Eriksberg Nature Reserve
Blekinge län
Eriksberg Nature Reserve, established in 1976, is located in Karlshamn Municipality, Blekinge, Sweden. It encompasses 925 hectares of fenced land, making it the largest safari park in the Nordic countries. The reserve is situated on two peninsulas between Mahraviken bay and the island of Dragsö. Historically, the area was once a village named Mara, later renamed Eriksberg by Count Eric Ruuth in the 18th century. Over time, the estate was used for farming, boat building, brickworks, and stonemasonry. In 1938, zoologist and nature photographer Bengt Berg acquired the property, initiating wildlife research and fencing the area to protect species like the red deer and introducing the Canada goose to Sweden. After Berg's death, his son continued the legacy, eventually transforming Eriksberg into a safari park under later owners. Today, visitors can explore the reserve by car or guided bus tours along a 10 km route, observing animals such as wild boar, red deer, fallow deer, European bison (wisent), mouflon, and Persian fallow deer (David's deer). Facilities include a hotel, restaurant, conference spaces, and exhibitions, open year-round. The reserve combines rich natural beauty with cultural history, offering guests a rare chance to experience Scandinavian wildlife in a natural setting.
Plan your trip to Sweden with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: For the best experience, visit during spring or early autumn when wildlife is most active and the scenery is vibrant. Booking guided safari tours in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Discounts may be available for families, seniors, and groups. The hotel and restaurant operate year-round, providing comfortable accommodation and dining options. Visitors can also enjoy the relax area with sauna and heated outdoor pool overlooking the safari park.
Interesting facts
- •Eriksberg Nature Reserve is the largest safari park in the Nordic countries, covering 925 hectares.
- •It was originally a village named Mara before becoming an estate and later a nature reserve.
- •Bengt Berg, a zoologist and nature photographer, introduced the Canada goose to Sweden at Eriksberg.
- •The reserve has been a key breeding station for European bison (wisent) in Sweden, contributing to reintroduction efforts in other regions including the Caucasus.
- •Visitors can explore the park via a 10 km route by car or guided bus, with designated areas where guests may exit their vehicles for viewing.
History
Originally known as Mara, the estate was renamed Eriksberg in 1758 by Count Eric Ruuth, who transferred his manorial rights from Finland.
The property hosted various industries including boatbuilding and stonemasonry during the 19th century.
In 1938, Bengt Berg purchased Eriksberg, fencing the area for wildlife research and introducing species like the Canada goose.
After Berg's death in 1967, his son Iens Illum Berg continued managing the estate, later selling it to Alexander Wendt who developed it into a safari park.
Since 1976, Eriksberg has been a protected nature reserve.
Ownership changed hands several times, with renovations and rebuilding after a lightning strike damaged the manor in 2010.
Today, it operates as a hotel and safari park, preserving its natural and cultural heritage.
Place Guide
Safari Route
A 10-kilometer trail through the reserve allowing visitors to see free-ranging animals such as wild boar, red deer, fallow deer, European bison, mouflon, and Persian fallow deer from their vehicles or guided buses. Certain stops allow guests to exit and observe the wildlife more closely.
Utsikten Viewpoint
A scenic lookout point offering panoramic views over Dragsö island and the surrounding nature reserve, ideal for photography and wildlife observation.
Eriksberg Manor and Facilities18th century (manor origins), rebuilt 2010
The historic manor house and surrounding buildings have been restored after a 2010 lightning strike fire. The site now hosts hotel accommodations, a restaurant, conference facilities, and exhibitions related to the reserve's natural and cultural history.
Contact
Phone: 0454-56 43 00