The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Skåne

Skåne offers a wide variety of dog-friendly hiking trails. Our guide features nearly 100 routes, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks, ensuring there's something for every dog and owner.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome in Skåne's National Parks, including Söderåsen National Park and Stenshuvud National Park, but they must always be kept on a leash. This rule helps protect wildlife and ensures a pleasant experience for all visitors. Always check specific park regulations before your visit.

Absolutely! Skåne has many excellent dog-friendly loop trails. For an easy, urban-adjacent option, consider the Bulltofta Park loop from Ulricedal, which offers green spaces within Malmö. Another great choice is the Snapphanestallarna loop, providing a pleasant walk through nature.

Skåne's dog-friendly trails traverse incredibly diverse landscapes. You can explore ancient beech forests, dramatic coastal cliffs like those at Kullaberg Nature Reserve, rolling hills, and serene lake areas. The region offers everything from sandy Baltic dunes to deep woodlands, ensuring varied scenery for you and your dog.

While Skåne is not known for large waterfalls, you can find charming cascades and streams on some trails. The area around Hallamölla waterfall and the Forsakar Waterfall offers beautiful natural settings where you and your dog can enjoy the sounds of flowing water.

Many of Skåne's trails, especially sections of the extensive Skåneleden trail, are well-connected by public transport. This makes it convenient to reach starting points without a car. For example, the Hovdala Hiking Centre near Finjasjön Lake is easily accessible from Hässleholm train station and offers diverse woods and trails suitable for dogs.

Spring and autumn are often considered the best seasons for hiking with dogs in Skåne. The temperatures are mild, and the landscapes are vibrant with spring blooms or autumn colors. Summer can be pleasant, especially along the coast or in shaded forests, but always be mindful of warmer temperatures and ensure your dog has access to water. Winter offers a unique, tranquil experience, though some trails might be icy.

Yes, for those seeking a more challenging experience, Skåne offers trails with varied terrain and longer distances. The Stage 18: Torekov to Vejbystrand - Skåneleden SL1 Trail is an example of a more difficult route, offering a substantial distance and coastal views. Söderåsen National Park also features trails with steeper inclines and rugged paths.

The komoot community highly rates the dog-friendly trails in Skåne, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse scenery, well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to explore both coastal and forest environments with their canine companions. Many appreciate the clear signage and the overall natural beauty.

To avoid crowds, especially during peak season, consider exploring trails in less-visited areas or visiting popular spots during off-peak hours. The Göinge Woodlands in north-east Skåne offer a true wilderness experience with deep forests, providing a tranquil setting for you and your dog. Additionally, the Ubbalt Nature Reserve offers peaceful lakeside loops like the Ubbalt Nature Reserve – Lakeside Shelter loop from Kallsjön.

While specific designated 'wild swimming' spots for dogs are not always marked, many lakes and coastal areas in Skåne offer opportunities for dogs to cool off, provided local regulations allow it and it's safe. Areas like Frostavallen Recreational Area, with its two large lakes Vaxsjön and Dagstorpssjön, can be good options, but always check for signs or local guidelines regarding dog access to water.