaway; it was a gateway to reconnecting with something real and primal.
Before I settled in, I took a walk through the farm belonging to the owners, a lovely couple named Mattias and Sandra Sälleteg. They are the fourth generation to care for this land, and their farm is full of life and history, showing years of love and hard work. They also built Trakt Forest Hotel, a place that combines old traditions with modern comfort. As I walked through fields and under tall, ancient oaks, I learned about their story—how they want to keep the traditions alive while creating a peaceful and sustainable retreat that respects nature.
From there, I made my way to the wood-fired sauna, located right by a small, shimmering lake. I reached it by following a narrow trail that winds past the farm buildings and along the water’s edge. The sauna is simple, beautiful, and made of wood, perfect for relaxing fully. As I stepped inside, the warm air and fragrant steam from the fire wrapped around me like an old friend. The heat almost instantly eased all the knots in my body, and I felt the tension melt away. Sitting there in the warmth, surrounded by the quiet woods and the peaceful lake, I felt deeply connected to nature—the sense of body and landscape, warmth and wilderness blending into one calming moment.
Dinner followed—an homage to the forest and the land. Every dish was a celebration of local flavors: wild mushrooms, freshly caught fish, herbs picked that very morning. Each bite connected me further to the place, as if the land itself was nourishing my soul. We ate beneath the canopy of stars, the canopy of trees encasing us in quiet storytelling—the kind of stories that stay with you long after the night has fallen away.
That night, lying in my cozy wilderness cabin, surrounded by the calm of the woods and the distant call of night creatures, I felt a deep sense of renewal. Here, in this pure, untouched landscape, I found space to breathe, to truly be. The forest, the lake, the warm, simple comforts of my cabin—the entire experience was a gentle reminder of how wild beauty and human warmth can coexist in perfect harmony. As I drifted off to sleep, I carried with me a quiet promise—to return someday and continue exploring this peaceful, enchanted world.
Day 3: Embracing Småland’s Heart & Coastal Whispers
Västervik
Waking up in the forest felt like I had been privileged with a secret. I enjoyed a quiet breakfast surrounded by trees before setting off towards Västervik, a charming coastal town I’d heard whispers about but which revealed itself as a true hidden treasure.
In Västervik, I found myself wandering through narrow, winding streets that seemed to whisper stories from the past. These historic alleys are lined with charming, colorful shops, quaint cafés, and old maritime buildings—each one carrying echoes of centuries gone by. Everywhere I looked, there was a story waiting to be uncovered—an old sailor’s house, a centuries-old warehouse, or a small artisan gallery showcasing handcrafted works that have been passed down through generations.
My exploration began with a special city tour led by Oluf, the friendly and passionate general manager of the local museum. Oluf had grown up in this town and had spent most of his life here. He knew every corner, every story, and every person in this vibrant community. As we strolled through the streets, it was obvious that this was his home—he still felt connected to every shopkeeper, fisherman, and local resident. His face lit up with warmth and familiarity, and it was charming to see how every few minutes, a local would stop him to say hello or share a quick story. Oluf’s genuine knowledge and deep roots made the town’s history come alive, turning a simple walk into a heartfelt journey through his beloved hometown.
Oluf shared vivid stories about Västervik’s rich maritime heritage—its importance as a medieval port, the legendary shipbuilders, and the seafarers who set sail from those very streets. His enthusiasm was contagious, and I could feel how much this town meant to him. Every building and alley seemed to be intertwined with his own lifetime of memories and stories, making the entire experience feel personal and authentic.
Slottsholmen
Later, I headed to Slottsholmen, a little piece of heaven right on the water’s edge. The hotel—an elegant, historic building—embraced me with its warm hospitality. I checked into my room, looked out over the shimmering harbor, and felt a profound sense of peace settle over me. Dinner was a celebration of local ingredients: roasted fish, wild herbs, and fresh vegetables, all served with a view that stretched beyond the horizon.
That evening, I strolled along the quay, feeling the gentle sea breeze and pondering how this little coastal town held such a powerful sense of tranquility and adventure simultaneously.
Day 4: Fika, Deep Thoughts, and the Archipelagos.
Gränsö Naturreservat
On my final day in Västervik, I was headed toward something truly special—an authentic Swedish “fika” in the archipelago. But this wasn’t just any fika; it was a quiet, soulful moment shared with Johannes Löf, an outdoor guide, My Outdoor Passion, who has dedicated his life to the beauty of nature, breathwork, philosophy, and seeking peace after a decade spent as a highly ranked military officer. His journey from discipline to serenity was evident in the calm he exuded, in the gentle sincerity with which he spoke, and in the way he embraced the present moment.
We set out early into the majestic ocean in the heart of Gränsö Naturreservat, an unspoiled part of the Västervik archipelago. The sea was calm, the sky clear, and the air so fresh that every breath felt like a reset—like opening a window to the soul. Johannes shared stories of his transition from soldier to seeker, reflecting on how he now finds meaning in the simplicity of nature and in the stillness within himself.
We paddled quietly through narrow channels, gliding past islands cloaked in a delicate mist, the water shimmering under the first rays of the sun. The peace of the surroundings was almost sacred—each stroke of the paddle a meditation, each moment a reminder of the beauty in silence. The islands around us were wild and majestic, each one a tiny piece of untouched heaven, a reminder of the raw, unfiltered power of the ocean.
After a time, we reached a small, sheltered bay and pulled the kayaks onto the soft sand. Johannes suggested we sit in the quiet, taking a moment to breathe deeply, to reconnect with ourselves and the world around us. We talked about life—where we’ve been, where we’re headed—and about the importance of slowing down, of listening to the quiet voice within. Our conversation was unexpectedly deep, personal, and honest—two strangers sharing thoughts on the present, the past, and the future. There was no need for words to be perfect; the connection was natural and genuine, as if we had known each other for much longer.
As we sat there in the stillness, overlooking the majestic ocean that stretched infinitely in all directions, I felt a profound gratitude. This moment—so simple yet so meaningful—became a perfect ending to my roadtrip. A pause in time, a beautiful snapshot of life’s deeper meaning. No music, no distractions—just the sound of waves, the whisper of the wind, and two people sharing a silent understanding of life’s quiet poetry.
Eventually, it was time to head back. I started my drive home to Copenhagen, and those five hours in the car became a space for reflection. Småland, the ocean, the forests, and the heartfelt conversations had woven into my thoughts—stories of nature’s majesty, of inner peace, and of human connection. I didn’t need music to fill the silence; the memories and insights I gathered carried all the soundtrack I needed.
This roadtrip had been an extraordinary journey—not just through landscapes, but through moments of stillness, reflection, and deep human understanding. Leaving Västervik, I carried with me a sense of calm, a renewed appreciation for simplicity, and the knowing that some of the most beautiful conversations happen when words are few, yet the heart is full.
Reflection: Why Småland Stays With You
This journey was more than just exploring new places; it was a reconnection to something primal and real—nature’s gentle power, layered history, and heartfelt hospitality. Småland isn’t just a destination; it’s a state of mind—a whisper of wildness and warmth that stays with you long after you’ve left.
If you’re craving quiet magic, adventurous forests, and stories carved into every landscape, I can only recommend setting out on this road trip. Trust me, you’ll return home richer in spirit, carrying memories that will inspire you long after the last fjord has faded into the horizon.
Are you ready to let the road lead you to Småland? Because I promise, it’s a journey you’ll never forget.
