So today I leave for Sweden, a new country for me and one that I’ve wanted to visit for a very long time. Knowing what I do and don’t like, I’ve always thought that I would love Sweden – this week I find out if that’s true. Not only that, but thanks to the trip’s sponsors you all have a chance to win your own dream getaway too!
The trip isn’t your standard first-timer’s trip to Sweden, a fact that really excites me. The trip is sponsored by VisitSweden, Volvo Cars North America, West Sweden Tourist Board and Skåne, Sweden, who have all come together to create the Road Trip of a Lifetime in Sweden Sweepstakes. The winner will get a trip for two to West Sweden where they’ll learn more about Volvo and the Overseas Delivery Program before heading out on the road in their own Volvo that is theirs to use for the duration of the trip. I’m going over to showcase some of the highlights of the region to show you what you could experience if you win.
I start out in the city of Gothenburg, where the first order of business will be a visit to Volvo. At the Volvo Brand Experience I’ll learn all about the history of the company and how their cars are made before picking one up of my own for a special road trip around West Sweden. Gothenburg itself looks like a great community and I have a lot of activities to choose from including walks, museums and of course culinary exploration.
After I’ve explored Gothenburg, I hop in the Volvo and head towards Nordens Ark, a perfect spot for an animal lover like me. The Ark is home to endangered Nordic and exotic animals and is located in a beautiful and dramatic coastal setting at Hunnebostrand. After the Ark I drive to Salt and Sill, a floating hotel and restaurant I’m excited to visit. There is a rich maritime history in this region of Sweden and I can’t think of a better modern interpretation than an actual floating hotel.
Marstrand is another stop on my schedule; a beautiful island popular among locals. The royal family used to frequent this picturesque spot, but today it’s known more as the setting to some popular Swedish crime novels. Then it’s on to the Skåne region, where my pursuits turn decidedly more pastoral and relaxed.
I’ll visit fishing villages and harbors, recreational areas and towns where I can slow down, enjoy the scenery and just relax. Places like Båstad, Mölle, Kullaberg and Rusthållargården are all on my list before I finally reach the end of my journey in Malmo. In this increasingly popular city in the south of Sweden, I’ll learn more about the city, the arts scene and hopefully find some hole-in-the-wall restaurants to try out.
And that’s it! The trip is a quick one, but I will be able to see and do a lot while there and I can’t wait. I’ll also be reporting on the Volvo Overseas Delivery program, which includes a free trip to Sweden. And don’t forget to enter to win your own dream road trip in Sweden and be sure to follow me using the hashtag #carplusvacation as I highlight the best experiences you’ll get to try if you win.
Do you have any suggestions on things I shouldn’t miss in this region of Sweden?
