Summer in Blekinge – Free Family Adventures in Nature

Summer break doesn’t have to be expensive to be full of experiences. Throughout Blekinge, there are countless lovely places to explore together—completely free. Whether your family enjoys swimming, playing, hiking, or simply being out in nature, there’s something for both young and old adventurers.

We’ve gathered tips on family-friendly spots and hidden gems that cost nothing yet offer heaps of joy, movement, and togetherness. Perfect for relaxed days when you want to do something together without stretching the wallet.

One extra tip: download the ARK56 app before heading out. It helps you locate more swimming spots, attractions, barbecue sites, and scenic stops along the way—ideal for planning a day trip in Blekinge’s archipelago and coastal nature.

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Möckleryd Rock Carvings – a journey back in time

In the woods outside Möckleryd lies Hästhallen, Blekinge’s largest petroglyph. The rock displays over 150 carvings—ships, footprints, humans, animals, and mysterious symbols. Many are believed to have held religious or magical significance during the Bronze Age, though their exact meaning remains unknown.

Named after two prominent horse figures with elongated bodies and extended necks—typical Bronze Age imagery—the carvings likely formed part of ritual gatherings, possibly related to fertility or trade.

Close your eyes and imagine the site as it was thousands of years ago: open heathlands instead of pine forest. It gives a real sense of this place’s former importance. A fascinating destination for curious kids and adults alike, it’s a way to experience history in the heart of nature.

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Naturum in Ronneby

Located in the beautiful Brunnsparken, Naturum in Ronneby offers interactive exhibits about Blekinge’s wildlife and nature, aquariums, hands-on labs, and insights into the park’s ecosystem. Ideal for inquisitive children wanting to explore plants and small creatures up close. Naturum is perfect for the whole family and a great starting point for a day in the park.

While you’re there, be sure to wander through Brunnsparken—a magical spot with meandering paths, bubbling streams, and blossoms everywhere. The large playground is a favorite, offering climbing frames, swings, and slides for endless fun.

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Discover Tjärö

Tjärö is one of the larger islands in Blekinge’s archipelago and a true summer paradise for families and nature lovers. The whole island is a nature reserve with hiking trails through beech forests, meadows, and along rocky coastlines.

For families, there are several swimming coves with gently sloping cliffs—like Nabben and Ällingaviken—as well as a jetty at Korpaberget. You can rent canoes, SUP boards, or pedal boats, play boules, grill at designated spots, or fish from the jettys.Note: A ferry ticket is required to reach Tjärö. The ferry departs from Järnavik and takes you to the island in just a few minutes.

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Visit the Tjurkö Boat Cemetery

Imagine a place where nature has reclaimed old boats—an eerie resting place for vessels in the woods! On Tjurkö, you can wander to a real boat cemetery, home to old archipelago ferries and fishing boats from the 1940s and ’50s, half-sunken in water or hidden among trees and bushes.

It sparks the imagination—who sailed these boats? Where did they go? It’s a thrilling spot for kids who love mysteries, adventure, and unusual discoveries.

But remember: observe, don’t climb on the wrecks—they can be unsafe. Bring a picnic and enjoy a day full of history, nature, and play!

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Find calm at Färskesjön

A true hidden gem—this lake offers a fairy-tale feel and a deep sense of peace. With crystal-clear water and gently sloping shallows, it’s ideal for families who want a relaxed swim at their own pace. Around the lake are little coves that feel like your own private beach in the woods.

If you wish to do more than swim, a lovely hiking trail loops the lake—perfect for a discovery walk with stops for fika or a dip along the way.

Just remember: bring all your trash back with you, and be kind to the nature that makes this place so magical.

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Wämöparken – animals, play & nature in one

Wämöparken in Karlskrona is a true family favorite—a green oasis blending animals, play, and natural charm. The park is open all year and admission is free.

Say hello to goats, rabbits, pigs, and sheep in the little farm area. Children can play to their heart’s content on the climbing frames, swings, and slides. There are lovely walking paths, picnic areas, and a summer café where you can enjoy ice cream or fika.

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Hitta Ut – outdoor orienteering

A fun and easy way to get the whole family active outdoors is to participate in Hitta Ut, a form of orienteering. Using either a printed map or app, you seek checkpoints in forests, parks, along jogging trails, and on footpaths. Each marker you find brings a feeling of success and motivates further exploration.

The activity suits all ages and can be adjusted to the children’s energy levels and mood. Younger kids love it like a treasure hunt, while older ones enjoy racing to find the most in the shortest time.Hitta Ut is available across Blekinge and Sweden, often organized by local orienteering clubs and municipalities.

Absolutely free to participate, you choose the pace and order of your adventure.

It combines physical activity with nature discoveries and requires no preparation—perfect for spontaneous family outings and a fun way to uncover new gems nearby.

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Beach day at Sandviken

Sandviken beach, just outside Sölvesborg, is known as Blekinge’s Riviera—a popular and family-friendly sandy beach with shallow, clear water and a relaxed holiday vibe.

It’s easily accessible by car, bike, or public transport and has toilets, a kiosk, playground, and beach volleyball, making it perfect for families seeking a full day of play, swim, and sun.

Sandviken lies close to Sölvesborg’s center—you can even cycle there across a lovely pedestrian and cycle bridge—making it both practical and idyllic.

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Most of the destinations mentioned are part of the ARK56 network—a trail system for hiking, cycling, paddling, and boating that ties together Blekinge’s coast, archipelago, and nature. It’s perfect for families who want to combine activity with exploration.

Download the ARK56 app to locate nearby trails, barbecue sites, attractions, and scenic stops.

Lace up your shoes, hop on your bike, board a boat or paddle away—summer in Blekinge awaits. And the best part? Much of it is completely free!