Walking and rambling

There are no marked footpaths in the nature reserve. Instead the area has small footpaths along the coast and in the woodland to follow. Remember to keep the dog in a lead all year around, due to the vulnerable birdlife in the unique nature reserve. Read all the nature reserve rules here. Find the map for Vitemölla recreation area. 

Swimming - but no dogs at the beach during summer

The sandy beach attracts many visitors during the summer. But be prepared for a refreshing swim, the water at Österlen is significant colder than on the west coast. It is forbidden to bring your dog at the beach between June 1 and Aug 31, according to the local municipality.

Sand from the Ice Age and flowering sandy steppe

The sandy area in Haväng - Vitemölla Nature Reserve is one of the largest areas of sandy steppe in Sweden. In the warm, limestone rich sand you find the sweet smelling sand pink alongside rarities such as the tall Anthericum liliago and unusual earth star fungus Geastrum berkeleyi. The butterfly Niobe fritillary lays its eggs on plants including wild pansy. The rare tawny pipit nests here. The droppings from the grazing animals provide suitable habitats for dung beetles such as Copris lunaris. The wasp Podalonia luffii finds a home in the patches of bare sand.

The nature reserve consists largely of sandy sediments which were deposited at the end of the last Ice Age. The sand means that the mouth of the river is forever changing its route. The mouth of the stream constantly provides new experiences. Sea holly is a rare plant which can be found on the sandy seashore. 

Forbidden to tent, camp and stay overnight with vans/camper cars

The nature reserve and sensible birds and other wildlife can't be disturbed. Therefore, camping in tent/hammock is strictly forbidden. It is also forbidden to park your camper/van overnight at the parlin lots. Read more about the nature reserve rules.

Horse riding

Horse riding in the area is permitted but only within a designated area (marked at the map) and never on the central footpath in the area. Where you are allowed to ride also depends on the time of year. Check our map. 

Sept 1 - May 31: You are allowed to go horseriding on the beach and in the marked area at the map.
June 1 – August 31: Horseriding is only allowed in the marked designated area on our map. Never go closer than 10 m from the central footpath.

Fishing

The coast along Hanöbukten is renowned for its sea trout fishing, especially during the late winter, early spring. Bear in mind that fishing for salmon and trout is forbidden from the 15^th September to the 31^st December, as well as around the mouths of the Rivers Mölleån, Klammersbäck and Verkeån up until the 30^th April.

Open air museum in our old buildings

An open air museum is displayed in our old timber-framed building called Lindgrens länga, which describes the area and its history. The house is ours, but was renovated by The Haväng Museum Society who is responsible for the museum. Take a stop in the stone house, Stenörens eel shed, where you can see the traditional equipment used for eel and salmon trout fishing. There are also eight small man-made waterfalls at Örakaren.

Accommodation and eating

There are plenty of cafés, restaurants, hostels, guest houses and hotels in the local area. More information: www.visitystadosterlen.se