Mölle

Mölle is a small village on Sweden's southwest coast, located beside the rocky shoreline of Kullaberg Nature Reserve. Once a fishing village, Mölle now welcomes visitors who come to explore its harbor, hike the nearby trails, and observe local wildlife. You can wander through 19th-century buildings, take boat tours from the harbor, or venture into the caves of Kullaberg.

Getting to Mölle

Mölle is in Skåne County, about 35 kilometers northwest of Helsingborg. You can drive to the village via the coastal road 111, which ends just north of Mölle at Kullaberg. If you're using public transport, you can take buses that run from nearby towns to Mölle, though this takes longer than driving. The nearest airport is in Ängelholm, approximately 19 kilometers away.

Exploring Mölle Harbor

The harbor forms the center of Mölle, especially during summer. You'll find boats offering fishing trips and coastal tours along the rocky Kullaberg shore. Shops, restaurants, and cafes line the harbor area, making it a good place for a walk or a meal with a view of the sea. From here, you can watch maritime traffic in the Kattegat Strait and see the town's colorful houses on the hillside.

Kullaberg Nature Reserve

Kullaberg Nature Reserve sits next to Mölle. The reserve has steep cliffs, varied plant and animal life, and many hiking trails. You can explore more than 20 caves within the cliffs, look for foxes and deer, or try to spot porpoises from the shore. The Naturum Kullaberg Visitors' Centre provides information about the area's ecology and suggests hiking routes for different abilities.

Hiking and Cave Exploration

Kullaberg has three main hiking trails: the red trail in the south, the blue trail in the north, and the orange Kullalagen trail along the coast. The 70-kilometer Kullalagen is part of the Skåneleden long-distance footpath and is certified as one of Europe's best hiking trails. You can take a GPS-guided tour of the Kullaberg caves, some of which people lived in during the Stone Age. If you prefer cycling, you can ride a section of the 370-kilometer Kattegatt Trail, which goes through Kullaberg on its way from Helsingborg to Gothenburg.

Beaches and Swimming

While Mölle's coastline is mostly rocky, you can find places to swim. In the 19th century, the village became known for its mixed-gender bathing, which was considered scandalous at the time. Today, you can swim in the Kattegat Strait or sunbathe on the shingle beaches. The coastal area has many types of wildflowers, lichens, and mosses, which you can observe while walking along the shore.

Local Cuisine and Dining

Mölle has several places to eat, from casual cafes to high-end restaurants. For a quick meal, try 2020 Mölle, known for its sandwiches and coffee, with views of the ocean. For dinner, consider Mölle Krukmakeri, a restaurant serving sourdough pizzas in a setting with an outdoor Orangerie. Given Mölle's fishing history, you'll find many seafood options on local menus.

Accommodation in and around Mölle

Mölle has places to stay for different budgets. For a mid-range option, try Pensionat Strandgården, a bed and breakfast with sea views. If you want luxury, Hotell Rusthållargården in nearby Arild has panoramic views of Skälderviken Bay and spa facilities. If you prefer camping, there are several sites in and around Kullaberg Nature Reserve where you can pitch a tent.

Historical Background

Mölle's history as a fishing village goes back to the 19th century, and some buildings from this era remain today. The village became a popular tourist destination in the late 19th century because of its mixed-gender bathing practices. Two large 19th-century hotels overlooking the harbor show the prosperity of this period. Nearby, you can visit the 10th-century Brunnby Church, an example of the area's medieval architecture.

Nearby Attractions

While in Mölle, you can visit the Kullen Lighthouse on the Kullaberg Peninsula, which is the brightest in Sweden. Art enthusiasts might enjoy Nimis, a large wooden sculpture on the north coast of Kullaberg that looks like a giant treehouse leading down to the beach. For local produce, visit Kullaberg Vineyard to taste locally made wines and ciders.