Kullaberg

Kullaberg is a rugged nature reserve on a rocky headland thrusting into the Kattegat at the north-west corner of Skane, a dramatic contrast to the flat farmland behind. Its cliffs, sea caves and lighthouse draw walkers and climbers, and boat trips from the old resort village of Molle go out to watch harbour porpoises.

Background

The headland rises to 188 metres at Håkull, its highest point, and the reserve covers 75 square kilometres, crossed by hiking paths that lead down to dozens of coves below the cliffs. The ridge carries birch, beech, oak and pine over hawthorn, juniper, wild honeysuckle and blackthorn, and rare plants include spring vetchling, Lathyrus sphaericus. People lived here as early as the Stone Age, leaving stone circles, grave mounds and traces of ancient villages. Carl von Linne visited about 1740 and made the first written notes on the area. Magnus Dahlander designed Kullen Lighthouse in 1898, and it is rated the brightest in Sweden.

Source: Wikipedia, "Kullaberg"

Highlights

• The cliffs and lighthouse - the rocky headland tip with its lighthouse and views.
• Sea caves - the grottoes worn into the coast, reached by trail or boat.
• Porpoise-watching - boat trips seeking the harbour porpoises offshore.
• Molle village - the pretty old bathing resort at the foot of the hill.

When to go

The warm months for walking, climbing and boat trips; a clear day for the sea views. Weekends draw crowds from the cities, so weekdays are calmer.

Things to know

It is a modest headland reserve rather than a grand wilderness, its appeal the contrast of rock and sea against the Skane farmland. Trails are rocky and the cliffs demand care. It is popular on fine weekends, so parking fills.

Nearby

Molle and the Skane coast are at its foot; Helsingborg and the crossing to Denmark are nearby.

Key facts