Kalmar, is situated by the Baltic sea on the south-east side of Sweden. Kalmar has been inhabited since ancient times, as traces of stone age grave fields have been found. The foundations of a castle, in the 12th century, was also unearthed and talks began in the 1540’s by the first King, Gastav Vasa and later his sons, to rebuild the castle to its full Renaissance glory, as seen today. Kalmar also connects the island of Öland due to the Öland Bridge spanning 6,072m from the mainland of Sweden to Färjestaden.

SEE:

• The Kalmar Castle - Stretching back over 800 years this castle was built to protect Kalmar against pirates and other enemies. The castle was known as ‘The key to the Kingdom’ due to its position as well as the site of the signing of the Union of Kalmar where Sweden, Denmark, and Norway were joined under one crown. The castle’s secret passage ways, drawbridge, turrets and moat will get your imagination ticking and thinking of the days of the knights and Vikings that once roamed the grounds, as well as doing battle to the death. 
  Now, Kalmar Castle is a popular venue for weddings and wedding parties but the castle also hosts dinners that closely mimic the 16th century Renaissance style. The plates and cutlery used are replicas of archaeological finds and during the dinner, the matron of the house will guide guests throughout the meal on the periods etiquette and customs as well as other historical information.
• The Öland bridge - Built in 1972 and spanning 6,072m from the mainland of Sweden to Färjestaden – Öland, the Oland bridge it is one of the longest bridges in Europe along with the Oresund Bridge that connects Sweden to Denmark, stretching nearly 8km. The Oland bridge is supported by 156 pillars and has a raised hump on the western side of the structure to allow ships to clear safely underneath.

EXPERIENCE:

• Kalmar shopping - From Small cosy shops to the more well known chains you can wander around for hours in Kvarnholmen – the beautiful centre of Kalmar. Everything is within easy walking distance, cafés, pubs, restaurants as well as the shopping centre– Baronen.