Laholm, the pearl of river Lagan

Beautifully situated by the longest beach in Sweden - Laholm bay with its 12 kilometers - Laholm has more to offer the inhabitants and visitors than one might think of a city this small in size. It has a long history, starting in the 13th century and this is more than evident when one walks the streets of the old quarters Gamleby.

The cobblestoned streets are lined with half-timbered brick houses, and the atmosphere is calm and still.

But the main attractions of Laholm are without any doubt the long, shallow beaches and the excellent salmonfishing. Fishing licences may be required when fishing in lakes and rivers. Actually, the salmon was the main reason people came here in the first place in former times. The most popular beaches are Mellbystrand and Skummelövsstrand, with facilities such as camping, tenniscourts, shops and restaurants etc., and there are also several lakes with glorious sun and bathing possibilities.

But there is more to Laholm than what is naturally provided, especially for those with a passion for art. When first visiting Laholm the ever present art is striking, and this because of one person in particular; Axel Malmqvist the mayor of Laholm between 1925-1948. He was the one that startade "Laholmsspelen", a play with local actors, that during 36 years made enough money to buy some 30 pieces of public works of art that the city is decorated with now. The Lagaholms ruined castle from the 13th century also got a thorough restauration from the money.

Some interesting museums in Laholm:

• Laholms Teckningsmuseum, or Laholm Museum of Drawing, unique of its kind in Scandinavia it is situated in the 200 years old town hall. Some 7000 drawings of Swedish masters from 1750 to our days, and the archives are constantly growing.
• Keramikmuseet, or the Museum of Ceramics with ceramics from three centuries. Exhibitions of the special Laholm kind of ceramics, lectures etc.
• Konsthallen i Hishult The Art gallery of Hishult is surrounded by a beautiful garden with a park of sculptures. Concerts and evenings with storytellers.

In the summertime there are also exhibitons in Hallbergska Stallet - an old stable-, Kulturmagasinet and Stadshusgalleriet. More information is available at the local Tourist office.