Smålandsfarvandet Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Smålandsfarvandet, Denmark with its culturally rich attractions, scenic views, outdoor adventures, and more. This guide will help you plan your trip from start to finish.


Introduction to Smålandsfarvandet

Smålandsfarvandet is a beautiful archipelago located in Denmark’s Lolland-Falster region. With its scenic views, clear waters, and sandy beaches, it is a popular destination for tourists seeking to experience Nordic beauty and serenity. Smålandsfarvandet consists of 37 islands joined by bridges and ferries, making it easy to explore and discover their unique characteristics.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take a closer look at Smålandsfarvandet and all the things it has to offer. From culturally rich attractions, natural wonders, food and drink scenes, to local culture and customs, we got you covered.

List of Places to Visit in Smålandsfarvandet

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Guldborgsund Zoo & Botanical Garden - a zoo showcasing exotic animals and a botanical garden with a wide range of plant species.
  • Maribo Cathedral - a stunning cathedral located in the heart of Maribo town. It is one of Denmark’s smallest cathedrals and boasts stunning architecture and impressive stained glass windows.
  • Middelaldercentret - an open-air museum with historically accurate buildings and exhibitions that depict the life and culture of the Danish people during the middle ages.
  • Sakskøbing Local History Museum - a museum dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Sakskøbing and its people, including exhibitions on folk costumes, crafts, and agriculture.

Natural Attractions of Smålandsfarvandet: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Knuthenborg Safari Park - a safari park where visitors can see exotic animals in their natural habitat.
  • Nakskov Fjord - a picturesque fjord that offers outstanding views of stunning Nordic landscapes.
  • Nykøbing Falster old town and harbour - a historic town and harbour area with a range of attractions, from quaint shops and cafes to the impressive Museum Lolland-Falster which chronicles the history of the region.
  • Marielyst Beach - an award-winning beach that stretches over 25km of sandy shores, crystal clear waters and an abundance of water activities, such as windsurfing and kite-surfing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Smålandsfarvandet

Smålandsfarvandet is an ideal destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The archipelago offers a wide range of trails that cater to both beginner and advanced levels, showcasing stunning views of the Nordic scenery.

  • Guldborgsund Trail - a 48 km cycling and hiking route that runs along the Guldborgsund strait and passes through several picturesque towns on the way.
  • Rødby-Puttgarden Cycling Route - an 18km cycling trail that runs through the picturesque seaside towns of Rødby and Puttgarden.
  • Nykøbing Falster to Gedser Route - a 28km scenic and picturesque cycling route that runs through local villages and towns, with stunning views of the Baltic Sea throughout.

Best Things to Do in Smålandsfarvandet: Activities and Tours

  • Kayak Tours - explore the islands and archipelagos of Smålandsfarvandet with a guided kayak tour.
  • Fishing Trips - experience fishing in the Baltic sea, catch a range of fish species, and enjoy a peaceful day out on the water.
  • Sailing Trips - sail through the clear blue waters of the Baltic Sea and explore the serene beauty of the Smålandsfarvandet.
  • Horse Riding Tours - explore the picturesque countryside of Smålandsfarvandet on horseback with guided horse riding tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for Smålandsfarvandet

Day 1 - Explore Maribo town: visit Maribo Cathedral, Maribo Lake, and the local museum. End your day with a relaxing walk alongside the scenic riverfront.

Day 2 - Nature day: visit the Nakskov Fjord, explore the Nykøbing Falster old town and harbor, enjoy a walk along the stunning Marielyst Beach.

Day 3 - Museum Day: Visit Middelaldercentret, Sakskøbing Local History Museum, and Guldborgsund Zoo and Botanical Garden.

Day 4 - Outdoor Adventure Day: Take a guided kayak tour of the islands and archipelagos of Smålandsfarvandet.

Day 5 - Relaxation Day: Indulge in a full day at your hotel or guesthouse, take a spa day or go for a relaxing bike ride around the islands.

Day 6 - Islands Day: Take the ferry or rent a boat and visit a few of the 37 islands in the archipelago and discover their unique features.

Day 7 - Farewell day: Say goodbye to Smålandsfarvandet and stop at Dodekalitten, Denmark’s largest stone circle, on your way back for some beautiful photo memories.

Food and Drink Scene of Smålandsfarvandet

Smålandsfarvandet boasts a rich culinary scene that offers unique Nordic delicacies and fresh seafood catches. You can check out some of the must-try dishes and local beverages below.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Frikadeller - traditional Danish meatballs made of pork and beef, served with potatoes and gravy.
  • Smoked Salmon - fresh salmon smoked with beech wood and served with rye bread and butter.
  • Stegt flæsk med persillesovs - crispy pork belly slices served with parsley sauce and boiled potatoes.

Local Beverages

  • Akavit- a traditional Scandinavian spirit made from potatoes and flavored with spices like caraway, dill, and anise.
  • Danish beer- Denmark is known for its beer and locals swear by their homegrown Carlsberg and Tuborg brands
  • Danish Schnapps- a type of brandy served chilled, made from fermented fruits.

Where to Stay in Smålandsfarvandet: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Smålandsfarvandet offers an array of accommodation options that cater to any budget or preference. You can choose from comfortable hotels, intimate guesthouses, and budget-friendly hostels, that offer a charming and relaxing stay.

  • Landal Rødby - a luxury resort located in the heart of Lolland, boasting an impressive offering of relaxation and entertainment activities, including spa services, indoor and outdoor pools, mini-golf and more.
  • Maribo Sø Camping - a budget-friendly camping site that offers stunning views of Maribo Lake and a range of camping activities, such as fishing, hiking, and outdoor cooking.
  • Hostel Maribo Vandrerhjem - a cozy and comfortable hostel that caters to budget-conscious travelers and offers access to shared facilities such as a kitchen, lounge, and outdoor terrace.

What to Buy in Smålandsfarvandet: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Marzipan - a Danish specialty made from almonds and sugar, available in various shapes and sizes.
  • Danish Silver Jewellery - a unique and elegant souvenir that showcases Denmark’s craftsmanship and is available in various styles.
  • Maribo Lace - a delicate lacework that dates back to the 17th century and is famous for its intricate designs and patterns.

Local Culture and Customs of Smålandsfarvandet

Denmark is known for its friendly and laid-back atmosphere, and Smålandsfarvandet is no exception. When visiting Smålandsfarvandet, it’s essential to observe and respect the local culture and customs. Danes value personal space, so it’s essential to maintain a respectful distance in public spaces. Saying “Hi” or “Hej” when meeting someone is common courtesy, and tipping is not a common practice in Denmark.

Best Time to Visit Smålandsfarvandet

Smålandsfarvandet is an all-year-round destination. The peak season is in summer when the warm weather allows visitors to enjoy outdoor activities such as kayaking, sailing, and hiking. The winter season provides an opportunity for unique activities such as ice fishing, skiing, and snowshoeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Smålandsfarvandet

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Take care of the environment and ensure you leave no trace behind.
  • Wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes.

Don’t:

  • Speak loudly in public spaces.
  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Be offended that not everything is open 24/7 as this is a more relaxed way of life than you may be used to.

Safety and Health

Safety in Smålandsfarvandet

Smålandsfarvandet is a safe destination, but like any destination, it’s essential to remain aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety:

  • Lock your car and accommodation doors.
  • Avoid isolated areas and neighborhoods.
  • Take care when hiking and biking, especially in areas with rugged terrain or adverse weather conditions.

Health in Smålandsfarvandet

Denmark has an excellent healthcare system and ensures visitors’ safety and well-being. Medical facilities are readily available, and emergency services are available via the three-digit emergency services line.

Getting to Smålandsfarvandet: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Smålandsfarvandet

The nearest airport to Smålandsfarvandet is Copenhagen Airport, which is approximately 130km away. From there, you can take a train, bus, or car to Smålandsfarvandet.

Bus Stations Near Smålandsfarvandet

The region is well-connected and has several bus stations. You can take a bus that connects the major towns and cities around Smålandsfarvandet. Check the Ruteplanen website for information on timetables and fares.

Other Options

Alternatively, you can take a train from Copenhagen or other cities in Denmark to Smålandsfarvandet.

How to Get Around in Smålandsfarvandet

The best way to explore Smålandsfarvandet is by car, bike, or public transport. Buses and ferries connect the major towns and cities, and taxis are also available for hire.

Where to Go Next from Smålandsfarvandet: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Smålandsfarvandet is a great base for exploring other nearby destinations and attractions, such as:

  • Copenhagen - the majestic capital of Denmark, known for its stunning architecture and rich history.
  • Vordingborg - Port town packed with historic landmarks, including an impressive medieval castle and a beautiful 17th-century bridge.
  • Gedser - a charming town near Smålandsfarvandet, where you can visit the windmill and the beautiful beaches of Marielyst.

Conclusion

Smålandsfarvandet is a beautiful destination that offers a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural richness, and outdoor adventures. In this comprehensive travel guide, we have covered all the essential information you need to plan your visit to this beautiful part of Denmark, from must-do activities, natural wonders, food and drink scenes, and local culture, there is something for everyone.