Hanö isn’t far away—but it feels like another world. A short boat ride from the small fishing village of Nogersund in Sölvesborg takes you to an island where stories meet reality, and nature sets the pace. Here, you can hike among mythical rock formations, shimmering cliffs, and historical ruins. And the best part? It’s all closer than you think.
Legend-steeped archipelago
On Hanö, the wind whispers of dragons, giants, and lost stone paths. According to legend, a dragon crashed into the lighthouse when its light was first lit—creating what is known as the Dragon’s Mark. A giantess, lonely and longing, dropped her apron full of stones into the sea—shaping what is now known as Bönsäcken.
Here, every step becomes part of a fairy tale—a meeting between nature and myth. Discover Hanö’s legends and the Dragon Mark →
Nature to step into—and never want to leave
Hanö is a nature reserve full of contrasts. Lush grasslands meet limestone cliffs. Quiet forests lead you to viewpoints where the horizon feels endless. Over 200 bird species gather here, and wild deer roam freely across the island. Explore Hanö’s nature trails →
Activities on Hanö
Experience the island your way
- Hanö Lighthouse – An icon of the Baltic Sea, its light flashing through history
- Bödeboden – A fishing museum filled with stories of island life
- Hiking trails – Äspudden, Vindhalla, and the Pynten Loop
- Guest harbor & harbor promenades – For coffee and a snack with a view, or a waffle at the community center
The island is an excellent choice for activities such as hiking, swimming, fishing, and birdwatching, with several trails and places to explore. With its spectacular views, picturesque harbor, and, not least, its three enchanting swimming spots—Hamnen, Barnstranden, and Vindhalla—Hanö is a true paradise for both adventure seekers and those looking for peace and quiet.
Whether you’re fishing from the cliffs or letting your camera capture the sea’s ever-changing hues—Hanö has something for you. See all activities on Hanö →
A Journey Through Time
Hanö’s rich history spans from the Stone Age to modern times. The island served as an important trading post during the Middle Ages and played a significant role during the Napoleonic Wars as a base for the British fleet. This historical diversity makes Hanö a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.
On Hanö, you don’t just walk through nature—you walk through stories. Here, the lighthouse flashes over Drakmärket, where a legendary dragon met its fate. And at the water’s edge lies Bönsäcken, a rock formation born of a giant’s sorrow and strength. These are tales that live on in the landscape, making every step a part of history. Welcome to Hanö—an island where the passage of time meets the imagination.
Learn more about the legends of Hanö →
Dining on Hanö - Fisky Business and Local Culinary Delights
On the island, you’ll find the very popular (and Hanko’s only) harbor restaurant, Fisky Business. According to the restaurant itself, it offers “generous portions made with quality ingredients and no frills.” For those who don’t want to eat fish, there are also a few vegetarian dishes and options for meat-eaters. Fisky Business is open seasonally during June, July, and August.
See the menu and hours for Fisky Business →
Stay on Hanö – wake up in the middle of a fairy tale
Whether you're looking for peace and quiet in a cottage by the sea, want to wake up in a tent surrounded by nature with birdsong in the background, or prefer the comfort of a hostel or an apartment – Hanö has the perfect accommodation for you. Here, it’s easy to get close to both nature and one another.
The journey here is as smooth as the experience is magnificent. The boat from Nogersund takes you out to Hanö in just a few minutes—a short trip to a different pace of life. With flexible payment options and an accessible ferry, Hanö is open to everyone, year-round.
Hanö isn’t far away. But it feels a world away from everyday life. Plan your Hanö adventure. View ferry schedules and buy tickets at Blekingetrafiken →