Through southern Sweden in a camper van:
must-see routes and places
Sweden, the “country of a thousand lakes”. Well, actually it’s over 96,000, but who’s counting? Campers are guaranteed to find plenty of activities to do on and off the water on a trip through southern Sweden in a camper van. The forests of Småland meet the coasts of Skåne and historic towns, like Malmö and Kalmar. There’s something for everyone here. You too? Let’s see – we’d like to show you three of the best routes for novice campers.
Shimmering Lakes Route:
Malmö – Växjö – Kalmar
Duration: 3–4 days
Are you keen to see lakes? Then this route is for you, as this region is home to some of Sweden’s loveliest lakes. And with them come countless opportunities for hiking, fishing and boating. But would you also like to take in a bit of town life? Then pay a visit to the towns of Malmö, Växjö and Kalmar, where you will come across an attractive mix of modern and traditional. They are also great bases for exploring the beauty of southern Swedish nature in a camper van over three to four days.
Campsites in Malmö:
The next morning, we head north-east some 200 kilometres to Växjö, one of Europe’s greenest towns. This section of the route provides a picturesque journey through the idyllic southern Swedish landscape. En route, it is worth stopping off at the Åsnens National Park nature reserve for its hiking and canoeing, and just to enjoy nature at its unspoilt best. Växjö is the next stop on our tour through southern Sweden in a camper van. The town is surrounded by one of Sweden’s loveliest lakes. One of the real highlights of the town is the Swedish Glass Museum where you can watch the artistic craftsmanship of the glass-blowers close up. Not far away is the village of Huseby Bruk. Its historic estate with its mansion house, gardens and old blacksmith’s forge is also worth a visit.
Campsites in Växjö:
After exploring Växjö, continue your journey by camper van through southern Sweden to the town of Kalmar. Kalmar is a historic town on the east coast with an impressive waterfront castle and a truly beautiful old town.
Campsites in Kalmar:
Coastal Tour:
Gothenburg – Halmstad – Helsingborg
Duration: 3–4 days
Would you like to spend more time by the sea on your journey through southern Sweden by camper van? Not a problem. You will find charming fishing villages and lively towns and cities in the southern Swedish coastal regions, including Gothenburg, Halmstad and Helsingborg. The climate in summer is lovely and mild, making this region attractive to travellers in camper vans.
Start your route in Gothenburg, where you can also stroll through the magnificent Botanical Garden and eat fresh seafood in the harbour. And if you feel brave, try Surströmming – fermented herring. But be warned: its smell is not for the squeamish! Otherwise, Gothenburg is a wonderful starting point for your camper van trip through southern Sweden with its myriad sights.
Campsites in Gothenburg:
From Gothenburg, head about 140 kilometres by camper van through southern Sweden to Halmstad. This area is famous for its beaches, especially the renowned Tylösand beach. Relax by the sea, soak up the sun – and maybe take a detour into the hinterland. There you can explore the Galgberget Hill, with its observation tower and open-air museum. It’s definitely worth a visit!
Campsites in Halmstad:
The last stage of this route through southern Sweden by camper van takes you to Helsingborg. It is renowned for the famous Sofiero Castle – and a fantastic view across to Denmark. Are you children keen to see animals. Then take them to the Tropikariet Zoo, a small but rather lovely animal park. Perfect for families. If you have a little more time, take a detour to the Kullen Peninsula, with its amazing cliffs where you can also visit the Kullaberg nature reserve.
Campsites in Helsingborg:
Fairytale island route:
Jönköping – Vimmerby – Öland
Duration: 4–5 days
This route takes you and your camper van on a round trip through the fairytale landscape of Småland to the island of Öland. Southern Sweden is known for its small villages and dense forests. Jönköping, Vimmerby and the island of Öland offer a wealth of child-friendly activities – great for family holidays. And what is also great: you will also experience a good mixture of nature and culture throughout your journey.
This third route by camper van through southern Sweden starts in the town of Jönköping. Take a little time to look around the city and beautiful Lake Vätternsee. Do you have a burning interest in museums? Great, then you will love the Matchstick Museum located here. By contrast, you might just like to relax by the water. Simply take a dip and enjoy cooling off! The Store Mosse National Park is also not far from Jönköping. It is home to southern Sweden’s largest peatland with truly so many wonderful hikes.
Campsites in Jönköping:
Your next stop is Vimmerby, about 130 kilometres to the east. Vimmerby is famous as the hometown of Astrid Lindgren and a visit to “Astrid Lindgren’s World” is an absolute must for families. Both your kids (and you) will love the adventures in the world of Pippi Longstocking. Nearby is the Norra Kvill National Park, a small but beautiful protected area with old pine forests and lakes.
Campsites in Vimmerby:
Are you ready for the island? Then you’re off to Öland. There is where you will, of course, find the well-known historic windmills that the island is famous for. This section of the route provides a wonderful trip through the countryside of Småland to the coast. The Swedish island of Öland is best reached by camper van via the Öland Bridge connecting it to the mainland. Enjoy your journey over one of Europe’s longest bridges, as the trip over the bridge is a little adventure in itself. On the island of Öland, take the time to visit the old castle ruins of Borgholm or walk through the Stora Alvaret Nature Reserve, one of the largest limestone plateaus in Europe.
Campsites on Öland:
Hints and ideas for your camper van trip through southern Sweden
Whichever route you choose, you can park your camper van almost anywhere, thanks to Sweden’s legendary “Everyman’s Right” (Allemansrätten). But be aware, the “Everyman’s Right” only applies to people camping in tents. In Sweden, you normally cannot just park your camper van in the middle of a forest. However, you can park it overnight in public car parks, at the end of roads or directly on the beach. Take a look at this article, because we have compiled practical information on the subject of the “Everyman’s Right” and wild camping.
In general, however, the Swedes are known for their friendliness and helpfulness. A smile and a “hej!” (hello) open many doors. What is more, be sure to factor in a Fika from time to time, Sweden’s traditional coffee break with pastries (preferably cinnamon rolls!). They taste twice as good after a long hike on Öland or a walk around Malmö.
And so, with that, “Adjö” and have a great trip!
