Åhus Beach Handball 2024
Åhus Beach Handball: A Summer Festival for Handball Enthusiasts
Right now, Åhus Beach Handball is in full swing, and as the handball enthusiasts we are at CompanyCations, we're definitely part of the festivities!
Åhus Beach Handball is one of the summer highlights for us handball fanatics and is a major event. Every year, thousands of players and spectators gather in Åhus to participate in this festive and exciting tournament. The event, which spans several days, attracts both amateurs and professional players from all over the country and sometimes even internationally. It began as a small cup in Åhus marina in the summer of 1997, without any registrations, and founder Mats G. Jönsson had to persuade teams to participate. Today, the tournament is Europe's largest beach handball event.
On the opening day this year, we packed our cars and headed up to beautiful Åhus to be part of this year's festival. After our road trip, we started by setting up a small tent camp at First Camp Åhus, which is within walking distance of the festival area.
The campsite is located on the beach and offers several facilities, such as playgrounds, mini-golf, service houses, glamping, and bicycle rental. The area also features Upzone high rope park, a truly unique experience in a magical setting. Here, you can have fun team-building with your company, climbing among the treetops, zip-lining, and enjoying the beautiful nature and the view of the sea.
CompanyCations are proud supporters of our home club IFK Malmö, which we've been cheering for since the opening day – come rain or shine! Yes, the Swedish summer can really feel like a rollercoaster. One day it's sunscreen and blazing sun, and the next day it's pouring rain from morning till evening. But regardless of the weather, we're here enjoying every moment!
Åhus Beach Handball, with the motto "Sports for Everyone," features teams from ages eight and up, boys and girls, to elite level, para-handball, and fun teams. One really fun team we've followed for a few years is Team JosaGrogg. Probably the most unserious team on site, but we promise they provide great entertainment, fun handball, many laughs, and you can be sure to get drink tips if you ask! You can check out their Instagram here.
We have our office dog Angel with us, and she has been overjoyed. It seems that Åhus is home to Golden Retrievers. It has been a bit of a Golden party here, and at one point, you almost thought you were seeing double and had a hard time recognizing your own dog. It's fun that the beach handball is also open to our furry friends!
Åhus is a very charming village located in Skåne, southern Sweden. The town is known for its historic buildings, beautiful beaches, and as the hometown of Absolut Vodka. There are also several golf courses, museums, hiking trails, smokehouses, and plenty of ice cream cafes!
Åhus is also home to Otto & Glassfabriken – a real Skåne ice cream gem! This charming ice cream factory has built its reputation on producing high-quality, artisanal ice cream that is appreciated by both locals and visitors from near and far. No visit to Åhus without Otto, we say!
We also have a few restaurant tips in Åhus that we want to share with you.
Åhus Finest is one of them. A cozy restaurant with outdoor seating, delicious food, and unique decor. There's also a small mini-shop if you want to buy books, postcards, home decor, children's clothes, etc.
For sushi lovers, Sumo Kitchen is the place! Very tasty! We ordered our favorites to-go and sat on a blanket on the beach at sunset and enjoyed! Mmmm!
If you want to enjoy a cold beer and tacos in the sun by the beach, we can recommend Taco Bar. They serve Tex-Mex food, music quizzes, mini-golf, and fun after-work events with various happenings just a few steps from the sand.
Åhus also has a small brewery with several beer varieties that you can also find at Systembolaget (or GlasBanken as Team JosaGrogg calls it). Otto Byggmästare, Fina Stina, Lazy Days, and Åhus Nils Pils are some of them. At Åhus Bryggeri & Restaurang, you can sit with a direct view of their shiny beer tanks and enjoy cold cuts, smörrebröd, schnitzel, and of course, beer.
We also had a good pizza the other evening. It didn't come from a wood-fired oven, which we love, but the flavors were still spot on, and the staff was very friendly and nice. At Restaurang & Pizzeria Milano, we also got a bit of a camping vibe, as there was dance band music coming from the speakers, and several handball teams had also chosen to end their day here. Nothing fancy, just a regular pizzeria with lovely staff.
Åhus offers fantastic opportunities for all who love water activities. Here you can enjoy SUP, kayaking, and much more. Here are some places to explore these activities:
If you want to try SUP, check out Swayzettes. They offer rentals and courses for all levels, from beginners to experienced paddlers. Their SUP tours take you through the beautiful waterways around Åhus and give you a chance to see the town from a unique perspective.
If you prefer kayaking, check out Kayakomat Åhus. They offer self-service kayak rentals through a simple and convenient app-based solution. You can explore the calm waters in the area and enjoy nature's beauty at your own pace.
For a more comprehensive experience on the water, visit Åhus by Water. They offer boat rentals, guided tours, and various activities. Explore the coast, enjoy fishing trips, or just relax on a boat ride while taking in the fantastic sea views.
If you, like us, love spas, there's also the option to check in at Åhus Seaside. But you can read more about this spa in an upcoming post.
Are you craving more handball after reading this? No worries, the festivities are far from over! The tournament is still ongoing, and you have the chance to experience all the fun until July 20th. Come and be a part of the handball joy!
Best regards,
The CompanyCations Team
Fuerteventura: En paradisö för soldyrkare och äventyrslystna
Fuerteventura, one of the Canary Islands, is a true paradise for all surfers who want to combine work and pleasure. Our recent trip here in June was filled with exciting activities, wonderful friends, swimming, and fun. We have visited this island several times – once in Costa Calma, another in Castillo Caleta de Fuste, and three times in Las Playitas. Sometimes we stayed mostly at the destination, while other times we rented a car and explored the island.
Las Playitas is surrounded by mountains that we often hike in when we are there. We have done a two-hour hike to the neighboring village of Gran Tarajal.
Gran Tarajal is a charming and authentic Canarian village - a hidden gem that offers a quieter and more genuine experience compared to the more tourist-heavy areas of the island. With its relaxed atmosphere, local culture, beautiful beach known for its soft black sand and calm clear waters, Gran Tarajal is a perfect destination for those who want to experience the true Fuerteventura. The long promenade is lined with palm trees and small cafes, making it an ideal place for a leisurely walk. The harbor in Gran Tarajal is a lively spot, especially in the morning when fishing boats come in with their catch. Here you can buy fresh fish and seafood directly from the boats, or simply enjoy the authentic atmosphere. Many restaurants along the promenade offer beautiful views of the sea while you enjoy your meal.
This year, we spent Midsummer Eve and San Juan Night at Playitas Resort. To celebrate Swedish Midsummer in Spanish style, we started the day with a magical kayak and snorkeling tour in the morning with Wellenkind Surf School. Our experience with Wellenkind Surfing School was nothing short of magical! AnnaBelle and Eduardo, our instructors, were not only incredibly friendly but also very professional. Their passion for the ocean truly shines through, making the whole experience unforgettable. It was also luxurious to have two instructors for just the three of us on the adventure.
We paddled through crystal clear waters, explored hidden coves, and snorkeled among marine life. After snorkeling, we were all completely exhausted, so we took a good siesta before heading to the pool. The evening ended with dancing around our decorated palm and a large Spanish tapas table with touches from the traditional Swedish Midsummer celebration - such as schnapps, potatoes, and meatballs.
San Juan Night is a holiday that we love to celebrate in Spain. The elements of fire and water used in the celebration symbolize purification and renewal. Jumping over bonfires and bathing in the sea are seen as actions that cleanse the soul and prepare individuals for the rest of the year with renewed energy and positivity. Everyone (or at least most people) wears white clothes on this day.
How San Juan Night is celebrated can vary significantly depending on the region, but some common traditions include:
Bonfires and FireworksLighting bonfires is a central tradition during San Juan Night. Along the beaches, you can see hundreds of small fires lighting up the evening sky. The fires symbolize purification and driving away evil spirits. People often jump over the fire as a ritual to bring luck and cleanse themselves of sins.
Water RitualAt midnight, people line up along the sea and count down loudly together - Diez, Nueve, Ocho, Siete, Seis, Cinco, Cuatro, Tres, Dos, Uno, and when the clock strikes twelve, just like on New Year's Eve, they walk backwards into the water with their clothes on. This is believed to bring good health and wash away negative energy.
Music and DanceThe festivities often include music, dancing, and other cultural performances. Traditional music and dance are common, but you can also see larger events and clubs with DJs playing on the beach – the night is filled with life and joy.
Food and DrinkNo celebration is complete without festive meals. Different regions have their own specialties, dishes, and drinks for the night, often enjoyed in the company of family and friends. In coastal villages, you often see old rowing boats filled with coals, where whole fish are grilled.
Street Parties and MarketsIn urban areas, the streets come alive with parties, markets, and fireworks. People of all ages participate in the celebration, making it a night of communal joy and entertainment.
San Juan Night- Tejs GrevstadFuerteventura is best known for its surf beaches, each with unique waves and fantastic views. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced surfer, there is a spot for everyone. If you go to Fuerteventura and have the opportunity to rent a car, here are some of our favorite spots to discover.
La Pared: A small village on the western coast of Fuerteventura, known for its dramatic coastlines, excellent surf opportunities, and scenic views. La Pared is one of the top surf spots on Fuerteventura, particularly popular among surfers looking for challenging waves.
Corralejo: Here you will find a lively nightlife with many bars, pubs, and nightclubs offering entertainment late into the night. There is something for everyone, from quiet beach bars to lively nightclubs. There is also a wide range of restaurants and bars serving everything from traditional Canarian dishes to international gourmet food. Seafood is particularly popular, with many restaurants offering fresh catches directly from the sea. Corralejo is a hub for water sports activities, including surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, and snorkeling. There are several schools and rental places along the beaches offering lessons and equipment for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts. A short boat ride from Corralejo lies the small uninhabited island of Isla de Lobos. The island is a nature reserve with beautiful hiking trails, pristine beaches, and abundant marine life.
Here lies our favorite beach, Grandes Playas Corralejo, one of the most fantastic and expansive beach areas in the Canary Islands. With white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, this beach is a true paradise for both relaxation and adventure. The beach stretches over several kilometers, offering plenty of space for sunbathing, beach activities, and peaceful walks. The fine white sand contrasts beautifully with the clear blue waters, creating a picturesque environment. Grandes Playas is also a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. The consistent winds make it an ideal place for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Additionally, the calm, shallow waters are perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and are well-suited for families, with gentle waves and plenty of space for children to play. The area is part of Corralejo Natural Park, which includes the famous sand dunes of Corralejo. These vast, rolling sand dunes provide a stunning backdrop to the beaches and give a bit of a desert-like feeling. Perfect for hiking & photography.
Castillo Caleta de Fuste, also known simply as Caleta de Fuste or El Castillo, is a very charming village and a popular holiday resort located on the east coast of Fuerteventura. The main beach in Caleta de Fuste is a beautiful, sheltered bay with golden sand and calm, shallow waters, making it an ideal spot for children and families. The clear waters around Caleta de Fuste make it an excellent place for diving and snorkeling. There are several dive centers in the area offering lessons and equipment for both beginners and experienced divers. From the marina, you can book various boat trips, including deep-sea fishing, catamaran tours, and submarine trips to explore marine life. For golf enthusiasts, there is Fuerteventura Golf Club, an 18-hole championship course offering beautiful views and challenging play. The golf course is located near the beach and has facilities such as a driving range and golf lessons. Caleta de Fuste has a lively nightlife with many bars and restaurants offering everything from traditional Canarian cuisine to international dishes. There are also several pubs and nightclubs for those who want to dance and enjoy the nightlife.
Jandia: A peninsula located in the southern part of Fuerteventura. The area is known for its long sandy beaches, clear blue waters, and scenic landscapes. One of the most famous beaches in Jandía, Playa de Sotavento, stretches over several kilometers with fine golden sand and crystal-clear water. The beach is ideal for water sports such as windsurfing and kitesurfing due to the steady winds and shallow lagoons. Jandía Natural Park is a protected nature park that encompasses most of the peninsula. The park is home to a rich variety of plant and animal life as well as impressive mountain landscapes. The highest point on Fuerteventura, Pico de la Zarza, is located within the park and offers fantastic views of the island and the Atlantic Ocean. Jandía is also known for its unique flora and fauna. The peninsula is an interesting spot for birdwatching, with many species stopping by during their migration routes.
Morro Jable: The most prominent town on the Jandía peninsula is Morro Jable, which offers a wide range of hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops. The town also has a picturesque harbor where visitors can book boat trips and fishing excursions.
Fuerteventura is a versatile island that offers everything from adrenaline-filled water sports to tranquil, scenic beaches and picturesque villages. Whether you are a surfer looking for the perfect wave, a nature lover wanting to explore dramatic landscapes, or someone who simply wants to relax and enjoy the local culture and cuisine, Fuerteventura has something for you. We hope we have inspired your next trip and that you get to experience all the fantastic things this beautiful island has to offer.
Best regards,
The CompanyCations Team