A new direct train service is set to launch in Sweden next week, offering travellers a picturesque journey along the country's west coast. Operated by Swedish railway company Snälltåget, the service will connect Malmö with the Norwegian capital, Oslo, covering a distance of 600 kilometres.
Commencing on June 15th, the new route will provide a unique opportunity to experience Sweden's diverse landscapes, with tickets available for as little as 149 Swedish Kronor, which translates to approximately £11.70 for a one-way journey. The service will run daily, departing Malmö at 6:38 AM and arriving in Oslo at 1:16 PM, with a slightly later departure on Sundays. The return journey from Oslo to Malmö will commence in the afternoon, departing at 2:48 PM and reaching Malmö at 9:25 PM.
The route includes stops at several notable coastal destinations in both Sweden and Norway, such as Lund, Helsingborg, Halmstad, Varberg, Trollhättan, Sarpsborg, and Fredrikstad. To enhance the passenger experience, the Swedish tourist board has issued recommendations on seating choices to maximise scenic views. For instance, between Malmö and Gothenburg, sitting on the left side offers coastal vistas like Varberg Fortress, while the right side provides views of historical sites such as Lund Cathedral.
Further into the journey, from Gothenburg to Mellerud, passengers are advised to sit on the right-hand side for optimal views of lakes and rivers, including the expansive Lake Vänern, Europe’s third-largest lake. The final stage, from Mellerud to the Kornsjö Border, promises spectacular scenery from both sides of the train, encompassing the Granite Canyons and elevated views of Lake Stora Le near Ed.
Onboard facilities will include a restaurant called Krogen, where passengers are encouraged to book a table and pre-order meals when purchasing their tickets. The service permits two pieces of hand luggage and one personal item, though non-folding bicycles are not allowed. This new route also facilitates onward travel, as passengers arriving in Malmö can connect to Snälltåget's night train service to Berlin, which also stops in Copenhagen and Hamburg, providing an easier rail link from Oslo to the German capital.