Your Guide to Ullared & Halland

Find the best things to do around Ullared

Joe Getaway is located right where shopping, nature, and the west coast meet—a cottage village nestled in nature, just five minutes from Gekås. Here are our absolute favorite spots, from babbling waterfalls to long sandy beaches. Almost everything is within 5–60 minutes.

The perfect starting point

Joe Getaway – Right in Between Shopping, Nature, and the Ocean

The best thing about staying with us is how close everything is. In five minutes, you’ll be at Gekås. In seven minutes, you can dip your toes in a tranquil forest lake. And within an hour, you can reach Halland’s most beautiful beaches, fortresses, and tourist attractions.

This guide is not a tourist brochure. It features the places we return to ourselves—compiled so you can easily plan your days and make the most of your stay in Ullared and Halland.

5 min

to Gekås Ullared

7 min

to the nearest lake for swimming

~30 min

to the ocean & beaches

5–60 min

for almost everything

★ SHOPPING HUB · 5 min by car

Gekås Ullared

44,500 square meters of pure shopping joy—Sweden’s most beloved department store and the reason most people come here. Everything under one roof, at prices that make you want to fill up an extra shopping bag. For those of us who live nearby, it’s simply part of everyday life.

Staying at Joe Getaway means you won’t have to fight for a parking spot in the morning and can head home to rest between shopping trips. Here are our best tips for a successful—and stress-free—day at Gekås.

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Best Times

Weekdays and early mornings are the quietest. If you want to avoid the biggest crowds, steer clear of Saturdays and the days right after payday.

Parking

There is a large free parking lot right next to the department store. Arrive early during peak season to get the best spots near the entrance.

Evening Shopping

Gekås has long opening hours, and the evenings are often pleasantly quiet—a great tip if you don't like crowds. Be sure to check the current hours before your visit.

Dining In

There are restaurants, cafés, and grills in and around the department store, so you can refuel while you shop and keep going all day long.

With children

Take it one step at a time, pack some water and snacks, and alternate your shopping trip with a round of adventure golf or a dip in Lake Tjärnesjön.

How long?

Set aside half a day to a full day. Many people visit Gekås in the morning and go on a nice outing in the afternoon—the guide below will give you some ideas.

Nature Experiences

The forests, lakes, and waterfalls

This is Halland at its most beautiful—rolling beech forests, mirror-like lakes, and babbling rapids. Many of these gems are just minutes from your front door.

The Swamp Falls

One of Halland’s most picturesque nature reserves—babbling waterfalls, the ruins of old mills, and easy-to-walk trails through dense forest.

  • 15 min · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly
  • Dog-friendly
  • 1–2 hours
  • Beautiful All Year Round

★ Joe recommends
Go there early in the morning when the fog still hangs over the rapids—it’s magical and almost deserted.

Åkulla Beech Forests

Vast beech forests with forest lakes, marked trails, and a nature center. The light filtering through the beech trees in May is truly extraordinary.

  • 25 min · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly
  • Dog-friendly
  • 2–4 hours
  • Best in May & Fall

★ Joe recommends
Bring a picnic basket and combine your hike with a refreshing dip in one of the forest lakes.

Lake Tjärnesjön / Lilla Backa

Our closest real swimming lake—calm forest waters just minutes from our home. Perfect for a quick morning dip or a lazy afternoon.

  • 7 min · travel time by car

  • Family-friendly
  • Dog-friendly
  • 1–3 hours
  • Summer

★ Joe recommends
Our personal favorite for a relaxing evening bath after a busy day at Gekås.

Danish Cases

A dramatic waterfall in the Fylleån Nature Reserve, featuring beautiful hiking trails, picnic areas, and a genuine wilderness experience.

  • 40 min · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly
  • Dog-friendly
  • 2–3 hours
  • Spring & Fall

★ Joe recommends
It’s at its most water-rich and impressive during the spring flood—be sure to wear sturdy shoes, as it can be slippery near the rapids.

Lake Hjärtared

A scenic lake in the Åkulla area, perfect for swimming and paddling, with clear water and quiet, sheltered coves.

  • 7 min · travel time by car

  • Family-friendly
  • Dog-friendly
  • Half-day
  • Summer

★ Joe recommends
Rent a canoe and pack a picnic—you can easily spend an entire afternoon out here.

Getterön Nature Center

One of Sweden's premier birding areas near Varberg, featuring a nature center, observation hides, and a birdwatching tower right on the water's edge.

  • 40 min · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly
  • Partially (not indoors)
  • 1–2 hours
  • Spring & Fall

★ Joe recommends
Visit during the spring or fall migration season—bring binoculars; they’re also available to borrow on site.

Family Activities

Adventures for Young and Old

From adventure golf and high-rope courses just around the corner to amusement parks and zoos a short drive away—your days here are sure to be action-packed.

Ullared Adventure Golf

Well-designed adventure golf courses right next to Gekås—a wonderful break between shopping and nature experiences.

  • 10 min · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly
  • Dog-friendly (leash required)
  • 1–1.5 hours
  • Spring–Fall

★ Joe recommends
The perfect afternoon activity while the rest of the group finishes up their shopping.

High Ropes Course in Ullared

Obstacle courses and zip lines high up in the treetops for anyone looking for a bit of speed and a thrill.

  • 10 min · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly (height requirement)
  • Not on the track
  • 2–3 hours
  • Spring–Fall

★ Joe recommends
Book in advance during summer vacation and on weekends—spots fill up quickly.

Lighthouse Escape Room

Fun escape rooms for families, groups of friends, or corporate teams—a guaranteed highlight on a rainy day.

  • 12 min · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly (older children)
  • Not dog-friendly
  • 1–1.5 hours
  • Throughout the Year

★ Joe recommends
Split into two teams and compete to see which one can solve the room the fastest—laughs guaranteed.

Markaryd Moose Safari

Come face to face with the king of the forest up close—an experience the kids will talk about long afterward.

  • 1 hour 15 · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly
  • Dog-friendly (in a car)
  • Half-day
  • Spring–Fall

★ Joe recommends
It's a bit of a drive, but if you combine it with lunch along the way, it makes for a perfect day trip.

Halmstad Bus Factory

A large indoor play area where kids can let off steam while adults enjoy a quiet coffee break—a lifesaver on a rainy day.

  • 45 min · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly (younger)
  • Not dog-friendly
  • 2–3 hours
  • Throughout the Year

★ Joe recommends
Best for kids up through middle school—be sure to bring an extra pair of socks.

Borås Zoo

One of Sweden's finest zoos with a safari atmosphere—lions, giraffes, and elephants in large, natural-looking enclosures.

  • 1 hour · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly
  • Not dog-friendly
  • Full day
  • Spring–Fall

★ Joe recommends
Come early in the day—that's when the animals are most active and the lines are shortest.

Liseberg

The Nordic region’s largest amusement park in Gothenburg—a classic all-day outing for the whole family, and absolutely magical at Christmas, too.

  • 1 hour 15 · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly
  • Not dog-friendly
  • Full day
  • Summer & Christmas

★ Joe recommends
Leave home early and be there when it opens—that way, you'll have time to see the most.

Beaches

The Best Sandy Beaches on the West Coast

Halland is known for its long, child-friendly sandy beaches and the waves in Apelviken. You can reach most of them in half an hour—perfect for a spontaneous day at the beach.

Skrea Beach

Falkenberg's prime beach—kilometers of soft sand, shallow water, and Klitterbadet right next door.

  • 30 min · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly
  • Dog bathing facilities are available
  • Half-day/Full-day
  • Summer

★ Joe recommends
The boardwalk heading south leads to some nice rocky beaches if you want to get away from the crowds.

Apelviken

Scandinavia’s surfing mecca south of Varberg—shallow waters and kid-friendly in the summer, waves and wind in the fall.

  • 40 min · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly
  • Dog-friendly (in some areas)
  • Half-day
  • Summer & Surfing

★ Joe recommends
If you want to try surfing or SUP, there are several schools in the area—beginners are warmly welcome.

Tylösand

Sweden's most famous beach outside Halmstad—seven kilometers of white sand, restaurants, and a wonderful summer atmosphere.

  • 50 min · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly
  • Dog bathing facilities are available
  • Full day
  • Summer

★ Joe recommends
Park at Hagön at the southern end for a quieter, more natural beach experience.

Olofsbo

One of the coast's most child-friendly beaches—extremely shallow waters, soft sand, and dunes to play in.

  • 30 min · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly
  • Dog bathing facilities are available
  • Half-day
  • Summer

★ Joe recommends
Ideal for young children—the water is shallow and warmed by the sun even far out.

Getterön

Swimming and a nature reserve all in one near Varberg—choose between a sandy beach and warm cliffs with sweeping ocean views.

  • 40 min · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly
  • Dog-friendly
  • Half-day
  • Summer

★ Joe recommends
Combine your swim with a visit to Naturum Getterön, which is right next door.

The Best Day Trips in Halland

Fortresses, World Heritage Sites, and Coastal Cities

If you want to explore more of Halland, you’ll find a string of gems along the coast—from Varberg Fortress to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Grimeton and the charming small towns.

Varberg Fortress

An imposing 17th-century seaside fortress with a museum, a café, and the legendary Kallbadhuset within walking distance.

  • 40 min · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly
  • Dog-friendly (outdoors)
  • 2–3 hours
  • Throughout the Year

★ Joe recommends
Finish off with a dip in the cold water and a coffee break in Societetsparken—a perfect day in Varberg.

Grimeton World Heritage Site

A unique, fully operational long-wave radio station from the 1920s—one of Sweden’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites and an unexpectedly fascinating day trip.

  • 25 min · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly
  • Dog-friendly (outdoors)
  • 1–2 hours
  • Spring–Fall

★ Joe recommends
Check to see if it's one of the few days when the transmitter is turned on—a rare sight.

Morups Tånge

A slender lighthouse in the middle of a vast nature reserve—undulating beach meadows, grazing animals, and a rich variety of birdlife.

  • 25 min · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly
  • Dog-friendly
  • 1–2 hours
  • Throughout the Year

★ Joe recommends
Bring a windproof jacket and stay until sunset—the light out here is amazing.

Falkenberg

A charming old town on the Ätran River with cobblestone alleys, shops, cafés, and the beautiful Tullbron Bridge.

  • 25 min · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly
  • Dog-friendly
  • Half-day
  • Throughout the Year

★ Joe recommends
Take a stroll along the river, grab a coffee at Stålboms, and pop into the small home decor and design shops.

Halmstad

Halland’s regional capital, with its castle, charming downtown, shopping, and Tylösand right around the corner—something for everyone.

  • 45 min · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly
  • Dog-friendly (outdoors)
  • Half-day/Full-day
  • Throughout the Year

★ Joe recommends
Combine a stroll through town with a dip in Tylösand, weather permitting.

Kungsbacka & Tjolöholm

Charming Kungsbacka, with the fairytale-like Tjolöholm Castle and the natural gem Fjärås Bräcka within easy reach.

  • 50 min · travel time by car
  • Family-friendly
  • Dog-friendly (outdoors)
  • Half-day
  • Throughout the Year

★ Joe recommends
Tjolöholm is worth the trip in itself—book a tour and enjoy a coffee break at the beautiful castle café.

For the active person

Get active in the Halland countryside

Golf, mountain biking, kayaking, and fishing—and miles of forest trails that start practically right outside your door. Here are our tips for active days.

Golf · about 30 min

Vinbergs and Falkenbergs GK are both within half an hour—feel free to try both over a weekend.

Mountain biking · about 25 min

Åkulla’s beech forests offer beautiful trails for all skill levels, right in the heart of Halland’s natural landscape.

Paddling · about 25 min

Rent a canoe on Lake Hjärtaredssjön or paddle a leisurely stretch of the Ätran River through the forest.

Fishing · about 25 min

The Ätran is one of Sweden's classic salmon rivers—you can easily purchase a fishing license locally.

Hike · about 15 min

The Hallandsleden trail and the paths around Åkulla and Sumpafallen are suitable for both short and long hikes.

Running & Cycling · Near the Accommodation

Gently winding forest trails and quiet gravel roads start right outside the door—perfect for both a morning jog and a long bike ride.

Food & Snacks

Delicious Flavors Along the Way

From burgers near Gekås and world-class salmon to an award-winning pastry shop. Here are the places we love to stop by ourselves.

John's Place · 40 min

Burgers & American food in Ullared. Generous burgers and delicious milkshakes just a stone's throw from Gekås—the kids' favorite after a day of shopping.

The Salmon Shop · 30 min

Fish & Delicatessen in Heberg. A classic coastal stop along the E6, featuring world-class gravad and smoked salmon, a restaurant, and a shop.

Stålboms Bakery · 30 min

Pastry Shop & Lunch in Falkenberg. An award-winning pastry shop with top-notch pastries—the obvious choice for a coffee break.

Björkäng Roadside Diner · 30 min

Roadside Diner & Home-Style Cooking at Björkäng. A beloved old-fashioned roadside diner known for its hearty shrimp sandwiches and authentic home-style cooking.

Harrys Varberg · 40 min

Restaurant & bar in Varberg. A cozy, classic spot with an extensive menu and a wonderful atmosphere—great for larger groups.

Prostens Pizza · 30 min

Pizzeria in Falkenberg. A local favorite known for its generously sized pizzas—perfect for takeout to bring home to the cottage.

Tip: There are several restaurants and cafés in and around Gekås if you want to eat near the shopping area.

Rainy days

When the weather isn't cooperating

Halland has just as much to offer indoors. Here are our favorites for a gray day.

Escape Room

Lighthouse Escape Room in Ullared – challenging and fun no matter the weather.

Shopping

Gekås, of course, but also shopping malls and stores in Varberg and Halmstad.

Spa

Several spa hotels in Varberg and Halmstad for a truly relaxing day.

Museums

The Halland Art Museum in Halmstad and the Varberg Museum offer cultural experiences.

Bio

Movie theaters in Falkenberg and Varberg for a cozy afternoon.

Indoor Play

The Busfabriken in Halmstad lets the kids let off some steam in the heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Good to Know Before Your Visit

It only takes about five minutes by car. So you’ll be right next to the shops, yet still in a quiet, nature-filled setting—one of the major advantages of staying with us.

The adventure golf course and high-rope course in Ullared, a dip in Lake Tjärnesjön, Borås Zoo, Busfabriken in Halmstad, and the shallow beaches in Olofsbo and Skrea are all true family favorites.

Yes, very much so. Nature reserves like Sumpafallen and Åkulla, several beaches where dogs are allowed to swim, and most outdoor excursions are happy to welcome your dog. We’re also a dog-friendly place to stay.

Skrea Strand in Falkenberg is about a 30-minute drive away. Varberg and Apelviken are about 40 minutes away, and Tylösand, just outside Halmstad, is about 50 minutes away.

Plenty to do: an escape room in Ullared, shopping at Gekås, a spa in Varberg or Halmstad, museums, the movies, and indoor play at Busfabriken. Rain never has to put a damper on a good day.

Weekdays and early mornings are the quietest times. If you want to avoid the biggest crowds, it’s a good idea to steer clear of Saturdays and the days right after payday. Check the current opening hours before your visit.

Yes, there's a large free parking lot right next to the department store. During peak season, be sure to arrive early so you can get a spot near the entrance.

Plan on spending half a day to a full day, depending on how much you want to shop. A popular itinerary is to visit Gekås in the morning and take a guided tour in the afternoon.

Absolutely. The Sumpafallen waterfalls, the vast beech forests in Åkulla, and the swimming lake Tjärnesjön are all very close by—many just a few minutes away.

Yes, Tjärnesjön / Lilla Backa is only about seven minutes away and is our closest real swimming lake. Hjärtaredssjön in Åkulla is another great option.

You can reach Falkenberg in about 25 minutes, Varberg in about 40 minutes, and Halmstad in about 45 minutes by car—all excellent destinations for a day trip.

Yes, Liseberg in Gothenburg is just over an hour away. Leave home early, and you'll have a wonderful full day at the amusement park and be back home by evening.

Yes, both Vinbergs GK and Falkenbergs GK are about a half-hour away. Be sure to try both over a weekend.

Perfect—just five minutes to Gekås, yet with peaceful nature to come home to. You won’t have to fight for a parking spot, and you can combine shopping with walks in the woods and swimming.

Plenty to do: adventure golf and a high-rope course just around the corner, moose safaris, a zoo, indoor play areas, and beaches. The guide’s family section is full of ideas for all ages.

Sumpafallen, the Åkulla beech forests, Morups Tånge, and the beaches with dog-swimming areas are all excellent choices for those traveling with a dog.

Nature Calls

Take a break at Joe Getaway between adventures

A cozy, nature-filled place to stay just five minutes from Gekås—right between shopping, the forest, and the sea. We have seven different accommodations to choose from.

All travel times are approximate and refer to driving time by car from Joe Getaway. Hours of operation and offerings may vary—please check with the respective provider for the most up-to-date information before your visit.