On a sunny Sunday in August, we embarked on a hike from Höör following the Skåneladen SL3 trail that took us through meadows, lush forests, and tranquil dams. Our hike strarted by meandering through quaint city streets before leading us into the heart of neat beech forest, followed by spruce forest, each step a revelation of abundance of mushrooms and forest flowers. After a short lunch break at Bjeveröd’s dam, we continued along the second part of our hike towards Ekeröd. During this stretch we encountered a young cormorant bird, passed through picturesque wooden-planked bridges, and vibrant changing landscapes. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we found ourselves at the end of the trail, tired yet exhilarated. Are you ready for the juicy deets? Let’s dive in!

Forest Pathway in Höör

Part 1: From Höör to Bjeverö

Through the City Streets of Höör

Leaving the train station of Höör behind, our first steps led us through the vibrant streets of Höör. With backpacks slung over our shoulders, we strolled through the heart of the town, eager to leave the urban landscape behind and and in no time, we found ourselves in the city’s outskirt. A boulevard loomed on the horizon, but just as quickly as it appeared, with a right turn a meadow unfolded before us and we were already where we wanted to be. A pathway outlined by tiny stones opened up and we followed it for some time.

Through the Pine and Spruce Forest

A stretch of the hike took us through a mesmerizing pine and spruce forest. Tall trees stood sentinel on either side, while the forest floor transformed into a lush carpet of green moss and grass, decorated with pine cones, fallen branches, and mushrooms of every kind and size. From time to time, we spotted also birdwatching towers, but at that time we couldn’t see or hear any birds nearby. The quiet was broken only by our sighing, and we found ourselves repeatedly pausing to capture the moment with the camera.

Part 2: From Bjeveröd dam to Ekeröd

The Second Stretch: From Bjeveröd to Ekeröd

With our bellies full and energy renewed, we set forth on the second part of our hike. The path from Bjeveröd to Ekeröd promised an intermediate challenge as there were more hilly stretches and more narrow paths, with more turns and twists. We embraced it with open arms. A wooden-planked bridge led us along the river, soaking in the chill vibes of its gentle flow right by our side.

Of Birds and Picturesque Pathways

As we hiked along this wooden crafted bridge, the plot thickened- right there on a fallen tree, an unexpected bird stole the spotlight. From the distance, a bird, slightly larger than a goose or duck, with a very long beak was quietly standing. It wasn’t shy at all. In fact, it was more curious than cautious as it kept looking at us. As we stood and admired it, a duo of hikers, a friendly Swedish old couple, stopped to share the moment with us. With stories as rich as the forest itself, they told us that it was a “skarvar” or cormorant in English and in fact, it might be a young bird as it didn’t have the white feathers on its chest and neck. We spent good 15 minutes with the bird and Swedish couple before venturing further on the fairytale wooden bridge.

Changing Landscapes

As we followed the well-marked route, it started revealing sections where timber had been collected on the sides of the road. After passing through a meadow where the air felt warmer than usual, the forest soon enveloped us once again, meandering through tall linden and birch trees. The ground beneath our feet transformed into a lush carpet of green grass and moss, reminding us of the trail’s first part. Leaving behind the forest’s embrace, we found ourselves traversing an asphalt road once again, this time beneath the soothing shadow of trees.

Cow Farms

As we pressed on, we encountered a small village with many cow farms. A herd of curious cows were standing close to the road, casually snacking on grass or mooing loudly. But just as we were getting accustomed to the change, the trail led us back to its roots – forest pathways that weaved through woodlands. Sunlight filtered through the branches, casting a beautiful glow upon the trail. It was a moment worth savoring.