Bad weather expected

Because such bad weather was forecasted – heavy rainfall with thunder and lightning – I played it safe and decided to sleep in a shelter. Initially with a quiet German girl, but just before dark, a communicative Finnish couple joined us, who asked me a lot of questions. Contrary to all expectations, the rain has held off. No thunder, no snoring. Just four people in deep rest.

Fantastic coast

The next morning, the route goes back towards the coast. I am so glad that I chose this Skåneleden. There are seven different routes in Skåne, and this is the Österlen along the south coast. Today it is truly phenomenally beautiful. I walk from one highlight to another. Figuratively speaking, as there are hardly any elevation changes. White cliffs, yellow sandy beaches, large white stones, small pebbles, forests, and heathland. Everything passes by. Here and there, old fishermen’s cottages stand, and I walk through charming villages like Simrishamn and Skillinge. It is clearly busier here than in previous sections of my route. More habitation, more tourists. But the atmosphere is relaxed and people greet you friendly everywhere.

The cemetery

The Baltic Sea can be quite rough here. This coast is not called ‘the cemetery’ for nothing: many ships have met their fate here, and swimmers have drowned due to the strong currents. The evidence literally lies on the rocks today. In Skillinge, I see a beautiful yacht that clearly does not belong there. “Yes,” says a woman who lives right on the beach. “That yacht has been there since Wednesday. It is a Danish sailboat. Their vacation has come to a rather abrupt end.” Well. There’s not much you can argue with there.

Sleeping in a dog-walking area

On the same beach, I find my next sleeping spot: a new, huge shelter. The fact that it is located close to the village and on the route of dog walkers does not take away from the fun. There is plenty to see. Not just in daylight, by the way. I am treated to a beautiful sunset, a full moon, and a constantly changing display of clouds. I have the best television once again.

Overnight stay: Skillinge