Gotaland is the southernmost land area of Sweden. It is also the most densely populated region, mostly countryside and farmland filled with beautiful scenery and  towns. The region is bordered on three sides by ocean (the North sea and the Baltic Sea) with miles of relatively flat sandy beaches, perfect for sun seekers. The Golaland region consists of the provinces Blekinge, Bohuslän, Dalsland, Halland, Skåne, Småland, Västergötland, Östergötland, Gotland och Öland and is home to the cities of Malmo, Gothenburg, and Kalmar which are worth a visit to experience some of the countries rich history.

SEE(Mentioned in Gothenburg, Malmo and Kalmar):

• Archipelago of Southern Gothenburg - Entirely free of cars the islands is home to 5000 residents, 6000 in the summer months. There are several islands that offer great retreats for bathers and excursion enthusiasts. Asperö, Styrsö and Vrångö are the most popular, boat tours around the islands are a must see.
• Slottsskogen - Gothenburg - Slottsskogen literally means "the castle forest", which belonged to the old Älvsborg Fortress in the 17th century. Now home to a zoo (Barnens Zoo) where you can see the feeding of the seals or stroll around the English gardens soaking up the sun.
• Malmo and Copenhagen - Shopaholics beware. Malmo shops are open 7 days a week but if they’re not tickling your fancy then make your way to Denmark, which is a 35 minute train journey, allowing you to experience two countries in one day.
• 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.

EXPERIENCE:

• The Kingdom of Crystal Rail Tour - Starting from Stockholm this 6 day tour will allow you to experience the best of the beautiful Gotaland region and beyond. You’ll pass lakes and forests before reaching Kalmar – the capital of the ‘Kingdom of Crystal’. Here skilled craftsmen demonstrate the delicate art of crystal-blowing. (The tour may also operate in reverse from Copenhagen)