The area

Villa Balsvik lies in Balsvik, on the shore of Lake Råbelövssjön just north of Kristianstad in north-eastern Skåne.

Sunset over Lake Råbelövssjön seen from the park, with roses and a garden lamp

Råbelövssjön and the jetty

A limestone lake with clear water. Swim from the jetty in the morning or the evening, but please do not dive: the lake is shallow in places. A cycle path runs into town and around the lake.

Fishing

Råbelövssjön has pike, perch and zander right outside the door, and a boat is available for fishing trips on the lake. A fishing licence is required on Råbelövssjön; ask Peter about it before you arrive.

The salmon river Mörrumsån is about 30 minutes away.

Balsberget nature reserve

A nature reserve of 287 hectares, protected since 2005 and part of Natura 2000, with caves and a view from the top of the hill. Good for walks, cycling and paddling.

Kristianstads Vattenrike

A UNESCO biosphere reserve of wetlands, lakes and rivers around Kristianstad. Start at naturum Vattenriket in Kristianstad, or walk the boardwalks at Norra Lingenäset.

Castles, beaches and town

Bäckaskog Castle is 12 to 15 km away and Bykrogen in Österslöv, for dinner, 2 km. Åhus and its beach lie on the Baltic coast, and there are two golf courses nearby.

Kristianstad

Kristianstad is seven minutes away by car and thirteen by bus from the gate, with Stora Torg, the Church of the Holy Trinity and Tivoliparken. Kristianstad Central Station is about 17 minutes away.

The shore and the jetty in morning fog, seen from the lakeMorning mist over Lake Råbelövssjön and the wooded hills on the far shoreWinter sunset over the lake through bare trees

Questions and answers

Do I need a fishing licence on Råbelövssjön?

Yes. A fishing licence is required on Råbelövssjön.

Which fish are in the lake?

Råbelövssjön has pike, perch and zander.

How far is it to Mörrumsån?

The salmon river Mörrumsån is about 30 minutes away.

How far is it to Kristianstad?

Seven minutes by car or thirteen minutes by bus from the gate.