Holiday homes:  Småland/Öland,  Sweden

About Småland/Öland

Småland and Öland are areas where lots of nature experiences and cultural treasures are waiting for you. Huge forests, lakes, lovely sandy beaches and tourist attractions for families with children such as The World of Astrid Lindgren, the animal and amusement park of Öland, and last but not least High Chaparall. Learn about the production of the well-known Swedish “Polkagrise” (red-and white-striped lollipops) in the idyllic Gränna – an interesting experience for all the family. The castle of Solliden, belonging to the Swedish royal family, has a beautiful park open to the public.

In Småland you will find Lake Vättern, the second biggest lake of Sweden, and in the middle of the lake you have the island called Visingö. Go to Visingö by the ferry boat and enjoy the fantastic nature, the lovely beaches and the royal history. Gränna is a cosy town with a great atmosphere. Visit the port and Brahehus, a ruined castle, with a marvellous view to Vättern.

High Chaparall is ”the Wild West” of Sweden. This amusement park offers many activities for all the family. Meet Red Indians, comboys and trappers. Wash gold, go for a horse ride or attend the exciting Saloon show. Meet Lucky Luke and the Dalton Brothers and watch the clever stunt men’s famous Mexico show.

In the southern part of Småland cultural as well as historical events play an important part. For instance you can follow the emigrant pathway from Lessebo. Visit the Moberg stone placed where Vilhelm Moberg was born as well as the various places where he grew up. Follow the pathway of the Swedes that emigrated to the land of possibilities, America.

In the eastern part of Småland between the towns of Kalmar and Växjö you will find the area called the kingdom of glass, “Glasriket”. Visit Kosta and Orrefors, the famous glassworks, to watch the fantastic glass objects being formed directly by the glassblowers. You can also book a guided tour.

In Vimmerby you will get the opportunity to experience the fairy tales from the world of Astrid Lindgren. Bring your children and let them meet all the well-known characters from the books. Meet strong Pippi and waggish Emil. Follow in the footsteps of Astrid Lindgren and visit Näs, Katthult and Bullerby. Vimmerby is not only the town of the fairy tales, but at the same time one of oldest towns of Sweden, surrounded by lovely nature with a historical city centre with beautiful, old, traditional wooden houses.

Ôland is the smallest landscape of Sweden, but it has a very special place in the hearts of many people– this also goes for the royal family. The island is consisting of limestone which is evident when looking at the old stone houses, churches and stone walls all over the island. All this combined with the rich bird life and the fantastic flora of Öland creates a very special atmosphere – must be experienced directly.

If you visit Öland animal and amusement park, it is easy to remain there all day. Apart from the animal park there are a water world and an amusement area. In the animal park there are more than 160 animal species from all over the world. Meet the exotic tiger and the crocodiles, but also the more well-known animals from the farm. In the amusement park you can almost reach the sky in the merry-go-rounds or just win some chocolate from the wheel of fortune. It is a must to visit Dinoland and Sagoland. The water world called Pirate Island covers a surface of 15,000 square metres and has “Pirates” as its theme. Furthermore there are playgrounds, chutes, bubbling water canons and different swimming pools.

See what Carl von Linné has experienced and visit at the Alvaret plain. It is 37 square metres by 15 and covers almost a quarter of the island. There are no trees in the area due to the special soil conditions with a surface of limestone. The nature reserve is unique and very beautiful, and anyone who might be interested can get a great chance to study the special flowers and plants of the area.

Visit Solliden, the castle of the royal family, and go for a walk in the beautiful park. Here are also changing exhibitions to visit.